Build an arcade for little kids - raspeberry pi 2 - questions!

[consolas]

Hello all

I've always wanted to build a cab with hyperspin and all the works but for now, I'll be using a raspeberry pi.

This cab is not for me - I'm gonna build it and place it in a oncology hospital, the childrens ward. I've already talked to the hospital and there is no problem with wood (mdf), plexiglass or the games/arcade being there.

I have also asked if they would like for their little kids to draw pictures and stuff and place them as art on the side of the cabinet, which was a well received idea.

Some background: due to very unfortunate reasons, I know the place well and know that those kids need any kind of "good stuff" and distraction they need, both them and their parents. It is unbearable to think what the parents go through so whenever their children pick up playstation controllers, laptops, etc. taking care of the item is not on the priority list. If the little kid is playing and smashing buttons (or keys) and smiling, trust me, the parents won't (and rightful so, in my opinion) stop the action in any way. That said, the consoles controllers they get from donations don't last long and are fairly limited to a small range of games.

I think an arcade will solve most of this problems (well, except the fact they are sick... ) but unfortunately I can't do anything regarding that.

The initial plan revealed to be on the expensive side, as I wanted to have hyperspin running on the desktop. I thought it was really appealing and easy to use. I've read that hyperspin is very hardware demanding and getting a good graphics card just to run it won't be possible.

That said, the plan revolves around building it with a raspeberry pi. Let me explain why:

1) Way more cheaper than getting a pc, be aware they will probably want more arcades if this is well received.
2) Since it is a solid unit (and not desktop components like motherboard, graphics card, etc) it is bound to resist more to hits
3) Controllers don't need to be super special in quality or sensibility, they have to endure a lot of hits, thought. I read than Janwa joysticks are pretty resistance. Buttons will probably be leaf ones.
4) VERY IMPORTANT: the visual interface MUST be easy to use - this is why I wanted the hyperspin, it's cool and easy. I don't know about the PI, are there easy to use emulators?

Now more general questions, thanks for bearing with me so far.

Do the PI (2) holds on and deliver good speed when playing games?

I was looking more into Metal Slug like games, Jack and John (the caveman one, don't know if the name is correct), etc. Of course I will try to get in the occasional street fighter and fighting games for older kids. I'm guessing the range goes from 2-3 to 10 in this specific ward.


The Arcade

If you guys agree, I will get:

- 1 x Raspeberry PI ( or the 2, if you guys think it is better )
- 1 x IPac from Ultimarc, I've exchange a few e-mails with Andy and the dude was pretty cool
   - just found out there is a cheaper IPAC now, cool, I think I will go with that and use the default mame controls
- 12 x action buttons, leaf ones to try to make them hold longer (and they do make less noise)
   - 6 x buttons for each player
- 2  x player button (the 1P and 2P buttons)
- 1 x Power on button

- 1 x set of desktop speakers
- Wood (mdf) - 19mm and maybe make it 1mt tall, smaller kids could get on a bench to play and older/bigger kids would bent just a little to play. Seems a good compromise.
- Plexiglass
- Art
- Almost forgot: monitor-

I came here to ask you guys for advice and to ask if is there a way to purchase refurbished buttons or something as this will become expensive as it is. Also, anyone with spare parts please let me know if you are interested in selling them.

The monitor I will use one from a broken laptop I was given and try to adapt it somehow - if I feel it is on the small side, maybe on ebay there are 21' monitors or something that I can get!

Thank you for reading and looking forward for your input

Ric

Edit: I think the 1P and 2P buttons should have lights so they know what buttons to press to start playing. Also, I'm really worried about the PI interface as it needs to be easy for them to find a game and play - they do not know english. If they can enter a game and exit if they don't like, and enter the next one, that is fine - they don't mind exploring all games.


-------

Edit - adding this here so it will be easier to find

Money so far

Monitor: 20€ (22$)
Speakers: (still to be delivered) 5€ (6$)
Wood: 61€ (65$)
PC/PI: To be defined
Controllers (joystick, encoder, buttons): 35€

All: 121€ (129$)

[keilmillerjr]

Emulation Station is a good front end, but has no video previews - which is a must for non English reading people. Try attract-mode for the pi.

Narrow down your game list. If you only require a few buttons, you might be able to wire directly to gpio. A few good games will be better than thousands of games.

[consolas]

Emulation Station is a good front end, but has no video previews - which is a must for non English reading people. Try attract-mode for the pi.

Narrow down your game list. If you only require a few buttons, you might be able to wire directly to gpio. A few good games will be better than thousands of games.

"A few good games will be better than thousands of games." Totally agree.

Hum, the video preview would be in fact very important. Is there a way to have an image preview?

[JDFan]

For ease of use I'd consider one of the 60 in 1's ( or other xxx in 1) instead of a Pi or PC base since it is going to be in a location that you will not be able/wanting to go and support the machine often (ie. if someone turns it off without exiting and bricks the SD card on the Pi or similar ) - and they come with fairly easy to use menu systems so are pretty easy to navigate and much harder to mess up settings on. 

Nothing worse than having a machine there and not being able to let the kid play on it because a setting got messed up and no one is around that knows how to fix it.

Also the Street fighter games etc. might be a bit mature themed for a hospital setting where younger kids are around even if not playing - so might want to consider the list of games a bit - better to leave some off than cause some parent to go postal on the staff !

[Slippyblade]

Also, consider coating the sides of the cabinet with chalkboard paint.  That way the kids could draw all over it and then it could just get erased to start again!

[consolas]

Also, consider coating the sides of the cabinet with chalkboard paint.  That way the kids could draw all over it and then it could just get erased to start again!

Hey!! That is a REALLY cool idea! I just have to see if they can be around chalk as some of these little fellows have their immune system way low. But that is a pretty awesome idea!

[consolas]

For ease of use I'd consider one of the 60 in 1's ( or other xxx in 1) instead of a Pi or PC base since it is going to be in a location that you will not be able/wanting to go and support the machine often (ie. if someone turns it off without exiting and bricks the SD card on the Pi or similar ) - and they come with fairly easy to use menu systems so are pretty easy to navigate and much harder to mess up settings on. 

Nothing worse than having a machine there and not being able to let the kid play on it because a setting got messed up and no one is around that knows how to fix it.

Also the Street fighter games etc. might be a bit mature themed for a hospital setting where younger kids are around even if not playing - so might want to consider the list of games a bit - better to leave some off than cause some parent to go postal on the staff !

Thanks for the reply, my friend. I know one of those 600 in 1 japanese cards (elf or something like that) and it was around 150€ or something. The PI is around 40 so that was my main focus. I totally agree that this can brick easily but I will try to see if there is anyone there (from their IT department or something) that could take a look at the arcade from time to time.

I will try to check other types of those cards and see if it is cool.

What about the other stuff, what do you guys think? My limit is around 200€, I know it is not much but it is what I can afford due to many reasons. I still want to build my own arcade (project I postponed due to this one)

[JDFan]

Thanks for the reply, my friend. I know one of those 600 in 1 japanese cards (elf or something like that) and it was around 150€ or something. The PI is around 40 so that was my main focus. I totally agree that this can brick easily but I will try to see if there is anyone there (from their IT department or something) that could take a look at the arcade from time to time.

I will try to check other types of those cards and see if it is cool.

What about the other stuff, what do you guys think? My limit is around 200€, I know it is not much but it is what I can afford due to many reasons. I still want to build my own arcade (project I postponed due to this one)

While the Pi itself may be a bit cheaper by the time you add the additional pieces ( 5v powersupply, SD card, GPIO cable, etc.) you need for it you'll be closer to $100 than you might think at first. and the 60 in 1's can be found for around $40 also (would still need a Powersupply also) but since the 60 in 1's have only classic games you can get by with fewer buttons and other components to keep the cost down (figure you can find 60 in 1 kits with the joystick - 5 buttons (1&2 player start and 3 control buttons used by the games) - the Powersupply - and Jamma Harness for wiring for about $100 +/- )

True if you want the fighting games etc. the xxxx in 1's run a bit more but on your budget a 60 in 1 build with just the necessities would probably stick in your budget better and be a bit less support dependent. SOmething like Delusional's Green Invader Vigolix build ( http://forum.arcadecontrols.com/index.php/topic,141778.msg1467318.html#msg1467318 ) for example.

[consolas]

Thanks for the reply, my friend. I know one of those 600 in 1 japanese cards (elf or something like that) and it was around 150€ or something. The PI is around 40 so that was my main focus. I totally agree that this can brick easily but I will try to see if there is anyone there (from their IT department or something) that could take a look at the arcade from time to time.

I will try to check other types of those cards and see if it is cool.

What about the other stuff, what do you guys think? My limit is around 200€, I know it is not much but it is what I can afford due to many reasons. I still want to build my own arcade (project I postponed due to this one)

While the Pi itself may be a bit cheaper by the time you add the additional pieces ( 5v powersupply, SD card, GPIO cable, etc.) you need for it you'll be closer to $100 than you might think at first. and the 60 in 1's can be found for around $40 also (would still need a Powersupply also) but since the 60 in 1's have only classic games you can get by with fewer buttons and other components to keep the cost down (figure you can find 60 in 1 kits with the joystick - 5 buttons (1&2 player start and 3 control buttons used by the games) - the Powersupply - and Jamma Harness for wiring for about $100 +/- )

True if you want the fighting games etc. the xxxx in 1's run a bit more but on your budget a 60 in 1 build with just the necessities would probably stick in your budget better and be a bit less support dependent.

And the board has a preview feature right? Seems the way to go - I will look into it. Is ebay a safe place to by these? And the wiring is pretty much the same? IPAC, etc?

Thank you very much for your help and attention!

[JDFan]

And the board has a preview feature right? Seems the way to go - I will look into it. Is ebay a safe place to by these? And the wiring is pretty much the same? IPAC, etc?

Thank you very much for your help and attention!

The board has a menu system to select the games with previews so yes

Forum will not allow linking due to them not being 100% legal though are sold by many places so can't comment on the forum but most of them are pretty much identical no matter where you purchase whether direct from China or a reseller.

Wiring does not require an Ipac or encoder as it uses a Jamma Harness connector so just need to hook up the wiring from the harness to the buttons and power supply directly from the PCB Jamma connector to the harness to the parts without needing an encoder (also part of the savings they offer for your budget build !)

[paigeoliver]

I find it hard to believe the hospital also cleared the use of bootleg software.

If you want your controls to hold up then buy American style not Asian style. Supers are way more heavy duty than Sanwas.

Also, giving the kids too much choice just ruins the machine. They will spend all their time fighting over the menu and playing terrible games selected at random.

A simple Neo Geo 2 slot or something like a Capcom 3 Wonders board would go over far better in actually use than any sort of mame cabinet.

If you do get a 60 in 1 then get Namco Reunion 4-way joystick and turn off all the 8-way games.

[stavros693000]

Hello all

I've always wanted to build a cab with hyperspin and all the works but for now, I'll be using a raspeberry pi.

This cab is not for me - I'm gonna build it and place it in a oncology hospital, the childrens ward. I've already talked to the hospital and there is no problem with wood (mdf), plexiglass or the games/arcade being there.

I have also asked if they would like for their little kids to draw pictures and stuff and place them as art on the side of the cabinet, which was a well received idea.

Some background: due to very unfortunate reasons, I know the place well and know that those kids need any kind of "good stuff" and distraction they need, both them and their parents. It is unbearable to think what the parents go through so whenever their children pick up playstation controllers, laptops, etc. taking care of the item is not on the priority list. If the little kid is playing and smashing buttons (or keys) and smiling, trust me, the parents won't (and rightful so, in my opinion) stop the action in any way. That said, the consoles controllers they get from donations don't last long and are fairly limited to a small range of games.

I think an arcade will solve most of this problems (well, except the fact they are sick... ) but unfortunately I can't do anything regarding that.

The initial plan revealed to be on the expensive side, as I wanted to have hyperspin running on the desktop. I thought it was really appealing and easy to use. I've read that hyperspin is very hardware demanding and getting a good graphics card just to run it won't be possible.

That said, the plan revolves around building it with a raspeberry pi. Let me explain why:

1) Way more cheaper than getting a pc, be aware they will probably want more arcades if this is well received.
2) Since it is a solid unit (and not desktop components like motherboard, graphics card, etc) it is bound to resist more to hits
3) Controllers don't need to be super special in quality or sensibility, they have to endure a lot of hits, thought. I read than Janwa joysticks are pretty resistance. Buttons will probably be leaf ones.
4) VERY IMPORTANT: the visual interface MUST be easy to use - this is why I wanted the hyperspin, it's cool and easy. I don't know about the PI, are there easy to use emulators?

Now more general questions, thanks for bearing with me so far.

Do the PI (2) holds on and deliver good speed when playing games?

I was looking more into Metal Slug like games, Jack and John (the caveman one, don't know if the name is correct), etc. Of course I will try to get in the occasional street fighter and fighting games for older kids. I'm guessing the range goes from 2-3 to 10 in this specific ward.


The Arcade

If you guys agree, I will get:

- 1 x Raspeberry PI ( or the 2, if you guys think it is better )
- 1 x IPac from Ultimarc, I've exchange a few e-mails with Andy and the dude was pretty cool
   - just found out there is a cheaper IPAC now, cool, I think I will go with that and use the default mame controls
- 12 x action buttons, leaf ones to try to make them hold longer (and they do make less noise)
   - 6 x buttons for each player
- 2  x player button (the 1P and 2P buttons)
- 1 x Power on button

- 1 x set of desktop speakers
- Wood (mdf) - 19mm and maybe make it 1mt tall, smaller kids could get on a bench to play and older/bigger kids would bent just a little to play. Seems a good compromise.
- Plexiglass
- Art
- Almost forgot: monitor-

I came here to ask you guys for advice and to ask if is there a way to purchase refurbished buttons or something as this will become expensive as it is. Also, anyone with spare parts please let me know if you are interested in selling them.

The monitor I will use one from a broken laptop I was given and try to adapt it somehow - if I feel it is on the small side, maybe on ebay there are 21' monitors or something that I can get!

Thank you for reading and looking forward for your input

Ric

Edit: I think the 1P and 2P buttons should have lights so they know what buttons to press to start playing. Also, I'm really worried about the PI interface as it needs to be easy for them to find a game and play - they do not know english. If they can enter a game and exit if they don't like, and enter the next one, that is fine - they don't mind exploring all games.

this sounds like a fantastic project and will bring some joy to the children. I bought these of ebay ages ago but havnt tried them out yet, but the joystick is a sanwa jlf knock off and the buttons are silent(no click)....they also light up which is a nice feature the kids will like and comes with encoder and wires....everything u need for the controls and only $85.........
here it is http://www.ebay.com.au/itm/USB-LED-Controller-to-PC-Joystick-20-Illuminated-Buttons-For-Arcade-DIY-Parts-/201330271499?hash=item2ee038250b.

also I recommend the pi2 there great and theres also peeps selling them cheap on ebay loaded with 1000's of games and come with quality wireless controllers....check em out.

good luck with this project....its a worthy/noble cause..... if it brings just a little bit of joy to these sick children, than it is worth it.

ps...I only mention this cause ur on a tight budget and these will save you a lot of money. and the item I mention is $85 au so it will be much cheaper if your in uk or us as the aussie dollar is fooked

[keilmillerjr]

Your not going to brick a pi if the SD card is in read only mode.

[consolas]

A simple Neo Geo 2 slot or something like a Capcom 3 Wonders board would go over far better in actually use than any sort of mame cabinet.

Agree. I read through the 64 games in one and the list didn't exactly made me happy - I didn't know most of the games and the ones I knew were actually "too old". I'm all about the classics but tetris and arkanoid are not the type of games I want the little rascals to play.

Metal Slug, Captain Commando, etc, these are the games I would like to have - cartoonish so no blood or whatsoeve and both the little ones as the older ones (being 10-12) can enjoy.

I agree that a big selection would just make them go all around the list and never actually play - I also no that with the limited budget I have, I cannot have the world and that is why I looked into this all in one boards you guys so gently told me about.

Regarding the bootleg - it isn't really something that is accepted but it is not to make a profit or sell the arcade or whatever so I'm guessing it is like one of those "don't ask, don't tell" things - the kids will enjoy it so no harm done.


 

[consolas]

Your not going to brick a pi if the SD card is in read only mode.

That is very good to know, maybe pi still is a viable solution, but hardly now. From what I learned from you guys, these all in one cards have all the requirements already satisfied like emulator, preview, converter (will not need an Ipac), etc.

Seems the cheapest and coolest way to go with it.

To be honest, I really wanted to go with a PI and just try it out but I will do so in a project of my own or something.

[consolas]

Hello all

I've always wanted to build a cab with hyperspin and all the works but for now, I'll be using a raspeberry pi.

This cab is not for me - I'm gonna build it and place it in a oncology hospital, the childrens ward. I've already talked to the hospital and there is no problem with wood (mdf), plexiglass or the games/arcade being there.

I have also asked if they would like for their little kids to draw pictures and stuff and place them as art on the side of the cabinet, which was a well received idea.

Some background: due to very unfortunate reasons, I know the place well and know that those kids need any kind of "good stuff" and distraction they need, both them and their parents. It is unbearable to think what the parents go through so whenever their children pick up playstation controllers, laptops, etc. taking care of the item is not on the priority list. If the little kid is playing and smashing buttons (or keys) and smiling, trust me, the parents won't (and rightful so, in my opinion) stop the action in any way. That said, the consoles controllers they get from donations don't last long and are fairly limited to a small range of games.

I think an arcade will solve most of this problems (well, except the fact they are sick... ) but unfortunately I can't do anything regarding that.

The initial plan revealed to be on the expensive side, as I wanted to have hyperspin running on the desktop. I thought it was really appealing and easy to use. I've read that hyperspin is very hardware demanding and getting a good graphics card just to run it won't be possible.

That said, the plan revolves around building it with a raspeberry pi. Let me explain why:

1) Way more cheaper than getting a pc, be aware they will probably want more arcades if this is well received.
2) Since it is a solid unit (and not desktop components like motherboard, graphics card, etc) it is bound to resist more to hits
3) Controllers don't need to be super special in quality or sensibility, they have to endure a lot of hits, thought. I read than Janwa joysticks are pretty resistance. Buttons will probably be leaf ones.
4) VERY IMPORTANT: the visual interface MUST be easy to use - this is why I wanted the hyperspin, it's cool and easy. I don't know about the PI, are there easy to use emulators?

Now more general questions, thanks for bearing with me so far.

Do the PI (2) holds on and deliver good speed when playing games?

I was looking more into Metal Slug like games, Jack and John (the caveman one, don't know if the name is correct), etc. Of course I will try to get in the occasional street fighter and fighting games for older kids. I'm guessing the range goes from 2-3 to 10 in this specific ward.


The Arcade

If you guys agree, I will get:

- 1 x Raspeberry PI ( or the 2, if you guys think it is better )
- 1 x IPac from Ultimarc, I've exchange a few e-mails with Andy and the dude was pretty cool
   - just found out there is a cheaper IPAC now, cool, I think I will go with that and use the default mame controls
- 12 x action buttons, leaf ones to try to make them hold longer (and they do make less noise)
   - 6 x buttons for each player
- 2  x player button (the 1P and 2P buttons)
- 1 x Power on button

- 1 x set of desktop speakers
- Wood (mdf) - 19mm and maybe make it 1mt tall, smaller kids could get on a bench to play and older/bigger kids would bent just a little to play. Seems a good compromise.
- Plexiglass
- Art
- Almost forgot: monitor-

I came here to ask you guys for advice and to ask if is there a way to purchase refurbished buttons or something as this will become expensive as it is. Also, anyone with spare parts please let me know if you are interested in selling them.

The monitor I will use one from a broken laptop I was given and try to adapt it somehow - if I feel it is on the small side, maybe on ebay there are 21' monitors or something that I can get!

Thank you for reading and looking forward for your input

Ric

Edit: I think the 1P and 2P buttons should have lights so they know what buttons to press to start playing. Also, I'm really worried about the PI interface as it needs to be easy for them to find a game and play - they do not know english. If they can enter a game and exit if they don't like, and enter the next one, that is fine - they don't mind exploring all games.

this sounds like a fantastic project and will bring some joy to the children. I bought these of ebay ages ago but havnt tried them out yet, but the joystick is a sanwa jlf knock off and the buttons are silent(no click)....they also light up which is a nice feature the kids will like and comes with encoder and wires....everything u need for the controls and only $85.........
here it is http://www.ebay.com.au/itm/USB-LED-Controller-to-PC-Joystick-20-Illuminated-Buttons-For-Arcade-DIY-Parts-/201330271499?hash=item2ee038250b.

also I recommend the pi2 there great and theres also peeps selling them cheap on ebay loaded with 1000's of games and come with quality wireless controllers....check em out.

good luck with this project....its a worthy/noble cause..... if it brings just a little bit of joy to these sick children, than it is worth it.

ps...I only mention this cause ur on a tight budget and these will save you a lot of money. and the item I mention is $85 au so it will be much cheaper if your in uk or us as the aussie dollar is fooked

Thanks for the kind words!:)

These look really nice and the light thing would be awesome - wonder if they can take a punch!

[consolas]

Like Stravos recommended, I browsed around for the kit he spoke off

http://www.ebay.co.uk/itm/Arcade-USB-Control-Panel-DIY-Bundle-Kit-2-joystick-20-LED-Illuminated-Buttons-/191560963489?hash=item2c99ec55a1:g:~doAAOSwFAZTu~Xj

What is that encoder for? Just for the lights to go off? How do I connect this to a Elf 640 in one card, for instance? I'm asking this to know if I actually need that encoder or not cause I will probably go with no light buttons and just get a special light ones for player 1 and player 2

Thanks

[consolas]

Read about the Elf card, some people say it sucks, other like it.

I've read about the pandora box as well, is it worth it?

So many options.

[JDFan]

Read about the Elf card, some people say it sucks, other like it.

I've read about the pandora box as well, is it worth it?

So many options.

Yep that's gonna happen figure some people are only happy with the originals that are 100% accurate and any slight sound problem or something that isn't 100% true to the original is complained about while others that never played the originals never even notice since they never played the originals - so you're always going to have people on both sides and only way to be sure is to try it yourself !

What is that encoder for? Just for the lights to go off? How do I connect this to a Elf 640 in one card, for instance? I'm asking this to know if I actually need that encoder or not cause I will probably go with no light buttons and just get a special light ones for player 1 and player 2

THose encoders are for wiring up the buttons and joysticks if you are using a PC or other device that does not have connectors for them and also for the lights on the buttons (this is why it has 3 connections on each pad rather than just 2 like some other of the zero delay encoders) The game elf and other Jamma boards use the Jamma connector instead - so you would not need the encoder if using the Elf etc. ( but would need a controller for the lights if you go with lit buttons)

IF going the Elf route you would probably want a kit similar to this ( http://www.ebay.com/itm/171029496400?_trksid=p2057872.m2749.l2649&ssPageName=STRK%3AMEBIDX%3AIT ) That comes with the Jamma harness for wiring and 16 buttons(your choice of colors), 2 joysticks, and microswitches for about $50

[consolas]

It is more or less the previous one I showed, right? I'm trying to get stuff from Europe so it is faster to get it.

I'm still wondering if I should get normal buttons or the ones with light.

The wood will be around 120$ as far as I understood, strll trying to see if they give me some scraps big enough for me to use - I will try to make one arcade 1m height or something like that.

Still need to look into those.

Ok, so to resume:

- elf or pandora card, think I'll go with the pandora cause it seems better, read that some games lag on the Elf one.
- buttons will be from a kit that you guys showed me here, I know they will break eventually but I'm guessing it will be the joystick to break first so when that happens, I'll get a better one (and already know how they play, what damage they put into the machine, etc)
- Monitor: will try to get one 21', 22'. Don't know where, probably ebay or something like that, don't need to be extra good so I expect it to be fairly cheap. Is it possible to adapt a monitor from a laptop? I have one at home that doesn't work, could use that.
- speakers: no need as the elf/pandora have some, right?
- plexiglass

I will try to paint the outside with chalk board paint so the little rascals can paint and scribble all over the machine. I'm not sure if the dust in the chalk is good for them so if that fails, I'll try to place one of those white board materials on the side so they can scribble with pens.

If that fails, I'll just ask for them to draw me stuff, scan it, arrange it in photoshop and ask around where to print that to be able to glue it.

[JDFan]

If the chalk is ruled out could go with a dry erase paint and dry erase markers

[consolas]

I was thinking more about this http://www.usmarkerboard.com/images/mfrs/28/500/aptimized-jpg-C6352E3E8DF2F2ABDCE68EC15D8EDDCD-LcW7DkAwFADQ3W$Y721pRYx2q1XqVUW16UN9PoPh5HDK8pKT55P951sItkFMKcHoVFhu5aM4rTNznIKHyWhUWsjFo16dx6JGTghWjENfdO5o54FQBlqoC3YrXw==-6bc69fb4.jpg but cut somehow - ahah.

Your solution is way better.

[monkeybomb]

There's typically a few adult games on the big multiboards.   You can hide them from the menu and lock the cabinet, but you would effectively be stashing porn at the kids hospital.

[consolas]

There's typically a few adult games on the big multiboards.   You can hide them from the menu and lock the cabinet, but you would effectively be stashing porn at the kids hospital.

Oh no...didn't know that.

Is there a way to hide the games? That seems ok, I guess?

[monkeybomb]

You can hide the games from the menu and then lock the coin door.  It's just that it's still there and people make mistakes. 

[consolas]

Thanks for the heads up.

I've been reading a lot and the main idea I've gotten is you can't beat a pc regarding speed and quality of the games (fps, etc). That said, Raspberry-PI 2 is pretty good as well. As soon as I do some math, it all goes to hell and I'm stuck with pandora/elf things which make sense, you pay for what you get.

I will check out those type of boards but with less games to see if there are no adult games in there.

[yotsuya]

Those bootleg multi boards don't have built in speakers. Don't know what gave you that idea.

[monkeybomb]

You also need a power supply for the jamma harness.

Have you tried to find a free computer with a 4 x 3 lcd monitor.  Any PC that someone is looking to upgrade on will work for this and people will give you stuff for this.  People don't like giving money, but if they can give you a computer that they didn't know what to do with and feel like they helped sick kids, there will be a line around the corner.  If the hospital has a computer sitting around from the past 10 years it will work too.

If you start with a free computer, your numbers will improve quite a bit.

[consolas]

Those bootleg multi boards don't have built in speakers. Don't know what gave you that idea.

Don't know either, didn't read it anywhere - don't know! aha glad you drop that to my attention.

[consolas]

You also need a power supply for the jamma harness.

Have you tried to find a free computer with a 4 x 3 lcd monitor.  Any PC that someone is looking to upgrade on will work for this and people will give you stuff for this.  People don't like giving money, but if they can give you a computer that they didn't know what to do with and feel like they helped sick kids, there will be a line around the corner.  If the hospital has a computer sitting around from the past 10 years it will work too.

If you start with a free computer, your numbers will improve quite a bit.

I guess this is a really good alternative as well. I discard the computer when I started cause I needed a good graphics card to run Hyperspin in order to make it easier for them to select a game. I just can't get a list of games just by text, it is required to have an image, video preview, anything.

I will try out the computer - I have a really old one laying around (15 years old?) - maybe that is too old? I will probably manage to get an I5 that a company is selling for around 60$, that would surely work!! (no monitor though).

The thing with the boards - although I never thought about buying one before talking to you guys - is that it has:

1) all required adapters, converters, etc to connect to the controllers
2) all games are included
3) preview
4) "more solid" (debatable) than a computer - I could screw in the computer or find a way to get it really stuck in there.

The computer will have a lot of advantages though - I could even try to get some kind of a remote tool like Teamviwer in order to fix smaller issues without going there, but this is far fetched.


The computer would have a power source included, so that is one less item to spend money on.

[consolas]

Hey everyone

Just wanted to thank you guys once more for all the attention and caring regarding this little project - I really can't stress this enough.

So, I asked around for old computers and a friend's company is selling their old computers to buy new ones.

OptiPlex 390 SF
Processor : Intel Core i5-2400 (3.10GHz, 6MB)
Memory : 4GB (1x4GB) 1333MHz DDR3 Non-ECC
Hard Drive : 250GB 3.5inch Serial ATA III (7.200 Rpm) Hard Drive
Optical Drive : Not Included
No Monitor
Graphics : 512MB AMD Radeon HD 6350 Graphics (Low Profile, 2 VGA output)


This is being sold for around 60$, I think it is a very sweet deal!! I ask if he had two! That way I can either do another machine for another project (an orphanage close to my home) or if it is WELL received in the hospital, I just place another machine on another ward.

I think it is a very sweet deal, what do you guys think? I5 is more than enough to play ROMS right? And it even has a graphics card, who knows, maybe it can run hyperspin, even if slower (I really REALLY need some kind of preview for the kids).

This way I'm a little more relaxed in regard of adult games and games I don't want them to have access to.

Bear in mind I'm in Europe - things are a little more expensive here, regarding old computers and stuff.


# NOTE #

Regarding the wood, I realize yesterday when talking to my girlfriend (the only one that knows I'm doing this besides you guys) that MDF is a no go! Kids are bound to spill water and every kind of liquid stuff on the machine so I should use a type of wood that deals better with water than mdf.

Placing plexiglass all over the machine will kind of make it a lot more expensive but if it comes to that, I will do it.

Edit: just sent a message to the woodshop (don't know how to call it) asking for 2nd hand boards or wood boards that they can't sell due to dents and stuff like that. Let's see what they say.


Monitor

Found a 19' LG (LCD 19" 1440x900 16:10)  - is 19' cool? Do you guys think I should go with 21' or 22'? This is being sold around 40€ so roughly 60$?

Found a 20' Samsung for more or less the same price.


Zero Delay Arcade

If I go with the pc (which I hope I can), will the Zero Delay Arcade be a good solution instead of the Ipac? - Thanks for the heads up, JDFan!

[consolas]

Funny how going through e-mails, I saw a bunch of exchange questions and answers with Ultimarc! Ahah Talk about projects that don't come to happen...

This one will. I have to get this done by 1rd of Dec so I can get it in the hospital before Christmas.

Will place my order here - I was looking through some buttons on ebay but I don't know how they will work or if I need anything special to connect them to an Ipac (I was thinking of getting a mini-pac, but if I need to remap any button I'm kind of screwed..).

Something like this - http://www.ebay.co.uk/itm/2-Player-Arcade-Control-Kit-2-Ball-Top-Joysticks-12-Buttons-MAME-JAMMA/121698818874?_trksid=p2047675.c100005.m1851&_trkparms=aid%3D222007%26algo%3DSIC.MBE%26ao%3D1%26asc%3D33957%26meid%3Dfb6fc8f0ce0a47d5b053b394db1282e3%26pid%3D100005%26rk%3D1%26rkt%3D6%26sd%3D141697502451

To be honest, it doesn't seem cheaper than in Ultimarc but I just doing the math now.

If I go completely with Ultimarc (which I would prefer, dude was very helpful in the past, deserves the business!), I will go with:

- 2 1P/2P buttons (one of each)
- 6 x Gold Leaf buttons x 2 Players -> (so 12 total, 6 for each player)
- 1 coin button, either a normal one or one of those cool coin buttons
- 2 joystick with the ball, not the stick, I think its cooler (maybe more resistant? Don't know)
- 1 IPac2 (maybe the minipac if the default mame mapping is cool! - but since I will probably have different emulators, I want the kids to always know which button to press in order to play so I guess I'll need the IPac 2)

I don't know if I'm allowed to post prices here so I'll refrain myself from doing so - If I do am allowed, I will separate all the items and price them so I can see the overall price and you guys can shout out your opinion.

Thanks


Roughly: 100€. This is getting really expensive!..:| Oh, and forgot about the wiring kit! I think I can get the mini-pac with the harness included, price will be more or less the same.

Since I'm on a time and $$ budget, I already checked for dimensions.



This seems pretty cool, I will just make it smaller on the height and with a bigger "tip"? So the marquee will have space for the speakers. The volume control will be hidden either on top or back of the cab so kids won't reach it

[keilmillerjr]

Neo Geo MVS is a bad idea for public use on a crt. If left in the game menu of a multicart, you will obtain burn in as there are no screen savers. Also, the price point probably puts you over budget.

I still think a raspberry pi running attract mode with composite connected to a CRT TV that you could find for free and wiring the controls to the GPIO would be your cheapest option to obtain your goals. The hardware minus the controls would cost you maybe $60?

[consolas]

Thank you for your reply. The PI-2 with the power source would be at around 70$, I agree.

If I get the computer for that value, I prefer the computer - I really need those previews you know? What do you think?

I will spend more in the buttons and joystick, that much I understood. Around 100€.

[paigeoliver]

Neo Geo MVS is a bad idea for public use on a crt. If left in the game menu of a multicart, you will obtain burn in as there are no screen savers.

You don't install a multicart. You install 2 or 4 or 6 legitimate games. The kids don't need the selection.

When the end result is something you are going to put out in public unattended for people to play then an actual mame cabinet is never the solution. I know countless guys who own and run arcades and not a darn one of them is running a mame cabinet with a menu out in public (just a few isolated uses of computers replacing priceless boards and laserdisc setups with single game emulation solutions).

[consolas]

You guys lost me there - are you talking about different emulators?

If we use a pc, we can add whichever emulators  we want, right? I really wanted neo geo as I think they are the distributors of Metal Slug, are they not?

The machine will probably have a lot of playing time so I'm guessing it won't be left alone that much (ie.: with a static image) - I thought all the games, if using hyperspin, would have some kind of screen saver?

I'm lost here.


On another note, read here that it is very important to measure the doors where the arcade must go through to be placed in its final spot. That said, I don't think I can assemble it in my backyard as the door to the backyear is horrendously small!

[keilmillerjr]

Neo Geo MVS is a bad idea for public use on a crt. If left in the game menu of a multicart, you will obtain burn in as there are no screen savers.

You don't install a multicart. You install 2 or 4 or 6 legitimate games. The kids don't need the selection.

When the end result is something you are going to put out in public unattended for people to play then an actual mame cabinet is never the solution. I know countless guys who own and run arcades and not a darn one of them is running a mame cabinet with a menu out in public (just a few isolated uses of computers replacing priceless boards and laserdisc setups with single game emulation solutions).

Cost. He is doing this for charity and trying to do this on a budget. Buying an mvs, jamma harness, arcade monitor or supergun, and then like a few costly (relative) games will certainly make his pocket more empty.

[keilmillerjr]

Thank you for your reply. The PI-2 with the power source would be at around 70$, I agree.

If I get the computer for that value, I prefer the computer - I really need those previews you know? What do you think?

I will spend more in the buttons and joystick, that much I understood. Around 100€.

Attract Mode for RPI can do "previews", so I don't understand what the fuss is there. It's the same damn app as the windows, mac and linux version. Checkout is $45.90 from adafruit for the pi and power supply. You might not need a keyboard encoder like a pc because the pi has GPIO pins. You can use a standard crt tv unlike a normal pc, saving even more money since crt tv's can be had for free and look much better than having retro games on an lcd.

So I don't understand how you think buying a computer will be cheaper.

[consolas]

If it is possible to have PI with preview, surely enough I can try that!

I have a computer on sight (from a company that is renewing its stock) for around 50€, same as the PI would cost. I know this is an incredible offer so I'm not getting my hopes up.

Good to see I have a cheap solution (and viable) using the PI! I will look into it, I have a PI at home that I can use - I'll get another one for me later, if I end up using it, it is ok.

Will the 2 run faster?

OH! I remember why I discarded the PI! People here advised me against it that it can "break" easily, like card burning out, data corruption, etc. with all the on and off going around. I can't have the machine to stop every other day, not that I mind going there (I will not only for the machine, I'm sure) but I do mind having kids to go all excited to play a game only to find a broke machine.

I do not want that - if I must, I will save some money and get a desktop or something as too much bad stuff is happening in their lifes (I'm not comparing what they are going through to finding a video game not working, obviously. But you get my drift)



This is why I discarded the PI - on the first post, I actually started by saying I wanted to use a PI:)

[keilmillerjr]

Once again, just put the sd card in read only mode. Data corruption will no longer be an issue.

[EMDB]

You have a PC and a Pi but keep asking the same questions over and over. Just install the emulators on both and try them for yourself. You can use a keyboard instead of the buttons / sticks for the time being...

[paigeoliver]

He could just buy a functioning Neo Geo machine for about the same price at whatever he ends up putting together. Building your own is not always the solution. Ultimately it won't end up staying there, eventually somebody from maintenance, safety or legal will take a second look at the thing and it will be gone.

$200-$250 will buy them a real arcade game that will actually stick around.

There is absolutely no way the hospital administrator, legal department, maintenance department and safety/insurance guys actually approved a home-made arcade game loaded with bootleg software in a children's hospital, the potential liability is incredible.

Neo Geo MVS is a bad idea for public use on a crt. If left in the game menu of a multicart, you will obtain burn in as there are no screen savers.

You don't install a multicart. You install 2 or 4 or 6 legitimate games. The kids don't need the selection.

When the end result is something you are going to put out in public unattended for people to play then an actual mame cabinet is never the solution. I know countless guys who own and run arcades and not a darn one of them is running a mame cabinet with a menu out in public (just a few isolated uses of computers replacing priceless boards and laserdisc setups with single game emulation solutions).

Cost. He is doing this for charity and trying to do this on a budget. Buying an mvs, jamma harness, arcade monitor or supergun, and then like a few costly (relative) games will certainly make his pocket more empty.

[consolas]

Once again, just put the sd card in read only mode. Data corruption will no longer be an issue.

Dude, think I'm sold.

I'm trying to get a 20' or 22' monitor and will starting doing the cab. Have to get this done before December!

[consolas]

You have a PC and a Pi but keep asking the same questions over and over. Just install the emulators on both and try them for yourself. You can use a keyboard instead of the buttons / sticks for the time being...

I don't have yet the pc, still trying for the company that is selling them to let me know if they will or not sell them.

[consolas]

He could just buy a functioning Neo Geo machine for about the same price at whatever he ends up putting together. Building your own is not always the solution. Ultimately it won't end up staying there, eventually somebody from maintenance, safety or legal will take a second look at the thing and it will be gone.

$200-$250 will buy them a real arcade game that will actually stick around.

There is absolutely no way the hospital administrator, legal department, maintenance department and safety/insurance guys actually approved a home-made arcade game loaded with bootleg software in a children's hospital, the potential liability is incredible.

Neo Geo MVS is a bad idea for public use on a crt. If left in the game menu of a multicart, you will obtain burn in as there are no screen savers.

You don't install a multicart. You install 2 or 4 or 6 legitimate games. The kids don't need the selection.

When the end result is something you are going to put out in public unattended for people to play then an actual mame cabinet is never the solution. I know countless guys who own and run arcades and not a darn one of them is running a mame cabinet with a menu out in public (just a few isolated uses of computers replacing priceless boards and laserdisc setups with single game emulation solutions).

Cost. He is doing this for charity and trying to do this on a budget. Buying an mvs, jamma harness, arcade monitor or supergun, and then like a few costly (relative) games will certainly make his pocket more empty.

Thanks for the input. Let me just reiterate a few things.

I don't have the possibility of getting an "old" arcade from somewhere - it just isn't that easy to find over here - and NEVER for 300$, even for 500 € in working condition. Maybe in the US (I don't know if you are from the US, bear in mind. I'm assuming that cause you talked in $, just that) it's not only easier but "common" to refurbished real machines.

I found around here a few pinball machines going for the minimum of 1500€ (around 2000$?) - yes, pinball are WAY more expensive, just giving that as an example.

Regarding this:

There is absolutely no way the hospital administrator, legal department, maintenance department and safety/insurance guys actually approved a home-made arcade game loaded with bootleg software in a children's hospital, the potential liability is incredible.

I totally agree and I did what I could to prevent/know how to prevent this from happen - I talked to the services that handle the donations of items that include all kind of games and computers.

I then talked to the person that manages the ward where the machine will be - I showed examples of the machine and told them what games would run. Told them it's a machine that run a lot of games, like the ones found in the arcades but from a computer.

Never, at any moment, doubts of legitimacy risen as I always told the machine would run without any coins. Maybe I should bring this subject up again, just to make sure.

In doubt, I will do it and if they take them from the kids, I'll try to know why and if it comes to that, I'll make another one. I don't want to imagine someone wandering in the ward and just pointing at a machine with kids playing: that has got to go.

For god sake - thanks for bringing that up, though, I really hope it doesn't come to that.

[paigeoliver]

What country are you in?

[DaOld Man]

Just wanted to say I love this project, and your idea of building it for sick kids is highly commendable.

As for the Pi and the SD card, if it is set to read only mode, the high scores for mame will not be saved, is this correct?

[consolas]

Thank you for the encouragement!

Yeah, I'm guessing it won't but it is a small price to pay to make sure the machine doesn't stop working.

[keilmillerjr]

He could just buy a functioning Neo Geo machine for about the same price at whatever he ends up putting together. Building your own is not always the solution. Ultimately it won't end up staying there, eventually somebody from maintenance, safety or legal will take a second look at the thing and it will be gone.

$200-$250 will buy them a real arcade game that will actually stick around.

There is absolutely no way the hospital administrator, legal department, maintenance department and safety/insurance guys actually approved a home-made arcade game loaded with bootleg software in a children's hospital, the potential liability is incredible.

Neo Geo MVS is a bad idea for public use on a crt. If left in the game menu of a multicart, you will obtain burn in as there are no screen savers.

You don't install a multicart. You install 2 or 4 or 6 legitimate games. The kids don't need the selection.

When the end result is something you are going to put out in public unattended for people to play then an actual mame cabinet is never the solution. I know countless guys who own and run arcades and not a darn one of them is running a mame cabinet with a menu out in public (just a few isolated uses of computers replacing priceless boards and laserdisc setups with single game emulation solutions).

Cost. He is doing this for charity and trying to do this on a budget. Buying an mvs, jamma harness, arcade monitor or supergun, and then like a few costly (relative) games will certainly make his pocket more empty.

I fully agree with that 100%, and if I was the original poster, I would just buy a complete machine as you suggested. My advice was only based on trying to go by what the original poster wanted.

Arcade machines here in the usa are weird. One person will want $1200 for a golden tee, and another will want $250 for the same machine in better shape. Pinballs are ---steaming pile of meadow muffin--- expensive though. Even broken ones I can not afford.

[consolas]

I will follow the advice of just starting the thing.

On my way to get wood (mdf, 19mm) - will follow the plans I posted here before but instead of 180cm height, maybe Ill decrease it by 20cm or so.

I assume an adult would like a playing height of 120cm so I'm decreasing it by 20. I think all kids can play rather confortable like this.

[consolas]

Hi all!

Just made the first purchase for the cab - got two monitors (will decide which one to use and take that).

Both are 22 and since one has a foot that is easier to disassemble, I guess I will take that.

It was around 20€ so it was an incredible find.

Here it is -

Project officially started! Should I just post in the "Projects" section or does it make sense to keep you guys posted here?

[yotsuya]

Just rename this thread and keep it all here. Delusional will move it anyway.

[consolas]

Just rename this thread and keep it all here. Delusional will move it anyway.

Ok, I will keep posting updates here. Thanks, Yotsuya!

[reptileink]

I will follow the advice of just starting the thing.

On my way to get wood (mdf, 19mm) - will follow the plans I posted here before but instead of 180cm height, maybe Ill decrease it by 20cm or so.

I assume an adult would like a playing height of 120cm so I'm decreasing it by 20. I think all kids can play rather confortable like this.

I thought you mentioned that MDF was a no go?

I've been following this whole thread, and I really admire what you are attempting to do here. I honestly think you should try and scale this down to a bar top or even a smaller unit. If these kids are sickly, you don't want them to have to climb up on stools/chairs with all their potential IV gear and what not (even if physically able to). I think a small bar top that the staff can place on a table somewhere would be ideal versus a large arcade sitting in a corner/hallway. I also have to echo the concern about "bootleg" roms/emulators. I highly doubt someone is going to come in and drop the hammer on it, but if people start asking questions, you never know who might be in that hospital (game company exec, local vendor, etc. )

using one of those "60 in 1" game consoles might be another way to go, that way they are legal, compact, and will have previews of all the games. Hook it up to a TV in  a small bar top and forget about it. Seems you are intent on building a multi system, and good on ya, but I think this could be done much more cost effectively to you, and safer in the long run.

[consolas]

Hello!

MDF was a no go due to not being able to take a punch (regarding liquids). I've learned that with some varnish it should hold way better so it is up again. If I find a cheap kind of wood instead of MDF, why not?

I've played in one of those 60x1 boards - to be honest, it kind of sucks, at least the one I use. Grantly, they would probably didn't mind but I don't want to leave something there that I'm not proud of or happy. If it comes to that, they are more important (and ultimately the objective) so whatever is required to get the machine there would be surely done.

I though about the bartop but too many beels start ringing: it would be place on a table hence prone to getting hit, it would be movable hence transported to a room (or even outside and puf.... ), it wouldn't have a steady place so I kind of depended on their best judgment to get the cab on a solid surface, etc.

It was just too much so I decided with a general heavy cab, so they can't crash it on top of another kid by mistake and get hurt. I do want to get smaller cabs inside the UCI wards where some of this little fellows are isolated but that is a next project, with a lot more requirements.

Regarding the machine legitimacy, to be honest I didn't know the 60x1 type of boards were legal, always thought they were "ilegal", sort of speak. if it comes to that, I will handle that situation and in the end just take the machine out. I hope it doesn't come to that. Really do. It would be a stab to the soul to be honest.

Thank you for your kind words and concerns!

[reptileink]

I guess I should clarify. By "multi game" console I mean the Flashback types.

Sega has the Mega Drive (comes with 80 games...40 ACTUAL Sega games) 3 simple buttons (or comes with wireless controllers) It's $54 on Amazon with free Prime shipping. I do have to say though, this system isn't the greatest, just thinking of consoles of the like.

You can get hacked controllers if you want to use actual arcade controls.

How long are these kids going to play? I am sure they won't be able to complete a game in the time they have to play it (including share time).

Sonic is a great game for kids, and it has a bit of the "older" titles without the fear of adult content or things too violent. I don't know the whole list of games, but I am sure 40 would be more than enough for a system that kids might play for an hour or two a day.

Also, not sure what type of ward it is, but you need to think about seizure potential ( I hope the hospital folks would have considered this already)

[consolas]

I've taken most into account: this ward is where kids can roam freely and don't need "special" attention (I'm refering for instance, to kids that are in ICU due to really low whice cells count, they have to be isolated until their imune system recovers).

The thing with consoles - and I've thought about it, like buying consoles in second hand and just give the consoles to them - are the remotes.

The parents of this children rarely see their kids smile (sometimes the tretaments smash so hard their imune systems that they go for weeks with hardly saying word let alone smile) so when they are playing the consoles and just getting distracted, the controlers are the last of everyone's concern so they have a time span of weeks/days: they fall, get smashed, get lost, etc.

Sure I could get more controllers but I chose this - like I said, this isn't out of selfishness on my own, I will feel my sould full as soon as I see them playing on the machine.

The seizures is a very good point: this won't be an issue as, like I said before, they already have (had) consoles, tv, etc.

There are a few games I Would love to have: the street fighter but with kids (I just found this out yesterday, game is so funny), metal slug (cartoonish), mario, sonic, ninja turtles, cap comando: stuff like this.

Edit.: By the way, sick project! (your signature)

[yotsuya]

I've taken most into account: this ward is where kids can roam freely and don't need "special" attention (I'm refering for instance, to kids that are in ICU due to really low whice cells count, they have to be isolated until their imune system recovers).

The thing with consoles - and I've thought about it, like buying consoles in second hand and just give the consoles to them - are the remotes.

The parents of this children rarely see their kids smile (sometimes the tretaments smash so hard their imune systems that they go for weeks with hardly saying word let alone smile) so when they are playing the consoles and just getting distracted, the controlers are the last of everyone's concern so they have a time span of weeks/days: they fall, get smashed, get lost, etc.

Sure I could get more controllers but I chose this - like I said, this isn't out of selfishness on my own, I will feel my sould full as soon as I see them playing on the machine.

The seizures is a very good point: this won't be an issue as, like I said before, they already have (had) consoles, tv, etc.

There are a few games I Would love to have: the street fighter but with kids (I just found this out yesterday, game is so funny), metal slug (cartoonish), mario, sonic, ninja turtles, cap comando: stuff like this.

Edit.: By the way, sick project! (your signature)

I'm no prude, but I'm surprised you keep mentioning Metal Slug. Yes, it's cartoony, but it's also pretty violent. Just an observation, not a judgement. How old are these kids anyway?

[consolas]

Saw some videos and yeah, it is kind of an aggressive games for kids. Captain Commando is out of the question as well, I think.

The ward is a general ward so it has kids raging from 5-6 to maybe 12-13. Of course teens can also go there but I don't think is common for them to do that.

It is way more common for the 10-12 year old to go to rest area of the teens, as far as I understood - hence all the broken controllers.

So I need to revise the list I had in mind: I think I can get nintendo games to work, right? That is always a safe choice. Mario 1 and 2

So, Marios, Sonic.

Those plane games (even they are vertical) - saw a bunch here - it is just explosions of stuff, no "persons" so I think it is cool.

What do you think? Whatever the games may be, the rest needs to be done so all good.

Will get this speakers tomorrow, 5€ (around 6$).

So 25€ so far. Not bad.

[reptileink]

Are there tall enough stools/seats for the smaller kids to play a full sized machine? I'm just worried about a full sized arcade being too big, or putting kids up on stools where potential of them falling off is greater. My twins are 6 years old and while they can reach the controls of my arcade, they can't see the screen too well.

Also, I think you are missing my point about the "flashback" style consoles. You can get hacked controllers (or hack one yourself) and then hook it up via arcade controls so you can still have your cake and eat it too.

Thanks for the kudos by the way. That project is in a current state of rehab...lol

[consolas]

I hear you!

I posted somewhere in this thread (I posted a lot of stuff, I know! aha) the dimensions I wanted to use to see if anyone with kids could provide a solid input.

The height of the plan intended a playing height of 1.20 meters, around that. So I just sliced 20/30cm, making the height at 1meter. This way smaller kids can get on a bench (which doesn't have to be very high and thus reducing risk of falling) and higher kids won't have to be all curved and uncomfortable while playing.

What do you think? Should I make it lower?

[monkeybomb]

Does anyone have moppet plans?  I've always wanted to see street fighter played on a tugboat cabinet.

[consolas]

Got the boards.

I got 3 with 19mm because I read here, on other threads, that it is the "safe" choice. I could go with MDO but from what I understood, I need to know what I'm doing regarding cutting it and building a structure to support it. That is definately not the case! 

I think 19mm MDF is more forgiving as it stays in place better and it is easier to cut and do shapes.

Also, for the t-molding, if I'm able to get it, I read that 19mm is the standard size or, at least, the most used. I don't have a router so I don't think I will be able to use it. I'll try to come up with a solution - I assume there are materials similar to t-molding that you can just glue or even nail to the border of the boards. Not as cool, sure, but at least it would protect the edges of the cade.

So the 19mm are for the sides of the arcade and the floor, if I get the desktop I spoke off before. If I go with the PI, it doesn't make much of a difference being the 10mm or 19mm, although I think I would benefit more, structure wise, from the 19mm floor.

The 10mm are for the bottom of the top of the arcade (below the marquee) -  I'll try to get a drawing here later on.

The 3mm is for whatever may be necessary. It was around 2€ (3$) so I thought I should get it - I had a ride that helped me out so I needed to get all wood NOW or else I would need to order a home delivery and that is way too expensive.

Looking good! Falling back on schedule, though.

I'm gonna get the speakers tomorrow (6$) and the wood was around 61€ (roughly 65$)

Money so far

Monitor: 20€ (22$)
Speakers: (still to be delivered) 5€ (6$)
Wood: 61€ (65$)
PC/PI: To be defined
Controllers (plus IPAC): To be defined

All: 86€ (92$)

I'm counting with 100€ (107$) for Ipac, buttons and joystick - from ultimarc. I'm from Europe, so ports shouldn't be that expensive. The 100€ doesn't take that into account, maybe 10€ more?

I was aiming for 200€ (214$) and it worries me that I will probably go over it - I hope that not by much, can't really worry about that now and need to continue the project.

Other stuff - configuring the PI

In case I can't get my hands on the desktop, I will use a PI as discussed before. I started to install Raspbian and Retropie and trying to get that to work. Seems pretty cool - I'm having some issues with the retropie freezing after a few minutes of activity, even in just the menus but I didn't read much about what may be the problem so hopefuly it is a matter of configuration.


As always, thanks for reading!

[consolas]

I'm ordering buttons so I thought about reviewing the games I will add to the machine.

A lot of you advised me in being extra careful with games so I search this forum regarding list of games for kids.

These two topics appeared, are are filled with good advices and lists of games!

http://forum.arcadecontrols.com/index.php/topic,106313.0.html

http://forum.arcadecontrols.com/index.php/topic,110192.0.html

The list is, roughly, as follow (copy/pasted from the threads above):

world class bowling - super easy for small kids, but still fun
TMNT
TMNT Turtles in Time
Sunset Riders
Xmen
captain america and the avengers
simpsons
Puzzle bobble
Bubble Bobble
Games my 7 and 5 yr old like:
Bomberman World
Tumble Pop
Forgotten Worlds
GI Joe
Rampage (of course)
Warriors of Fate
Knights of Valour
Roadblasters
Spider-Man
Shadow Force
Quartet
Gauntlet I, II
Magic Sword
Centipede
Galaga (the cocktail version I have)
pinball games
Liquid Kids
any of the Bubble Bobble games
any of the Puzzle Bobble games
Tugboat
Pac-Man series (on easy with 5 men standard)
Pole Position, Turbo (or car games in general)
Vs. Excitebike
Vs. Super Mario Bros.
Afterburner
Space Harrier
Frogger
Pacman
Mr. Do
Dig Dug
Donkey Kong
Mappy
APB
Arkanoid
Bump 'n Jump
Burger Time
Centipede
Congo Bongo
Crazy Balloon
Dig Dug
Donkey Kong
Donkey Kong 3
Donkey Kong Jr.
Frogger
Kangaroo
Kick
Lock'n'Chase
Mappy
Mat Mania
Millipede
MotoRace USA
Mr. Do!
Ms. Pac Man
Pac Man
Q*Bert
Qix
Sinistar
Space Invaders
Tempest
Toobin'
Tron
Turtles
Up 'n Down

Console games:
Wii Acme Arsenal
Wii Soulcalibur Legends
SNES Legend of Zelda Link to Past
GBA Pokemon games
GBA YuGiOh games

Some of the games are duplicate, in the above list.

I'm sure I want:

TMNT, both of them but I know better the Time version, used to play it in SNES
Some of the airplanes type of games, where you fly a plane and avoid enemies and shoot everything in the ground
Caveman Ninja ( I think it is called Joe and Mac)

Metal Slug and etc are off, thank you guys for pointing that although cartoonish, it is still violent.

Now, my question: Do most of these games (if any) require a 6 button layout? Should I just go with a four button layout? (This is mainly to reduce the price and not having unused buttons that might be kind of confusing to the players)

Thank you very much

[yotsuya]

Glad you're thinking about it. All it takes is one person complaining about some game they saw on the cab to get it shut down. Since the primary target is little kids, keep it kid friendly.

[consolas]

Glad you're thinking about it. All it takes is one person complaining about some game they saw on the cab to get it shut down. Since the primary target is little kids, keep it kid friendly.

Totally agree, my friend.

On a related note, I think I'll go with the 6 button layout still - I don't want a game to required 6 buttons or something and then they can't play it.

[JDFan]

I'd actually cut the list of games down considerably -- right now you have too many games in the list and much of the time will be spent looking at the list rather than playing -- I'd limit it to a dozen or less games to make selecting a game to play easy and then after a while see which ones are never played - remove them and add a few new one to renew interest in playing.

[consolas]

I'd actually cut the list of games down considerably -- right now you have too many games in the list and much of the time will be spent looking at the list rather than playing -- I'd limit it to a dozen or less games to make selecting a game to play easy and then after a while see which ones are never played - remove them and add a few new one to renew interest in playing.

Cool, thanks for the advice. I have a problem though, I can't really check what games are played the most and I hardly think the supervisors will be able to control that.

What do you say a good number is? 12?

TMNT
1 puzzle bobble
1 bubble bobble
Simpsons (a lot of people keep talking about this one so it seems a good choice)
Frogger
Donkey Kong
One of those airplane games
Bomberman World
Space harrier (just saw a clip ahah)
Caveman Ninja (mac and joe)
Uo Poko (the lose animation is pretty messed up, though)

What else? Are there any fight games suitable for kids? I saw the street fighter mini that is funny as hell but it is, still, a fighting game.



/offtopic And that music remembered me of one of the games I loved the most, for the NES: snake rattle and roll. Don't know if it exists but would love to get it! /offtopic

What about Mario, Sonic, etc?

[monkeybomb]

I think 12 is a good number and I certainly wouldn't go higher than 20.  With the list being short, I would ditch the games that are made for a 4 way joystick.  Besides, as much as I like frogger and donkey kong, I don't know that children without personal attachment to the game are going to feel the same way.  I also would recommend adding Uo Poko.

[consolas]

I think 12 is a good number and I certainly wouldn't go higher than 20.  With the list being short, I would ditch the games that are made for a 4 way joystick.  Besides, as much as I like frogger and donkey kong, I don't know that children without personal attachment to the game are going to feel the same way.  I also would recommend adding Uo Poko.

Done deal.

I don't know Uo Poko but a few players here recommended that game. I just saw it and when the players lose, the animation is pretty messed up ahaha

[reptileink]

What about X-men (yea, it's a 4 player, but so is TMNT and Simpsons)

I would try and get some superhero games in there as well as maybe NFL blitz or some type of sports game. I am sure sickly kids might wish they could be outside playing a sport.

[consolas]

What about X-men (yea, it's a 4 player, but so is TMNT and Simpsons)

I would try and get some superhero games in there as well as maybe NFL blitz or some type of sports game. I am sure sickly kids might wish they could be outside playing a sport.

TNMT is 4 way? I keep thinking about this when I say TMNT -

I can't possible make a 4 way now: money, time and skill constraints. Specially money.

Should I ditch those games?

[BGoulette]

There are also two-player variants of TMNT and X-Men, fwiw...

[yotsuya]

There are also two-player variants of TMNT and X-Men, fwiw...

^^^ This. They're easy to implement.

[consolas]

Ok, cool! So 2 players controller it is.

I'm going to place the order now, just have some questions with the wires and stuff - I think I should get the wiring kit but it's around 25€. Well, if I make any more of this arcades, it will pay for itself I guess.

Any opinions on this?

The wiring kit includes:

Wiring kit containing everything you need to wire joysticks and buttons to an interface.
Black wire: 4 Metres for ground.
10 other colours: 2 metres of each colour
Crimp and strip tool.
100 crimp connectors
Cable ties.

Seems a fair choice.

[consolas]

Almost 200€ (220$) for:

2 Joysticks
12 buttons (6 x each side)
wiring kit
2 start buttons (1P and 2P)
1 IPac2

I didn't want to get lower quality joysticks or buttons as they need to be resistant but 200€ is way more than anticipated.

If I get this to 4 buttons per player I save around 7,50€.

What alternatives do I have here? Not many, right?


Edit.: http://www.ebay.co.uk/itm/NEW-Arcade-JAMMA-60-in-1-Kit-w-2-Joysticks-4-8-way-16-HAPP-Push-Buttons-MAME-/251336973880?hash=item3a84d9de38:g:iusAAOSwv0tVXRue

This kind of prize is getting really competitive..is this kit that bad? I would still buy the IPAC

[reptileink]

I honestly don't think you need to go hardcore on the buttons/joysticks (although I can see why you want to).

It's not like they are going to be pounding buttons for fighting games.

I hate to say it, but either you are going to do this or not. I understand about not wanting to spend a lot of money on it, but that's kind of unavoidable if you want to make a quality lasting machine. 

If you want to put something together that might be cheaper but not as durable, you need to pick a side. You can't have your cake and not want to pay for it is what I'm saying.

What about this? http://www.ebay.co.uk/itm/HAPP-Arcade-Control-Panel-Kit-14-HAPP-Push-Button-2-HAPP-Joystick-/251343306708?hash=item3a853a7fd4:m:mge-DLVQtoAIctZyClqMP1A

[consolas]

It's not like they are going to be pounding buttons for fighting games.

Well, I guess. Even with the turtles game, I think they manage to take a hit.

I hate to say it, but either you are going to do this or not. I understand about not wanting to spend a lot of money on it, but that's kind of unavoidable if you want to make a quality lasting machine. 

I agree but that is why I ask so many things here.

If I can get a button that is fairly good for 1/2 of the price of one that is more well known (considering it is good), I save money.

I know I'll spend money, that was a given. I just want the "enough best" I can, makes sense?

That is why I posted that last link. But I think I'll go with the ultimart options and be done with it.
 

[reptileink]

Did you see my link?

http://www.ebay.co.uk/itm/HAPP-Arcade-Control-Panel-Kit-14-HAPP-Push-Button-2-HAPP-Joystick-/251343306708?hash=item3a853a7fd4:m:mge-DLVQtoAIctZyClqMP1A

[consolas]

Did you see my link?

http://www.ebay.co.uk/itm/HAPP-Arcade-Control-Panel-Kit-14-HAPP-Push-Button-2-HAPP-Joystick-/251343306708?hash=item3a853a7fd4:m:mge-DLVQtoAIctZyClqMP1A

No, I did not! Thanks! Even with shipping it seems an awesome deal! Uff...was feeling REALLY disapointed with the previous value as I was making the math and just wouldn't be able to make it!

Thanks!

Edit.: Ok so this is more or less the same price as Ultimarc. I think what is making it so expensive is the IPac and the wiring kit.

I'll try the wiring kit elsewhere, I think that one I can find cheaper in ebay. The rest, well, no chance.

Thanks anyway buddy!!

[reptileink]

Did you see my link?

http://www.ebay.co.uk/itm/HAPP-Arcade-Control-Panel-Kit-14-HAPP-Push-Button-2-HAPP-Joystick-/251343306708?hash=item3a853a7fd4:m:mge-DLVQtoAIctZyClqMP1A

No, I did not! Thanks! Even with shipping it seems an awesome deal! Uff...was feeling REALLY disapointed with the previous value as I was making the math and just wouldn't be able to make it!

Thanks!

Edit.: Ok so this is more or less the same price as Ultimarc. I think what is making it so expensive is the IPac and the wiring kit.

I'll try the wiring kit elsewhere, I think that one I can find cheaper in ebay. The rest, well, no chance.

Thanks anyway buddy!!

I'm no expert on encoders, but Ipac doesn't always have to be the way. Here is a whole page of encoders that would probably do the trick, but may require more programming than the Ipac.  Jamma loom from Ebay is the cheapest wiring kit you can get, and comes with most of the wire ends AND daisy chain! Just cut the end off!

http://www.ebay.co.uk/itm/ARCADE-MACHINE-JAMMA-6-BUTTON-WIRING-LOOM-HARNESS-/281820649931?hash=item419dd1d9cb:g:wtYAAOSwEppURSEF

[consolas]

Did you see my link?

http://www.ebay.co.uk/itm/HAPP-Arcade-Control-Panel-Kit-14-HAPP-Push-Button-2-HAPP-Joystick-/251343306708?hash=item3a853a7fd4:m:mge-DLVQtoAIctZyClqMP1A

No, I did not! Thanks! Even with shipping it seems an awesome deal! Uff...was feeling REALLY disapointed with the previous value as I was making the math and just wouldn't be able to make it!

Thanks!

Edit.: Ok so this is more or less the same price as Ultimarc. I think what is making it so expensive is the IPac and the wiring kit.

I'll try the wiring kit elsewhere, I think that one I can find cheaper in ebay. The rest, well, no chance.

Thanks anyway buddy!!

I'm no expert on encoders, but Ipac doesn't always have to be the way. Here is a whole page of encoders that would probably do the trick, but may require more programming than the Ipac.  Jamma loom from Ebay is the cheapest wiring kit you can get, and comes with most of the wire ends AND daisy chain! Just cut the end off!

http://www.ebay.co.uk/itm/ARCADE-MACHINE-JAMMA-6-BUTTON-WIRING-LOOM-HARNESS-/281820649931?hash=item419dd1d9cb:g:wtYAAOSwEppURSEF

Nice!! To be honest, I never really looked at more encoders beyond IPac cause I follow what most of you guys use, cause you know WAY more about this than I do. But I think ditching it is the way to go. Will look at your link!

Again, thank you very much for the time you are spending with this!

[reptileink]

Realized I didn't include the link for the encoders.... 

http://www.ebay.co.uk/sch/i.html?_from=R40&_trksid=p2050601.m570.l1313.TR0.TRC0.H0.Xarcade+encoder.TRS0&_nkw=arcade+encoder&_sacat=0

[yotsuya]

Just so you know, those are JOYSTICK encoders, not KEYBOARD encoders. There is a difference.

[consolas]

Oh, nice one there.

I saw something before - it was a weak encoder but seemed to do it's job.

Let me check - if they are having a small selection of games, even a "locked" encoder (ie.: you can't map the keys) will suffice - I can draw an instruction manual (with lots of graphics and fun stuff) for them to see which are the buttons for each game.

Here: http://www.ebay.co.uk/itm/Arcade-DIY-2-USB-PC-Encoders-2-Joysticks-18-Buttons-For-Arcade-Video-Mame-Parts/252085860376?_trksid=p2047675.c100005.m1851&_trkparms=aid%3D222007%26algo%3DSIC.MBE%26ao%3D1%26asc%3D20140122125356%26meid%3Dd96f11328d3541f9ab233406661e2979%26pid%3D100005%26rk%3D3%26rkt%3D6%26sd%3D262021077032

Below 100€ and I'm guessing everything is there. It will take ages for it to arrive though and I wanted this to be finish before December (Christmas and all! Wanted a nice gift for them!)

Can't have everything, I know.

I think this will work!

[yotsuya]

Me personally, I only use keyboard encoders. I-Pac or KADE FTW.

[consolas]

Ipac and Kade are keyboard encoders whereas the one I posted is a joystick encoder. Is that it?

Don't know the difference: joystick enconders have lag or something? Or are only usable for...joysticks?

[monkeybomb]

Ipac and Kade are keyboard encoders whereas the one I posted is a joystick encoder. Is that it?

Don't know the difference: joystick enconders have lag or something? Or are only usable for...joysticks?

Joystick encoders tell the computer your buttons are on a joystick.  A keyboard encoder tells the computer that your buttons are pressing specific keyboard keys.  I always used keyboard encoders in the past, but the frontends now make it just as easy to use the encoders.  I don't see any reason to avoid them.

[yotsuya]

Ipac and Kade are keyboard encoders whereas the one I posted is a joystick encoder. Is that it?

Don't know the difference: joystick enconders have lag or something? Or are only usable for...joysticks?

Joystick encoders tell the computer your buttons are on a joystick.  A keyboard encoder tells the computer that your buttons are pressing specific keyboard keys.  I always used keyboard encoders in the past, but the frontends now make it just as easy to use the encoders.  I don't see any reason to avoid them.

There's less out of the box you have to do with keyboard encoders as opposed to joystick encoders. Besides, most of the joystick encoders I see on eBay are cheap Chinese ones that I've had issues with in the past due to poor soldering. I prefer quality over cheap prices.

[PL1]

More encoder options from the wiki:

http://newwiki.arcadecontrols.com/index.php?title=Keyboard_Encoders

http://newwiki.arcadecontrols.com/index.php?title=Gamepad_Encoders

Ipac and Kade are keyboard encoders whereas the one I posted is a joystick encoder. Is that it?

Don't know the difference: joystick enconders have lag or something? Or are only usable for...joysticks?

Keyboard encoders send keystrokes and are seen as keyboards by Windows.

Gamepad encoders send button presses and are seen as gamepads by Windows.

KADE can be either one (or several other variations), depending on the firmware you load.

There are several ways to do a 2-player (joystick + 6-buttons per player) + admin buttons (Coin 1/2, Start 1/2, Pause, Exit, etc.) on a single KADE.

Check out this thread on the KADE Forums for more details.


Scott

P.S. Since KADE is open-source, you can "roll your own" miniArcade with a Minimus AVR -- see link in sig for vendors.

[consolas]

More encoder options from the wiki:

http://newwiki.arcadecontrols.com/index.php?title=Keyboard_Encoders

http://newwiki.arcadecontrols.com/index.php?title=Gamepad_Encoders

Ipac and Kade are keyboard encoders whereas the one I posted is a joystick encoder. Is that it?

Don't know the difference: joystick enconders have lag or something? Or are only usable for...joysticks?

Keyboard encoders send keystrokes and are seen as keyboards by Windows.

Gamepad encoders send button presses and are seen as gamepads by Windows.

KADE can be either one (or several other variations), depending on the firmware you load.

There are several ways to do a 2-player (joystick + 6-buttons per player) + admin buttons (Coin 1/2, Start 1/2, Pause, Exit, etc.) on a single KADE.

Check out this thread on the KADE Forums for more details.


Scott

P.S. Since KADE is open-source, you can "roll your own" miniArcade with a Minimus AVR -- see link in sig for vendors.

Thanks for all that information, appreciate it!

Kade seems a really cool encoder as well - unfortunately it doesn't drop the price on the controller by that much but it is a start! It is 2/3 € cheaper. Taking into account the general order will have less weight, it will also decrease the shipping price. - checked the math, I save around 13€!

Thanks again for the info!

Edit.: Just got word the used PC I wanted to get is already taken, so in order to use PI I can't use anything other than IPac, from what I understood. I also read that I can directly use the GPIO (is that right?) port from the PI to connect directy into the controllers.

So much stuff to learn! I'm going to check that out and if that is true, those are good news.

[geeteoh]

I've used those zero delay cheap joystick encoders on my PI arcade projects. They require no drivers. They come with all the button wires and a USB cable. No problems yet. I mapped my FE and emulators to it easily.

[consolas]

I've used those zero delay cheap joystick encoders on my PI arcade projects. They require no drivers. They come with all the button wires and a USB cable. No problems yet. I mapped my FE and emulators to it easily.

Perfect! Thanks for the input!

[consolas]

Will get this.

http://www.ebay.co.uk/itm/Zero-Delay-PC-Enocder-20-LED-Light-Push-Buttons-Joysticks-For-Arcade-Mame-Kits-/252085783887?hash=item3ab17bcd4f:g:u8wAAOSwgNRV79db

I think they have lights and all. I'm guessing they are not the best buttons and joystick around but I have to get a move on. I was thinking about using the GPIO of the Raspberry PI but I think, for two players, I can't have the top+left kind of movements in the joystick, which might be needed.

I will place this order later on so if no one really warns me about this or say it is REALLY bad, I think I'll go for it.

(Hate to buy this cheap material but I can't do much more right now - with experience will come more understanding and thus, better choices)

------

Better yet, I can go with this http://www.ebay.co.uk/itm/HAPP-Arcade-Control-Panel-Kit-14-HAPP-Push-Button-2-HAPP-Joystick-/251343306708?hash=item3a853a7fd4:m:mge-DLVQtoAIctZyClqMP1A (that Reptileink so gently shared) and buy a separate zero delay encoder, that would work fine as well.

[consolas]

Just ordered the buttons from ebay, my first purchase from Ebay.

And just now I got the information (at my work) that this won't take the 3-4 weeks to deliver, this will take a lot longer AND will be retain in customer services and stuff.

Jesus...

Well, I will continue to work the wood and assemble the monitor and all. We will see how this goes. I still have to correctly configure the PI as well so I have some work before the buttons arrive.

I will post progress pictures of the woodworking if any of you guys are interested in knowing how this goes.

I'm going to do something on this lines: https://s-media-cache-ak0.pinimg.com/236x/12/fa/01/12fa0165c79f86882b10dab7350714f5.jpg

Main reasons: small, compact. This is important as I don't know where they will place the machine.

Less wood = less weight. Also, I don't know exactly how or where I'm going to assemble this because I have a really small door in my VERY small "garden" so I don't think the machine assemble will pass through the door! aha

The corners need to be rounded up, in case a little rascal hits the arcade while running near it or something.



Controllers and stuff price: 35€

[paigeoliver]

That cabinet is a clone of a Defender cabinet, should be 24.5" wide. Doors just aren't that narrow.

As for weight, build it out of plywood and not MDF and it will be about half the weight.

Just ordered the buttons from ebay, my first purchase from Ebay.

And just now I got the information (at my work) that this won't take the 3-4 weeks to deliver, this will take a lot longer AND will be retain in customer services and stuff.

Jesus...

Well, I will continue to work the wood and assemble the monitor and all. We will see how this goes. I still have to correctly configure the PI as well so I have some work before the buttons arrive.

I will post progress pictures of the woodworking if any of you guys are interested in knowing how this goes.

I'm going to do something on this lines: https://s-media-cache-ak0.pinimg.com/236x/12/fa/01/12fa0165c79f86882b10dab7350714f5.jpg

Main reasons: small, compact. This is important as I don't know where they will place the machine.

Less wood = less weight. Also, I don't know exactly how or where I'm going to assemble this because I have a really small door in my VERY small "garden" so I don't think the machine assemble will pass through the door! aha

The corners need to be rounded up, in case a little rascal hits the arcade while running near it or something.



Controllers and stuff price: 35€

[consolas]

Thanks for the input.

I already got the MDF and the main reason was plywood may require some extra skill dealing with voids, when cutting. Sometimes the whole thing seems to chip out.

Since I don't have a lot of time, I went with the standard I see here.

Also, the weight is really bad to get the cab around but once is there is better, it doesn't budge that easily.

And the door I was taking about is a custom door made by the previous owners so if kind of doesn't respect any standard measure

A person fits barely.

[consolas]

Already did some cuts. Already did some mistakes. Already tried to fix those mistakes! aha

I found out it is really hard to some straight cuts with a jigsaw - I think I was using the wrong blade and went too fast for it to do a straight cut. By straight, I'm not only talking about a straight line, I'm also talking about a straight cut throughout the whole thickness of the wood - it is kind of wobble like with waves.

I'll try to sand it up later on. I'm more worried about the inside pieces (the ones that will support the walls and roof and floor) to be as straight as possible so the cab is as steady as possible.

What a fun and hard project! ahah

I do not own a circular saw, this is being used with a jigsaw. I will post some pictures.

And @paigeoliver, the door is no wider than 52cm, I can barely pass a 22inch monitor there - aha. I will have to assemble everything at my house, my girlfriend is already happy about it but she is a good sport! aha

[JDFan]

To get a straight cut with a jigsaw it is easiest to use a piece of wood (or metal bar) like a 2x4 or 1x2 etc. and clamp it to the surface you are going to cut using the distance of the width of the edge of the jigsaw to the blade away from the cut line - this will keep the jigsaw from moving while cutting as it butts up against the 2x4 (or 1x2) as a guide - then just go slow and be sure to keep the jigsaw at 90 degrees to the wood you are cutting ( if you lean the jigsaw it will cut that direction so use downward pressure and keep it level )

OR if you are doing several cuts buy a cut edge guide :

[consolas]

Thanks JD.

I started using a piece of wood that I have and thought was perfectly straight...I was fooled by it! aha

And I think I wooble my hand too much - I will take it down a notch and do it slowly.

Will look at that guide though. Seems awesome! Thanks

[paigeoliver]

52 cm is 20 inches. Almost no furniture will fit through that, and you shouldn't be trying to build anything behind such a barrier.

[consolas]

52 cm is 20 inches. Almost no furniture will fit through that, and you shouldn't be trying to build anything behind such a barrier.

I can't cut mdf at my house and I can't just cut it outside, like in the parking lot!:)

I'm just doing all the cutting on the "garden" and glue the support wood on the walls of the arcade. Then I'm gonna bring everything to my house and "assemble" it here.

Not the best way to work but it will do.

[consolas]

Hello everyone!

The buttons finally arrived! I will make sure tomorrow to get a lot of pictures of the small work progress I've made and also pictures from the buttons.

It took over a month to get here, costumes and stuff takes too long. Also, due to other things, I haven't made any progress at all.

Hopefully it will change

Found a new game to add to the list: windjammers!

Thanks guys!