New to forum - first build - need opinion on bartop cabinet

[Leo1969]

Hi all,
I'm new to the forum and have been spending the last couple of days reading. I'm ready to start my first bartop build but I'd like some opinions on my cabinet. It looks like it may be a little cramped but I'm not sure. I just designed around the 19 inch monitor that i'm planning to use. Any feedback is welcome. I'd rather make changes BEFORE I start cutting. Thanks

[harveybirdman]

On bartops you need to plan for control depth.  Hard to know if your panel depth is enough unless you know what sticks and buttons you plan to use.  I kind of like the Taito thing you have going on with the shape.

Come on forum, we always encourage people to share plans prior to cutting, give the OP some feedback.

[Leo1969]

I got the kit on Amazon.The buttons are about an inch high.The stick will need about 1.5 inches. I have 2.75 inches of clearance under the panel. I think it'll be enough for the wiring but I'll definitely wire everything as test before i move it in.

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[Leo1969]

This is the kit I got.I think bartops are a little small for two people so just planning for a single stick.

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[vwalbridge]

It looks like a 1-player vertical? Then I don't think it's cramped.

As usual, I agree with harveybirdman, I like that Taito-esq shape you got going.

[vwalbridge]

If I'm not mistaken, those buttons are for a metal control panel. Are you OK with that?

[Leo1969]

Thanks for the feedback.Yes it's going to be one player vertical. I just finished building a cnc router so I'll be cutting it on that.I was thinking of carving a 3d raised logo on the back panel. Not sure how it would look though.

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[Leo1969]

Hmmm. How does that work? Metal over the wood or just metal by itself? I suppose I might be able to cut metal sheet on my cnc.Not sure if I want that look though.

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[Slippyblade]

Like he said, those buttons are for a metal CP.  As in a single sheet of metal.  They snap into a hole.  You can use them in a wooden panel, but they won't be as sturdy that way since there will be nothing except friction to keep them in the hole.

[JDFan]

Hmmm. How does that work? Metal over the wood or just metal by itself? I suppose I might be able to cut metal sheet on my cnc.Not sure if I want that look though.

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Those buttons will work fine in wood also -- just make the holes the proper size and the piece made to click into tplace below the metal CP will hold against the wood and keep the buttons in place well ( they'll be tight enough that you need to push from the bottom to release ) I used the same type of set in my Simplistic Galaxian Build http://forum.arcadecontrols.com/index.php/topic,139689.msg1444799.html#msg1444799[/url] using 1/2" MDF and a Namco PacMan plug and play and they worked fine.

EDIT : Looks like that one actually originally used the Happ buttons I had - the one using those buttons was actually the barstick I built just after that for playing Mame on my desktop system (don't think I posted that build) - but the sanwa type buttons work fine in it also in 1/2" MDF using a 1 1/8" hole then slightly enlarging it with sand paper ( the buttons are actually a bit larger than the Happ type so needed a bit of enlarging the hole for them to fit but starting with the 1 1/8" hole and sanding made them a tight fit so they stay in place well and it actually takes some force pushing up from the bottom of the CP to remove them.

[vwalbridge]

Copied from slagcoin:



Choosing either screw-in or snap-in can be pretty straight-forward. If you are using a thinner, sturdier, precisely-made panel, snap-ins are an option. Screw-ins will work in any situation. But snap-ins can be used in thicker panels when thinner acrylic glass is used on the top layer; the panel below has to be given notches to fit the securers; the buttons are not necessarily very secure when this is done. Since snap-in buttons do not have nuts in the way, they can be given a layout that is a bit more compact.

[vwalbridge]

What are you running for the brain inside? Might want to consider ventilation of some kind. I didn't' see any on the sketches but then again they are just sketches.

If you are putting a Pi in there, then ventilation might not be necessary.

[Leo1969]

Planning to use a pi inside but I think I'll add a few vents for good measure. Great info everyone! Very helpful community here:) I was also planning acrylic on the civil panel so I guess I'll stick with these buttons. I'll just meaure the buttons with a caliper and shoot for a friction fit. If the panel is too thick then I'll try creating a relief groove from the bottom.

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[Leo1969]

I think I'm pretty much finished with the cabinet and cp layout. The control panel will have a pocket cut in it to fit the acrylic so the buttons will have something to snap into. I'm guessing this will work. Most of the mdf panels will be glued into pockets in the mating panels.I'm not sure how the bezel should be attached.I put some ears on it so it can be screwed into place but open to better suggestions. The only colors that are set is the red for the t molding and controls. Still haven't decided on a theme for the rest:( way too many options.Also wondering how to attach marquee panel. I have a 3d printer. Maybe something with magnets?

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[harveybirdman]

Vertical Monitor but you still want 8 buttons 

[vwalbridge]

I'd also be sure that the bottom front edge of your marquee doesn't obscure you seeing the top edge of the monitor.

That viewing angle looks pretty tight.

[harveybirdman]

why not something more like this?

[Leo1969]

What is a typical viewing angle for verticals? You're right.It's pretty tight. How many buttons do you suggest? It's a vertical cabinet but i might play horizontal games on it too. I can't think of any games that need 8 buttons though:) just using them cuz i have them but thinking about moving 2 buttons to the sides for pinball maybe?

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[harveybirdman]

Virtual/Visual pinball is overrated if you ask me, plus it might create space problems in your panel that require compromise.

If you like fighting games, do a four button neo geo layout or a six buton Capcom layout, any more is for console support and doesn't make sense with your build (in my opinion)

[Leo1969]

Ok. Can i find templates online for these layouts? Sorry for newb questions... The four should be God

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[vwalbridge]

What is a typical viewing angle for verticals?

There is no "right" viewing angle. I just noticed that that top portion of your monitor might be obscured.

Just wouldn't want you having to hunch over to see the entire screen. Depending on the height of the table you put it on, it looks like you might have to hunch a bit. Just see if you can render it on a table height and put your viewing camera at the same height as you eyes.

[Leo1969]

Ahh.that's a good idea. Thanks for the help

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[harveybirdman]

Go to slagcoin.com for all the different layouts,

[Leo1969]

Busy over holidays so haven't had time to work on this.I made some changes based on everyone's good advice. I went with the 6 button layout and adjusted the monitor angle a little more for better viewing. Also had to make some adjustments so i could fit the side panels on a 2x2 sheet of mdf since that's what my cnc table will handle. I made the marquee more of a wraparound style, like Cyclops glasses on xmen:) The marquee will be a sandwich of .08 inch acrylic sheet and will fit in a track groove that will be cut into the panels.Hopefully this will work.Just conveyed everything to dxf so I can inport into my cam software. Hope to start cutting tomorrow!

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[vwalbridge]

I like the curved marquee. Will you be using curved plexiglass on it?

[Leo1969]

I like the curved marquee. Will you be using curved plexiglass on it?

I'm on a budget so I chose the .08 acrylic which is really cheap at Lowe's. It flexes pretty easily so i think it'll stay in a curved state once I install it into the tracks. If it doesn't then the heat gun will come out The marquee will be two sandwiched pieces of acrylic so total thicknesson only .16 inches, plus the thickness of the artwork.

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[Vidiot]

I'm watching this one. I like the design. It's nice to see something other than a WeeCade. I love the curved marquee. Carry on mate. You got this. 

[Skrathe]

Planning to use a pi inside but I think I'll add a few vents for good measure.

Unless you are overclocking the Pi or are using power supply's that run really hot you should be good without venting.

I can't think of any vertical arcade games that you would need to overclock for.

I have one running in a 6" x8" Pelican case with two power supply's, a USB hub, and Bluetooth speaker without any problems.

[Skrathe]

What frontend do you plan on using?

[Leo1969]

I'm watching this one. I like the design. It's nice to see something other than a WeeCade. I love the curved marquee. Carry on mate. You got this. 

Thanks for the encouragement. It's been fun so far. I could've gotten a kit and saved myself a lot of time but what fun would that be?

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[Leo1969]

Planning to use a pi inside but I think I'll add a few vents for good measure.

Unless you are overclocking the Pi or are using power supply's that run really hot you should be good without venting.

I can't think of any vertical arcade games that you would need to overclock for.

I have one running in a 6" x8" Pelican case with two power supply's, a USB hub, and Bluetooth speaker without any problems.

To be honest, I haven't even looked into front ends yet. I've never owned a MAME system of any kind so I'm really green here. I grew up playing these games and thought this would be a great project to build on a diy cnc router that i recently completed . This forum has been a great resource so far. Do you have any recommendations for a good front end on the pi?

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[Leo1969]

Update: A bit of a setback.I use Sketchup for modeling on my 3d printer all the time but it's not so great for woodwork. The dxf files that I expected are not real smooth vector files.Everything had to be retraced in my Cam software but I have most of the toolpaths done now. I still have no idea what direction I'll go in with the artwork but I think the theme will be "Taito Titans" , a tribute to the Taito brand and some of the best titles and characters. I'm considering a 3d toolpath to add the logo to the rear panel.Might look good once it's painted...

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[Skrathe]

Planning to use a pi inside but I think I'll add a few vents for good measure.

Unless you are overclocking the Pi or are using power supply's that run really hot you should be good without venting.

I can't think of any vertical arcade games that you would need to overclock for.

I have one running in a 6" x8" Pelican case with two power supply's, a USB hub, and Bluetooth speaker without any problems.

To be honest, I haven't even looked into front ends yet. I've never owned a MAME system of any kind so I'm really green here. I grew up playing these games and thought this would be a great project to build on a diy cnc router that i recently completed . This forum has been a great resource so far. Do you have any recommendations for a good front end on the pi?

Sent from my LG-H811 using Tapatalk

The last few systems I've made have been more console than arcade.

In my experience some of the few key arcade games that I wanted to play are not compatible with the PI or I haven't paid the required time/blood cost to get them to function yet.

You might want to look at the software side before you get everything together and find out you cant play what you want to play.

Also the fronted will dictate what interface buttons you will need.

[Leo1969]

Planning to use a pi inside but I think I'll add a few vents for good measure.

Unless you are overclocking the Pi or are using power supply's that run really hot you should be good without venting.

I can't think of any vertical arcade games that you would need to overclock for.

I have one running in a 6" x8" Pelican case with two power supply's, a USB hub, and Bluetooth speaker without any problems.

To be honest, I haven't even looked into front ends yet. I've never owned a MAME system of any kind so I'm really green here. I grew up playing these games and thought this would be a great project to build on a diy cnc router that i recently completed . This forum has been a great resource so far. Do you have any recommendations for a good front end on the pi?

Sent from my LG-H811 using Tapatalk

The last few systems I've made have been more console than arcade.

In my experience some of the few key arcade games that I wanted to play are not compatible with the PI or I haven't paid the required time/blood cost to get them to function yet.

You might want to look at the software side before you get everything together and find out you cant play what you want to play.

Also the fronted will dictate what interface buttons you will need.

That's kind of a bummer. Just looking to play old classics like Rastan, Donkey Kong, Joust. I assumed a pi would have power to spare. Is there a list somewhere that shows which games are compatible with which hardware/ front ends?

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[yotsuya]

Planning to use a pi inside but I think I'll add a few vents for good measure.

Unless you are overclocking the Pi or are using power supply's that run really hot you should be good without venting.

I can't think of any vertical arcade games that you would need to overclock for.

I have one running in a 6" x8" Pelican case with two power supply's, a USB hub, and Bluetooth speaker without any problems.

To be honest, I haven't even looked into front ends yet. I've never owned a MAME system of any kind so I'm really green here. I grew up playing these games and thought this would be a great project to build on a diy cnc router that i recently completed . This forum has been a great resource so far. Do you have any recommendations for a good front end on the pi?

Sent from my LG-H811 using Tapatalk

The last few systems I've made have been more console than arcade.

In my experience some of the few key arcade games that I wanted to play are not compatible with the PI or I haven't paid the required time/blood cost to get them to function yet.

You might want to look at the software side before you get everything together and find out you cant play what you want to play.

Also the fronted will dictate what interface buttons you will need.

That's kind of a bummer. Just looking to play old classics like Rastan, Donkey Kong, Joust. I assumed a pi would have power to spare. Is there a list somewhere that shows which games are compatible with which hardware/ front ends?

Sent from my LG-H811 using Tapatalk

Those games should be fine. Classics are ok. It's dudes who want to play Ultimate Mortal Kombat 3 who get let down.

[Leo1969]

Planning to use a pi inside but I think I'll add a few vents for good measure.

Unless you are overclocking the Pi or are using power supply's that run really hot you should be good without venting.

I can't think of any vertical arcade games that you would need to overclock for.

I have one running in a 6" x8" Pelican case with two power supply's, a USB hub, and Bluetooth speaker without any problems.

To be honest, I haven't even looked into front ends yet. I've never owned a MAME system of any kind so I'm really green here. I grew up playing these games and thought this would be a great project to build on a diy cnc router that i recently completed . This forum has been a great resource so far. Do you have any recommendations for a good front end on the pi?

Sent from my LG-H811 using Tapatalk

The last few systems I've made have been more console than arcade.

In my experience some of the few key arcade games that I wanted to play are not compatible with the PI or I haven't paid the required time/blood cost to get them to function yet.

You might want to look at the software side before you get everything together and find out you cant play what you want to play.

Also the fronted will dictate what interface buttons you will need.

That's kind of a bummer. Just looking to play old classics like Rastan, Donkey Kong, Joust. I assumed a pi would have power to spare. Is there a list somewhere that shows which games are compatible with which hardware/ front ends?

Sent from my LG-H811 using Tapatalk

Those games should be fine. Classics are ok. It's dudes who want to play Ultimate Mortal Kombat 3 who get let down.

I'm strictly old school

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[yotsuya]

Planning to use a pi inside but I think I'll add a few vents for good measure.

Unless you are overclocking the Pi or are using power supply's that run really hot you should be good without venting.

I can't think of any vertical arcade games that you would need to overclock for.

I have one running in a 6" x8" Pelican case with two power supply's, a USB hub, and Bluetooth speaker without any problems.

To be honest, I haven't even looked into front ends yet. I've never owned a MAME system of any kind so I'm really green here. I grew up playing these games and thought this would be a great project to build on a diy cnc router that i recently completed . This forum has been a great resource so far. Do you have any recommendations for a good front end on the pi?

Sent from my LG-H811 using Tapatalk

The last few systems I've made have been more console than arcade.

In my experience some of the few key arcade games that I wanted to play are not compatible with the PI or I haven't paid the required time/blood cost to get them to function yet.

You might want to look at the software side before you get everything together and find out you cant play what you want to play.

Also the fronted will dictate what interface buttons you will need.

That's kind of a bummer. Just looking to play old classics like Rastan, Donkey Kong, Joust. I assumed a pi would have power to spare. Is there a list somewhere that shows which games are compatible with which hardware/ front ends?

Sent from my LG-H811 using Tapatalk

Those games should be fine. Classics are ok. It's dudes who want to play Ultimate Mortal Kombat 3 who get let down.

I'm strictly old school

Sent from my LG-H811 using Tapatalk

Good for you, brother!

[Leo1969]

Planning to use a pi inside but I think I'll add a few vents for good measure.

Unless you are overclocking the Pi or are using power supply's that run really hot you should be good without venting.

I can't think of any vertical arcade games that you would need to overclock for.

I have one running in a 6" x8" Pelican case with two power supply's, a USB hub, and Bluetooth speaker without any problems.

To be honest, I haven't even looked into front ends yet. I've never owned a MAME system of any kind so I'm really green here. I grew up playing these games and thought this would be a great project to build on a diy cnc router that i recently completed . This forum has been a great resource so far. Do you have any recommendations for a good front end on the pi?

Sent from my LG-H811 using Tapatalk

The last few systems I've made have been more console than arcade.

In my experience some of the few key arcade games that I wanted to play are not compatible with the PI or I haven't paid the required time/blood cost to get them to function yet.

You might want to look at the software side before you get everything together and find out you cant play what you want to play.

Also the fronted will dictate what interface buttons you will need.

That's kind of a bummer. Just looking to play old classics like Rastan, Donkey Kong, Joust. I assumed a pi would have power to spare. Is there a list somewhere that shows which games are compatible with which hardware/ front ends?

Sent from my LG-H811 using Tapatalk

Those games should be fine. Classics are ok. It's dudes who want to play Ultimate Mortal Kombat 3 who get let down.

I'm strictly old school

Sent from my LG-H811 using Tapatalk

Good for you, brother!

Don't get me wrong ...I have an Xbox 360 and I love it but I'm looking to build a time machine here.

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[Skrathe]

Planning to use a pi inside but I think I'll add a few vents for good measure.

Unless you are overclocking the Pi or are using power supply's that run really hot you should be good without venting.

I can't think of any vertical arcade games that you would need to overclock for.

I have one running in a 6" x8" Pelican case with two power supply's, a USB hub, and Bluetooth speaker without any problems.

To be honest, I haven't even looked into front ends yet. I've never owned a MAME system of any kind so I'm really green here. I grew up playing these games and thought this would be a great project to build on a diy cnc router that i recently completed . This forum has been a great resource so far. Do you have any recommendations for a good front end on the pi?

Sent from my LG-H811 using Tapatalk

The last few systems I've made have been more console than arcade.

In my experience some of the few key arcade games that I wanted to play are not compatible with the PI or I haven't paid the required time/blood cost to get them to function yet.

You might want to look at the software side before you get everything together and find out you cant play what you want to play.

Also the fronted will dictate what interface buttons you will need.

That's kind of a bummer. Just looking to play old classics like Rastan, Donkey Kong, Joust. I assumed a pi would have power to spare. Is there a list somewhere that shows which games are compatible with which hardware/ front ends?

Sent from my LG-H811 using Tapatalk

Those games should be fine. Classics are ok. It's dudes who want to play Ultimate Mortal Kombat 3 who get let down.

Or Spy Hunter!

[TheDude]

Looking good so far. Is it gonna be a shmups only machine ?