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Author Topic: Modifying X-arcade tankstick?  (Read 2940 times)

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obitus1990

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Modifying X-arcade tankstick?
« on: January 31, 2017, 11:41:46 am »
I'd like to know if it is possible to modify my X-arcade tank stick to use a rotatory joystick of some sort, so that I can play games like Ikari warriors correctly.  If so, what joystick provides this function, and, where should I buy it?

Thanks!

Brian74

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Re: Modifying X-arcade tankstick?
« Reply #1 on: January 31, 2017, 08:37:12 pm »
I don't think there is enough space under the control panel to mount a rotary joystick. You can go one of two ways. Optical or switch.

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PL1

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Re: Modifying X-arcade tankstick?
« Reply #2 on: February 01, 2017, 02:20:52 am »
I'd like to know if it is possible to modify my X-arcade tank stick to use a rotatory joystick of some sort, so that I can play games like Ikari warriors correctly.
As Brian mentioned, the problem is vertical clearance.

 

If so, what joystick provides this function, and, where should I buy it?
The Happ Rotary Joystick (Mechanical) P/N 50-5618-00 is still being produced.

Best place to get one is from Divemaster123's site here, just be sure to mention in the order notes that you want the mechanical version 50-5618-00, not the optical.

You will also need a rotary encoder to translate the rotary switch output into keystrokes.

There is a list of rotary games here.


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obitus1990

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Re: Modifying X-arcade tankstick?
« Reply #3 on: February 01, 2017, 09:23:45 pm »
Thank you for the replies.  I'm not thinking I want to modify the X-arcade now, so, I guess I will build my own box . I'd like to make one that I can use to play a couple of otherwise hardly playable games with, such as TRON.  Besides the joystick, the rotary encoder, and buttons, what else would I need?

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Re: Modifying X-arcade tankstick?
« Reply #4 on: February 02, 2017, 05:29:25 am »
I guess I will build my own box . I'd like to make one that I can use to play a couple of otherwise hardly playable games with, such as TRON.  Besides the joystick, the rotary encoder, and buttons, what else would I need?
Have you gone through the design process outlined here in the FAQ?

Since you're looking at a standalone controller (or two) pay special attention to step #2.

Make a game list for each standalone controller, taking into consideration what other games/controls you can comfortably add without ending up in Frankenpanel territory or breaking your budget.

For example, starting from the TRON spinner/trigger-stick layout you could:
- Add two buttons for Tempest, Omega Race, Arkanoid, Puzz Loop, Cameltry, Free Kick, etc. (big gain, little cost)
- Add a second trigger-stick for Battlezone, Cyber Sled, etc. (medium gain, medium cost)
- Upgrade to a push/pull spinner for Discs of Tron, Zwackery, Forgotten Worlds, and Kozmik Kroozr (only adds 4 games, high cost)


Scott

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Re: Modifying X-arcade tankstick?
« Reply #5 on: February 02, 2017, 08:00:43 am »
Don't bother building a new box,  just add some depth by cutting a hole where the bottom of the joys are and add some larger rubber feet.  Actually the rubber feet gets more traction on your desk.  Better add some more weighted bars or convert the whole box into a pedestal.
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