Access to Control Panel

[Tlos]

While building my control panel I thought about making it so it’s easier to access by using a piano hinge at the top and lock on the bottom but then wonder how often I’m going to need to access it. Once you’re done configuring controls is that pretty much it? Or do you end up needing to tweak a lot? I can get in from the back of my cabinet but it’s just not going to be as comfortable.

[Havok]

When I was building my panels, there was lots of testing and tweaking, however once it was done I haven't touched them since. Keep in mind you might also need to repair\replace\upgrade components, so I suppose it depends on how difficult it is to access if you don't go with the hinge. My suggestion would be to build it with maintenance in mind, you'll thank yourself later.

[bobbyb13]

If you want really easy access then opt for full removal, i.e. no hinge.

A panel clamp on each side and a gang harness(es) of your choice makes for easy repair, maintenance or design alterations later!

[Gilrock]

I'd use a cabinet hinge instead of a piano hinge then you can release the hinges in a few seconds if you need to remove the top.

[javeryh]

If you want really easy access then opt for full removal, i.e. no hinge.

A panel clamp on each side and a gang harness(es) of your choice makes for easy repair, maintenance or design alterations later!

yeah, this is the "best" way, IMO... if there is such a thing.  I usually just reach up through the coin door and pop the clamps on each side and the panel comes right off.  Truthfully, it is rare to have to go in there but when you do you want it to be as easy as possible.

[bobbyb13]

I'd use a cabinet hinge instead of a piano hinge then you can release the hinges in a few seconds if you need to remove the top.

THIS is a great use of hinges that won't be a PITA!
Nice

[Howard_Casto]

FYI what grilrock is using is the preferred method for a mame cab imho.   If a switch goes bad or something needs tweaked you can pop it up and it won't fall down and destroy your fingers while you are working.   I prefer this since a fully removed panel has to be awkwardly balanced on something due to the joysticks..... for quick tweaks this just makes more sense and you can always unscrew the hinges if more in-depth repairs are needed.

[Mike A]

Are we all going to just pretend that Gilrock didn't just flash some serious wiring porn?

I really like zip ties with no sleeves.

[nipsmg]

Nope. we're not.  I was just starting at it in awe.  Damn.

[Gilrock]

The sad thing is I've got a box of brand new pushbuttons to replace all these so I gotta redo it all.  I didn't like the micro-switch feel so I ordered ones with leaf switches.

[bobbyb13]

The sad thing is I've got a box of brand new pushbuttons to replace all these so I gotta redo it all.  I didn't like the micro-switch feel so I ordered ones with leaf switches.

All that sexy work and it still never ends, does it?!
 

"The tinker til it hurts gene is strong in this one..."

[TOMMYGUN]

My CP is a mess nothing zipped just everything crammed in there, done