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Control Panel Overlay
Robopede:
I was planning to do the same thing you are, but somebody around here suggested applying a vinyl CPO over the plexiglass (Lexan, actually). I decided to try that because, after seeing a couple cabs at a local restaurant with plexiglass on top of the artwork, I thought it looked a little tacky. Also, some people say the plexi gets scratched up. I haven't built my CP yet, so I'm just passing on other's ideas that sound good to me...
crashwg:
I'm a little confused as to what the plexi (lexan) is for Robopede...
If the acrylic is not for protecting the overlay you can just mount the overlay without it right?
FractalWalk:
If the acrylic is not for protecting the overlay you can just mount the overlay without it right?
I mounted my CPO on plexi that was attached to wood. This let me have a perfectly smooth surface to adhere to and it allowed me to route out an area for the dust washers so that they float above the wood, but below the plexi.
Robopede:
Installing the dustwashers between the wood and the plastic is a great idea FractalWalk! Also, I plan to recess the joystick bolts and the trackball plate. To make a smooth surface, I would have to use wood filler or Bondo or something to fill in around the bolt heads and any gaps between the trackball plate and the wood. If I ever had to replace a joystick, that would make it a pain in the butt. Instead, by putting the CPO on top of a sheet of Lexan, I don't have to worry about the gaps around the bolts and TB plate. Also, I won't have to put as many holes in the artwork because the 8 joystick bolts will be underneath it. I can disassemble the whole thing pretty easily for maintenance or repairs. And, it's more authentic. (I don't recall ever seeing a commercially manufactured arcade machine with a plexiglass control panel surface - always vinyl.)
Regards,
Dave
sonicflood:
Recess the carriage bolts in the wood & use Bondo to fill in the area. I did this on my NBA Jam cabinet for all the external carriage bolts, ie: the monitor supports and it made a nice smooth area for my laminate to adhere to. I like the "clean" look.
I've not decided on my CP overlay as of yet. I'm awaiting a trackball mounting kit & I'll probably be begging for some artistic assistance from some of you. ;)
Good luck,
Scott