building a cab with comp parts (monitor, etc)

[j123vt_99]

ok.. still thinking about building a cab and doing it now with computer parts (comp monitor vs. arcade)..

1) how would I mount/suspend a computer monitor inside a cab?
2) i would not need an arcadevga (right?) so i can just go with an ipac?

i figure i might use my x-arcade controller and take it step by step

first do the cabinet, then setup the monitor with a mame pc and then add a controller via ipac. any thoughts?

[Nailz]

Why not make it easy on yourself and rest the monitor on a shelf in the cab?  I have done that for the 2 I have made and they look just fine as long as you angle it back a bit.

And yes, with a comp monitor, all you need is a regular crummy old video card, don't spend any extra on the latest....

[j123vt_99]

Why not make it easy on yourself and rest the monitor on a shelf in the cab?

[SteveJ34]

1) how would I mount/suspend a computer monitor inside a cab?

There are a variety of methods. Easiest is to just build a shelf at the right height for it to sit upon.

2) i would not need an arcadevga (right?) so i can just go with an ipac?

No,  you would not need an ArcadeVGA .....any standard SVGA card will do if you are connecting to a computer monitor.

Yes, an IPAC is one choice for interfacing joysticks and buttons that is recognized as a keyboard device by the system.

[j123vt_99]

Yes, an IPAC is one choice for interfacing joysticks and buttons that is recognized as a keyboard device by the system.

everything i've read recommends that product... any others that sound good?

[NoBonus]

The KeyWhiz is VERY similar... just less expensive

www.groovygamegear.com

[j123vt_99]

The KeyWhiz is VERY similar... just less expensive

www.groovygamegear.com

difference being that i need to solder.. i'm under the impression that if i go with an ipac (and even went with an arcade monitor and arcadevga) i could do the entire thing without soldering.. is that true?

also i'm sure i'm blind  , but where on happs do i find the wires that connect the buttons/joys to the ipac or whichever encoder i go with?

[NoBonus]

Go to www.groovygamegear.com... they have a REALLY NICE encoder with NO SOLDERING called the KeyWhiz Max AND it is only $34.95.  Here's a pic:

[j123vt_99]

Go to www.groovygamegear.com... they have a REALLY NICE encoder with NO SOLDERING called the KeyWhiz Max AND it is only $34.95.  Here's a pic:

do you have an "in" with them? if so, that's cool... looks good.. anyone have any opinions about them?

[Quarters]

The Optipac and Keywiz are both excellent products neither require soldering. The major difference as I understand them are:

1.) The Keywiz stores custom button configs on your hard drive, the Ipac on the Ipac board.
2.) The Ipac can use a usb port, the Keywiz chose only to use ps2.

Wire can be bought at radio shack or any other good electronics store. I recommend 22 gauge stranded.

Basic button wiring guide here  http://arcadecontrols.com/arcade_wiring.shtml
most joysticks wire up the same way.

[cholin]

You can wire the buttons with almost any cheap wire you find around the house or RadioShack or whatever.  As far as the encoders go, they're both great, it depends if you want anything else from the seller.  For example, if you are buying all your buttons and joysticks from Ultimarc, you might as well get the encoder there too so you save on shipping, otherwise, if you're getting alot from GGG, you can buy the encoder there to save on shipping.  Whatever is more convenient, since they both work great.

[NoBonus]

The KeyWhiz also comes in USB if that is what you want.

[Quarters]

The KeyWhiz also comes in USB if that is what you want.

Really? I may be out of date but all I could find on the ggg site was: http://www.groovygamegear.com/Page3.html#11

[j123vt_99]

thank guys... so the other big area i need help on is the CP.. once i decide which cabinet, i'm getting, can i get a control panel made or should i just use the existing one and drill holes as appropiate for my needs

[PrizLucky]

The KeyWhiz also comes in USB if that is what you want.

Really? I may be out of date but all I could find on the ggg site was: http://www.groovygamegear.com/Page3.html#11

Use this page http://www.groovygamegear.com/cgi/surfshop/shop.cgi (or you can click the "Click to Shop" button on the page you gave a link to).
and then click the "GP-Wiz USB Game Control Interfaces" on the left side to see a list of the usb devices...

[NoBonus]

thank guys... so the other big area i need help on is the CP.. once i decide which cabinet, i'm getting, can i get a control panel made or should i just use the existing one and drill holes as appropiate for my needs

Are you buying a pre-built cab?

[j123vt_99]

thank guys... so the other big area i need help on is the CP.. once i decide which cabinet, i'm getting, can i get a control panel made or should i just use the existing one and drill holes as appropiate for my needs

Are you buying a pre-built cab?

haven't bought anything yet.. going to buy whatever is easiest for me and you guys recommend

[wallyhooker]

Go to www.groovygamegear.com... they have a REALLY NICE encoder with NO SOLDERING called the KeyWhiz Max AND it is only $34.95.