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| What is important when considering purchasing a CP? |
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| ArcadEd:
As I consider Arcade-In-A-Box branching out a little further into the control panel only market, I'm curious what is important to you when considering a purchase, besides the price. I know I can be competive there. My goal with Arcade-In-A-Box has always been quality first, and I won't deter from that. Some things I do with my control panels. Formica Brand Laminate covering 5/8 particle board. IMO, Particle board is just as durable as mdf, but is lighter. They both have their drawbacks (Particle breaking easily, mdf splitting easily). I've tried both, and just prefer particle board. Joystick bolts are bolted through, with the heads of the nuts hidden under the formica. But still easy to replace joysticks if need be. Joysticks also have a 1/4 inch route underneath for maximum joystick height. I never use Trackball mounting plates. I route correct distance so the trackball is flush mounted. Then secure the trackball underneath making it easy to remove as well. So, what is it you look for? Would you like a kit that just includes all the arcade parts and wood for you to assemble yourself? Mention anything, I'm open to any ideas. Thanks for the input, hopefully I decide in the next few days to go forward with this or not. It's a good time as I am just about to get our new store online this week. |
| Tahnok:
Laminate: Looking at the pictures the review thread by Saint, it looks like there is some chipping along the inside of the holes. Of course, that is along the area that will never be seen once the parts are in and the box is put together. But I can't help but feeling that I would be a bit disappointed in the craftsmenship if I bought one of these units and it arrived with chips. I understand that laminate is difficult to work with, but it still seems like something that should be fixed. I had the same question facing me regarding particleboard or MDF for my bartop cabinets. I have found particleboard is definitely the way to go. Especially if you are going to be laminating it and the finish won't be showing. Joystick bolts and trackball plates: You seem to have two conflicting statements here. You say that you won't use a mounting plate so the trackball is easy to remove. But you also say the bolts go through and are under the laminate, so they are easy to remove. You have basically just created a mounting plate for the joysticks. The bolts can't be removed, just like the mounting plate. The trackball can easily be removed from an installed plate, just like the joystick bolts. Care to explain? Edit: I just noticed you also don't use any sort of KD fitting to put the box together. I have always thought they add a nice touch to the product. You should maybe consider them, especially if you are getting the boxes CNC cut. Also, I can't quite tell by the pictures; is there no slant on the panel? I think the top panel should definitely be slanted like a normal CP. |
| ArcadEd:
Tahnok, those were demo units only sent out for review. They are just white melamine painted. My retail units are fomirca, except for the kits. I'll explain the other in a bit. Kid is whining :). |
| Zeosstud:
ArcadEd, I always want to be able to play Robotron on any control panel I would consider buying or make myself. All the controllers I see with 1 joystick and a bunch of buttons just make no sense. It is of course a VERY individual / personal thing. As long as you have some variety in what you offer and its at a fair price you should be able to sell some stuff. I have always been turned off by people that really try to screw you on shipping too. I have no beef with making a few bucks on shipping to cover time and expense but taking it to far is a bit of a sore spot. Best of luck with your new venture. Zeosstud |
| Tahnok:
--- Quote from: ArcadEd on April 11, 2006, 05:09:31 pm ---Tahnok, those were demo units only sent out for review. They are just white melamine painted. My retail units are fomirca, except for the kits. I'll explain the other in a bit. Kid is whining :). --- End quote --- But won't you run into the same problem with laminate? While I understand melamine is thinner, doesn't laminate chip just the same? Also, see my edit on my first post. |
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