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Suggestions for Designing a Control Panel of limited size
MPTech:
I currently have an X-Arcade 2-Player CP that is adequete for most games, but I'd like to build my own and incorporate a spinner and maybe a trackball.
My CP area is 25" x 11" without extending past the cab sides (I don't want and overhang on the sides).
(btw, I spent about 3 hours searching CP designs last night, so have looked already and got some ideas, but I'm looking for some specific suggestions).
Couple questions:
I'm still undecided on the Joysticks, I've looked at the GGG OMNI-Stik PRODIGY Joystick. Seems like a good design for 4 & 8 way use. (It's a challenge trying to play some of the classic 4-way games with an 8-way stick). or I could add a dedicated 4-way, but I have the space limit.
Any other JS recommendations? (I've heard the Happ super 8 is the best 8-way, but I'd like to stick with GGG if possible).
A spinner (TT2) is a must, do I need any dedicated buttons or could the JS buttons be used?
I've also seen mouse buttons listed, with the Trackball are they necessary? or again, can I use the JS buttons?
I want to keep the buttons to a minimum and will probably mount the Admin buttons elsewhere.
Any suggestions before I start designing?
Thanks Guys! This forum is great! (just wish it was cheaper, not that I'd spend less, I'd just buy more!)
MPTech
Xam:
As far as the trck goes, you could try this....kinda pricy though.
http://www.happcontrols.com/trackballs/56020000.htm
might see if divemaster or ponyboy can get em cheaper for you.
Xam
Tahnok:
I see no reason you can't fit a two player setup, spinner, and 2.25" trackball on the panel. It might be a bit tight for some people's likings though.
Here's a basic idea (note that it's very rough, not something to build from). I'm not sure how big the Omni sticks are, so you may need to allow a bigger area for the joysticks. Still, if you plan well, you should be able to figure something out.
QuixoteQuest:
If you have a CostCo in your area you may want to see if they still have the Chicago Gaming "Arcade Legends"/UltraCade units so you could give them a spin. The cabs are 25.5" w --the CP 1.5" narrower than that--and have 2 joys, 6 buttons per player plus a 3" trackball. When I tried them out they were a little too compact for my tastes, but they do function all right. They undoubtedly would suit others fine.
If you were to lay out yours similar you could stick in a spinner--especially a Turbo Twist 2 model--where they have their frontend escape button. Coinup and escape buttons could easily be faced out on the front instead of on the CP.
http://www.quarterarcade.com/GamePicture.aspx?c=&g=3569&o=3&m=0
Arcades R Fun:
Hello,
We are currently developing a full featured space saver 2 player control panel with 6 buttons per player and a 3" trackball. The panel is only 24" wide. The reason the panel can be so small is we are using Ultimarc's new Ultrastick 360 USB joystick. The stick has a similar footprint to the Happ sticks but they have no microswitches to stick out plus the 3/4" crimp-on/wire connector width that adds to the space problem. There'a also room for a GGG TT2 spinner as well. I can send you a CAD screeshot in Word if you like.
Jack