Author Topic: RAM Controls - Star Wars Yoke (Read 30873 times)

whynotpizza · « **on:** April 18, 2007, 09:16:23 pm »

Ok, didn't mean to get you all excited, but was wondering if anyone has any update from RAM Controls regarding their status on the Star Wars Yoke?

I emailed last week and didn't hear anything back and was wondering if others have heard if this is close or not.

From my discussions with David (RAM Controls) he seems like this is a real-deal - soon to be released control, but that was a earlier last month.

Anxious to see this puppy when it gets complete.

David

Havok · « **Reply #1 on:** April 19, 2007, 12:15:53 pm »

I haven't received any updates either - I even sent an e-mail to them via their contact page. Hopefully this goes through, if not I'm out $200...

polaris · « **Reply #2 on:** April 19, 2007, 01:17:51 pm »

i'd say he's a busy guy from looking at the site, the major havok controllers are being sold by independent retailers i believe , so i really think its genuine, i can see it easily being behind schedule as the guy seems to have very high standards for his final products.
the real issue that all should be concerned with here, is how i get one to the uk.

has anyone bought anything in production and recieved it? the cones etc.

grantspain · « **Reply #3 on:** April 19, 2007, 01:23:54 pm »

is this not the same as the original yoke-http://www.happcontrols.com/joysticks/95070100.htm

horseboy · « **Reply #4 on:** April 19, 2007, 01:26:35 pm »

Quote from: grantspain on April 19, 2007, 01:23:54 pm

is this not the same as the original yoke-
http://www.happcontrols.com/joysticks/95070100.htm

Nope

polaris · « **Reply #5 on:** April 19, 2007, 01:27:31 pm »

Quote from: grantspain on April 19, 2007, 01:23:54 pm

is this not the same as the original yoke-http://www.happcontrols.com/joysticks/95070100.htm

get out of the midday sun its affecting you

grantspain · « **Reply #6 on:** April 19, 2007, 06:21:36 pm »

yes i see what you mean,too much sangria me thinks

Kremmit · « **Reply #7 on:** April 19, 2007, 11:41:40 pm »

Quote from: polaris on April 19, 2007, 01:17:51 pm

i'd say he's a busy guy from looking at the site, the major havok controllers are being sold by independent retailers i believe , so i really think its genuine, i can see it easily being behind schedule as the guy seems to have very high standards for his final products.
the real issue that all should be concerned with here, is how i get one to the uk.

has anyone bought anything in production and recieved it? the cones etc.

I have some of the cones. I actually bought them through one of his re-sellers, but they're his. Very nice.

Fozzy The Bear · « **Reply #8 on:** April 20, 2007, 06:32:40 am »

David is a genuine enough guy..... I strongly suspect he's got a hell of a lot on his plate right now. No need to panic chaps. Just be patient. Delays on something like this are inevitable.

Best Regards,
Julian (Fozzy The Bear)

Havok · « **Reply #9 on:** April 20, 2007, 09:33:30 am »

Yeah, I believe this will happen, but I would at least like to see some communication - even if it's just an entry on his project blog...

polaris · « **Reply #10 on:** April 20, 2007, 10:09:36 am »

this is all good , but nobodys answering the real issue here, how am i gonna get one.

shorthair · « **Reply #11 on:** April 20, 2007, 05:19:07 pm »

You can pre-order at the site. Or, you can wait till we get ours, then order one.

polaris · « **Reply #12 on:** April 20, 2007, 05:53:34 pm »

im in the uk, they dont ship here

rovingmind · « **Reply #13 on:** April 20, 2007, 06:24:36 pm »

have somebody stateside forward it.

shorthair · « **Reply #14 on:** April 20, 2007, 07:43:32 pm »

That or you could get yourself a free Fedex account and have 'em do a pick-up.

whynotpizza · « **Reply #15 on:** April 20, 2007, 10:24:34 pm »

I agree Havok, it sure would be nice to get a BLOG update or post on the boards, or even an email.

I too did the pre-order, and am looking forward to seeing my purchase, hopefully before the summer!

David

Havok · « **Reply #16 on:** April 21, 2007, 06:19:59 pm »

Just got an e-mail from David, and he has updated his blog. Looks like he had technical difficulties. Check out the latest updates. I knew everything would be ok, just like that little bit of communication...

http://ram-controls.com/blog-sw.html

(Where's the wiping forehead smiley?)

whynotpizza · « **Reply #17 on:** April 21, 2007, 08:36:55 pm »

Cool, thanks for the info Havok.

Sure hope the yokes get done soon, and this isn't a drag-on through the end of 2007 to complete.

If I knew it would take such a long time, I'd make my own.

I guess we'll just be patient and see how this RAM Controls stuff works out. From the looks of it, I think my pre-order will be worth the wait.

David

SavannahLion · « **Reply #18 on:** April 21, 2007, 10:56:20 pm »

cnlmoore · « **Reply #19 on:** April 22, 2007, 12:37:54 am »

I have one of the major havoc repro rollers and the quality is amazing. I'm sure they won't disappoint us with the yoke.

shorthair · « **Reply #20 on:** April 22, 2007, 02:22:26 am »

Quite obviously, and has always been obvious, he's obsessed with quality. The concern I would think'd be more: will some economic event shut him down, etc?

SavannahLion · « **Reply #21 on:** April 22, 2007, 01:28:34 pm »

Quote from: shorthair on April 22, 2007, 02:22:26 am

The concern I would think'd be more: will some economic event shut him down, etc?

He seems to have it well thought out, getting his basic components, such as screws, bolts, and springs stocked up before going after the bigger pieces. He's sinking quite a bit of money on this venture, but it doesn't seem he's stretching himself thin to get it accomplished. The fact he's machining some of his own parts would lead me to think that he's got a pretty good business and/or job to justify the cost of the equipment needed.

shorthair · « **Reply #22 on:** April 22, 2007, 04:15:30 pm »

Seems likely. And I don't think he'd leave anyone hanging high and dry. Not that it was a concern of mine, though a consideration, just that others might be most worried about this possible aspect. I'm looking forward to getting one, for sure, though I'm still wishing I'd known about that miracle deal on ebay, recently. If I hadn't liked it, I know I could've kept the other parts and still got my money back on it. Ah, fixation with the past.

Havok · « **Reply #23 on:** April 23, 2007, 07:24:48 am »

Quote from: whynotpizza on April 21, 2007, 08:36:55 pm

Cool, thanks for the info Havok.

Sure hope the yokes get done soon, and this isn't a drag-on through the end of 2007 to complete.

If I knew it would take such a long time, I'd make my own.

I guess we'll just be patient and see how this RAM Controls stuff works out. From the looks of it, I think my pre-order will be worth the wait.

David

David said in his e-mail to me that it wouldn't be much longer, so hopefully that is the case. Unfortunately he has to rely on another vendor to get the powder coating completed, but his initial run with the new vendor was good. Even with the e-bay yoke that went recently, I'd rather have this - it will be better upgraded components than NOS, and it is brand new.

polaris · « **Reply #24 on:** April 23, 2007, 01:26:50 pm »

its likely these new ones are gonna make old ones cheaper i reckon, for the price why not buy new

whynotpizza · « **Reply #25 on:** April 23, 2007, 03:02:28 pm »

Agreed, newer is always better.

Besides, RAM Controls seems to build solid high quality products. I'd rather pay a bit extra and get something that will last.

I just hope we all aren't waiting for the balance of this year.

David

rovingmind · « **Reply #26 on:** April 23, 2007, 03:05:49 pm »

I can wait for christmas. It will probably take me that long to build the base cockpit

shorthair · « **Reply #27 on:** April 23, 2007, 08:38:39 pm »

On the new: yeah, I often buy new for that reason. Still, it could've been like a Line6 POD I bought, just so I could have a mounting stand and carrying case to go with the one I already had. Kept the latter two and sold the POD for $50 more than I paid for the lot.

Breaker · « **Reply #28 on:** May 22, 2007, 01:11:32 am »

Hi all,

A friendly bump to this thread.

David if you're reading...any updates on the status of the Star Wars Yoke? In your last blog entry on April 21st it sounded like you had resolved the powder-coating issues (which might have been the last big hurdle).

No pressure, just curious about how things are going.

Cheers,
Breaker.

Daviea · « **Reply #29 on:** May 22, 2007, 02:31:13 pm »

Hey Breaker,

The new vendor I chose has turned out to be just as slow (if not slower) than the first. While the initial test-run samples I got from them turned out beautifully, the production run samples have been ...uh, how shall I put this...totally unacceptable. Yeah, that's about as nice as I can put it. To date, I've had to nix the production run samples three or four times.

Aside from the troubles listed above, the controller is ready to go. All of the parts have been milled, machined, cast, etc...and all I'm waiting on is the powder coating on the frame components and handles. I'm about to update the site with an expanded list of SW parts which are now available, but the completed controller won't be available until I can get beyond this finishing issue with the powder coating.

I've been strongly considering purchasing a medium sized powder coating setup and doing the work myself. I have the room in the shop and it sure would be nice to have one less process to job out. The actual process can't possibly be as difficult as these string of vendors make it appear.

So, to sum up, the yoke is nearly complete. I'm still waiting on the last and final process before they're assembled and shipped. The website will be updated with an expanded list of components which are now available. Pay particular attention to the gears and the rebuild kits if you have an existing controller in need of repair. :-)

David

ChadTower · « **Reply #30 on:** May 22, 2007, 02:34:06 pm »

Nice, I have a couple that need rebuilding.

Havok · « **Reply #31 on:** May 22, 2007, 02:35:49 pm »

Let's see some pictures posted of the final product: pieces and fully assembled, sans powder coating!

rovingmind · « **Reply #32 on:** May 22, 2007, 02:55:36 pm »

how about offering a complete yoke sans powder-coating? I can go to sears and buy a gun to use in my shop, all i need is a scrapyard oven.

HoopstarsGarage · « **Reply #33 on:** May 22, 2007, 08:34:42 pm »

I must say David, I am stunned with the quality of this project - something many have only ever talked about doing. The fact that you've upgraded certain "weak links" whilst still making it backward compatible is brilliant..
The fact that you are also making the parts and rebuild kits available to those that already have a "genuine" controller to keep them going for year to come is fantastic

That said, based on Atari's

past history with issuing C&D's - I'm surprised this project hasn't been shut down..

I personally look forward to some of your other products slated for completion later - ie. Lunar Lander controller

Hoops

ahofle · « **Reply #34 on:** May 22, 2007, 11:01:44 pm »

Quote from: HoopstarsGarage on May 22, 2007, 08:34:42 pm

That said, based on Atari's past history with issuing C&D's - I'm surprised this project hasn't been shut down..

Why would Atari want to shut this down?

crashwg · « **Reply #35 on:** May 22, 2007, 11:13:26 pm »

Because someone else is profiting from their design.

RandyT · « **Reply #36 on:** May 22, 2007, 11:30:48 pm »

IANAL, but I would expect this to be a patent issue, if anything. And seeing as patents have short (compared to copyright) lifespans, I have a hard time seeing what they could do about copies of the original control. One should, however, be very careful with the use of the trademarks.

RandyT

Patent Doc · « **Reply #37 on:** May 23, 2007, 12:03:07 am »

Well Randy isn't, but I am. Anyway, Randy is correct the design patent for that bad boy (if it ever had one) was dead in the early 90's (design patents have a 14 yr lifespan) and any utility patent was dead 17 years from issuance (since we're talking pre-1996 patents). I'd be shocked if any of those were still kicking. Although trademarks can be held indefinitely, they can't be for something functional (appearance only). I really doubt Atari has or ever had a TM to the appearance of the yoke. As for copyright...this doesn't even apply here. So my bet is Atari wouldn't have an basis to file a suit.

Patent Doc

Breaker · « **Reply #38 on:** May 23, 2007, 03:00:35 am »

Thanks for the update David!

Glad to hear all the machining is done, but sorry to about the powder coating issues.

Given the exceptional quality of the product you're producing, I can understand why you're holding out for a satisfactory result on this last element of the job.

All the best,
Breaker.

RandyT · « **Reply #39 on:** May 23, 2007, 04:14:20 pm »

Quote from: Patent Doc on May 23, 2007, 12:03:07 am

Although trademarks can be held indefinitely, they can't be for something functional (appearance only). I really doubt Atari has or ever had a TM to the appearance of the yoke. As for copyright...this doesn't even apply here. So my bet is Atari wouldn't have an basis to file a suit.

Sorry, I didn't mean to imply that that trademark or copyright issues would arise from the design. I only meant that the terms "Star Wars" and "Atari" should be used carefully in the marketing of the product to avoid any problems. E.g. it might be ok to say that the yoke is "a fully compatible reproduction of the the control used on the Star Wars arcade machine built by Atari", but it would probably raise the hackles to sell it as an "Atari Star Wars Yoke" or even a "Star Wars Yoke". Those would probably be covered by trademark and/or copyright, which go on much longer than patents.

RandyT

Patent Doc · « **Reply #40 on:** May 23, 2007, 08:41:25 pm »

Hey Randy

Didn't mean to imply you though any differently. Sorry if it came out that way. I was just trying to fill in the gap for the masses regarding teh earlier legal question. Well that and I wanted to boost your statements because I don't have to say IANAL. Also, there are only a few people on this board, and you are one of them, that can truly say they understand IP coverage and issues.

Again sorry if my statements implied you thought trademarks or copyright issues arose from the design.

Patent Doc

KonkeyKong · « **Reply #41 on:** June 13, 2007, 08:42:29 am »

just another bump, looking for a tasty info tidbit...any small morsel will tide me along... any news from David on the powder coating? I'm like a kid at Christmas, I feel I'm like 8 years old again I'm so excited.

BrentRadio · « **Reply #42 on:** June 13, 2007, 11:47:35 pm »

What are the parts that tend to fail on the original?

Brent

Dexter · « **Reply #43 on:** June 14, 2007, 06:12:26 am »

The plastic gears tend to fail, also the triggers and microswitches. The potentiometers go eventually too, but thats pretty standard for regular pots in heavy use.

HoopstarsGarage · « **Reply #44 on:** June 14, 2007, 08:18:52 am »

..and the rubber bumpers that limit pitch and yaw travel..

Hoops

BrentRadio · « **Reply #45 on:** June 14, 2007, 01:03:38 pm »

Just an FYI...

I just got word from Steven at ArcadeShop that he will be doing another run of the Star Wars marquee overlays with the correct size (the old ones were 1/4 inch too short in the width) in the next few weeks.

Pre order now so these get made quickly!

I just ordered mine.

Brent

Chunce DeLeone · « **Reply #46 on:** July 30, 2007, 09:48:38 am »

I have joined the few and the proud to Pre-Order a Yet to be seen Star Wars Yoke, does anyone have any updates or nuggets of hope to ease the leap of faith which we all have taken?

Breaker · « **Reply #47 on:** July 30, 2007, 05:53:24 pm »

Hey all,

There is another thread on this subject (not sure how we managed to get two going) in which Havok indicated he had sent off a message to Ram-Controls for an update; I've recently done the same. The last word was that things were very close - the only piece remaining being the handles (currently in for powder coating). If I hear anything I'll report back.

David, if you're on the board, feel free to jump in with an update 'from the source'.

Cheers,
Breaker

Chunce DeLeone · « **Reply #48 on:** July 31, 2007, 09:44:05 am »

Thanks for the update! I CAN"T WAIT!!!!!!!!!!!!

Chunce DeLeone · « **Reply #49 on:** July 31, 2007, 09:47:20 am »

How do you guys intrend to interface this to your cabs? Dual Strike Hack?

Havok · « **Reply #50 on:** July 31, 2007, 10:33:46 am »

Quote from: Chunce DeLeone on July 31, 2007, 09:47:20 am

How do you guys intrend to interface this to your cabs? Dual Strike Hack?

Yep - I have a Dual Strike waiting in my cabinet...

Kremmit · « **Reply #51 on:** July 31, 2007, 11:49:17 pm »

Quote from: Chunce DeLeone on July 31, 2007, 09:47:20 am

How do you guys intrend to interface this to your cabs? Dual Strike Hack?

That, an A-Pac, or an AKI.

Breaker · « **Reply #52 on:** August 03, 2007, 08:14:17 pm »

Hello all,

I heard from David this morning and he updated me on the status of the SWY; he's been a little busy as he's just welcomed a new baby girl to his family!

The handles remain the only outstanding part. It seems the powder coating (the samples of which were initially approved) turned out poorly in the production run. David is now having the coating removed and then reapplied by hand - a process which he hopes will ensure a good job. He does have some new pics and updates to the project blog which he'll post when he arranges access via his new ISP.

So, things are moving forward, and despite the delays and frustration with the powder coating, David is sticking to his guns in order to ensure a top quality product.

Breakers.

Chunce DeLeone · « **Reply #53 on:** August 09, 2007, 09:28:22 am »

How are you guys going to mount this to your cabs?? Are you going to make a housing out of wood or something??

Level42 · « **Reply #54 on:** August 09, 2007, 05:47:16 pm »

Quote from: BrentRadio on June 13, 2007, 11:47:35 pm

What are the parts that tend to fail on the original?

Brent

What's your experience Brent ? I know you own an original. My cab has run over 77000 games and there seems nothing wrong with the controls at all......either it was maintained very well, or am I just lucky ?

I'll do investigating of the controls more closely next week...

NoOne=NBA= · « **Reply #55 on:** August 09, 2007, 06:40:30 pm »

The main failure was usually the thumb button assemblies.
They aren't quite up to the standard of the rest of the parts.
Fortunately they were redundant on most of the games, so when one quit you could still play.

The second most fragile part is probably the small gear on the back.

The most annoying failure is the rubber they used for the axis stops.
It turns to a nearly impossible to remove sludge that just smears around as you try to clean it off.
My one other annoyance with them is that it is almost impossible to get a balanced set of torsion springs for them.
If you look at almost every one you ever see, it will be sitting off-center because the springs aren't balanced.

Chunce DeLeone · « **Reply #56 on:** August 21, 2007, 10:31:24 am »

Just Wanted to see if anyone has an update on the Yoke.

David Are You out there???

MameMaster! · « **Reply #57 on:** October 12, 2007, 03:03:04 pm »

any update?

Chunce DeLeone · « **Reply #58 on:** October 26, 2007, 12:14:11 pm »

Short Update: David has recieved the powder coating equip and is doing it inhouse, he will update the website soon.

Level42 · « **Reply #59 on:** October 26, 2007, 03:41:17 pm »

Actions speak louder than words.

ratzz · « **Reply #60 on:** October 26, 2007, 06:55:11 pm »

I'm sorry guys, but anyone who has invested in this product should expect to loose their money.

Don't buy on promises. Too many excuses for me. Too bad if you loose your money, read the signs.

Sorry guys...

Level42 · « **Reply #61 on:** October 27, 2007, 02:06:45 am »

Yeah, and it's not only on this forum that I've seen people having ordered yokes and getting nothing.

It really is a shame since my yoke could use some new spare parts but I don't dare to order them, not as long as he wants my money in advance....

ark_ader · « **Reply #62 on:** October 27, 2007, 08:03:28 am »

Why can you guys just make your own?

The designs and plans are on this site, and we do get a feeling of satisfaction when we accomplish something that is challenging. The Star Wars Yoke is not easy I know, but its not impossible.

Yes I know the original is always better, but 25 years on waiting for something to materialise for something not to difficult to create is challenging too.

My suggestion to those on this thread, is to make your own, and lets see some pics of your progress.

Katana Man · « **Reply #63 on:** April 11, 2008, 04:37:09 pm »

The production of these yokes is still dead I take it?

Jeff AMN · « **Reply #64 on:** April 11, 2008, 05:12:02 pm »

I hear it's still coming along and that people have been getting rebuild kits.

You have to realize that for David RAM Controls is only a hobby venture. Yes, I'm sure he'd like more time to work on these things, but he's time constrained. Once the kinks are worked out, he can ramp up production and everybody will get what they're waiting for.

S0L · « **Reply #65 on:** April 11, 2008, 08:27:37 pm »

As one of the 'Dirty Dozen' pre-orderers (is that even a word?) I'm more than happy to wait for David.

Everything I've read on the controllers that have gone before have suggested nothing other than a complete attention to detail, if not perfection, on all his previous works.

I've waited almost 24 years to get my hands on a controller as good as the original, I'm sure a wait of a little bit longer is not going to hurt me.

I've complete faith that the time I've waited will be absolutely worth it.

Am I excited to get my hands on a brilliant reproduction controller? Absolutely, but would I ask Davd to rush it? Nope, not me

Looking forward to an update - and the controller when it is ready!

---
S0L
---

ark_ader · « **Reply #66 on:** April 12, 2008, 10:02:07 pm »

Quote from: S0L on April 11, 2008, 08:27:37 pm

As one of the 'Dirty Dozen' pre-orderers (is that even a word?) I'm more than happy to wait for David.

Everything I've read on the controllers that have gone before have suggested nothing other than a complete attention to detail, if not perfection, on all his previous works.

I've waited almost 24 years to get my hands on a controller as good as the original, I'm sure a wait of a little bit longer is not going to hurt me.

I've complete faith that the time I've waited will be absolutely worth it.

Am I excited to get my hands on a brilliant reproduction controller? Absolutely, but would I ask Davd to rush it? Nope, not me

Looking forward to an update - and the controller when it is ready!

---
S0L
---

ratzz · « **Reply #67 on:** April 14, 2008, 07:21:11 pm »

Quote from: S0L on April 11, 2008, 08:27:37 pm

As one of the 'Dirty Dozen' pre-orderers

'Dozey Dozen'

Katana Man · « **Reply #68 on:** June 24, 2008, 01:27:00 pm »

This project started in 2004 and it's been over a year since his last entry in the "Project Blog". It's not looking good in my opinion.

Namco · « **Reply #69 on:** June 24, 2008, 02:01:47 pm »

Quote from: ark_ader on April 12, 2008, 10:02:07 pm

Quote from: S0L on April 11, 2008, 08:27:37 pm
As one of the 'Dirty Dozen' pre-orderers (is that even a word?) I'm more than happy to wait for David.

Everything I've read on the controllers that have gone before have suggested nothing other than a complete attention to detail, if not perfection, on all his previous works.

I've waited almost 24 years to get my hands on a controller as good as the original, I'm sure a wait of a little bit longer is not going to hurt me.

I've complete faith that the time I've waited will be absolutely worth it.

Am I excited to get my hands on a brilliant reproduction controller? Absolutely, but would I ask Davd to rush it? Nope, not me

Looking forward to an update - and the controller when it is ready!

---
S0L
---

SOL indeed.

Havok · « **Reply #70 on:** June 25, 2008, 12:03:57 am »

Yep - David stopped responding to my emails. Oh well, it would have been nice to be able to buy a new SW yoke...

Timstuff · « **Reply #71 on:** June 25, 2008, 12:58:40 am »

It's a shame that this project is dead. I would actually like to build a cabinet for Star Wars at some point in the future, but it doesn't look like the options will be very good for the yoke when that day comes. This is why the smaller the venture, the less trusting I am of preorders. I'm not going to try to make any kind of judgment about David's character here, but I don't think that it's very professional to leave people hanging for a year when the amount of money at stake is in the $200 neighborhood. Unanswered e-mails are always a bad sign, so if you're one of the poor fellows who preordered, now's probably the time to start looking for alternatives.

It's a shame that there's so little market for a good Star Wars style yoke, but really, what can you expect for a peripheral who's claim to fame is a game that is slowly becoming extinct? To my knowledge, there hasn't been a single new vector monitor built in over 20 years, so it's kind of inevitable that once that finite supply is diminished, the existing Star Wars PCBs will be rendered useless. I don't even think there's a market for the Zektor ZVG anymore because of this fact. If you by some miracle own a Star Wars machine, cherish it while you can, because eventually that monitor is gonna burn out, and there will be nothing to replace it.

Of course, there is the slowly growing BYOAC / Mame market who will always be glad to gobble up any peripheral that makes playing classic games more authentic, which is why the Star Wars yoke is such a sought-after peripheral. However, that market is STILL too small for most vendors (like Happ) to want a full production of the yoke, so for now it looks like we're going to be stuck relying on guys like Dave to come through with their one-man operations. The quality might be just as good as a production model, but the fact remains that mom-and-pop peripherals are often in short supply, with short lived productions.

The only way I can really see a new Star Wars yoke being produced by a full-fledged distributor, is if either A) by some miracle, SOMEONE starts making vector monitors again for Star Wars restores (fat chance), or B) new arcade games are released that use a Star Wars style yoke.

ark_ader · « **Reply #72 on:** June 25, 2008, 03:47:17 am »

Ask David if he had a nice holiday.

Seriously I still like the guy, and its a shame you, who pre ordered them, had so long to wait.

Powder coating handles eh? Hmmm.

Well there is still hope David will come up trumps with a product.

Time will only tell. How much time is a good question.

So please tell: How many of you ~~suckers~~ interested parties parted with cash for this?

Will there be a refund?

Maybe I should take up the challenge and make some.

Anyone want to front me some cash?

S0L · « **Reply #73 on:** June 25, 2008, 07:41:06 am »

Well regardless of the ridicule I've had- I've still got faith in this

There was a blog update on the Yoke site too mid-May that details the trouble is still with the powder coating - http://www.ram-controls.com/blog-sw.html

As I've said, I'm staying patient as I'd rather have it right, then rushed.

The nice thing with the wait, is I've picked up pretty much everything else I need for the box I plan and spread the cost over a fair old time period

So when it shows up I can put aside a week for putting it all together and playing it!

---
S0L
---

shardian · « **Reply #74 on:** June 25, 2008, 08:47:37 am »

I don't understand why he is being so picky on the powder coating. These things were mass produced and half-assed in the first place. Last I remember him saying was that he was going to buy the tools to do it himself.

If it is true that he has disappeared, that is sad. I doubt it is entirely true though.

Level42 · « **Reply #75 on:** June 25, 2008, 08:50:42 am »

Quote from: Timstuff on June 25, 2008, 12:58:40 am

....
It's a shame that there's so little market for a good Star Wars style yoke, but really, what can you expect for a peripheral who's claim to fame is a game that is slowly becoming extinct? To my knowledge, there hasn't been a single new vector monitor built in over 20 years, so it's kind of inevitable that once that finite supply is diminished, the existing Star Wars PCBs will be rendered useless. I don't even think there's a market for the Zektor ZVG anymore because of this fact. If you by some miracle own a Star Wars machine, cherish it while you can, because eventually that monitor is gonna burn out, and there will be nothing to replace it.

As a SW owner I find this all overly negative.

The only part that is unique for a vector monitor is the yoke. I've rebuilt my Amplifone 25" in my SW cockpit, and I'm telling you that it will live longer than me. The amplifone deflection and HV boards are very reliable once rebuilt. The CRT is going to last VERY long because of course now it's not running 24/7. True, the Amplifone uses a mid-res CRT that is not available anymore at all (25") or that is readily available NOS (!) from Canada (while supply lasts). Even so, the CRT itself can be replaced by a standard resolution CRT if nothing else will be available anymore.

Because of the popularity there is a vast number of SW (and other vector) machines in the hands of collectors, and they will be around for a long time. More and more people rebuild them or keep them in good running condition. The reason why the SW yoke is (close to) impossible to make profittable is that the whole construction is expensive to produce and the market is relatively small. I think Dave's market was much less replacing yokes on original machines (why would you, some new small parts (from David !), a fresh paint and off you go) then selling them to MAME users.

FrizzleFried · « **Reply #76 on:** June 25, 2008, 09:13:17 am »

I think everyone is waiting on a product that isn't going to ever happen...

This yoke has been promised for longer than I have been in the community.

ahofle · « **Reply #77 on:** June 25, 2008, 10:43:59 am »

Well other than the paint, all the parts are supposedly finished. Who here has ordered a kit to rebuild their existing yoke? Looks like you can order pretty much every part on his site.

shardian · « **Reply #78 on:** June 25, 2008, 11:20:33 am »

The guy has manufactured very high quality parts in the past (MH roller), so its not a scam. Hell, he has sent me a pair of Atari cone lights for free! I hope he chimes in here soon and updates everyone on the process. It really is a shame, because he gave away a ton of stuff shipped for free to the community as a sign of goodwill a few months ago.

FrizzleFried · « **Reply #79 on:** June 25, 2008, 11:24:43 am »

Quote from: shardian on June 25, 2008, 11:20:33 am

The guy has manufactured very high quality parts in the past (MH roller), so its not a scam. Hell, he has sent me a pair of Atari cone lights for free! I hope he chimes in here soon and updates everyone on the process. It really is a shame, because he gave away a ton of stuff shipped for free to the community as a sign of goodwill a few months ago.

With all due respect...but SLIKSUCK also produced very high quality products in the past...so that's not really any kind of gauge as to what the guy will be doing (or not doing) in the future. If it was a year, or two years, but man, we're now going on what? A decade?

This is the Duke Nukem of the arcade scene...

saint · « **Reply #80 on:** June 25, 2008, 11:37:33 am »

The point here though is that no one has been ripped off that we've been made aware of. Has anyone asked for a refund that hasn't gotten one?

FrizzleFried · « **Reply #81 on:** June 25, 2008, 12:37:46 pm »

Quote from: saint on June 25, 2008, 11:37:33 am

The point here though is that no one has been ripped off that we've been made aware of. Has anyone asked for a refund that hasn't gotten one?

I may be wrong as I can't find it on the new PP, but I think someone mentioned having difficulty getting a refund on the old PP.

That said, my last post wasn't in reference to him ripping anyone off, but rather to point out that a company/individual that has done great work in the past doesn't always come through in the present/future.

Lutus · « **Reply #82 on:** June 25, 2008, 01:32:35 pm »

Quote from: FrizzleFried on June 25, 2008, 12:37:46 pm

That said, my last post wasn't in reference to him ripping anyone off, but rather to point out that a company/individual that has done great work in the past doesn't always come through in the present/future.

That is true Frizzle but in this particular case we are talking about a guy who does this on the side, not his business model...

AND, he is known for an EXTREME attention to detail. These small runs of parts can be difficult to work with vendors/manufacturers on because they will not be making a huge profit off of such a small run of parts.

If he finished the yoke up quickly, with some shoddy parts, someone out there would say, "I would have been willing to wait for the part to be done right".

It is all in what you truly want in the end. And patience is a virtue.

Just playing devil's advocate to the quote above. I have no vested interest in the matter.

I am sure that once the yoke is in hand, everyone will be pleased with the product they recieve.

miles2912 · « **Reply #83 on:** June 25, 2008, 01:55:31 pm »

I have no problem with a vendor paying attention to detail. He can even spend years developing a product. However ...

I just think it shows poor taste to do it on someone else's dime. I will go you one further. If someone can't raise the capital to fund a project why am I going to fund it? If they are using my money and are under absolutely no time constraints there is zero incentive to bring a product. Now if their money is at stake, they are very motivated to recoup their investment.

Katana Man · « **Reply #84 on:** June 25, 2008, 02:06:51 pm »

Quote from: FrizzleFried on June 25, 2008, 11:24:43 am

With all due respect...but SLIKSUCK also produced very high quality products in the past...so that's not really any kind of gauge as to what the guy will be doing (or not doing) in the future.

Hehe, excellent point. Being able to produce a high quality product is only a portion of running a good business. There are so many options that he could do, and should have done. It should not take this long to find a powder coating solution for his handles. As an act of professional courteousy, he should have at least offered the option to send the yoke as is, even with handles unfinished. It sounds like the guy has obsessive compulsive disorder which is really killing his business.

TheShanMan · « **Reply #85 on:** June 25, 2008, 02:30:24 pm »

Quote from: miles2912 on June 25, 2008, 01:55:31 pm

I have no problem with a vendor paying attention to detail. He can even spend years developing a product. However ...

I just think it shows poor taste to do it on someone else's dime. I will go you one further. If someone can't raise the capital to fund a project why am I going to fund it? If they are using my money and are under absolutely no time constraints there is zero incentive to bring a product. Now if their money is at stake, they are very motivated to recoup their investment.

He's not really doing it on someone else's dime. He offered to give everyone their money back and some chose to wait rather than get their money back.

He is a stand up guy, even if he hasn't come through on this project. He has given away lots of arcade related stuff including free shipping. He gets the benefit of the doubt in my book. Though I can easily understand people's frustration.

FrizzleFried · « **Reply #86 on:** June 25, 2008, 04:48:09 pm »

This conversation in 6/2006 - benefit of the doubt instantly given

This conversation in 6/2007 - benefit of the doubt readily given

This conversation in 6/2008 - benefit of the doubt cautiously given

This conversation in 6/2009 - I ain't givin' anyone any benefit of no doubt.

ark_ader · « **Reply #87 on:** June 25, 2008, 05:28:31 pm »

Quote from: FrizzleFried on June 25, 2008, 04:48:09 pm

This conversation in 6/2006 - benefit of the doubt instantly given

This conversation in 6/2007 - benefit of the doubt readily given

This conversation in 6/2008 - benefit of the doubt cautiously given

This conversation in 6/2009 - I ain't givin' anyone any benefit of no doubt.

Wow has it been that long of a wait?

Quote from: saint on June 25, 2008, 11:37:33 am

The point here though is that no one has been ripped off that we've been made aware of. Has anyone asked for a refund that hasn't gotten one?

Patience is something we all run out of. Happy optimism can dwindle too. I mean we live in a society where vaporware is common place. We all know of Microsoft right? They can push BS to an exact science. A product like a starwars yoke would be difficult to manufacture if it was a new product. But we have 1000's of examples out in the world that can be easily copied.

I'm so surprised that the folks at Happ haven't taken the project on board themselves and created a yoke that would be a direct replacement. I mean its what those guys do for a living.

I want a SW yoke from Dave too, but I want to see something tangible before I part with any cash. some of these folks have already, and its not fair to wait this long. I mean how long does it take to construct a SW yoke anyway? 10 days? a week? I think we all need some closure on this.

Level42 · « **Reply #88 on:** June 25, 2008, 05:37:07 pm »

The problem is that every-time he says they are "very soon" ready to ship....and then it's dead- silence again.

Dave sent me some parts for my yoke for free too. Amazing after how I criticized him. The parts are excellent (although I have not installed them yet). IF it ever gets finished it will be absolutely stunning quality. But sometimes you _have_ to compromise a bit to get things going. And DON'T promise things that you CAN'T deliver. It's the worst mistake people make in business and in personal live as well.

SavannahLion · « **Reply #89 on:** June 25, 2008, 06:28:05 pm »

Quote from: ark_ader on June 25, 2008, 05:28:31 pm

I'm so surprised that the folks at Happ haven't taken the project on board themselves and created a yoke that would be a direct replacement. I mean its what those guys do for a living.

To be fair. I haven't seen a vector cabinet of any type on location since the early 90's, much less a vector SW cabinet. Even as much as most of us like the vector cabinets, the interest generated by the MAME community is still a niche market. Not exactly within Happ's general interest... for now.

It doesn't help that CRT's are on the way out so the opportunity to obtain a working vector or convert a raster is dwindling as well. I don't care what anyone says, LCD resolutions are going to be a lot higher than they are now before I'll ever feel the same delight when playing the same game on a vector.

Aceldamor · « **Reply #90 on:** June 25, 2008, 06:31:07 pm »

I haven't been on the boards in a long time in a posting capacity, but this caught my attention.

Since starting school my cab has gathered dust in the corner of my home, among many other things piled on it. This was a fantastic thing coming back when I was an active member that far back.

After reading the post, I saw that as of march, the problem with the powdercoating had been corrected and the yolks were all but done. I see since then he has had some other issues as well, like with his server or the e-commerce piece. I personally would like to see this come out, and I think it would be a great addition to what appears to be a phenomenal line-up he's got. (SW Yoke, Major Havok roller, Lunar Lander Thruster). I personally would LOVE LOVE LOVE to see the Assault Joystick repro's come out as well.

The thing to remember that the arcade industry, is essentially dead. That is a sad statement, as I grew up in the arcade hay day. As sad as it is, it is true. Any of what are now considered "classic" games are a novelty. I would say 80% of the demand for things like this are for hobby enthusiasts with another 10% for collectors, and the last 10% for the industry it's self.

I live close to the largest arcade in Phoenix for classic video games. I spoke to the arcade manager, and he mentioned for things like Tron, Gorf, Star Wars, he has 7,8,9 other sticks in his stock room from old games that he can use as replacements. He had 4 Star Wars yolks up there as spares.

I guess my point is I've been watching this all day, and as much as I would agree with most points made on this thread, I think the only legitimate complaint for anyone to have would be the people who pre-paid for the device and have yet to see delivery, but on the same token, I see they were offered a refund opportunity as well.

All we can do is wait it out, check the site for updates, and hope that he comes in here to clear the air.

CheffoJeffo · « **Reply #91 on:** June 25, 2008, 07:02:25 pm »

Quote from: Aceldamor on June 25, 2008, 06:31:07 pm

I guess my point is I've been watching this all day, and as much as I would agree with most points made on this thread, I think the only legitimate complaint for anyone to have would be the people who pre-paid for the device and have yet to see delivery, but on the same token, I see they were offered a refund opportunity as well.

I took some time today to look back at the community and the folks who have provided services over the years. It is interesting how people who have done really cool stuff end up with big delays and drop out because out the stress of trying to combine a hobby business and real life, particularly when people are waiting for particular products. Oscar, Braze and Clay are three that come to my mind immediately because I was wanting some of those cool things from them.

We aren't the most patient group of people in the world and, contrary to what we may think, we're not generating a heck of a lot of revenue for these folks, so I don't feel too bad for us when they move on. Dave has apologized and offered a refund to those who pre-ordered, so all he can really be accused of at this point is not satisfying the unreasonable demands of a bunch of unreasonable folks.

If there was real money to be made doing this, somebody would have paid a company in the PRC and we would have readily available SW yokes out the shielded exhaust ports.

PS - for those who feel cheated by Dave, just imagine what the folks who preordered Big Bang Bar went through. This hobby sometimes requires acts of faith.

TPB · « **Reply #92 on:** June 25, 2008, 09:28:38 pm »

Quote from: shardian on June 25, 2008, 11:20:33 am

It really is a shame, because he gave away a ton of stuff shipped for free to the community as a sign of goodwill a few months ago.

Free Springs.

Level42, did you take up this offer, and stock up on spare springs for your yoke ?

Katana Man · « **Reply #93 on:** June 26, 2008, 12:00:41 am »

Quote from: ark_ader on June 25, 2008, 05:28:31 pm

Quote from: FrizzleFried on June 25, 2008, 04:48:09 pm
This conversation in 6/2006 - benefit of the doubt instantly given

This conversation in 6/2007 - benefit of the doubt readily given

This conversation in 6/2008 - benefit of the doubt cautiously given

This conversation in 6/2009 - I ain't givin' anyone any benefit of no doubt.

Wow has it been that long of a wait?

It's actually been longer. This project started in 2004.

MameMaster! · « **Reply #94 on:** June 26, 2008, 05:15:46 pm »

Quote from: S0L on June 25, 2008, 07:41:06 am

There was a blog update on the Yoke site too mid-May that details the trouble is still with the powder coating - http://www.ram-controls.com/blog-sw.html

....look closer....that was May 2007. A year ago.

bvicarious · « **Reply #95 on:** June 26, 2008, 06:40:57 pm »

Quote from: SavannahLion on June 25, 2008, 06:28:05 pm

It doesn't help that CRT's are on the way out so the opportunity to obtain a working vector or convert a raster is dwindling as well. I don't care what anyone says, LCD resolutions are going to be a lot higher than they are now before I'll ever feel the same delight when playing the same game on a vector.

As far as that goes, I wonder how well an OLED monitor would reproduce vector games. They have the brightness, contrast ratio and black levels to do it, the only thing else they need are size and resolution. That, and not cost $10,000.

Aceldamor · « **Reply #96 on:** June 26, 2008, 07:33:44 pm »

Quote from: MameMaster! on June 26, 2008, 05:15:46 pm

Quote from: S0L on June 25, 2008, 07:41:06 am
There was a blog update on the Yoke site too mid-May that details the trouble is still with the powder coating - http://www.ram-controls.com/blog-sw.html

....look closer....that was May 2007. A year ago.

Really? Wow...gratz me not paying attention. Aceldamor =

Ummon · « **Reply #97 on:** June 26, 2008, 09:55:48 pm »

Quote from: Katana Man on June 25, 2008, 02:06:51 pm

It sounds like the guy has obsessive compulsive disorder which is really killing his business.

Indeed. In case anyone missed my post on his PM to me a couple months ago, you might look back a couple/few weeks. I remember he had a kid come about around Christmas or something, as well as internal issues with the business, and all could have some part or still have some part in things. Or he could just be dead. It's happened before.

TPB · « **Reply #98 on:** June 27, 2008, 12:00:13 am »

Quote from: saint on June 25, 2008, 11:37:33 am

no one has been ripped off

Indeed they haven't. What's to be achieved by this thread ?

Even if they end up losing their money, there's no new issues. While it would be unfortunate, it wouldn't be a case of being "ripped off", as the pre-order folks made it clear about 6 months back, that they knew this venture had risk.

Their investment went into the R&D of this product, with their knowledge and agreement, with no guarantees it could be returned.

They reaffirmed their willingness to accept that risk, and to continue waiting, however long it takes.

Nothing's changed.

TPB · « **Reply #99 on:** June 27, 2008, 04:27:06 am »

Quote from: Level42 on June 25, 2008, 05:37:07 pm

The problem is that every-time he says they are "very soon" ready to ship....and then it's dead- silence again.

Dave sent me some parts for my yoke for free too. Amazing after how I criticized him. The parts are excellent (although I have not installed them yet). IF it ever gets finished it will be absolutely stunning quality. But sometimes you _have_ to compromise a bit to get things going. And DON'T promise things that you CAN'T deliver. It's the worst mistake people make in business and in personal live as well.

I missed that earlier. Good to hear ! And credit to Dave.

Your SW cab is well stocked with spares, to live through the next few generations.

Level42 · « **Reply #100 on:** June 27, 2008, 09:19:27 am »

Well it's just the rubber bumpers and fire buttons, but exactly what my yoke needs. A very nice gesture from Dave. Somehow I have a feeling this thing will be available in the future. He just shouldn't claim it's almost ready for shipping when it's not.

The only other spare part I have is a working PCB set. But that sure is NICE to have, especialy because it cost me about €12,-

I _am_ hunting an Amplifone 25" yoke though....hope it works out

I am planning on reverse engineering it. And have it produced in China. 100 bucks a piece, anyone wants to pre-order ?

Level42 · « **Reply #101 on:** June 30, 2008, 05:41:38 pm »

Amplifone Yoke is on it's way

Ummon · « **Reply #102 on:** July 02, 2008, 05:02:46 pm »

Well, despite this dilemma, check out this recent auction price.

wbassett · « **Reply #103 on:** July 02, 2008, 09:50:54 pm »

I saw that auction and cried!

I just had to dump almost $900 in my truck to repair the balljoints and a host of front end issues. Then we ran out of heating oil and our hot water is from a boiler, not an electric water heater, $428 for 100 gallons! So there was no way I could bid on that puppy. Looks like it was in pretty good shape too.

Timstuff · « **Reply #104 on:** July 03, 2008, 04:00:11 am »

I'm starting to wonder how hard it might be to hack a SW yoke out of a steering wheel... I mean, a steering wheel is essentially the same as a flight yoke, except that it has one less mechanism (the axle for the grips). All that's really needed, in theory, is a box with an axle going through it that has a gear in the middle, which is connected to another gear that attaches to a pot. Then, you could mount some Happ trigger grips onto the axle, and put the whole rig in place of the wheel on a steering wheel.

The real hamper though is and always seems to be the parts themselves. I've seen people do SW yokes on the cheap before, but the real trick is to get a metal box that looks like it would survive an arcade, rather than just slapping together a few pieces of wood and covering them with cardboard and contact paper.

ChadTower · « **Reply #105 on:** July 03, 2008, 11:48:35 am »

It has been touched on here but it should be mentioned that Dave did give out a lot of free stuff recently. Free, shipped on his dime, and it was good obscure stuff. He sent me quite a few hard to get ICs common on vector PCBs and pinball driver boards. I offered to send him a few bucks for shipping or beer and he wouldn't hear about it.

Now, that's not the yokes, but the amount of good stuff he gave away on his own dime should do his reputation more good than it seems to have done.

Ummon · « **Reply #106 on:** July 04, 2008, 06:23:47 pm »

Quote from: ChadTower on July 03, 2008, 11:48:35 am

Now, that's not the yokes, but the amount of good stuff he gave away on his own dime should do his reputation more good than it seems to have done.

I don't think that part of the topic is much of an issue anymore. He'll either magically come out with it or not.

@Timstuff: I think wood will do just fine, and one could even do a cooler, more stream-lined version. It's the handles and their connections that are hard to duplicate. Alternatives I've seen just don't look as cool. However, following the above theme, getting some new-fangled grips could look snappy. As well, some have recommended modding a Road Blasters yoke. However, it seems people would rather have a high-quality piece made by someone else, and likely some if not many are wanting quality retrofits.

Timstuff · « **Reply #107 on:** July 04, 2008, 10:27:17 pm »

I remember reading great things about the Gamecab yokes, which were not exact replicas of the original but were still very functional and good looking. Unfortunately, they're no longer being sold, as is the case with many fine arcade control products.

The happ trigger grips (which gamecab used) look like they'd actually be more comfortable and precise feeling than the original yoke's, and on top of that they look cooler (IMHO).

And then there's Joey's yoke (which also uses the Happ grips), and it looks pretty sick too. I'm not super keen on the visible screws everywhere, but really like how everything is coated in black.

To me, "authenticness" is not a super high priority when it comes to yokes. As long as it functions the same way as the original (on the user end, at least), looks good, and can in theory be used as a replacement in original SW cabs, it meets my personal criteria. And like you suggested, there's nothing wrong with even going a step beyond, and trying to improve on the original. One thing that I haven't seen on any of the newer yokes though, is a surface that can be used to apply the original SW artwork to. The RAM Controls yoke would have offered just that, so if you wanted authenticity, that would have been the best option.

Ummon · « **Reply #108 on:** July 06, 2008, 08:31:21 pm »

Yeah, I know that one. Nice design in general. I wonder about the axis of spin on the handles. Sort of the inverse of the originals, I'm curious how they...handle. In any case, I decided I was tired of waiting.

Havok · « **Reply #109 on:** July 06, 2008, 09:53:14 pm »

Those gamecab yokes look great. Shame he isn't making them anymore. It seems to me that there would be some kind of market for these. Perhaps GGG or Ultimarc could put one out? I'm thinking the Yoke Wiz and the Ulti-Yoke?

wbassett · « **Reply #110 on:** July 06, 2008, 11:15:49 pm »

http://www.westcontrols.com/files/products_controls2.php?id=CCYOKE&cat=C6YO&type=FY&fr=C

Well there is always that for a mere $624

If this guy was more reasonable with his price I might even be 'game' for one, but a controller for around the total price I have intro my cab? Pretty hard to justify that.

Ummon · « **Reply #111 on:** July 08, 2008, 07:37:13 pm »

Quote from: wbassett on July 06, 2008, 11:15:49 pm

http://www.westcontrols.com/files/products_controls2.php?id=CCYOKE&cat=C6YO&type=FY&fr=C

Well there is always that for a mere $624

If this guy was more reasonable with his price I might even be 'game' for one, but a controller for around the total price I have intro my cab? Pretty hard to justify that.

Not to mention he does the 'without an adapter' thing, and charges that extra. It would seem WestControls is selling these as CPs, which they are, but especially as they're using old stock (or maybe NOS) yokes, essentially he's charging a hogload for building a custom box for it.

Timstuff · « **Reply #112 on:** July 09, 2008, 02:43:37 am »

He's charging for both the box he built, and the "effort cost" of finding the yoke. If he was just selling the NOS yokes, they'd already be gone, UNLESS he was selling them for $600.

It's simple really: if demand outweighs supplies, then find a way to bring down demand. In this case, he accomplishes that through charging an arm and a leg and requiring you to buy an extra that you may not necessarily want.

S0L · « **Reply #113 on:** July 09, 2008, 09:10:26 am »

Just a quick update, I contacted David on the yoke and it's very much still in progress. Hopefully he won't mind me posting this, but he had following to say:

---

The Star Wars yoke project is alive and well. Instead of making updates like I should be, I've been spending my time working on the project. I've been having a bit of trouble with the final assembly of the controller which has necessitated remanf. of the handles. After nothing but failure after failure of the powdercoat on those handles, it finally came to my attention that the alloy I was using was reacting poorly with the powdercoat itself. I've never heard of such a thing in the past, so I wasn't aware of the conflict until it came time to put it all together. I've been devoting much of my free time to getting this project completed once and for all. I cannot promise a specific time frame because that has come back to bite me more than once.

If you can keep the faith just a little bit longer, I should have a completed product ready relatively soon.

---

So it's very much still in the making!

Needless to say I'm happy to keep the faith - and still very much looking forward to it.

Just thought I'd share this info with the rest of the Dirty Dozen and general forum at large

---
S0L
---

Aceldamor · « **Reply #114 on:** July 09, 2008, 11:57:26 am »

Good news to be sure!

I hope he does come through, I would like him to finish these so he can work on those Assault handles!

Ummon · « **Reply #115 on:** July 10, 2008, 06:38:51 pm »

Quote from: Timstuff on July 09, 2008, 02:43:37 am

He's charging for both the box he built, and the "effort cost" of finding the yoke. If he was just selling the NOS yokes, they'd already be gone, UNLESS he was selling them for $600.

It's simple really: if demand outweighs supplies, then find a way to bring down demand. In this case, he accomplishes that through charging an arm and a leg and requiring you to buy an extra that you may not necessarily want.

That sounds ---smurfin--- ridiculous. Why offer a product at all then? Anyways, what demand? Given no yokes have gone for more than $200 in the last six months or more, that (strange) explanation is out the window. I think the dude's just appearing pretentious.

SOL: well, good. I'm curious, was it a PM exchange?

S0L · « **Reply #116 on:** July 11, 2008, 07:49:29 am »

Didn't do it via PM, I emailed direct via the RAM Controls sales address. I've had a few PM chats with Dave, though I don't think he's logged into BYOAC for a while.

I actually got a reply pretty much straight away - though to my works email address. I didn't see it till the following day since I'd gone home after sending it!

---
S0L
---

wbassett · « **Reply #117 on:** July 12, 2008, 07:46:02 pm »

Just out of curiosity, has anyone build a SW yoke based on these plans?
http://arcadecontrols.com/hosted/yoke/

I'd probably opt for the Happ handles like Timstuff mentioned over what this guy used, but mainly I think the interest would be how does this work and feel?

My 6 year old grandson and I just fired up Star Wars and played it with a Saitek ST290Pro and the game is definitely functional, but obviously doesn't have the same feel as I remember and have such fond memories of.

I'm kinda split on this in a sense...

If I was building a totally dedicated Star Wars cab, then yes I would want it to look exactly like the arcade. I'm going the modular panel approach, but it would still be nice to have the same look as well as the exact same feel the original yoke had, but functionality is also more important to me.

In a strange way I kinda like this one-

It strikes me that if the Xwing was real, this is more like what the flight yoke would look like, a bit thrown together and utilitarian over looks, I mean after all, the rebels had to use whatever they could get their hands on right? Kinda like us

One thing about using an analog stick, at least the Siatek ST290 is it seems to be a bit 'too' responsive, so it's way too easy to whip past your target.

West Controls looks really nice, but honestly, I'm not paying that kind of money. I may actually make a yoke from the plans at the link I put at the beginning until David gets his finished and I know what his final price is going to be. Even though David is going to have a top quality product when he's finished, I hope it's not too expensive. I tried going to his website and it seems to be down. Did he change the url?

Anyone know what his estimated selling price will be when he's done?

Paul Olson · « **Reply #118 on:** July 13, 2008, 01:25:53 am »

I lucked out and got a gamecab yoke a while back for about $100 bucks on ebay. Still don't have it mounted yet, but I am going to try to get it done before next weekend (My niece and nephew will be visiting for a week, so I actually need to get this stuff finished

). It looks like it should function pretty close to the original. Until David has his available, I would keep looking on ebay. The prices were crazy for a while, but the last few I have seen went for around $150. I have heard that David has parts for them available now, so even a beat up one may be worth it if the price is right.

Off topic: If anyone here has a gamecab yoke, I am looking for a wiring diagram for it. I would like to avoid taking it completely apart to find out which wires go where. So if you have one, can you post it for me please? I also have the gameport cable for it and I won't be using it, so if anyone needs it let me know.

Thanks,
Paul

Ummon · « **Reply #119 on:** July 13, 2008, 06:56:45 pm »

Quote from: pcolson on July 13, 2008, 01:25:53 am

I lucked out and got a gamecab yoke a while back for about $100 bucks on ebay. Still don't have it mounted yet, but I am going to try to get it done before next weekend (My niece and nephew will be visiting for a week, so I actually need to get this stuff finished ). It looks like it should function pretty close to the original. Until David has his available, I would keep looking on ebay. The prices were crazy for a while, but the last few I have seen went for around $150. I have heard that David has parts for them available now, so even a beat up one may be worth it if the price is right.

Off topic: If anyone here has a gamecab yoke, I am looking for a wiring diagram for it. I would like to avoid taking it completely apart to find out which wires go where. So if you have one, can you post it for me please? I also have the gameport cable for it and I won't be using it, so if anyone needs it let me know.

Thanks,
Paul

Wire it to what?

Paul Olson · « **Reply #120 on:** July 13, 2008, 10:06:35 pm »

Which wires go to the pots and switches. I can see the wires on one of the pots, but the rest of the wires disappear inside the controller. Like I said, I can take it apart to figure it out, but I was just hoping someone here already had the information.

Ummon · « **Reply #121 on:** July 15, 2008, 06:15:46 pm »

Quote from: pcolson on July 13, 2008, 10:06:35 pm

Which wires go to the pots and switches. I can see the wires on one of the pots, but the rest of the wires disappear inside the controller. Like I said, I can take it apart to figure it out, but I was just hoping someone here already had the information.

Sorry, I totally misunderstood your post.

wbassett · « **Reply #122 on:** July 16, 2008, 12:31:56 am »

Is the ram-controls website down or did he change names?

Havok · « **Reply #123 on:** July 16, 2008, 10:36:08 pm »

It was down, but it's back now. I don't see anything different.

wbassett · « **Reply #124 on:** August 01, 2008, 04:34:01 pm »

Hey guys question...

Is the Road Blaster controller the same as the Star Wars yoke or is it just a left/right steering controller and the grips are fixed mounted and don't have any up/down control?

I see on klov it says: Steering: X/Y-directional yoke with common triggers and thumb buttons.

It says the same thing under the Star Wars listing. Reason I ask is I can get a Road Blaster control panel with the yoke for $65.

If it's not the same is it something that can be converted?

S0L · « **Reply #125 on:** August 01, 2008, 06:25:16 pm »

Don't quote me on this - but I'm pretty sure theres no Y movement on a Road Blasters yoke, you can only steer it left and right. At least not that I remember, it's been a few years since I've seen one I could play!

Whether it could be modded, not sure... Looking at the schematics here suggests it might be tricky though:

http://www.arcadedocs.com/vidmanuals/R/RoadBlastersSteering.pdf

Still a cool controller though. I'm planning to try Road Blasters when I get my Yoke from David too

---
S0L
---

wbassett · « **Reply #126 on:** August 01, 2008, 08:09:35 pm »

I didn't think so either but wasn't sure, especially when klov listed it the same as the Star Wars yoke.

I agree, when David is finished that's the way to go. The price on his website is $235 which really is more than fair.

I saw a used and really rough Turbo Sub for $275 (not an auction), and then the insane price West Controls is asking. Actually I see David has a link to West Control. I'd expect their prices to drop radically as soon as David is done.

Ummon · « **Reply #127 on:** August 02, 2008, 06:05:32 pm »

I swore I rembembered Road Blasters had Y to turn the gun up into the air. But, no, I must've been thinking of something else. Also, the yoke is optical, so even more 'no'.

wbassett · « **Reply #128 on:** August 02, 2008, 06:15:23 pm »

I read on the Wiki that it doesn't, but then saw on klov that it does, that's why I was asking.

Level42 · « **Reply #129 on:** August 03, 2008, 04:38:17 pm »

Nice on topic here guys

wbassett · « **Reply #130 on:** August 04, 2008, 01:18:37 am »

Sorry guys, I guess this was off topic for this thread. I didn't mean to do that.

Minwah · « **Reply #131 on:** August 04, 2008, 09:28:30 am »

Quote from: Ummon on August 02, 2008, 06:05:32 pm

I swore I rembembered Road Blasters had Y to turn the gun up into the air. But, no, I must've been thinking of something else.

STUN Runner

Ummon · « **Reply #132 on:** August 04, 2008, 05:28:59 pm »

Quote from: Minwah on August 04, 2008, 09:28:30 am

Quote from: Ummon on August 02, 2008, 06:05:32 pm
I swore I rembembered Road Blasters had Y to turn the gun up into the air. But, no, I must've been thinking of something else.

STUN Runner

You know, as I was typing my last, I thought of STUN Runner, but didn't check. I'm not totally off-base, then.


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Author Topic: RAM Controls - Star Wars Yoke (Read 30873 times)

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