Attaching cold cathodes for ground effects

[amerish]

Ever since Neon Mame made it's presence known, cold cathodes were revealed to be a versatile and unique addition to a persons cab.

I however have had difficulties keeping my cathodes attached. First I tried the Velcro that came with them, but the Velcro did not stick to my paint. Next I tried hot glue, but eventually the cathodes dropped off. I did not want to use gorilla glue or super glue since there might be a need for me to remove the cathodes in the future (like when I move the cab).

Then one night the solution came to me. Simplicity at its best. Screw two black screws halfway into the cab at each end of the cathode. Then secure the cathode in place by resting the cathode on the screws. To keep the cathode on the screws I used a small black rubber band on each end hooked onto the screw, then brought over the cathode and then back down onto the screw head.

The result is that the cathodes stay on the cab and I can remove them when needed.




PS I really need to get an updated picture of the finished arcade with coin door installed and greylight plexi.......

[NickG]

you could super glue the velcro to the paint

[DarkBubble]

That's a cool idea.  I bet that would look good with them lining the back side too, assuming that it'll be against a wall.

I bet with the right reflector and perhaps a prismatic lens to diffuse the light, you could get the same effect with less lights and not have the have the glowing bulb look on the floor.

[Kevin Mullins]

What about using some sort of Adel Clamp or Conduit Clamp ?
Readily available at auto parts or home repair stores.....

[amerish]

Those clamps would certainly work but rubber bands are easier to find.

[DarkBubble]

I don't like rubber bands.  They age and become brittle and/or turn to goo.  One- and two-hole conduit straps are cheap and can be found in Home Depot or Lowes.  They'll probably be a Steel City brand, possibly Erico/Caddy.  They cover a wide range, from 3/8" MC one-hole straps to 4" GRC or larger.  They're useful as hell and easily modified for various purposes.  Another good alternative would be 7" zip ties with 1/4" eyelets for screw mounting or even velcro.