Best USB gamepad to hack

[knaack]

I want to build my own.  Yes, I am a newbie.  However I am not that crazy that I need all that stuff.  A joystick and 6 buttons will do.  I have found some websites that have done different ways of doing hacks.  I am not a soldering kind of a guy.  There was one gamepad that had holes pre-drilled.  I am not sure where I saw that but that gave me some confident that I can do it.  

So which of the USB gamepad is the best to rip the guts out and work with so that I can build my own joystick box.

Thanks.

[Agent Davis]

If you're doing it with a gamepad, you'll have to solder.  Well, I suppose you could hotglue the wires to the correct contacts. Sorry I can't offer you any more help on what gamepad to use though.  

I know you said you didn't want to get all crazy but nothing is easier than just using an IPAC.  It's 47 dollars shipped and there is no soldering involved whatsoever.

[ddebuss]

I wonder how well thermal adhesive would work?  Does it conduct electricity if applied to circuit?

[Billabong]

The gamepad with pre-drilled holes is the Microsoft Sidewinder gameport version. It is not USB.
It is very easy to hack, though. Soldering it is not that tough.
You can find them on Ebay for like $10 or less.

Later,
Billabong
http://www.geocities.com/loosingbill/xstikcy.htm

[knaack]

Thanks, Billabong.

If it is not a USB then I won't mind.  Just want a joystick to play MAME!!  THe arcade stuff not fighter games. I just wanted to be easy to do the whole hack for cheap.  I know about the IPac but I don't have the money for that.  One day when I do I can make a two person joystick with IPac or buy that HotRod thing.

[Billabong]

Might as well go for six buttons any way... you never know.

Good luck!

Billabong