Interface Question

[RetroGreg]

Hello,

I am planning on starting a control panel and cabinet within the next couple of months. I have a question about interfaces that I could not find thru the search function.

I currently have an X Arcade solo that I have used for a few years - but now realizing it's shortcomings plan on building my own panel. I would like to use the interface in the x arcade because I can hook up my consoles via the adaptors I already have and use it that way, but I think this interface has limitations when used on the PC for Mame or other programs. (No shift key)

My question is - is it possible to connect more than one interface like an Ipac and the x arcade to my panel to the same buttons and joysticks? Or would there be issues with ground wires? I know you can buy adaptors for the Ipac for consoles - but like many people here I am trying to keep the costs down since I already have the x arcade adaptors.

Any help is appreciated. thanks!

[Tiger-Heli]

If you want console support, you're likely best bet is to stick with the X-arcade interface by itself.  You will have 28 inputs, which is usually enough, and no connectivity problems.

[RetroGreg]

Thanks. That's what I figured. You can never have the best of both worlds! 
It would be a wiring nightmare to try and get both up together anyway. I just hate pulling out the keyboard just for "esc" though.

On a side note - what is better to use with your interface - USB or PS/2? Are there any advantages or disadvantages to each one?

[Tiger-Heli]

Thanks. That's what I figured. You can never have the best of both worlds! 
It would be a wiring nightmare to try and get both up together anyway.

If you really wanted to, I think it would work okay as long as they weren't both connected (to the PC) at the same time.  But that's pretty inconvenient.

I just hate pulling out the keyboard just for "esc" though.

Would you need to (28 inputs with one programmed to ESC wouldn't do it)?  You could always do something like hack a keyboard or gamepad and use that ONLY for your admin buttons and the X-arcade for everything else.

On a side note - what is better to use with your interface - USB or PS/2? Are there any advantages or disadvantages to each one?

Really matters more with swappable CP's, but read this: http://www.mameworld.net/tigerheli/encoder/main.htm#USB_Vs._PS2_Mode

[RetroGreg]

You've been a great help. Thanks!