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Experience with Modular Control Panels
pmc:
I went swappable. It's nice because you can always make a game specific control panel if you want. And it's only one connector for each panel.
Mounted by friction (a shim), gravity, and physics (tight cleats) but that's inadequate when things get hot. I need to find something more permanent. I play with a light touch so it's generally not a problem.
Think about the swapping mechanics (connectors and such) because you'll be doing it alot and will regret a system that is awkward.
-pmc
Jakobud:
I've toyed with the idea of using an electro-magnetic device to hold panels in place. When active, it would hold the panels (if implemented correctly) in place very very well. Then at the flick of a switch, it deactivates and you are able to remove and replace the panels.
Ginsu Victim:
I've considered making swappable control panels once I get my current CP finiished.
Since I don't have a trackball going on my CP, that's what I'm thinking of for a second panel, including a dedicated 4-way stick (I have happ universals for my first setup, which are nice, but the 4-way isn't 4-way enough)
Also, I've considered making a Tron panel (who hasn't?)
pmc:
--- Quote from: Jakobud on March 14, 2008, 03:18:08 pm ---I've toyed with the idea of using an electro-magnetic device to hold panels in place. When active, it would hold the panels (if implemented correctly) in place very very well. Then at the flick of a switch, it deactivates and you are able to remove and replace the panels.
--- End quote ---
Normal magnets might work nicely. They just have to be strong enough to hold it in place when in use, but a really strong pull lets it go.
-pmc
Ummon:
--- Quote from: pmc on March 15, 2008, 04:35:25 pm ---
Normal magnets might work nicely. They just have to be strong enough to hold it in place when in use, but a really strong pull lets it go.
-pmc
--- End quote ---
As a kid I remember seeing some show where they had magnets that more than matched your pressure, no matter how much you pushed or pulled, but below a certain threshold they would release. They might've been electro-magnets, and very powerful ones at that. Not something you want around your computer and monitor.