Slowing it down a bit...

[danp]

I'm wanting to build a MAME arcade, but don't have the money for the full project as of now.  I'm wanting to start with the control panel for a couple of reasons.  One, if I can't master the controls there is no reason to continue, and two it will give me something to enjoy while I build (even though it will allow me to procrastinate a touch).  I have read tutorials for hours, but most control panel instructions assume the user has basic electronic wiring background.  Is there a step by step guide for somebody who doesn't know how to wire ANYTHING?  I'm sure I can get the hang of it if I have a step by step guide.  I'd like to make a decent setup, but I'm only going 2 player.  There is some GREAT information here, so I'm psyched to join the crowd!  I look  forward to getting to know you all! 

[protokatie]

I'm wanting to start with the control panel for a couple of reasons.

Welcome to the 90+% MAME NEWB crowd.  There will be cake and group councelling at the end of the test. (The cake is a lie)

Im in somewhat a similar boat. I started out thinking the CP was what I needed to focus on (and indeed it is a good focus point) But after I bought everything for the cab (except the cab itself) I realised that there is more to it than that. Hang around and soak up some BYOAC air before you continue.

[Kaytrim]

Take your time, read, learn and start to collect the necessary parts piecemeal.  There are some real good cabs that have built using this method.  If you jump into this half cocked you will end up with a monster like I did.  I plan to rectify that this summer.

Welcome to the forums
Kaytrim

[protokatie]

Kaytrim is very good at saying what I just said, with one exception. He made a mistake and "we" can learn from it.

Like both of us have said, soak up BYOAC for a bit... It would be a mistake to jump into this too early.

[danp]

Thanks guys, I really appreciate the tips....I am going to take a long hard look at my plan before actually putting it together.  Is there a guide, though, that takes wiring/panel construction step by step?  I'm really looking forward to getting it all together, but am in no hurry.  I've been looking at all the panel pics on here, there has been some AMAZING work!  This is exciting just doing my homework. 

[protokatie]

Saint makes a book that you should read. Its called project arcade, although I havent read it yet It is seen as the difinitave work for arcarde owners (ESP mame)

[RoninEditor]

Yeah Danp, you really need to get Saint's bible, er, book... some things (like part manufacturers) are a little outta date here and there but overall, it's a HUGE asset to help digest this all.  It really got me out of several binds. 

There ya go!

http://www.amazon.com/Project-Arcade-Build-Your-Machine/dp/0764556169/ref=pd_bbs_sr_1?ie=UTF8&s=books&qid=1208847660&sr=8-1

[MinerAl]

Go read the entire Wiki.

Maybe not the whole thing, but about everything you need is in there.