Controls and control board??

[georgemcfly]

For the control board I was considering the I-Pac b/c of price and how easy it looks to install. How well does it work? Anything out there better in terms of ease of programming and setup?

http://www.ultimarc.com/ipac1.html


As for controls I plan on just getting this cheap set for my first build and see if  later I want to spend more money on the 2nd build, if I keep interest that long.
http://www.xgaming.com/arcade_bundle.shtml

Any input?

[scotthh]

The I-Pac and GGG's interfaces are the most widely used PC interfaces around here. I haven't seen any complaints about either. I have equipment from both vendors, and am extremely happy with all of it.

I'd spend a little more to get actual Happ or Suzo switches and joysticks with actual Cherry switches as opposed to things "based on" them. And I'd buy from either Divemaster or Ponyboy, both frequent this forum and have excellent feedback.

[Ginsu Victim]

For the control board I was considering the I-Pac b/c of price and how easy it looks to install. How well does it work? Anything out there better in terms of ease of programming and setup?

http://www.ultimarc.com/ipac1.html

The I-pac is an excellent item. I use the Minipac myself (with optional wire harness) which is great for beginners, but will switch to the I-pac2 for future projects.

As for controls I plan on just getting this cheap set for my first build and see if  later I want to spend more money on the 2nd build, if I keep interest that long.
http://www.xgaming.com/arcade_bundle.shtml

Any input?

Avoid the X-arcade parts. I know when you're looking to start your first project, it might sound like a bargain, but it's more like "bargain bin".

IMO, Cherry microswitches with Happ pushbuttons are what you'll want in a wood control panel, Sanwa buttons in a metal one. Try http://www.lizardlick.com

[georgemcfly]

Thanks for the info.

As for the 4/8 way joystick. The IPac only allows 4 way correct? Why would I need an 8 way?

[Ginsu Victim]

joysticks with microswitches only have 4 directions. What makes them 8-way is when you move diagonal and hit two switches.

I-pac does exactly as it should.