Author Topic: New GGG Product: Tron Joystick Handle - was: Soooo.....what's this thing worth? (Read 63056 times)

Patent Doc · « **Reply #120 on:** November 18, 2008, 10:10:09 am »

OMG!! Thank you Thank you Thank you Thank you Thank you Thank you

Already ordered mine. I had an original I purchased from Peter Hirchsberg, but man did I need a extra one.

Thank you Randy!!

Awesome job!

RandyT · « **Reply #121 on:** November 18, 2008, 11:02:43 am »

Quote from: Visitor Q on November 18, 2008, 07:59:19 am

LOL! Maybe he did have 1000 made and he is holding out on us?

Hehe, even I'm not that crazy.

The numbers shown on the store for this item reflect what we have packaged up as a set from the main boxes and have sitting on the shelf waiting to be shipped. As for the total numbers....suffice it to say that they are nearing "half gone" status after only a few days of becoming available.

And you are very welcome, Patent Doc. Thanks everyone for the orders.

RandyT

Scucci · « **Reply #122 on:** November 18, 2008, 01:37:31 pm »

RandyT, an mumble'ngs there about tossing a little UV reactive red into the molds?

Xiaou2 · « **Reply #123 on:** November 18, 2008, 04:52:55 pm »

Woohoo!

Got my Sticks today! I know Im fairly close by... but the shipping time was
amazing.

You guys cant believe how Awesome these things are!

I smiled ear to ear as I ripped open the box basing in the glow of the heavenly
contents! Its like having a little piece of Arcade History in your hands.

I dont want to put them down... Just keep staring at them, admiring their
crystal goodness. Holding it assembled, it just feels so damn perfect. No other
flight-type-stick feels this good in your hands.

I even grabbed a blacklight to test the glow... and it lit up like it was on fire.
Simply beautiful.

If you are a fan of Tron/Disc of Tron.. even if you never intend to make a Tron
panel... get one of these and make an artistic display box for it!

Many thanks to Randy for getting these made.

Edit: I forgot to mention, that sadly, happs analog sticks have a different
mounting hole spacing. Nothing a drill and thread tapper cant fix however

z · « **Reply #124 on:** November 18, 2008, 04:58:32 pm »

Randy,
First time customer, just ordered a pair (and other items). The price is very fair and I wanted to reward you with business for your contribution to the community. Your efforts are appreciated.

Visitor Q · « **Reply #125 on:** November 18, 2008, 07:08:52 pm »

Well this shell fit inplace of the one here on this stick?

http://www.happcontrols.com/joysticks/joysticks_amusement.htm

Not sure I understand the "mounting hole spacing" comment.

Xiaou2 · « **Reply #126 on:** November 18, 2008, 09:10:25 pm »

VisitorQ,

It will fit on:

http://www.happcontrols.com/joysticks/50997000.htm

but not

http://www.happcontrols.com/joysticks/95017200.htm

There are two holes in the handles, and two holes on the joystick shaft.
The holes have to align so that you can screw the handle to the shaft.

The analog joystick shafts have their 2 holes drilled in different places...
so the Tron handles will not be able to screw onto the analog
shaft unless you drill and 'tap' a new hole in the joystick shaft.

I think most people are using digital sticks, or the original tron stick,
so do not have to worry about this anyways.

I will be using the handles on Analogs and Digitals so will have to drill a
few holes on my analog sticks shafts. It shouldnt be to difficult to do.

Visitor Q · « **Reply #127 on:** November 18, 2008, 10:26:50 pm »

I posted the wrong link, I meant will it fit this one here?

http://www.happcontrols.com/joysticks/95070100.htm

Xiaou2 · « **Reply #128 on:** November 18, 2008, 10:42:52 pm »

Im sure it would. Thats the same handle as the Tron handle.. just in
black color. Sorry, I didnt notice that stick before. I have a different analog stick...
(the pic I posted).

Ummon · « **Reply #129 on:** November 19, 2008, 12:53:49 am »

But what about this one?

Certainly the design is more efficient, as well as more attractive, hardware-wise. In any case, the only issue I can see is the bottom holding together, as the Tron has no underneath mounting, and the shaft of this stick isn't long enough for both screws. I guess one would do. Also, some modification of the new handles would be required if one wanted to populate it with the dual thumb buttons from this one.

Visitor Q · « **Reply #130 on:** November 19, 2008, 08:22:20 am »

Quote from: Xiaou2 on November 18, 2008, 10:42:52 pm

Im sure it would. Thats the same handle as the Tron handle.. just in
black color. Sorry, I didnt notice that stick before. I have a different analog stick...
(the pic I posted).

NP

Thanks.

Xiaou2 · « **Reply #131 on:** November 19, 2008, 03:06:01 pm »

Ummon,

Thats basically the same handle. The differences are the trigger button
type (inferior to the tron trigger), and the extra buttons on the front.

The extra buttons can easily be added to the front plate of the Tron stick.
You can see one such button on the Disc's of Tron joystick. However,
Discs of Trons frontal button is much better than those Mach3 frontal
buttons. Mach 3s buttons are much harder to push and not as responsive and
nice feeling.

As for the mounting holes, I believe the Mach3 stick has the same hole
mounts as the Tron handles.

"No underneath mounting"

What are you talking about?! The tron handles have 2 screw holes on the main shaft, and one screw at the
very top which screws the two halves together. The thing does not
have a problem with staying on a shaft.

Sidgoop · « **Reply #132 on:** November 19, 2008, 08:13:47 pm »

Got mine in today. WOW! Phenomenal job, Randy. Now all I need now is the rest of the cabinet!

ChadTower · « **Reply #133 on:** November 19, 2008, 09:24:36 pm »

Mine today too and they are every bit the awesome. Much love to Randy.

Scucci · « **Reply #134 on:** November 20, 2008, 02:12:32 pm »

Didn't come today either... People in California have already gotten there's, I'm in TN and nothing.

Randy, if I were you guys I'd double check with the numbnuts at the post office in Rochester, because according to them they did even leave the post office till last night.

Once again, NOT GGG's fault... I just really hate USPS in general. Had them lose a lot of stuff I shipped back to the States when I was stationed over in Japan. I don't trust USPS... at all...

RandyT · « **Reply #135 on:** November 20, 2008, 02:27:53 pm »

Quote from: Scucci on November 20, 2008, 02:12:32 pm

Didn't come today either... People in California have already gotten there's, I'm in TN and nothing.

Randy, if I were you guys I'd double check with the numbnuts at the post office in Rochester, because according to them they did even leave the post office till last night.

Once again, NOT GGG's fault... I just really hate USPS in general. Had them lose a lot of stuff I shipped back to the States when I was stationed over in Japan. I don't trust USPS... at all...

This is a rare occurrence. Obviously they misplaced or miscategorized the package and then set it straight. It's not just the USPS that has these issues either. I've had items sent to me through both FedEx and UPS get misdirected half way across the country. Unfortunately, it happens.

For the record, we have shipped thousands of packages through the USPS and have had only *1* package get lost domestically. And that one was probably stolen from the doorstep. Even though the tracking isn't the greatest at times, the reliability, speed and economics of the USPS makes it the best deal going.

RandyT

CheffoJeffo · « **Reply #136 on:** November 20, 2008, 02:43:48 pm »

Just to clarify ... a package hasn't yet arrived that was sent in the past week ?

*gasp*

As Randy says, USPS is the best deal going ... and I am in Canada. I've never had USPS (or Canada Post, who they hand off to) lose a package, while I have lost (or had seriously delayed) packages with Fedex and UPS.

driph · « **Reply #137 on:** November 20, 2008, 04:14:38 pm »

Love the new handle, beautiful work!

Loafmeister · « **Reply #138 on:** November 20, 2008, 04:52:15 pm »

Live in Canada, + 1 for USPS, they don't ding me with ridiculous brokerage fees like FedEx/UPS (but that's another story all together!).

Neverending Project · « **Reply #139 on:** November 20, 2008, 05:58:26 pm »

I want to purchase one of these soon, before they run out. But you mentioned that accessories are coming, including the switch assembly and mounting hardware. Since I don't have a joystick to put this on (I plan on putting it on an 8-way of some sort), would I be best waiting for you to make these accessories available before buying? Or is it looking like they will run out soon, so I better place my order now, and another for the rest?

Scucci · « **Reply #140 on:** November 20, 2008, 07:50:57 pm »

Quote from: RandyT on November 20, 2008, 02:27:53 pm

This is a rare occurrence. Obviously they misplaced or miscategorized the package and then set it straight. It's not just the USPS that has these issues either. I've had items sent to me through both FedEx and UPS get misdirected half way across the country. Unfortunately, it happens.

For the record, we have shipped thousands of packages through the USPS and have had only *1* package get lost domestically. And that one was probably stolen from the doorstep. Even though the tracking isn't the greatest at times, the reliability, speed and economics of the USPS makes it the best deal going.

RandyT

No no no, no worries RandyT. I know it isn't you guys' fault. I just have the worst luck with items getting shipped to me, even if they are from me. I've had the USPS lose 2 pretty expensive packages, with insurance... When I went to the post office to inquire about them when I got back to the States, they told me that they would have no records of the items shipped... then when I came back after a couple of days of searching for my copy on the invoices, they told me that they couldn't honor the insurance part of the shipment because, well they gave me two reasons... 1 was because there was no way to show the items where damaged in shipment (and I thought the fact that they NEVER ARRIVED would be good enough) and the other reason was because it took me over a month (never heard of that one before) to file for the insurance... because I was in the military overseas wasn't apparently a good enough reason... lol Oh well, I'm over it... for the most part.

I know why you use USPS, and I don't blame you. I used them because that 8.99 flat rate box is an INCREDIBLE deal as is their standard shipping rate, that's why I used them (that and the fact that USPS was the only place on base to mail packages from). But their networking and tracking abilities leaves something to be desired. To say the least.

ONCE AGAIN, NOT GGG OR RANDYT'S FAULT. I'm sure that since the post office finally found my package propping the back door open, it'll get here quickly and will be well worth the minimal wait.

I just get paranoid about USPS because of the previous experiences dealing with them. So, I vented...

SavannahLion · « **Reply #141 on:** November 20, 2008, 10:20:10 pm »

Quote from: Neverending Project on November 20, 2008, 05:58:26 pm

I want to purchase one of these soon, before they run out. But you mentioned that accessories are coming, including the switch assembly and mounting hardware. Since I don't have a joystick to put this on (I plan on putting it on an 8-way of some sort), would I be best waiting for you to make these accessories available before buying? Or is it looking like they will run out soon, so I better place my order now, and another for the rest?

I was wondering the same. I was going to wait until after December or even after the first of the year to order mine. But seeing as how they're already, "half gone," I don't think waiting is in anyones best interest. Now where did I put my credit card?

Ummon · « **Reply #142 on:** November 20, 2008, 11:51:59 pm »

Quote from: Xiaou2 on November 19, 2008, 03:06:01 pm

Ummon,

Thats basically the same handle.   The differences are the trigger button
type (inferior to the tron trigger), and the extra buttons on the front.

The extra buttons can easily be added to the front plate of the Tron stick.
You can see one such button on the Disc's of Tron joystick.   However,
Discs of Trons frontal button is much better than those Mach3 frontal
buttons. Mach 3s buttons are much harder to push and not as responsive and
nice feeling.

As for the mounting holes, I believe the Mach3 stick has the same hole
mounts as the Tron handles.

"No underneath mounting"    What are you talking about?!   The tron handles have 2 screw holes on the main shaft, and one screw at the
very top which screws the two halves together.   The thing does not
have a problem with staying on a shaft.

I'll explain. While these are essentially the same mold, the Tron has two screws that go through the handle halves, and one at the top of them, with a little trough molded in each to accomodate it. In contrast, on mine there are interior fasteners at the top end of it, and a screw underneath the outer ring of each handle half. This means that there is no hardware visible, nor any strange holes in the form of the handle. This is kinda similar to the 'carriage bolts' discussion on CPs, of which I'm on the 'don't like 'em' side.

Certainly the Tron design is more robust, particularly given the screws go through the metal shaft - though I question the need for such, although it's not a relevant question with respect to the re-pro-ing of this project. What is relevant is that at least a minor modding of the shaft of mine would be required to accommodate the Tron handle.

SavannahLion · « **Reply #143 on:** November 21, 2008, 02:45:53 pm »

I broke down and ordered them. I would have rather waited until, at least, the first of the year but I don't want to be one of those poor sobs that wait too long and find I'll have to pay double or triple that price on eBay. I was also tempted to order the rest of my supplies but my cabinet isn't even started yet and I just incurred another, unrelated, project that needs to be tended to first.

Neverending Project · « **Reply #144 on:** November 21, 2008, 04:08:04 pm »

Quote from: SavannahLion on November 21, 2008, 02:45:53 pm

I broke down and ordered them. I would have rather waited until, at least, the first of the year but I don't want to be one of those poor sobs that wait too long and find I'll have to pay double or triple that price on eBay. I was also tempted to order the rest of my supplies but my cabinet isn't even started yet and I just incurred another, unrelated, project that needs to be tended to first.

Yeah, me too - just now! Better spend a couple extra bucks on shipping for another order later than miss out on this bad boy.

Charles4400 · « **Reply #145 on:** November 22, 2008, 02:03:03 am »

Does anyone know if there are Black Light Leds which could be put in the handle to illuminate it?

I found this on the net but have no idea if it would work, be too/not powerful or even how to hook it up (I'm no led expert):

http://www.v-leds.com/Shop/Control/Product/fp/SFV/32481/vpid/4481088/vpcsid/0/rid/127275

But it seems like some kind of black light led accessory would be appropriate for this Tron handle and make it that much cooler!

,

I have no other idea other than a black light led on how to get a regular blacklight to light up the CP and still be put in an obscure area on an non Tron dedicated cab.

Someone with led knowledge please chime in!

RandyT · « **Reply #146 on:** November 22, 2008, 05:18:45 am »

Here's the next installment as promised....

..

May or may not work with an original stick assembly. It would be nice if it did, but that wasn't the main objective. Definitely gets the job done without the complication and cost of the larger original assembly. Has the added benefit of leaving the top portion of the stick completely open for more switches, lights, whatever.

Should be on the store before the weekend is done.

RandyT

Encryptor · « **Reply #147 on:** November 22, 2008, 06:36:31 am »

VERY NICE Randy!

Do you plan on making anything else for it? A single or duel upper button module with insert?

Thanks again for your work on this and all you do for the hobby.

Encryptor

ChadTower · « **Reply #148 on:** November 22, 2008, 11:50:08 am »

Quote from: RandyT on November 22, 2008, 05:18:45 am

Here's the next installment as promised....

Is that a potential single run item too? Or can we wait a bit to see what is coming next and pick from the accessories then?

RandyT · « **Reply #149 on:** November 22, 2008, 12:19:40 pm »

Quote from: ChadTower on November 22, 2008, 11:50:08 am

Is that a potential single run item too? Or can we wait a bit to see what is coming next and pick from the accessories then?

I make these smaller parts in my own shop, so consider them unlimited in supply (unless I get hit by a bus).

I'll be working on the back plates next, and yes, there will be a version with button switches.

RandyT

Encryptor · « **Reply #150 on:** November 22, 2008, 01:13:00 pm »

Quote from: RandyT on November 22, 2008, 12:19:40 pm

Quote from: ChadTower on November 22, 2008, 11:50:08 am
Is that a potential single run item too? Or can we wait a bit to see what is coming next and pick from the accessories then?

I make these smaller parts in my own shop, so consider them unlimited in supply (unless I get hit by a bus).

I'll be working on the back plates next, and yes, there will be a version with button switches.

RandyT

Sweet! Thanks again Randy.

Encryptor

wbassett · « **Reply #151 on:** November 22, 2008, 05:04:16 pm »

I think Randy should be given the Arcade's version of the Nobel prize!

Just a request if you don't mind considering it...

These seem to be selling very well, would you consider another run for after the Christmas season? Right now I'm in gift mode for my kids and grand kids and this time of the year I never buy anything for myself. I know the price is more than right and I may snag one before they are all gone, but I bet many people are like me this time of year. Hell... on Black Friday I sometimes feel like crying because I see some deals on things I'd love to have but don't get because I'd rather spend that money on gifts for the kids.

Anyway, excellent job and I do hope you do another production run on these and I'm sure they will all sell out too!

Now if you'd make a Star Wars yoke too the world will be complete!!!

z · « **Reply #152 on:** November 23, 2008, 11:59:24 pm »

I get my handles in the mail Saturday (they look and feel great) and then see the post with the switches, Randy is on a roll.

I will happily wait for the switches on the back, now just curious if Randy will go as far as adapter sleeve/shafts for Happ Supers or other common sticks.

RandyT · « **Reply #153 on:** November 24, 2008, 02:44:02 am »

Part Three...

.

Solvent printed designs adhered to clear acrylic, with a heavy-duty, gloss polyester over lamination.

Available soon.

RandyT

*TRON backplate logo is the property of the rights holder, who is in no way affiliated with IDVT Inc. / GroovyGameGear.com. Provided for restoration purposes as a courtesy to owners of original TRON arcade machines and associated controls, in light of the lack of an official source for this part.

SavannahLion · « **Reply #154 on:** November 24, 2008, 02:48:52 am »

The Tron backplates came in four different colors?

RandyT · « **Reply #155 on:** November 24, 2008, 02:58:17 am »

The "Bit field" pattern wasn't an original Tron backplate....it was GORF, IIRC, and it was red. These are just extra options to customize the look of the handle for a generic installation.

RandyT

fjl · « **Reply #156 on:** November 24, 2008, 04:43:40 am »

Awesome. I'm gonna wait till RandyT makes all the accessories so I can get them all at the same time. Hopefully when he's done it will have a mod to add it to the U360

Visitor Q · « **Reply #157 on:** November 24, 2008, 08:28:59 am »

Quote from: efjayel on November 24, 2008, 04:43:40 am

Awesome. I'm gonna wait till RandyT makes all the accessories so I can get them all at the same time. Hopefully when he's done it will have a mod to add it to the U360

+1

I bought the first part, that is the main thing to have now I am going to wait until all this other stuff comes out and then buy the rest.

Randy, what is the status on the Electric Ice Buttons? I sent you two emails now for updates and got to reply? As I know you are busy I would appericate some sort of feedback. I hate to be a pain but you stated you would have them by the 20th so I was just wondering what was going on? I know I can't be the only one here waiting for these...

Thanks.

ps. I did get my Tron shell, very nice.

Loafmeister · « **Reply #158 on:** November 24, 2008, 08:36:24 am »

Quote from: efjayel on November 24, 2008, 04:43:40 am

Awesome. I'm gonna wait till RandyT makes all the accessories so I can get them all at the same time. Hopefully when he's done it will have a mod to add it to the U360

That's what I would want the most. The need for a Tron stick matches the need for an analog flight stick. With the U360 mapping, seems like it would be the perfect 3rd controller on my mame cab.

brandon · « **Reply #159 on:** November 25, 2008, 03:57:18 am »

I guess I'm the only fool who saw this and instead of Tron I thought about building a UV glowing Spy Hunter yoke... lol I guess that's a sign that they're a great deal. I'm not all that into Tron and I still want two


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