Working with Metal Cabinets/Control Panels

[m3talslug]

I recently purchased Jap Joysticks and buttons that only mount onto so called "metal" cabinets.

Does anyone know where I can find info on how to work with "metal".  i.e. drilling, cutting, etc.

I also have no idea what kind of metal I'm supposed to be looking for.  Are there any wood alternatives?

Here's a pic of the components I ordered

http://www.riverservice.co.jp/ctrg/017.jpg

[Grasshopper]

Did you order your components directly from Japan? I would be interested to know how much you paid.

I have bought a joystick that is identical to the one numbered 30 in your picture except that it came with a different mounting plate. It's a bit difficult to describe but basically the plate wraps around the joystick. It should enable me to embed the joystick about 1/2" into the underside of a wood panel. If I choose 3/4" wood this will mean I only lose 1/4" of the shaft length.

I would avoid metal if at all possible. I once made some minor modifications to a PC case and I found cutting/drilling metal using home tools very hard work.

It occurs to me that you could mount your joysticks in wood if you mount from the top. I'm not sure what you'd do with the buttons though.

[m3talslug]

Here's where you can order direct from Japan

http://www.riverservice.co.jp/index_e.html

you'll find pricing, etc.  They are easy people to deal with.  If you're in canada a place called starburstcoin can import jap controls at a better price.

http://www.starburstcoin.com

I'll consider looking at other thin but strong materials to mount this on.  I think it's going to be too stressful to mount onto metal.

[Jakobud]

I don't know about cutting metal, but if you want to drill, just goto Homedepot and ask them for metal drilling drill bits.  And just ask them about cutting while you are at it.

jakobud

[telengard]

I have swappable metal control panels.  They are a total PITA
but very sturdy.  For joystick holes I recommend a 1 1/8" bi-metal
hole saw and lots of cutting oil.  Check out my site for more
info on cutting metal.