The NEW Build Your Own Arcade Controls

Main => Retail vendors => Topic started by: CraftyMech on December 22, 2012, 01:35:43 pm

Title: FS: mini SLG 2X (scanline generator) (Colorado, USA)
Post by: CraftyMech on December 22, 2012, 01:35:43 pm
The mini SLG is an inexpensive, and compact scanline generator that is compatible with devices that output a standard VGA signal @ 640x480 (preferred) & 1024x768 resolutions.

For 15k RGB sources, a VGA converter such as the GBS-8200 is required.
The mini SLG is not compatible with ArcadeSD or JROK Multi-Williams boards.

mini SLG 2 - $29 USD + shipping

Buy now from Paradise Arcade Shop! (http://www.paradisearcadeshop.com/scan-line-generators/1253-mini-slg.html)

(http://forum.arcadecontrols.com/avatars/user/avatar_38934_1353873320.png)
UCA Award Winner 2012
Best Hardware


Over 900 sold.

(http://forum.arcadecontrols.com/index.php?action=dlattach;topic=103207.0;attach=298682;image)

Pac-Man (60-in-1 board) on an LCD @ 640x480
(http://forum.arcadecontrols.com/index.php?action=dlattach;topic=103207.0;attach=273856;image)

Fatal Fury 2 (Neo Geo MVS board) on a CRT @ 640x480 using a GBS-8200 CGA->VGA converter
(http://forum.arcadecontrols.com/index.php?action=dlattach;topic=103207.0;attach=274147;image)

Feedback from users of the mini SLG

"Crafty is offering a great product at a great price. Highly recommend." - Le Chuck

"That was fast! I hooked one up, and was immediately impressed. They work great! Thanks, CM!" - yotsuya

"Took me all of 10 seconds to install. Great price for a well made easy to use gadget." - MameMaster

"tossed one onto my 60 in 1 ... and the picture looks much, much better." - paigeoliver

"Installed mine today on Little Ms. Pac-Man, I absolutely love it." - griffindodd

"Great little device, small footprint, and excellent results. Pretty fantastic!" - Malenko

"I was transported back 20 years in an instant and gave me such a nostalgic feeling. I can't recommend this product highly enough." - termin8tor @ bartopmania.com

"The Mini is the best for price/value ratio" - TheDude @ bartopmania.com

"awesome little device!!! A lot cheaper then they SLG-3000 and works great!" - Almighty @ bartopmania.com

"Suddenly rather than looking very low res and blocky they are back to true (well as close as I'm going to get) arcade style graphics." - Richard

"I just got the miniSLG, it looks awesome on my TV and really cleans up the snes games" - A.H.
Title: Re: mini SLG (scanline generator) is now available!
Post by: Le Chuck on December 22, 2012, 02:41:35 pm
I'm a satisfied tester and user. Crafty is offering a great product at a great price. Highly recommend.
Title: Re: mini SLG (scanline generator) is now available!
Post by: CraftyMech on December 22, 2012, 05:16:49 pm
Thanks Le Chuck for the endorsement!

I have one order slot left for shipping on Friday Dec 28, otherwise the next batch of shipments will be the following week. If only I had a workshop full of little elves ;)
Title: Re: mini SLG (scanline generator) is now available!
Post by: Nephasth on December 22, 2012, 05:54:14 pm
I'll volunteer to build a batch!
Title: Re: mini SLG (scanline generator) is now available!
Post by: CraftyMech on December 22, 2012, 06:15:57 pm
Well I was thinking a room full of magical elves... ;)

Title: Re: mini SLG (scanline generator) is now available!
Post by: brained on December 22, 2012, 06:27:13 pm
Wow, that's a really nice project. When I'm almost done with my rig I'll get one.... Nice job
Title: Re: FS: mini SLG (scanline generator) is available! Ships Globally. (Colorado, USA)
Post by: MameMaster! on December 24, 2012, 08:02:52 pm
Just ordered 2.  :cheers:
Title: Re: FS: mini SLG (scanline generator) is available! (Colorado, USA)
Post by: CraftyMech on December 26, 2012, 07:09:04 pm
I am on schedule to ship out the first batch of orders on Friday. The elves have been busy over Christmas building mini SLGs ! :)

PS - In the photos of the mini SLG I've posted here and in my project thread, you'll notice there are not screws/posts on the VGA connectors. The screws that came packaged with the shells I am using were not thumbscrews (required small screwdriver) and I realized they were a pain to work with. To keep the cost of the mini SLG low, I decided not to try and source replacement thumbscrews.

Title: Re: FS: mini SLG (scanline generator) is available! (Colorado, USA)
Post by: yotsuya on December 31, 2012, 11:53:16 am
I came back from my Moon Patrol adventure to see that my miniSLGs had arrived. That was fast! I hooked one up, and was immediately impressed. They work great! Thanks, CM! :cheers:
Title: Re: FS: mini SLG (scanline generator) is available! (Colorado, USA)
Post by: CraftyMech on December 31, 2012, 12:49:14 pm
Great to hear Yotsuya!

Thanks to everyone who has ordered, I've sold a total of 25 units so far. I have plenty of parts on hand to build more units!

To celebrate the start of 2013, I am offering the metalized plastic case version of the mini SLG for the same price as the black/beige model. This deal will last until Jan 7th, so if you like your VGA adapters shiny, now is your chance! :)
Title: Re: FS: mini SLG (scanline generator) is available! (Colorado, USA)
Post by: Le Chuck on December 31, 2012, 12:55:20 pm
Great to hear Yotsuya!

Thanks to everyone who has ordered, I've sold a total of 25 units so far. I have plenty of parts on hand to build more units!

To celebrate the start of 2013, I am offering the metalized plastic case version of the mini SLG for the same price as the black/beige model. This deal will last until Jan 7th, so if you like your VGA adapters shiny, now is your chance! :)
Put me down for a shiny!
Title: Re: FS: mini SLG (scanline generator) is available! (Colorado, USA)
Post by: MameMaster! on December 31, 2012, 09:16:41 pm
Wow i got mine and it works exactly as advertised!

Took me all of 10 seconds to install. Great price for a well made easy to use gadget. Thanks!  :applaud: :cheers:
Title: Re: FS: mini SLG (scanline generator) is available! (Colorado, USA)
Post by: CraftyMech on January 02, 2013, 01:57:01 am
Awesome MameMaster!

Happy 2013 to everyone, I've been busy building mini SLGs and catching up on orders. And a few extra zzzzs as well, staying up late into the morning is not as easy as it used to be!

Title: Re: FS: mini SLG (scanline generator) is available! (Colorado, USA)
Post by: ashio83 on January 03, 2013, 07:48:28 am
Hey CraftyMech, great work. I'm interested in making an order but I cannot PM you, maybe because I do not have enough posts I'm thinking.
Title: Re: FS: mini SLG (scanline generator) is available! (Colorado, USA)
Post by: CraftyMech on January 03, 2013, 09:59:36 am
Quote
Hey CraftyMech, great work. I'm interested in making an order but I cannot PM you, maybe because I do not have enough posts I'm thinking.

I think you are right, it takes 5 posts I think before PMs are enabled for new members.

No worries though, you can also email me your request to: orders@craftymech.com

thanks!
Title: Re: FS: mini SLG (scanline generator) is available! (Colorado, USA)
Post by: CraftyMech on January 04, 2013, 03:12:28 pm
Orders continue to be steady, and I'm shipping out packages every day. :)

I'm very methodical about the build process, and test each unit on multiple hardware setups, so it is taking a bit more time than I planned per unit. I'm also switching my supplier for the VGA connectors and that will increase my parts cost slightly.

So with the above in mind I wanted to give everyone a heads up that effective Jan 15th, the price of the mini SLG will increase to $18 + shipping for one unit (two-pack & three-pack deal prices will be adjusted accordingly). I think this is still a good deal, and strikes a better balance between the time I invest in each unit, and the price I'm asking.

Thanks to everyone who has supported this project so far!
Title: Re: FS: mini SLG (scanline generator) is available! (Colorado, USA)
Post by: RichardL on January 07, 2013, 03:04:52 pm
Hi,
am I doing something wrong?

I just created an account and clicked on CM's profile to send a PM and the board is telling me I don't have access to that function?
Title: Re: FS: mini SLG (scanline generator) is available! (Colorado, USA)
Post by: BadMouth on January 07, 2013, 03:11:11 pm
Hi,
am I doing something wrong?

I just created an account and clicked on CM's profile to send a PM and the board is telling me I don't have access to that function?

You can't PM until you have a certain number of posts.
5 IIRC.
Title: Re: FS: mini SLG (scanline generator) is available! (Colorado, USA)
Post by: CraftyMech on January 07, 2013, 04:09:59 pm
Hi,
am I doing something wrong?

I just created an account and clicked on CM's profile to send a PM and the board is telling me I don't have access to that function?

Hi Richard, you can also send me an email at orders@craftymech.com if the PM function is not working for you yet.
Title: Re: FS: mini SLG (scanline generator) is available! (Colorado, USA)
Post by: paigeoliver on January 07, 2013, 05:33:38 pm
Got mine today, tossed one onto my 60 in 1 (which was running a VGA CRT monitor) and the picture looks much, much better.
Title: Re: FS: mini SLG (scanline generator) is available! (Colorado, USA)
Post by: CraftyMech on January 07, 2013, 08:10:51 pm
Got mine today, tossed one onto my 60 in 1 (which was running a VGA CRT monitor) and the picture looks much, much better.

Great news, glad the package arrived quickly. The mini SLG definitely improves an LCD display, but I think it really shines on a CRT. I have a neglected bartop project in the works that will use an uncased 14" CRT, and the 60-in-1 board display looks really nice through the SLG. :)

And if anyone wants the silver metalicized plastic shell, they will be a color choice until I run out of them for no extra cost. I have about 20 of those shiny cases left, so just let me know when you order if you would like one.
Title: FS: mini SLG (scanline generator) is available! (Colorado, USA)
Post by: Furry131 on January 09, 2013, 12:00:55 pm
Payment sent!!!! I'll take whatever color you wanna give me. I won't be seeing it so I'm not worried
Title: Re: FS: mini SLG (scanline generator) is available! (Colorado, USA)
Post by: paigeoliver on January 09, 2013, 12:05:40 pm
Yeah, I said the same thing. This thing is hidden where no one will ever see it, so I could care less about color.

Payment sent!!!! I'll take whatever color you wanna give me. I won't be seeing it so I'm not worried
Title: Re: FS: mini SLG (scanline generator) is available! (Colorado, USA)
Post by: CraftyMech on January 10, 2013, 11:38:01 am
I'm thinking of just offering the black case after I run out of the beige and shiny cases. When offered a choice, most everyone picks black, or doesn't have a preference.
Title: Re: FS: mini SLG (scanline generator) is available! (Colorado, USA)
Post by: BadMouth on January 10, 2013, 02:02:58 pm
I'm thinking of just offering the black case after I run out of the beige and shiny cases. When offered a choice, most everyone picks black, or doesn't have a preference.

For something that isn't going to be seen, I don't think there is much point in offering 3 colors.

Most monitors today are black.  I can see people not wanting a beige connector on the back.
Title: Re: FS: mini SLG (scanline generator) is available! (Colorado, USA)
Post by: yotsuya on January 10, 2013, 02:30:20 pm
CM, send me an invoice for 1 more! I'll take a shiny at no additional cost!  :cheers:
Title: Re: FS: mini SLG (scanline generator) is available! (Colorado, USA)
Post by: yotsuya on January 11, 2013, 09:47:53 am
Bump for a great seller and an even greater product! Just ordered my fourth one!
Title: Re: FS: mini SLG (scanline generator) is available! (Colorado, USA)
Post by: TopJimmyCooks on January 11, 2013, 09:52:26 am
Does it have to be at the monitor end of the VGA cable or is it ok on the computer end?  Looking forward to getting mine although I'll have to do some disassembly to switch from DVI to VGA cabling. 
Title: Re: FS: mini SLG (scanline generator) is available! (Colorado, USA)
Post by: paigeoliver on January 11, 2013, 10:32:43 am
Mine is installed at the source end not the monitor end.

Does it have to be at the monitor end of the VGA cable or is it ok on the computer end?  Looking forward to getting mine although I'll have to do some disassembly to switch from DVI to VGA cabling.
Title: Re: FS: mini SLG (scanline generator) is available! (Colorado, USA)
Post by: TopJimmyCooks on January 11, 2013, 10:57:47 am
10-4 thanks.
Title: Re: FS: mini SLG (scanline generator) is available! (Colorado, USA)
Post by: CraftyMech on January 11, 2013, 12:31:42 pm
You could install the mini either way, but I would recommend installing at the source end. If for no other reason than to be connected directly to the VGA signal, so any cabling problems/interence won't effect the performance of the unit.

Thanks, Yotsuya! And thanks to everyone who has ordered, I've built and shipped nearly 50 units. I believe in simple gadgets that just get the job done, so I've been excited to hear the enthusiastic feedback.
Title: Re: FS: mini SLG (scanline generator) is available! (Colorado, USA)
Post by: CraftyMech on January 15, 2013, 11:58:24 am
Just a reminder that the price for the mini is increasing by $3 after today. The new price for a single unit will be $18 + shipping (the 2-pack and 3-pack deal prices will be updated accordingly). I'll update the first post in the thread with the new price list tomorrow. The small increase strikes a better balance between the time & cost to build and test each unit, and the selling price.

Thanks to everyone who has supported this project so far!
Title: Re: FS: mini SLG (scanline generator) is available! (Colorado, USA)
Post by: yotsuya on January 15, 2013, 12:37:33 pm
No problem. I think it's a great project and I hope to see other similar projects come out of you and this board.  :cheers:
Title: Re: FS: mini SLG (scanline generator) is available! (Colorado, USA)
Post by: griffindodd on January 15, 2013, 06:49:15 pm
Installed mine today on Little Ms. Pac-Man, I absolutely love it.

(http://img.tapatalk.com/d/13/01/16/hapasyzy.jpg)

Sent from my pocket ZX81

Title: FS: mini SLG (scanline generator) is available! (Colorado, USA)
Post by: Furry131 on January 15, 2013, 07:10:31 pm
Just got mine thanks!!!!
Title: Re: FS: mini SLG (scanline generator) is available! (Colorado, USA)
Post by: Malenko on January 16, 2013, 01:16:24 pm
too late to get it for 18 shipped? :(
Title: Re: FS: mini SLG (scanline generator) is available! (Colorado, USA)
Post by: CraftyMech on January 16, 2013, 01:19:59 pm
too late to get it for 18 shipped? :(

No problem Malenko, send me a PM with your email address and I'll honor the $18 shipped price.

I'm about to update the price list in the first post of this thread, so you are just in time :)
Title: Re: FS: mini SLG (scanline generator) is available! (Colorado, USA)
Post by: CraftyMech on January 16, 2013, 01:27:43 pm
New price list, effective today is:

mini SLG - $18 USD + shipping

mini SLG 2 pack - $32 USD + shipping

mini SLG 3 pack - $46 USD + shipping

Shipping (First Class): $3 USA, $5 Canada, $12 UK/Europe
Title: Re: FS: mini SLG (scanline generator) is available! (Colorado, USA)
Post by: joeH on January 16, 2013, 03:39:26 pm
Forgive me for posting this question in both threads:

I use a 24" LCD to fool around with MAME and other emulators.  However, the same monitor is also used for my home server.  I'm assuming from what you are saying that when the PC sends a native 1920x1200 signal, the SLG won't work.  But if I start up an emulator, say MAME for example, and set the config for MAME to start up a game at 640x480, it will work?  That way the scanlines only appear when emulation is started?

Also, will the SLG still work with an HDMI to VGA adapter?

Thanks!
Title: Re: FS: mini SLG (scanline generator) is available! (Colorado, USA)
Post by: CraftyMech on January 16, 2013, 07:17:11 pm
Hey Joe, you are correct that if MAME sets the VGA resolution to 640x480 (or 1024x768), then the mini SLG will add scanlines to the image. If you have a MAME front-end and don't want scanlines for those screens, just run the front-end at a higher resolution than 1024x768.

I have not tested a mini SLG with a HDMI video card w/ VGA adapter, but as long as the adapter puts out a standard VGA signal, then scanlines should be added to the image (provided the resolution is compatible as mentioned above). However, depending on the quality of the adapter, it is possible there may be some interference in the signal that would impact the mini SLGs performance. For best results I always recommend hooking the mini SLG directly to the video source, running at 640x480 resolution.
Title: Re: FS: mini SLG (scanline generator) is available! (Colorado, USA)
Post by: joeH on January 17, 2013, 02:26:40 pm
Crafty, thanks for answering my question.  Looking forward to mine.

Another related question, hopefully you or somebody else knows the answer.  While I'm going to use this mainly for PC emulation, I also have a Dreamcast and a Saturn I hook up to a 24" monitor via S-Video.  Can I buy a S-video to VGA adapter box, connect your SLG, and then run that out to the monitor?  I've read conflicting reports, and many say that a CGA to VGA upscaler is needed as the in-between.  Problem is that the upscalers take a component input instead of s-video or composite, and I don't think there was a component out made for either the Saturn or Dreamcast.
Title: Re: FS: mini SLG (scanline generator) is available! (Colorado, USA)
Post by: CraftyMech on January 17, 2013, 09:35:28 pm
Quote
Another related question, hopefully you or somebody else knows the answer.  While I'm going to use this mainly for PC emulation, I also have a Dreamcast and a Saturn I hook up to a 24" monitor via S-Video.  Can I buy a S-video to VGA adapter box, connect your SLG, and then run that out to the monitor?  I've read conflicting reports, and many say that a CGA to VGA upscaler is needed as the in-between.  Problem is that the upscalers take a component input instead of s-video or composite, and I don't think there was a component out made for either the Saturn or Dreamcast.

As long as the end result of the conversion is a standard VGA signal @ 640x480, with a -vsync, then the mini SLG would work. I can't say though if the result would be worth it however, given all the variables between the signal output from the console and the input of the mini SLG. The only console I have tested the mini with is the Xbox 360 @ 1024x768. So I can't recommend the mini for use with any legacy consoles, given a converter of one sort or another would be needed, and the quality of that conversion is a wildcard.

That said, you might want to check out this website with a ton of info about various converters, etc. for getting legacy consoles and hardware to work on modern displays: http://retrogaming.hazard-city.de (http://retrogaming.hazard-city.de)
Title: Re: FS: mini SLG (scanline generator) is available! (Colorado, USA)
Post by: joeH on January 18, 2013, 05:38:56 pm
Quote
Another related question, hopefully you or somebody else knows the answer.  While I'm going to use this mainly for PC emulation, I also have a Dreamcast and a Saturn I hook up to a 24" monitor via S-Video.  Can I buy a S-video to VGA adapter box, connect your SLG, and then run that out to the monitor?  I've read conflicting reports, and many say that a CGA to VGA upscaler is needed as the in-between.  Problem is that the upscalers take a component input instead of s-video or composite, and I don't think there was a component out made for either the Saturn or Dreamcast.

As long as the end result of the conversion is a standard VGA signal @ 640x480, with a -vsync, then the mini SLG would work. I can't say though if the result would be worth it however, given all the variables between the signal output from the console and the input of the mini SLG. The only console I have tested the mini with is the Xbox 360 @ 1024x768. So I can't recommend the mini for use with any legacy consoles, given a converter of one sort or another would be needed, and the quality of that conversion is a wildcard.

That said, you might want to check out this website with a ton of info about various converters, etc. for getting legacy consoles and hardware to work on modern displays: http://retrogaming.hazard-city.de (http://retrogaming.hazard-city.de)

Thanks for the reply! I'll check out the link you posted too. 
Title: Re: FS: mini SLG (scanline generator) is available! (Colorado, USA)
Post by: southpaw13 on January 29, 2013, 05:56:43 pm
Got mine in!  It makes my LCD look like crap!  Awesome!!!!

Great work,
-SP
Title: Re: FS: mini SLG (scanline generator) is available! (Colorado, USA)
Post by: CraftyMech on January 29, 2013, 06:42:08 pm
Great to hear SouthPaw!

Now I take it you mean the mini SLG makes your LCD without scanlines look like crap? ;)


Title: Re: FS: mini SLG (scanline generator) is available! (Colorado, USA)
Post by: southpaw13 on January 29, 2013, 07:47:37 pm
Absolutely!  Thanks for making these!

-SP
Title: Re: FS: mini SLG (scanline generator) is available! (Colorado, USA)
Post by: CraftyMech on January 30, 2013, 01:14:59 am
Production Update:

So I've built and shipped nearly 75 units since I started taking orders right before Christmas. The positive feedback has been great, and the mini SLG is being used successfully on a wide variety of hardware.

One problem that has surfaced is a strong green tint to the display with the mini SLG when connected to some PC video cards. This issue is uncommon, but I've had a couple users encounter it. I've developed a design fix that solves the issue, thanks to one user's gracious loan of his PC hardware for me to debug the circuit design against.

So I want to switch to the modified design for every unit I build going forward, especially given that PC-MAME builds account for a big chunk of the mini's user base. However, that means I need to order a new batch of circuit boards to accomodate the design changes, and that process will take about two weeks.

So until further notice (about two weeks) I am pausing production of the mini SLG while I order new circuit boards.

I will still accept orders in the mean time, and will fill them in the order received once the new boards are in. Payment won't be expected until I'm ready to ship out your order.

thanks for your patience, scanlines for everyone!

Aaron
Title: Re: FS: mini SLG (scanline generator) is available! (Colorado, USA)
Post by: southpaw13 on January 30, 2013, 12:20:08 pm
So what is the hardware setup that gives these problems?
Title: Re: FS: mini SLG (scanline generator) is available! (Colorado, USA)
Post by: Malenko on January 30, 2013, 12:32:36 pm
I left him feedback on his profile, but I thought I'd leave some here too.

Great little device, small footprint, and excellent results. Pretty fantastic!
Title: Re: FS: mini SLG (scanline generator) is available! (Colorado, USA)
Post by: CraftyMech on January 30, 2013, 12:56:50 pm
So what is the hardware setup that gives these problems?

The issue has been reported with these Nvidia cards: 8600GT, GeForce 7025, GT555M & Ion chipsets.

60-in-1 boards, Gonbes 8220 CGA->VGA board, etc. are not affected, the issue only occurs with certain Nvidia PC video cards.

Southpaw, if any of your setups have those cards, or you run into the issue with something else, I'll send you replacement units right away when I get the new circuit boards in stock.

That goes for everyone else as well. I follow up on all my orders as a matter of course, but if I have not already touched base with you and you encounter the "green monster vision" issue, I'll get you a replacement unit as well, no worries. :)

I'm committed to 100% customer satisfaction. My profit from sales of the mini is nominal, and has been reinvested in improving the product. I sell these tidy little devices cheap because I believe everyone with an LCD setup should try scanlines out to improve the display. Once you try scanlines, you'll never go back!  :cheers:
Title: Re: FS: mini SLG (scanline generator) is available! (Colorado, USA)
Post by: BadMouth on January 30, 2013, 02:08:27 pm
The issue has been reported with these Nvidia cards: 8600GT, GeForce 7025, GT555M & Ion chipsets.

Three of those were mine.  :lol  :'(  (I was not the one who loaned him the hardware for troubleshooting)
The same mini-slg worked as it should on a 7300 in different PC.
All testing was done at 1024x768 because my Nvidia drivers won't go lower than 800x600.  (need to tinker with that)

Here is what it looks like if you're curious:
(http://farm9.staticflickr.com/8088/8404066260_1d8c432c3e.jpg)

CraftyMech will stand behind his product.
Title: Re: FS: mini SLG (scanline generator) is available! (Colorado, USA)
Post by: chopperthedog on January 30, 2013, 06:12:51 pm
After getting a new computer I finally get to use the miniSLG on my space invaders table. I had the nvidia ion thingy in the table (which had the green schtuff in the black lines), but that computer also suffered from a very annoying audio tick that has plagued me since I bought that thing. Running mame at 640x480 and mala at 800x600 the slg works and looks great.

Fit all the pЯon you can on my computer before you send it back.  ;)


good day.
Title: Re: FS: mini SLG (scanline generator) is available! (Colorado, USA)
Post by: CraftyMech on January 30, 2013, 06:32:18 pm
Chopper: You mean gigabytes of photos of vintage arcade cabinets right? Thanks again for letting me borrow your hardware, it has been very helpful to have on hand for testing the new version of the SLG design.
Title: Re: FS: mini SLG (scanline generator) is available! (Colorado, USA)
Post by: southpaw13 on January 30, 2013, 11:03:35 pm
Hello, I thought the green hue was part of the affect.  Can't you just adjust the green down on the monitor to fix this?

Love the product, but honestly I am a little confused.  I am not apposed to sending my units back and actually paying for the newer board.  PM me :)

-SP
Title: Re: FS: mini SLG (scanline generator) is available! (Colorado, USA)
Post by: CraftyMech on January 30, 2013, 11:26:47 pm
Hey Southpaw sorry for the confusion, PM sent!

The green-screen issue is hard to miss, and can't really be adjusted out. It only occurs with certain PC video cards, so 60-in-1s, Multi-Williams, GBS-8220 CGA->VGA converter, dedicated hardware boards, and most PC video cards will still look great.

I just wanted to take the initiative and get out in front of this problem since I knew a couple users had ran into it, and make a design change at a time when my stock of parts was getting low. So the only real benefit of the new board will be to correct the green-machine issue for those that have run into it, otherwise the designs perform exactly the same.


Title: Re: FS: mini SLG (scanline generator) is available! (Colorado, USA)
Post by: vanrose72 on February 02, 2013, 09:32:19 am
(http://www.bindingforce.com/sts/SLG_bomb.jpg)

I love the way it makes classic games look more legit on an LCD monitor. It's the same effect I was trying to achieve using HLSL until I realized my video card was weak sauce.

Thanks SO MUCH!
Title: FS: mini SLG (scanline generator) is available! (Colorado, USA)
Post by: cmoses on February 02, 2013, 10:38:45 am
Very interested in this little device. I was curious if someone could post pictures of this device vs just using the scanlines.jpg effect in the MAME.ini.

I have been tinkering with just the scanlines effect as well as the whole HLSL settings. I like this option sine it is hardware based and won't add any overhead to the software.

Thanks


Sent from my iPad Mini using Tapatalk HD
Title: Re: FS: mini SLG (scanline generator) is available! (Colorado, USA)
Post by: CraftyMech on February 02, 2013, 03:46:55 pm
Thanks VanRose for your feedback!

cmoses: Here is my attempt at a direct comparison in Mame @ 640x480 on my Sony 18" LCD. For the Mame scanlines I used the standard 50% option as that seemed closest to the scanline intensity that the mini SLG produces. The angles of the two photos are not quite the same, but I think you can see the difference. I like the more natural, authentic look of the mini SLG, compared to the straight scanlines in MAME. HLSL certainly brings MAME scanlines to a new level, so the difference between the mini & HLSL would be harder to quantify, and of course HLSL provides a lot of tweaking for a specific look for individual games.

Title: Re: FS: mini SLG (scanline generator) is available! (Colorado, USA)
Post by: Nephasth on February 02, 2013, 04:31:10 pm
...HLSL certainly brings MAME scanlines to a new level, so the difference between the mini & HLSL would be harder to quantify, and of course HLSL provides a lot of tweaking for a specific look for individual games.

But why even go through the trouble when there's a literal plug and play solution? ;)

Can't say it enough CraftyMech, great work! :cheers:
Title: Re: FS: mini SLG (scanline generator) is available! (Colorado, USA)
Post by: Malenko on February 02, 2013, 07:28:18 pm
But why even go through the trouble when there's a literal plug and play solution? ;)

Can't say it enough CraftyMech, great work! :cheers:

Agreed. No impact on performance and it looks fantastic.
Title: Re: FS: mini SLG (scanline generator) is available! (Colorado, USA)
Post by: yotsuya on February 02, 2013, 08:30:28 pm
Thirded. That's why I nominated it for the UCAs. I own four of these bad boys.
Title: Re: FS: mini SLG (scanline generator) is available! (Colorado, USA)
Post by: CraftyMech on February 02, 2013, 09:06:02 pm
Thanks for the support guys!

I sent BadMouth a unit with the modified design a few days ago, and today he had a chance to test it out on his setups. No more green tint! I've verified the fix with ChopperDog's hardware (Nvidia Ion chipset) as well.

So I'm confident the issue with the mini SLG and certain nvidia graphics cards has been solved.

New circuit boards are in process, and will be in my hands this coming Friday. So I'll be all set to start shipping new units again starting Monday, the 11th.

With everyone's help the mini SLG is maturing as a product, and I'm excited to continue to expand sales. Scanlines for everyone! :)
Title: Re: FS: mini SLG (scanline generator) is available! (Colorado, USA)
Post by: chopperthedog on February 02, 2013, 09:41:29 pm
 :applaud: glad I could assist (meaning, boxing something up and dragging my sap ass to the post office) in the development of a very neat solid little product.


good day.
Title: FS: mini SLG (scanline generator) is available! (Colorado, USA)
Post by: cmoses on February 03, 2013, 12:28:04 am
Thanks VanRose for your feedback!

cmoses: Here is my attempt at a direct comparison in Mame @ 640x480 on my Sony 18" LCD. For the Mame scanlines I used the standard 50% option as that seemed closest to the scanline intensity that the mini SLG produces. The angles of the two photos are not quite the same, but I think you can see the difference. I like the more natural, authentic look of the mini SLG, compared to the straight scanlines in MAME. HLSL certainly brings MAME scanlines to a new level, so the difference between the mini & HLSL would be harder to quantify, and of course HLSL provides a lot of tweaking for a specific look for individual games.

CraftyMech,

Thanks for the great comparison photo. That really does show off the difference well. I agree that the mini SLG has a more natural look and also a more authentic one. I have a few more questions I hope you can answer.

1. Is there a visual difference between running at 640x480 and 1024x768?  Quality of the lines?

2. I have a 19" monitor that's native resolution is 1280x1024. If I run my front end (HyperSpin) at this resolution and then MAME at 1024x768 or 640x480 then I should only get the scan lines in MAME, correct?

3. Just an observation but it appears in your DK pictures that the scan lines are not as prominent in the color dark blue (dark blue barrel and Paulina's blue shoes). Is that just in the picture or are the scan lines bluish in color? 

Thanks for the info. I think I will be ordering one this week.


Sent from my iPad Mini using Tapatalk HD
Title: Re: FS: mini SLG (scanline generator) is available! (Colorado, USA)
Post by: CraftyMech on February 03, 2013, 01:41:19 am
Quote
1. Is there a visual difference between running at 640x480 and 1024x768?  Quality of the lines?

2. I have a 19" monitor that's native resolution is 1280x1024. If I run my front end (HyperSpin) at this resolution and then MAME at 1024x768 or 640x480 then I should only get the scan lines in MAME, correct?

3. Just an observation but it appears in your DK pictures that the scan lines are not as prominent in the color dark blue (dark blue barrel and Paulina's blue shoes). Is that just in the picture or are the scan lines bluish in color?

1. That depends on the LCD display native resolution. I also have a 1280x1024 LCD, and 640x480 looks best with perfectly alternating scanlines. Some banding may occur at 1024x768 if that resolution is a mismatch for the native res of the LCD. However, some users have reported 1024x768 looks best with their displays. Generally speaking, I recommend 640x480 as the preferred resolution for the mini SLG.

2. Right, higher resolutions wont have scanlines, so running the front end @ 1280x1024 will give you a normal display for your front-end.

3. Sharp observation! Part the photo not being taken at a straight-on angle, and part because the scanline intensity for the blue channel is not quite as prominent as red & green. The mini is a single chip design that uses two logic gates to control scanlines for the 3 color channels R,G,B. Typically, a hue is comprised of data from more then one channel, so the difference only occurs for pure blue. The scanlines themselves are display data lines reduced in intensity by about 75%, rather than being a specific color.
Title: Re: FS: mini SLG (scanline generator) is available! (Colorado, USA)
Post by: Bascule on February 05, 2013, 11:44:31 am
I've been in search of a SLG that doesn't break the bank, and this seems to fit the bill perfectly.

I've just joined the forum on the strength of this and as soon as I have PM rights, I'll be ordering one.
Title: Re: FS: mini SLG (scanline generator) is available! (Colorado, USA)
Post by: 1500points on February 05, 2013, 11:53:36 am
I'm not a visual snob, but this project is quite interesting.
ordered 2 and looking forward to their arrival. :)
Title: Re: FS: mini SLG (scanline generator) is available! (Colorado, USA)
Post by: CraftyMech on February 05, 2013, 12:08:42 pm
I've been in search of a SLG that doesn't break the bank, and this seems to fit the bill perfectly.

I've just joined the forum on the strength of this and as soon as I have PM rights, I'll be ordering one.

Hey Bascule, you can also send an email to me as well: orders@craftymech.com
Title: Re: FS: mini SLG (scanline generator) is available! (Colorado, USA)
Post by: Bascule on February 05, 2013, 12:12:45 pm
I've been in search of a SLG that doesn't break the bank, and this seems to fit the bill perfectly.

I've just joined the forum on the strength of this and as soon as I have PM rights, I'll be ordering one.

Hey Bascule, you can also send an email to me as well: orders@craftymech.com

That's great, thanks! ;D
Title: FS: mini SLG (scanline generator) is available! (Colorado, USA)
Post by: cmoses on February 05, 2013, 12:14:58 pm
Very interested as well.  The few screen shots and comparison shots look really good. If anyone who has one is willing to post some screen shots that would be great.

CraftyMech,

Did you receive the boards in last week? Still looking to be able to ship out on the 11th?


Title: Re: FS: mini SLG (scanline generator) is available! (Colorado, USA)
Post by: CraftyMech on February 05, 2013, 12:24:38 pm
Actually, it was this week that I was expecting the boards, and they are on schedule according to the production house for Thursday. The company is local to me, so I'll be able to start building new units as early as Friday.

So still on track for the 11th!
Title: Re: FS: mini SLG (scanline generator) is available! (Colorado, USA)
Post by: Nephasth on February 05, 2013, 12:28:21 pm
Very interested as well.  The few screen shots and comparison shots look really good. If anyone who has one is willing to post some screen shots that would be great.

There's quite a few screenshots in this thread: http://forum.arcadecontrols.com/index.php/topic,128970.0.html (http://forum.arcadecontrols.com/index.php/topic,128970.0.html)
Title: Re: FS: mini SLG (scanline generator) is available! (Colorado, USA)
Post by: CraftyMech on February 05, 2013, 12:35:05 pm
I posted a bunch in Reply #45 of the thread above that Nephasth linked to.

Some of the photos are from the original prototype of the device (Le Chucks & Nephasth) that  had adjustable color balance, a feature that was later removed to simplify the design.
Title: Re: FS: mini SLG (scanline generator) is available! (Colorado, USA)
Post by: 1500points on February 06, 2013, 11:13:44 am
the ledges in Joust might make for a good comparison.  getting that smooth 3dish effect instead of pixels.  like the ostrich's eye and feathers, too.
Title: Re: FS: mini SLG (scanline generator) is available! (Colorado, USA)
Post by: CraftyMech on February 06, 2013, 01:24:04 pm
the ledges in Joust might make for a good comparison.  getting that smooth 3dish effect instead of pixels.  like the ostrich's eye and feathers, too.

Good idea, I'll see if I can get a shot of Joust & the mini in action.

The new circuit boards have been marked as "shipping" by the pcb house, so should be heading my way shortly!
Title: FS: mini SLG (scanline generator) is available! (Colorado, USA)
Post by: cmoses on February 07, 2013, 08:42:40 pm
Placed my order for a mini SLG today. Very impressed with everything I have seen and read and I can't wait to get it and try it out. I am working on a cocktail cabinet that will have a 19" LCD monitor in it. Planning to run the HyperSpin front end at 1280x1024 with no scan lines and MAME at 640x480 with scan lines.

Clayton


Sent from my iPad Mini using Tapatalk HD
Title: Re: FS: mini SLG (scanline generator) is available! (Colorado, USA)
Post by: CraftyMech on February 09, 2013, 01:25:41 am
Hey everyone, new circuit boards arrived yesterday afternoon!

I've spent the last 24 hours (almost all of the waking part anyway) testing, and then some more testing. The new boards work great, I've already built a couple of the new units, and Sat & Sun are going to be all-day build days. I have a good backlog of podcasts (Nerdist w/ Chris Hardwick, and Neil Degrasse Tyson's Startalk) to listen to while I work. :)
Title: FS: mini SLG (scanline generator) is available! (Colorado, USA)
Post by: cmoses on February 09, 2013, 09:38:03 am
Great news. I can't wait to get the one I ordered.

3 days of assembly? How big of a order backlog do you have? Or are you just trying to get ahead of the game?  Hopefully you can do them in some sort of assembly line procedure. Open up all the cases, connect the wires, solder the wires, assemble, close the cases.

Good luck and good progress for your weekend.


Sent from my iPhone using Tapatalk 2
Title: Re: FS: mini SLG (scanline generator) is available! (Colorado, USA)
Post by: CraftyMech on February 09, 2013, 12:19:41 pm
3 days of assembly? How big of a order backlog do you have? Or are you just trying to get ahead of the game?  Hopefully you can do them in some sort of assembly line procedure. Open up all the cases, connect the wires, solder the wires, assemble, close the cases.

A little bit of both, I do like to get ahead when I can. I'm also very methodical about my build process, and I test each unit thoroughly, so that slows me down a bit. I have to finish up by Sunday night though, in time for the new episode of The Walking Dead on AMC ;)
Title: Re: FS: mini SLG (scanline generator) is available! (Colorado, USA)
Post by: southpaw13 on February 15, 2013, 10:02:51 pm
Got my updated ones in today!  Pics attached!  Finally found a way to make laser disc games look correct on a LCD monitor.  Some vertical games to look at.  And one of the pics is what I bought on e-bay for a 1.64 to add to the SLG! 

Thanks for a great product!
-SP
Title: Re: FS: mini SLG (scanline generator) is available! (Colorado, USA)
Post by: CraftyMech on February 15, 2013, 10:17:42 pm
Awesome SP! Glad the updated design is working well with your MAME setups :)

To maximize compatibility will all types of setups, I've decided to start selling two versions of the mini SLG. They are identical in nearly every way except for slight circuit differences.
After some exhaustive testing, I've discovered the original design works best for dedicated hardware, and the new design works best for PC/MAME setups. So to allow the mini SLG to work with as many setups as possible I decided to start offering both versions. The new circuit boards are used in both cases, which allows me to speed up production.

If you are not sure which version to order, just ask and I'll get you squared away with the right units for your setups.

Title: Re: FS: mini SLG (scanline generator) is available! (Colorado, USA)
Post by: 1500points on February 16, 2013, 08:45:38 am
Thank you for sending the spare silver connector for testing.  :)

OK, here is Joust with the black miniSLG plugged in directly to the D-sub port on the laptop going to a 19inch Dell.  I haven't yet figured out how to tone down the brightness/contrast/colors? to get the background to go completely black. (pics taken from iphone which aren't the best.)

the lines definitely soften the pixels of the ledges and bird so it has more of a painted effect, than hard pixel graphics.

the silver mini made the image look greenish.

(http://www.robotron2084guidebook.com/wp-content/uploads/2013/02/JoustMiniSLG.jpg)
Title: Re: FS: mini SLG (scanline generator) is available! (Colorado, USA)
Post by: CraftyMech on February 16, 2013, 10:44:40 am
Quote
I haven't yet figured out how to tone down the brightness/contrast/colors? to get the background to go completely black.

The mini SLG adds a small amount of brightness to the overall image, including the background. You should be able to adjust the monitor settings to get back to near black for the background, but it may not be possible to get pure black. I don't mind the effect myself, I've always found the straight black of LCDs to be one of the factors that makes the soft glow of CRT backgrounds more authentic.

From the scanline pattern, it looks like you are running @ 1024x768. If you get a chance, give 640@480 a try, the scanlines are more pronounced for low res games (like Joust) at that resolution.
Title: Re: FS: mini SLG (scanline generator) is available! (Colorado, USA)
Post by: CraftyMech on February 16, 2013, 11:33:07 am
I've also updated the product description to note that at this time, the mini SLG is not compatible with the ArcadeSD or JROK Multi-Williams products. As soon as I can get my hands on those boards to test with, I can determine why and get the mini working with those boards as well. There is so much variety in hardware out there, but compatibility testing is a good excuse to own it all!
Title: Re: FS: mini SLG (scanline generator) is available! (Colorado, USA)
Post by: dmarcum99 on February 16, 2013, 01:36:33 pm
pm sent...I need one of these for a 60-in-1 bartop I'm going to build.
Title: Re: FS: mini SLG (scanline generator) is available! (Colorado, USA)
Post by: 1500points on February 16, 2013, 01:40:17 pm
Just tested. the lowest I can go is 800x600 but the mini SLG doesn't create lines at that resolution.
Only seems to make lines when it is set to 1024 x 768

Adapter details:
Intel 4 Series Express Chipset Family
6/27/2088
6.14.10.4964

UPDATE-
Tested in 60-1 setup- PAC-MAN LOOKS AWESOME!!!!!!  but the main menu looks "washed out"
Tested in 19-1 setup- the main menu is very washed out, and the scan lines look "too fat".
So in the earlier test using the miniSLG with the 1024x768 MAME setup made Joust look closer to a real CRT, than the 19-1 board.
(http://www.robotron2084guidebook.com/wp-content/uploads/2013/02/Joust19-1miniSLG.jpg)
Title: FS: mini SLG (scanline generator) is available! (Colorado, USA)
Post by: cmoses on February 16, 2013, 02:36:42 pm
1500points,

You probably need to go to the advanced setting to list all of the available resolutions. Not in front if my computer so I can't give you exact directions but I think it's advanced setting and the list all modes. Take a look around in the resolution settings.




Sent from my iPhone using Tapatalk 2
Title: Re: FS: mini SLG (scanline generator) is available! (Colorado, USA)
Post by: CraftyMech on February 16, 2013, 02:37:55 pm
Yep that is correct, the mini SLG works with resolutions that have a negative vsync, which is primarily 640x480 and 1024x768. 800x600 uses a +vsync signal. Some users actually use that to thur advantage and set MAME front ends to run at 800x600 or 1280x1024 so the menu doesn't have scanlines, then run their games at 640x480 or 1025x768.

If you click on "advanced settings" from the Screen Resolutions dialog, and then "list all modes", often you'll see a 640x480 resolution (60hz) choice even though that mode doesn't show up in the basic settings dialog for screen resolutions.

Can you post a photo of the 60-in-1 menu screen? Does it look the same with the black & silver units I sent (same for the 19-in-1)?
Title: Re: FS: mini SLG (scanline generator) is available! (Colorado, USA)
Post by: 1500points on February 16, 2013, 02:42:07 pm
I wrote a long reply but it got erased when the post updated....
summary,  my laptop is fighting going lower than 800x600 without changing driver.
but per the prior test Joust looks a lot better with 1024x768 and the miniSLG than the 19-1 output.
If I could get the background on mame darkened up, it would be very nice setup.

Another question- where does one find long enough screws to hold that adapter in place and to the monitor cable? I can't think of a way to hold it secure.
Title: Re: FS: mini SLG (scanline generator) is available! (Colorado, USA)
Post by: CraftyMech on February 16, 2013, 03:07:32 pm
Some laptop hardware won't go down to 640x480 I've noticed, I guess some vendors just decided no one uses that resolution anymore.

I might just start including screws with all the units. They are not thumbscrews so you need a tiny screwdriver, but if you need strain relief for the connection they would do the job.

Quote
Tested in 60-1 setup- PAC-MAN LOOKS AWESOME!!!!!!

Low res games really get a nice visual boost on an LCD with scan lines :)
Title: Re: FS: mini SLG (scanline generator) is available! (Colorado, USA)
Post by: 1500points on February 16, 2013, 03:22:07 pm
yah, i can't say enough about how great pac-man looked. seemed like looking at a real display.

what is the size and pitch of the screws? I'm not sure if our hardware store with have them or not.
Title: Re: FS: mini SLG (scanline generator) is available! (Colorado, USA)
Post by: CraftyMech on February 16, 2013, 03:38:13 pm
You know what I'll do, I'll throw the set of screws in an envelope and mail them to you on Monday. They have a small lip on the shaft for retaining them in the adapter ends, and I don't thing you'll find anything similar at the hardware store.
Title: Re: FS: mini SLG (scanline generator) is available! (Colorado, USA)
Post by: BadMouth on February 16, 2013, 03:44:40 pm
what is the size and pitch of the screws?

I was curious so looked it up just now.  4-40 is the standard size to attach peripherals, including vga cables.
Title: FS: mini SLG (scanline generator) is available! (Colorado, USA)
Post by: cmoses on February 16, 2013, 08:41:47 pm
yah, i can't say enough about how great pac-man looked. seemed like looking at a real display.

what is the size and pitch of the screws? I'm not sure if our hardware store with have them or not.

Can you post some of your Pac-Man pics?  Is that from MAME or a xx-in-1?


Sent from my iPad Mini using Tapatalk HD
Title: Re: FS: mini SLG (scanline generator) is available! (Colorado, USA)
Post by: CraftyMech on February 17, 2013, 01:02:55 am
I'm thinking about buying a 19-in-1 board for testing, and also since there are some nice Williams games on that board like Joust, Defender, and Robotron. How does the gameplay compare to a JROK multi Williams board?
Title: Re: FS: mini SLG (scanline generator) is available! (Colorado, USA)
Post by: 1500points on February 17, 2013, 02:20:13 am
My pacman looked just like the picture posted earlier in the thread. had that classic effect. it was the typical 60-1 board. the joust and berzerk pics were from MAME.

Aaron, the 19-1 board is based on old mame and the blitter is way way way far off of correct.  If you are looking for a quality Williams Robo/Joust experience you really need to get a JROK MW. He just posted that he is testing another small batch.
Defender plays ok on 19-1 but you get no settings like starting difficulty/wave progression/humanoid regeneration.

For those that like MAME, Sean R. completely re-wrote the blitter code (special chips that handle blit processing) and it'll be released during the v148 series. 
Title: Re: FS: mini SLG (scanline generator) is available! (Colorado, USA)
Post by: Le Chuck on February 17, 2013, 09:03:31 am
You can talk specs of the XX-n-boards all day long but where to get them is against the house rulez.   :police:  Please move it along. 
Title: Re: FS: mini SLG (scanline generator) is available! (Colorado, USA)
Post by: 1500points on February 17, 2013, 10:24:17 am
19-1 vid from Joust and Mario Bros  (in person Mario Bros. looks great. Joust looks odd, not sure the video properly captures the effect)
http://youtu.be/d7iSDsDn2RU (http://youtu.be/d7iSDsDn2RU)

60-1 vid from pacman, DK, Galaga, Arkanoid, DigDug, everything looks fine during gameplay especially DK and pacman.
http://youtu.be/yzL0en-YyJ0 (http://youtu.be/yzL0en-YyJ0)
Title: Re: FS: mini SLG (scanline generator) is available! (Colorado, USA)
Post by: CraftyMech on February 17, 2013, 12:31:50 pm
Thanks for the reminder Le Chuck, I forgot about that. Updated my post to better fit 1500's thoughts about the 19-in-1 vs. JROK Multi Williams. :)

And to that point, I guess I'd better get in line for a JROK board, doesn't sound like the 19-in-1 is really worth it.

PS - Just took a look at the BYOAC 2012 Hardware of the Year category, and it looks like the mini SLG might have captured the top spot :)
Title: Re: FS: mini SLG (scanline generator) is available! (Colorado, USA)
Post by: Le Chuck on February 17, 2013, 12:33:14 pm
Thanks for the reminder Le Chuck, I forgot about that. Updated my post to better fit 1500's thoughts about the 19-in-1 vs. JROK Multi Williams. :)

And to that point, I guess I'd better get in line for a JROK board, doesn't sound like the 19-in-1 is really worth it.

Oh, by the way, you won in the hardware category.  Congratulations!
Title: Re: FS: mini SLG (scanline generator) is available! (Colorado, USA)
Post by: CraftyMech on February 17, 2013, 12:36:51 pm
Wahoo! :) This project has been a real labor of love for me, I've lost count of the hours I've put in over the last few months testing, and trying to fix issues to make the mini SLG as compatible as possible with all the different hardware out there. All told I think I've made a couple hundred bucks, so I'm definitely not in it for the money!
Title: Re: FS: mini SLG (scanline generator) is available! (Colorado, USA)
Post by: yotsuya on February 17, 2013, 12:38:07 pm
You can now add a sticker that says "Winner, 2012 UCA Awards"  :cheers:
Title: Re: FS: mini SLG (scanline generator) is available! (Colorado, USA)
Post by: keilmillerjr on February 17, 2013, 01:47:24 pm
PM sent for order. Looks like a great product with wonderful reviews!
Title: Re: FS: mini SLG (scanline generator) is available! (Colorado, USA)
Post by: cmoses on February 17, 2013, 10:44:05 pm
I got my mini SLG on Friday but did not get a chance to test it out until this weekend.  I hooked it up and was very impressed with how well it works.  The scan lines look really amazing and make the games look very authentic on my 19" Dell monitor, it is a 1905FP.  The only downside is that I am experiencing a big increase in brightness.  I test it in both 640x480 and 1024x768 and it is occuring in both.  The 640x480 looks much better on my monitor so that is what I am running MAME in.  I am using the monitor for a cocktail cabinet so it is being used vertically but the Dell 1905FP has viewing angles of 170 degrees.  I do not have any issues when I unplug the mini SLG and just run the video without the scanlines.  The image is very good and the black backgrounds are solid black.

When I use the mini SLG it takes the black backgrounds and kind of makes them more grayish.  I turned down the brightness on the monitor but it did not seem to make much of a difference.  I also tried adjusting the brightness through the video card settings in windows and also through MAME itself.  Thorugh the video card setting and through MAME I can get the backgrounds to be darker and more black, but in doing so, it dims the rest of the display as well.

The video card I am using is a nVidia 9400GT.  As a test I took out the video card and used the on board Intel chipset.  This appeared to be a little darker than the nVidia was but the black backgrounds were still very grayish.  I think 1500points was reporting a similar issue.  I am trying to figure out the best way to optimize the black backgrounds.  I do not need them to be 100% pure black but I would like them to be darker but not effect the other colors.  I am wondering if it is the video card, the driver, the monitor or some combination of them.

Is anyone else out there using the mini SLG with an nVidia card?  I really liked the picture that CraftyMech posted showing the Donkey Kong scan line comparission screens.  The black looked really good.  I will be trying a different monitor later this week when I can borrow a friends for testing.  I have a piece of tinted plexi that came with the cocktail cabinet that I am converting to MAME.  I have tested with this layed over the monitor and it helps a little bit with the black levels, but once again darkens the whole screen so I don't think that it is the best option either.  I will continue to see if I can figure anything out.  If you have used the mini SLG with nVidia and have had better luck with the black levels let me know what card and driver you are using.  I would also be curious to know about ATI cards and how they are with the brightness. 

I am very pleased with the mini SLG and how well it works, I just need to see if I can tweak it to get the best black levels and still maintain the vibrant colors. 

Title: Re: FS: mini SLG (scanline generator) is available! (Colorado, USA)
Post by: CraftyMech on February 17, 2013, 11:22:46 pm
The photo comparison I posted of Donkey Kong was taken running Mame on a Nvidia Ion chipset (Acer Aero loaned courtesy of ChopperDog) and a Samsung SyncMaster 740N LCD. I've been watching eBay to try and snag a Dell LCD or other similar brand as well for testing.

Let me know how the other LCD monitor works out, that will be a big help to know if the brightness increase is more effected by changing video cards (as you tried with the on-board video), or by changing monitors. In the meantime, if I come up with something for you to try out with your driver settings, I'll let you know.
Title: Re: FS: mini SLG (scanline generator) is available! (Colorado, USA)
Post by: Chiefcob on February 20, 2013, 03:16:38 am
Hey mate
Im after one of your mini-slg's how much does it cost to send it to New Zealand mate?
Title: Re: FS: mini SLG (scanline generator) is available! (Colorado, USA)
Post by: CraftyMech on February 20, 2013, 10:21:40 am
Hey mate
Im after one of your mini-slg's how much does it cost to send it to New Zealand mate?

Hey Chiefcob, the shipping cost for New Zealand would be $12 USD. If you send me an email to orders@craftymech.com, I will get a PayPal invoice sent out to you.

thanks!
Aaron
Title: Re: FS: mini SLG (scanline generator) is available! (Colorado, USA)
Post by: Chiefcob on February 20, 2013, 08:29:15 pm
I'm looking at buying an LCD monitor for my arcade machine and have come a across a Dell 22 inch with a native resolution of 1680x1050 how well do you think this will work with the mini-slg?
Title: Re: FS: mini SLG (scanline generator) is available! (Colorado, USA)
Post by: CraftyMech on February 20, 2013, 09:31:09 pm
I'm looking at buying an LCD monitor for my arcade machine and have come a across a Dell 22 inch with a native resolution of 1680x1050 how well do you think this will work with the mini-slg?

1680x1050 is a ~16:9 aspect ratio, and traditionally a 4:3 aspect ratio has been preferred for MAME. However, l know a number of forum members do use 16:9 LCDs, so maybe one of them can chime in for how that aspect ratio works with MAME.

In terms of the mini SLG, I've found that 640x480 looks great on 1280x1024 native resolution LCDs. I've had users who have also had good luck with 1024x768 native res LCDs, as that is one of the two supported resolutions for the mini SLG (640x480 & 1024x768).

Basically what determines if scanlines look their best is if the display resolution (640x480 or 1024x768) will upscale evenly in the vertical dimension to the native resolution of the monitor. "Even" upscaling means that every other line of the display will be a perfect scanline, whereas if the mode scales unevenly, there will be a slight banding effect, sort of like a three legged race from top to bottom of the screen.

So unfortunately without actually having a 1680x1050 to test with, I can't say for sure how scanlines will look on that monitor. Hopefully a mini SLG user who has a 16:9 LCD can chime in and let us know.
Title: Re: FS: mini SLG (scanline generator) is available! (Colorado, USA)
Post by: cmoses on February 21, 2013, 10:32:07 am
Let me know how the other LCD monitor works out, that will be a big help to know if the brightness increase is more effected by changing video cards (as you tried with the on-board video), or by changing monitors. In the meantime, if I come up with something for you to try out with your driver settings, I'll let you know.

Craftymech,

Wow I have learned a lot about LCD monitors and viewing angles in the last couple of days.  I got the Viewsonic test monitor from a friend and was initially very pleased when I did a quick test.  The monitor was in it's horizontal position and the blacks looked very solid, similar to what was shown in the Donkey Kong comparison.  I had tested the Dell uncased and rotated vertically on my test bench and leaned back at about a 45 degree angle.  Well when I did the same thing with the Viewsonic I noticed it was brighter as well.  I went back to the Dell and discovered that it is a little brighter but still had good black backgrounds when viewed from directly overhead.  Most of my cabinet cosmetic work is done so I am now able to test using the cabinet.  I first put the Viewsonic in since it was a little darker.  When viewed rotated and laid down as it would be in the cocktail cabinet the picture was brighter and a little washed out.  I attribute the washed out image to it's viewing angles, they are not as good as the Dell's.  I tried the same thing with the Dell and once again viewed at the angle was brighter but did not have the washed out look that the Viewsonic did, better viewing angles on the Dell.  I tried adjusting the brightness on the monitor, in the nVidia settings and also in MAME and non of them really helps.  They seem dim the image but not the scan lines.  I put the tinted plexiglass over the Dell and that did help the brightness and did not affect the rest of the image.

So after a bit of trial and error I think I will be using the Dell and some tinted plexiglass.  This seems to be the best combination.  I may even try to find some darker tinted glass to see how that works.  So it seems that viewing angles as well as viewing it from a horizontal or vertical orientation make a huge difference in the monitors.

I also noticed some other issues.  When I did not use the mini SLG, the monitors would show as Plug n Play in the device manager.  When I put the mini SLG in the mix, the monitor would change to Default Monitor.  So it seems to be affecting how the computer sees the monitor.  Also anytime I put the monitor at refresh rate of 70Hz the screens would have a blue tint to them.  This was true at any resolution. 

Craftymech - if you need more specifics or some pictures of any of the above let me know and I can see what I can do to get you the information.

I just wanted to mention that the mini SLG is working fine and I really think it does an excellent job.  The issues are with LCD's and their viewing angles which differ from each monitor and manufacturer.  I would be curious to see if the same thing happened with a IPS monitor which I think are only available in 20" versions.  They are supposed to have the best viewing angles. 

I ended up playing on the cocktail a little bit last night with the Dell and the tinted plexiglass in place.  I was just running through testing the HyperSpin cocktail theme and a few games in MAME.  After a few games, I stopped noticing the brightness issue and was really enjoying the cabinet.  It's not even near done at this point, I was just playing everything on the keyboard. 
Title: Re: FS: mini SLG (scanline generator) is available! (Colorado, USA)
Post by: CraftyMech on February 21, 2013, 12:08:55 pm
Thanks cmoses for the detailed writeup of your testing, the information really helps me to understand the background brighting you were describing.

Viewing Angles:

That makes sense that viewing at an angle would brighten the background, if there was already a bit of brightness present. The better the monitor is able to handle different viewing angles, the less you will notice the brighting of the background. So I would imagine on an IPS monitor there would be no difference.

One of test LCDs (Samsung 17") has a small bit of background brightness, and isn't good at all with angles. I leaned it back about thirty degrees this morning, and I could see the increase you described from your testing.

PNP:

I think the monitor identification is related to two ID pins that are usually shown NC (not connected) in VGA wiring specifications, but are used by Windows for PNP. In my current design, those pins are not passed through the mini, so I'll need to take a look and see if wiring those pins restores the PNP ability of Windows to detect the monitor.

70Hz Refresh:

I should probably add to the instructions that the refresh rate should be 60hz for both 640x480 & 1024x768. The issue is the vsync signal, and it needs to have negative polarity. I've had good luck with 70hz for both modes on my equipment, but the implementation could vary across video drivers. 60hz will work across the board though.

However, I'm going to test out something today with custom modes. I'll experiement by cloning 1024x768 @ 75hz, and see how changes to sync polarity work with the mini.

Great though that you are enjoying how the mini SLG works with your setups now that you've found the monitor you want to use in your project. Looking forward to seeing the finished build, do you have a project thread here in the forums?

I was experimenting last night with my xbox 360 and a cheapie VGA cable adapter + mini SLG. Rtype classic looked great with scanlines on my 32" LCD TV. I never thought of using the mini this way, but some of my users have been hooking up classic consoles like the SNES to LCD TVs, so I thought I'd give it a try. I'm going to keep working on making the mini as compatible as I can with as much hardware as possible. I will be opening a sales thread over on Shumps shortly, and the user base over there leans more towards consoles & pcbs. No doubt I will learn a lot about all the varied upscaler hardware used by that crowd, so it should be interesting!
Title: Re: FS: mini SLG (scanline generator) is available! (Colorado, USA)
Post by: cmoses on February 21, 2013, 01:17:02 pm
CraftyMech,

Here is the link to my project page here on BYOAC

http://forum.arcadecontrols.com/index.php/topic,122962.msg1305970.html#msg1305970 (http://forum.arcadecontrols.com/index.php/topic,122962.msg1305970.html#msg1305970)

60Hz works great for the mini SLG.  The 70Hz issue I actually ran across when I first plugged in the mini SLG. I run my desktop at 1280x1024@75Hz. HyperSpin also runs in this mode. I launched HyperSpin then went into MAME, which I have running at 640x480@60Hz.  It launched and then I plugged in the mini SLG to see the scan lines. When I exited out of MAME back to HS my monitor had the blue tint. The monitor was now at 1280x1024@70Hz. It changed because it went from Plug n Play to Default. Once I set it at 75hz on default it was ok.

Does the mini SLG work on a CRT screen?  I would assume it would. I have a 19" CRT computer monitor that I have also been considering using in the cocktail cabinet.  Have you tried the mini SLG on a CRT?
Title: Re: FS: mini SLG (scanline generator) is available! (Colorado, USA)
Post by: CraftyMech on February 21, 2013, 01:43:15 pm
Thanks for the link, I'll check it out!

The mini SLG works great with CRTs, the second picture in my first post of this thread is from a SNK MVS board + miniSLG, on a 14" CRT. I have a 10" CRT that I'm looking at using perhaps for a MAME bartop, and although the tube is small, the scanline effect looks great.
Title: Re: FS: mini SLG (scanline generator) is available! (Colorado, USA)
Post by: CraftyMech on February 22, 2013, 02:12:49 pm
In a somewhat related topic, one problem I've always had with the 60-in-1 boards is that the v-position of the VGA signal tends to be offset. On both my CRTs, and my 17" Samsung LCD, the picture is pushed off the bottom of the screen by default, and the v-position control of the monitors can just barely get the image above the bottom fold. Has anyone else ran into this with XX-in-1 multiboards?

I finally got around to addressing the problem and developed an adjustable v-position circuit that fixes the issue. Basically by adjusting a trim pot, the VGA signal is offset up/down, providing an external v-position control independent from the display.
Title: Re: FS: mini SLG (scanline generator) is available! (Colorado, USA)
Post by: IG-88 on February 22, 2013, 03:15:51 pm
I have experienced that with some computer CRT's. With the few LCD's I have tried, the auto correct feature seems to fix itself. Even on older LCD's

Where did you install the pot? Very interesting. 
Title: Re: FS: mini SLG (scanline generator) is available! (Colorado, USA)
Post by: happyArcade on February 23, 2013, 02:58:39 pm
Hello, I would like to purchase 2 arcade mini slg.
Please let me know how to proceed.
Title: Re: FS: mini SLG (scanline generator) is available! (Colorado, USA)
Post by: 1500points on February 23, 2013, 03:46:00 pm
here is an odd scan line thing- noticed in Wreck It Ralph during the section where they leave the meeting at the Pacman maze. It appears they have the pacman scan lines going horizontal across the maze.  Shouldn't those be vertical?  ;)
Title: Re: FS: mini SLG (scanline generator) is available! (Colorado, USA)
Post by: happyArcade on February 23, 2013, 04:03:13 pm
Hello I am interested to purchase two arcade mini slg.

Please let me know how.
Title: Re: FS: mini SLG (scanline generator) is available! (Colorado, USA)
Post by: CraftyMech on February 23, 2013, 05:30:48 pm
I have experienced that with some computer CRT's. With the few LCD's I have tried, the auto correct feature seems to fix itself. Even on older LCD's

Where did you install the pot? Very interesting. 

The trim pot is part of a phase shift circuit for the H-sync signal. Delaying the H-sync signal relative to the V-sync, allows the adjustment of the v-position.

Hello I am interested to purchase two arcade mini slg.

Please let me know how.

PM sent!

here is an odd scan line thing- noticed in Wreck It Ralph during the section where they leave the meeting at the Pacman maze. It appears they have the pacman scan lines going horizontal across the maze.  Shouldn't those be vertical?  ;)

Nice catch!
Title: Re: FS: mini SLG (scanline generator) is available! (Colorado, USA)
Post by: CraftyMech on February 27, 2013, 12:20:10 am
I want to give a heads up that due to an increase in production costs, the single unit price for the mini SLG will be increasing to $20 on Monday, March 4th. The multi pack pricing will be adjusted accordingly.

I have also started shipping the locking screws with every unit, uninstalled (they pop into place in the adapter ends with a firm push). They are not very user friendly, but many people have asked for them to be included, so I decided to provide them for everyone.

Thanks to everyone for your support, I am a couple units away from 100 sold!
Title: Re: FS: mini SLG (scanline generator) is available! (Colorado, USA)
Post by: IG-88 on February 27, 2013, 08:58:20 am
Hey Crafty, seeings as I am such a cheap bastiage, can I get one of these before the price goes up?  ;D  If you don't have anymore I will take one of the $20 ones.
Title: Re: FS: mini SLG (scanline generator) is available! (Colorado, USA)
Post by: CraftyMech on February 27, 2013, 10:36:22 am
Sure thing IG-88, the $18 price is still good until Monday. PM sent.
Title: Re: FS: mini SLG (scanline generator) is available! (Colorado, USA)
Post by: Malenko on March 01, 2013, 02:54:33 pm
Sure thing IG-88, the $18 price is still good until Monday. PM sent.

heres a question for ya........

can you do one that supports composite input? I would love to put one in line of my N64 on my LCD TV. Crisp clear picture is not doing this system any favors, lol
Title: Re: FS: mini SLG (scanline generator) is available! (Colorado, USA)
Post by: CraftyMech on March 01, 2013, 08:08:51 pm
can you do one that supports composite input? I would love to put one in line of my N64 on my LCD TV. Crisp clear picture is not doing this system any favors, lol

Composite gets tricky because of interlaced video. I have one user who hooked up his SNES to an LCD TV by using a combination of an inexpensive VGA converter (V2V Pro: http://www.amazon.com/MyGica-V2VPro-Video-Converter-Switcher/dp/B000XXZQWQ (http://www.amazon.com/MyGica-V2VPro-Video-Converter-Switcher/dp/B000XXZQWQ)) + mini SLG. The VGA converter takes interlaced s-video, composite, etc. and outputs VGA. He seemed really pleased with the results.

Question for the MAME experts out there, when running MAME directly without a frontend, is the correct config.ini setting for screen resolution in this format:  "resolution  640x480x32" ?
Title: Re: FS: mini SLG (scanline generator) is available! (Colorado, USA)
Post by: lohonda on March 02, 2013, 06:57:46 am
Hey CraftyMech, I want to order a mini SLG for my pc setup but I can't pm you. I assume it's because I don't have enough posts. How can I contact you?
Title: Re: FS: mini SLG (scanline generator) is available! (Colorado, USA)
Post by: CraftyMech on March 02, 2013, 10:53:46 am
lohonda, send me an email to orders@craftymech.com and I'll get a PayPal invoice sent out to you.  :cheers:
Title: Re: FS: mini SLG (scanline generator) is available! (Colorado, USA)
Post by: CraftyMech on March 06, 2013, 01:56:51 am
Hi everyone, I recently started selling the mini SLG over on the Shmups forum. I'm a relatively new member over there, so if anyone happens to also be a Shmups member, and a mini SLG enthusiast, feel free to drop by my sales thread and spread the good word.  8)
Title: Re: FS: mini SLG (scanline generator) is available! (Colorado, USA)
Post by: southpaw13 on March 10, 2013, 03:54:26 pm
Did a little testing on different hardware.  I am using a Slot 1 NeoGeo board with a HD-converter model GBS-8220 from Jamma Boards and the mini SLG worked like a charm once I got it set to 640x480!  Awesome!

-SP
Title: FS: mini SLG (scanline generator) is available! (Colorado, USA)
Post by: j2obin on March 11, 2013, 07:49:15 am
Received mine as well works great on my 60 in 1 with LCD. 

I made a support for the monitor vga cable connector and  scanline generator combo out of a scrap of wood.  I didn't like the flexing of the game board's VGA connector I saw without additional support.
Title: Re: FS: mini SLG (scanline generator) is available! (Colorado, USA)
Post by: CraftyMech on March 11, 2013, 11:52:55 am
Great to hear guys! The Neo-Geo is one of the few boards that the GBS-8200 seems to work pretty well with, I like that combo as well with a mini SLG  :cheers:

J2obin: Did the provided screws help for mating the SLG to the 60-in-1?
Title: Re: FS: mini SLG (scanline generator) is available! (Colorado, USA)
Post by: 1500points on March 12, 2013, 09:21:28 am
Hi Aaron,

I spent a couple hours toying with the slg screws Sunday.
Is it possible to get an alternate case that is more like the computer style D-sub cable connectors.

Here is what I ran into.
the monitor cable has screws too, but no threads. so the SLG screws had no purpose for connection.

the 60-1 connector had threaded pillars that were too shallow for the slg screws. they bottomed out before snugging the slg to the 60-1.
removing the threaded pillars left threads that were physically too far away for the length of the slg screws.

if the SlG was put inline with a typical d-sub monitor cable with normal monitor cable connections, that would make it super easy to install plus the cabling would give some flex to avoid flex damaging the pcb?

just ideas.  thank you, Aaron.
Title: Re: FS: mini SLG (scanline generator) is available! (Colorado, USA)
Post by: CraftyMech on March 12, 2013, 11:56:29 am
The case I'm using is actually a gender changer case, which after looking far and wide for suitable dsub case was the best option for the price point and form factor I wanted to achieve. Unfortunately the screws that come with the case are lacking, so I am looking at a new shell for the mini SLG in the next couple of months. I've considered looking at 3D printing as an option so I can have a custom case made. The unit cost would go up so it depends on if I can find distribution channels to justify the investment. Right now I'm projecting around 200 total units sold by the end of April, and I'd like to see the potential for an additional 200-300 before I went the custom case route.
Title: Re: FS: mini SLG (scanline generator) is available! (Colorado, USA)
Post by: 1500points on March 12, 2013, 12:18:04 pm
cool. thank you.

in the meantime I'm going to grab some of those cheap ebay d-sub cables and form fit an slg into the wiring.
any hints or warnings before I do surgery on one of my three?  ;)
Title: Re: FS: mini SLG (scanline generator) is available! (Colorado, USA)
Post by: CraftyMech on March 12, 2013, 02:59:19 pm
By surgery do you mean de-case, and remove the connectors on each end? I wouldn't necessarily recommend that, there are 6 connections for each connector, made with 30 awg wire. It is easy to get wires mixed up with the often non-standard wire colors in generic VGA cables. Instead, you could use those cheap cables on either side of the SLG to build an "SLG cable", and that wouldn't require opening the unit up. 
Title: Re: FS: mini SLG (scanline generator) is available! (Colorado, USA)
Post by: 1500points on March 12, 2013, 03:04:29 pm
gotcha. thank you

would you recommend adhering them with "goop" or silicone, or just tape the slg connectors to the cables to hold them tight?
Title: Re: FS: mini SLG (scanline generator) is available! (Colorado, USA)
Post by: CraftyMech on March 12, 2013, 03:39:35 pm
gotcha. thank you

would you recommend adhering them with "goop" or silicone, or just tape the slg connectors to the cables to hold them tight?

My glue of choice in this situation would be a little hot glue on the outside of the connectors once they have been mated (not before, you'll never get that glue out of the inside of the connectors). Hot glue is removable with some force, where as I believe silicone gets really hard (I could be thinking of another glue). But a little hot glue, and then tape over the mated connectors with electrical tape (or duct tape, f this is on the inside of your can though you may not mind). That combo should give you a very secure connection.
Title: FS: mini SLG (scanline generator) is available! (Colorado, USA)
Post by: FlatEarth on March 12, 2013, 03:45:20 pm
What are the best monitor native resolutions for this?  I am looking at a 4:3 LCD with a native res of 1600x1200, would that work well?
Title: Re: FS: mini SLG (scanline generator) is available! (Colorado, USA)
Post by: CraftyMech on March 12, 2013, 04:36:50 pm
What are the best monitor native resolutions for this?  I am looking at a 4:3 LCD with a native res of 1600x1200, would that work well?

1280x1024 and 1024x768 are the most common native resolutions that the mini has been used with successfully. I have not tested on a 1600x1200, perhaps one of the mini SLG's users can chime in with their own experience?
Title: Re: FS: mini SLG (scanline generator) is available! (Colorado, USA)
Post by: CraftyMech on March 18, 2013, 10:37:39 am
Speaking of resolutions, I figured out how to get the miniSLG to work with 800x600 & 1280x1024. If you have nVidia hardware, the driver software allows you create custom resolutions. Using 800x600 or 1280x1024 as a template, the sync polarity just needs to be switched from positive to negative, and then shazaam! Other drivers that allow you to create custom resolutions should work as well. The scanlines @ 1280x1024 were not as obvious, but I suppose on a large display (I tested on a 17") they would work well.
Title: Re: FS: mini SLG (scanline generator) is available! (Colorado, USA)
Post by: griffindodd on March 19, 2013, 05:33:21 pm
PM Sent, I needs me some lines!!  >:D
Title: Re: FS: mini SLG (scanline generator) is available! (Colorado, USA)
Post by: ridicrick on March 19, 2013, 07:35:42 pm
Your scanline generator works great!!! Check it out!

THE FIRST Fix It Felix Jr arcade tha'ts not Disney made. (http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=iGbIzYGIC2o#ws)
Title: Re: FS: mini SLG (scanline generator) is available! (Colorado, USA)
Post by: northerngames on March 20, 2013, 04:37:00 am
The mini SLG is sold in two versions:

•"PC" version for PC hardware running MAME and other emulators
•"ARCADE" version for XX-in-1 multi-boards, vintage consoles, and original arcade hardware (a VGA upscaler such as the GBS-8200 is required for 15k RGB sources)

I dont understand the difference here.

if your upscaling the 15k to vga using the upscaler then how does it differ from the pc version?

like I am using the pc in the cab with a lcd but also want to hook up a genesis through rgb to a vga converter.

does that mean I need 1 of each to do it?
Title: Re: FS: mini SLG (scanline generator) is available! (Colorado, USA)
Post by: CraftyMech on March 20, 2013, 11:33:45 am
if your upscaling the 15k to vga using the upscaler then how does it differ from the pc version?

like I am using the pc in the cab with a lcd but also want to hook up a genesis through rgb to a vga converter.

does that mean I need 1 of each to do it?

The PC version addresses an issue the mini SLG has with NVidia video cards due to signal voltage levels. What kind of video card do you have in your PC? If not Nvidia then there is a good chance the Arcade version will work for both of your setups.

Quote
Your scanline generator works great!!! Check it out!

Thanks for the video Ridicrick! Your Fix It Felix cab looks awesome  :cheers:
Title: Re: FS: mini SLG (scanline generator) is available! (Colorado, USA)
Post by: Jusensei on March 22, 2013, 06:28:41 am
Hi!

Your product seems quite good!
I intend to use it with a CGA to VGA scaler and a lot of vintage consoles (Atari 7800, Nes, Master System, MD, SupergrafX, Snes, N64, DC, PS2,...)
Has anybody tried that yet?
Title: FS: mini SLG (scanline generator) is available! (Colorado, USA)
Post by: cmoses on March 22, 2013, 12:00:19 pm
CraftyMech,

I have ran into an issue and I wanted to get your thoughts on and see if others have been affected. I am using MAME 0.147 and when I run games at 60hz then I get sound issues. The sound kind of stutters/skips occasionally during game play. I check the running percentage and it is usually 98-99%.

In order to use the mini SLG it needs to run at either 640x480@60 or 1024x768@60. When ever I set MAME to run at either of these resolutions and refresh rates I get the sound issue. I have done this with and without the mini SLG connected and the results are the same.

If I do not preset the refresh and instead select auto in the configuration.  The games and sound work fine. MAME automatically pics 70hz and I have no sound problems. Of course with the mini SLG connected I do not get any scanlines when running at 70hz.

I did some searching on the sound issue and found that he refresh rate is the cause. Most of these games ran at 31hz. In order to work with modern monitors they scale up. Well doubling 31hz gives you 62hz. When this is forced to run at 60hz it causes the sound issues. When it auto selects 70hz this is fine because it is faster.

Let me know what you think.


Sent from my iPad Mini using Tapatalk HD
Title: Re: FS: mini SLG (scanline generator) is available! (Colorado, USA)
Post by: CraftyMech on March 22, 2013, 12:34:52 pm
Hi!

Your product seems quite good!
I intend to use it with a CGA to VGA scaler and a lot of vintage consoles (Atari 7800, Nes, Master System, MD, SupergrafX, Snes, N64, DC, PS2,...)
Has anybody tried that yet?

Hi Jusensei, I do have several users who are using the mini SLG with vintage consoles and upscaler boards (Snes, Genesis, DC) and have really liked the results. Which upscaler board are you using?
Title: Re: FS: mini SLG (scanline generator) is available! (Colorado, USA)
Post by: CraftyMech on March 22, 2013, 12:47:41 pm
If I do not preset the refresh and instead select auto in the configuration.  The games and sound work fine. MAME automatically pics 70hz and I have no sound problems. Of course with the mini SLG connected I do not get any scanlines when running at 70hz.

Im not sure where you are getting 31hz from for a vertical refresh. Standard/Medium arcade resolution (CGA) used a 60hz vsync. Perhaps your thinking of horizontal refresh, which was 15k for CGA and is 31k for VGA.

Early arcade monitors were based on television tubes, but with RGB input and progressive scan. Televisions have historically had refresh rates of 60hz for NTSC, and 50hz for PAL.

Do you have nVidia hardware or a driver that lets you define custom resolutions? You can clone 640x480 @ 70hz and then switch the vsync polarity to be negative. That is really what he mini needs to work, a negative vsync. By switching the polarity you can get just about any resolution to work with the SLG.

Here are the specs for Standard/Medium res:


                  STANDARD RESOLUTION

          HORIZONTAL                    VERTICAL
Scan Frequency: 15.72 KHz    Scan Frequency: 60.0 Hz

                    MEDIUM RESOLUTION

          HORIZONTAL                    VERTICAL
Scan Frequency: 25.00 KHz    Scan Frequency: 60.0 Hz
Title: Re: FS: mini SLG (scanline generator) is available! (Colorado, USA)
Post by: Jusensei on March 22, 2013, 02:19:49 pm
Quote from: CraftyMech
Hi Jusensei, I do have several users who are using the mini SLG with vintage consoles and upscaler boards (Snes, Genesis, DC) and have really liked the results. Which upscaler board are you using?

I just ordered a cheap CGA to VGA Gonbes 8220 scaler, that i will use with the syncstrike from Arcade Forge from Germany.
My concern is about the refreshing rate, since some of my consoles are running in 50Hz, as I grew up here in France.
The good thing about playing here is : RGB for everyone since 1987. The bad thing is : 50 Hz for older systems (before 1994).

Since there seems to be a problem with 70 Hz, I don't know why there will be no problem with 50 Hz...

What do you think of that?
Title: Re: FS: mini SLG (scanline generator) is available! (Colorado, USA)
Post by: CraftyMech on March 22, 2013, 03:42:56 pm
The 70hz discussion is about PC video card refresh rates, so that does not effect you in this case. PC video cards are a completely different beast as there are lot of different implementations in the video drivers that vary across hardware. For instance, I have run MAME @ 70hz w/ the mini SLG and it worked just fine with my test hardware.

The Gonbes 8220 outputs 60hz VGA, if anything you might have an issue with PAL systems (50hz) and the way the Gonbes 8220 converts that input (you might experience screen tearing in side scrolling games). In any event, the Gonbes outputs 60hz VGA, and the mini SLG is 100% compatibile with that signal. I have a number of users over on the Shmups forum that have used a variety of scalers (including the GBS-8220) with vintage consoles. You might want to ask your PAL->GBS-8220 question over there though, as there are a number of European members who have experience with upscalers and PAL systems.
Title: Re: FS: mini SLG (scanline generator) is available! (Colorado, USA)
Post by: Jusensei on March 22, 2013, 06:17:48 pm
Ok, thanks for the technical stuff!
I intend to mod all of my 50Hz consoles in 60Hz anyway...

I sent you a message.

Can't wait to see what you will do about that new scaler of yours...

Title: Re: FS: mini SLG (scanline generator) is available! (Colorado, USA)
Post by: CraftyMech on March 23, 2013, 01:29:01 pm
Thanks for your order Jusensei!

I've been working a lot of hours the last couple weeks on my upscaler board, making good progress. Hopefully I'll have a demonstration video that I'll be able to upload soon.
Title: Re: FS: mini SLG (scanline generator) is available! (Colorado, USA)
Post by: Chiefcob on March 24, 2013, 03:16:37 am
Hi Craftymech
I seem to have a problem which you might be able to solve.I have your mini slg plugged in an when I start my computer up i get scan lines as windows starts up.Then it goes back to 1024x768 res.I run hyperspin all in 1024x768 and when I select a game i can seem to get scan lines? do I have to alter something in mame to achieve scanlines?
Thanks.
Title: FS: mini SLG (scanline generator) is available! (Colorado, USA)
Post by: cmoses on March 24, 2013, 11:32:39 am
Check the frequency that your resolution is running in. The mini SLG works only ons negative vsync resolutions. Both 1024x768@60hz and 640x480@60hz are negative. So you are probably running at 1024x768 but not at 60hz. You can use this to your advantage if you don't want scan line on your front end.


Sent from my iPad Mini using Tapatalk HD
Title: Re: FS: mini SLG (scanline generator) is available! (Colorado, USA)
Post by: CraftyMech on March 24, 2013, 12:50:14 pm
Hi ChiefCob,

As Cmoses suggested, check your resolution settings (right-click on Desktop->Screen Resolution). If your running @ 1024x768, there will be several choices available for refresh rates (60hz, 70hz, 75hz, etc.). Select 1024x768 @ 60hz, and click "Apply". The resolution setting will switch, and you should now see scanlines on your display, click ok on the popup that asks you to accept the change and you are all set.

Title: Re: FS: mini SLG (scanline generator) is available! (Colorado, USA)
Post by: Chiefcob on March 25, 2013, 12:35:57 am
My screen was running at 70hz changed it to 60hz and it works well with scan lines and all!
Thanks!
Is there a way of running it so my front end runs at 70hz and mame games@60hz for the scan lines
Title: Re: FS: mini SLG (scanline generator) is available! (Colorado, USA)
Post by: CraftyMech on March 25, 2013, 01:05:43 am
Good to hear Chiefcob :)

I'm not familiar with Hyperspin, but if you can choose what resolution the front-end runs in, you should be able to choose the 70hz mode. Another alternative would be to run your front-end at a higher resolution, like 1280x1024, which will result in a normal display without scanlines, and then run the games @ 1024x768 60hz. In Mala, there is a configuration tab for choosing what resolution to run the front end in, does anyone with Hyperspin experience want to chime in on how to set the front-end resolution?
Title: FS: mini SLG (scanline generator) is available! (Colorado, USA)
Post by: cmoses on March 25, 2013, 12:10:03 pm
My screen was running at 70hz changed it to 60hz and it works well with scan lines and all!
Thanks!
Is there a way of running it so my front end runs at 70hz and mame games@60hz for the scan lines

Chiefcob,

Set your windows resolution to 1024x768@70hz. In HyperSpin check the Full Screen option. This way your windows and HS will be running without scanlines.

Go in to your mame.ini file and go to the Per-Window Video Options section. Edit the 'resolution' line, it will probably say auto. Change it to '1024x768@60'. This will make MAME run at the right resolution and frequency for you to get scan lines.


Sent from my iPad Mini using Tapatalk HD
Title: Re: FS: mini SLG (scanline generator) is available! (Colorado, USA)
Post by: 1500points on March 26, 2013, 11:04:05 am
can you give exact details on the entry in mame.ini.

i tried 1024x768@60 in the resolution section for mame .148 and it made mame look huge so i could only see the top left 1/4 of screen on the monitor.

i have yet to figure out how to get a mini slg to work on my current laptop/2nd monitor setup.
Title: Re: FS: mini SLG (scanline generator) is available! (Colorado, USA)
Post by: southpaw13 on March 27, 2013, 02:29:30 am
Hello, I just wanted to let you know that I got it working with a Jrok Williams board using an LCD monitor.  At first I had the H-sync and V-sync hooked up and no scanlines.  So then I disconnected both and just went with the video sync and it worked!  So just to clairify my connections:

Red
Green
Blue
Ground
Video Sync
(this works)

-SP
Title: Re: FS: mini SLG (scanline generator) is available! (Colorado, USA)
Post by: CraftyMech on March 27, 2013, 07:34:45 pm
Awesome Southpaw!

Does the JROK have a VGA out, or are you running it through an upscaler where you were able to adjust which sync line you were using for input?

I'm psyched that you found that work-around, there have been several people who have asked about the JROK Williams and the mini SLG.
Title: Re: FS: mini SLG (scanline generator) is available! (Colorado, USA)
Post by: southpaw13 on March 27, 2013, 10:15:08 pm
No upscaler.  Running wires straight from the board.  Changed the jumper to VGA.  It's really not a work around for LCD monitors.  This is the method that Jrok suggested in his thread on KLOV :D

There is no VGA out on the board, you run it all through the Jamma harness.

-SP
Title: Re: FS: mini SLG (scanline generator) is available! (Colorado, USA)
Post by: 1500points on March 28, 2013, 10:54:35 am
can you give specific setup you are using.
I am using the exact setup shown by JROK, below. and the slg does not work with my JROK board.

(http://jrok.com/hardware/wsf/VGA/vga_d_front.jpg)
(http://jrok.com/hardware/wsf/VGA/vga_d_back_top.jpg)
(http://jrok.com/hardware/wsf/VGA/vga_d_back_bot.jpg)
Title: Re: FS: mini SLG (scanline generator) is available! (Colorado, USA)
Post by: southpaw13 on March 28, 2013, 02:42:17 pm
Hello, don't use the H-sync or V-sync jumper on the board.  Just use the video sync through the jamma harness (pin 13).  I am using a vision pro LCD and just took a pic of it on a regular computer LCD.
Title: Re: FS: mini SLG (scanline generator) is available! (Colorado, USA)
Post by: 1500points on March 28, 2013, 02:56:43 pm
Here is a pic of my JROK board, are you doing something different than this looks?
I have a 17in Dell LCD, and both the black and silver SLGs. neither creates scan lines.

EDIT- just tried both the chrome and the black slg. the chrome turns the screen a bluish hue but no scan lines. the black one seems to stop the signal altogether from going into the monitor.  there are no resolution settings in the dell onscreen adjustments.

(http://i137.photobucket.com/albums/q211/m5h5m/5222DAFC-B471-4AF6-A494-969CE743650F-4893-00000A1DFC88D247_zps1d71e26d.jpg)
Title: Re: FS: mini SLG (scanline generator) is available! (Colorado, USA)
Post by: CraftyMech on March 28, 2013, 04:13:15 pm
Perhaps configure the jumper so neither Hsync or Vsync are selected? I'm not familiar with the JROK board so unfortunately I'm not sure what is different about your setup vs. Southpaw's.
Title: Re: FS: mini SLG (scanline generator) is available! (Colorado, USA)
Post by: dmarcum99 on March 28, 2013, 04:17:20 pm
Hey Crafty!!

I just got around hooking up my 60-in-1 to my HP LP1965 lcd monitor.  Using your mini-SLG, it worked wonders on the overall gaming experience.  It worked better than I expected.  Here's a couple of pics...
Title: Re: FS: mini SLG (scanline generator) is available! (Colorado, USA)
Post by: southpaw13 on March 28, 2013, 07:39:05 pm
Looks the same, I can't tell if you have something on the v-sync and h-sync, mine is not attached.  We have the same board 1.1.  Maybe try just running h-sync to pin 13.  I did have a strange problem when using a VGA arcade monitor.  When I hooked up the board for the first time, the screen was rolling.  I could only get it to stop so I hooked up the v-sync.  When I tried hooking up both the h-sync and the v-sync and the screen got all messed up.  So to get it running on a vga arcade monitor, I used video sync and v-sync.  Now, when I hooked up the LCD through this set up, no scan-lines.  So I disconnected the v-sync and everything worked.  Not sure why.

-SP
Title: Re: FS: mini SLG (scanline generator) is available! (Colorado, USA)
Post by: CraftyMech on March 29, 2013, 12:44:47 am
Quote
I just got around hooking up my 60-in-1 to my HP LP1965 lcd monitor.  Using your mini-SLG, it worked wonders on the overall gaming experience.  It worked better than I expected.  Here's a couple of pics...

Awesome dmarcum! Thanks for posting the pics :)
Title: Re: FS: mini SLG (scanline generator) is available! (Colorado, USA)
Post by: southpaw13 on March 29, 2013, 03:34:07 pm
Hello, just hooked up a second cab with another Jrok board using the same wiring instructions and we still have scanlines!  I just wanted to check to see if there was something qwerky going on.  Scanlines on!
Title: Re: FS: mini SLG (scanline generator) is available! (Colorado, USA)
Post by: 1500points on March 30, 2013, 07:44:08 pm
I have another jrok cab with a different monitor, will try out the slgs this weekend.

UPDATE- tried the cab with an HP monitor. same version JROK, wired per the JROK images above, no jumpers on syncs on board, just the jamma wiring.  black slg blocks the signal altogether from reaching monitor. chrome slg created no scan lines.

you must be doing something different with your video wiring than exactly what JROK has pictured?
Title: Re: FS: mini SLG (scanline generator) is available! (Colorado, USA)
Post by: southpaw13 on April 03, 2013, 12:36:51 am
Nope, followed the same.  I have what I call the second generation SLG.  When the green hue color was fixed.  Only other thing it could be is the jamma harness itself.  I am using the one from Jammaboards.

-SP

Title: Re: FS: mini SLG (scanline generator) is available! (Colorado, USA)
Post by: CraftyMech on April 03, 2013, 01:57:21 am
Nope, followed the same.  I have what I call the second generation SLG.  When the green hue color was fixed.  Only other thing it could be is the jamma harness itself.  I am using the one from Jammaboards.

-SP

1500points- The "second generation" Southpaw mentioned would be the black unit you have. The silver one is the original version, which I now call the "Arcade" version.

Southpaw- Just to make sure I'm understanding right, you are connecting pin 13 (solder side, may be labeled P or B13) of the Jamma harness to VGA pin 13 (Hsync) of the VGA connector? And pin 14 (Vsync) is unconnected.
Title: Re: FS: mini SLG (scanline generator) is available! (Colorado, USA)
Post by: southpaw13 on April 03, 2013, 09:11:06 am
Using pin 13 on female connector to pin 13 backside of jamma harness that is also called the Video Sync on the Jrok board.  For pin 14 front of jamma I have the red,blue,green grounds going to it (but it also work with just the red ground) This is also pin 6 on the female connector.  Also called the Video Ground on the Jrok Board.  Pin 14 back of jamma is hooked to the Service Switch on the Jrok board.

No H-sync or V-sync from the Jrok board.

-SP
Title: Re: FS: mini SLG (scanline generator) is available! (Colorado, USA)
Post by: 1500points on April 03, 2013, 01:43:08 pm
OK, I just double checked the JROK setup with a Dell monitor.
It is setup exactly as below.
The silver slg makes the screen bluish/greenish with no scan lines
the black slg blocks all signal from reaching monitor.
there is NO jumper on the jrok board itself for the + or - sync, nor has their been.
My jamma harness did have the "video ground" running into the general jamma grounds, so i moved it to jamma pin14, but that made no difference in outcome.

D-Sub pin 1  to Jamma pin 12 (red)
D-Sub pin 2 to Jamma pin N (green)
D-Sub pin 3 Jamma pin 13 (blue)
D-Sub pin 6 to Jamma pin 14 (video gnd)
D-Sub pin 13 to Jamma pin P (video sync)

your labeling above is slightly different but I think we are talking about the same thing. the video gnd on jamma pin14 is directly across from the service wire.
Title: Re: FS: mini SLG (scanline generator) is available! (Colorado, USA)
Post by: southpaw13 on April 03, 2013, 09:42:51 pm
Yes, you are right.  That is exactly how I wired it.  I am clueless to why it does not work.  I just received my Jroks from the last batch he put together.  I don't know if that matters. The chip on the board says v1.11s.

-SP
Title: Re: FS: mini SLG (scanline generator) is available! (Colorado, USA)
Post by: CraftyMech on April 03, 2013, 09:47:26 pm
My only suggestion might be to connect the Jamma video ground to both pin 5 & pin 6 on the D-sub connector. The mini SLG internally connects to pin 5,6,7, and 8 for the source ground pins. 6-8 are the grounds for r,g,b and 5 is a separate ground for the connection. Not sure if that will help, but it is worth a shot.
Title: Re: FS: mini SLG (scanline generator) is available! (Colorado, USA)
Post by: southpaw13 on April 04, 2013, 08:23:24 pm
I am not trying to rub it in, but I tested an ArcadeSD board and got scanlines too. 

Just testing,
-SP
Title: Re: FS: mini SLG (scanline generator) is available! (Colorado, USA)
Post by: CraftyMech on April 04, 2013, 11:07:14 pm
That is awesome news Southpaw! So I'm assuming the same wiring, with Jamma video sync connected to pin 13 on the Dsub, and vsync pin 14 left unconnected?
Title: Re: FS: mini SLG (scanline generator) is available! (Colorado, USA)
Post by: 1500points on April 05, 2013, 10:32:33 am
I'm guessing this has more to do with a specific monitor model at this point.
Title: Re: FS: mini SLG (scanline generator) is available! (Colorado, USA)
Post by: CraftyMech on April 05, 2013, 12:32:12 pm
I invited one of my other users who has an ArcadeSD to check out Southpaw's work around. I wish I had a unit to test with as well, but the ArcadeSD is a little pricy for my budget.
Title: Re: FS: mini SLG (scanline generator) is available! (Colorado, USA)
Post by: southpaw13 on April 05, 2013, 08:46:22 pm
Yes, same wiring and more testing done today!  I decided to take the ArcadeSD and use the VGA port instead of the jamma harness to run the video.  The mini SLG did NOT produce scan lines.  I am going to contact PhoenixArcade to see what the actual pins produce out of the VGA port.

So to repeat:
1.  Hooked ArcadeSD through the jamma harness and got scanlines.
2.  Hooked ArcadeSD through the VGA port and did NOT get scanlines.

More to come,
-SP
Title: Re: FS: mini SLG (scanline generator) is available! (Colorado, USA)
Post by: southpaw13 on April 06, 2013, 08:05:04 am
OK, got it confirmed the the VGA port is using pin 13 as a h-sync and pin 14 as a v-sync.  I know from testing that the mini SLG does not like the v-sync signal.  (not sure on the H-sync) So to get scanlines to work on the ArcadeSD you will need to go through the jamma harness to get the video sync signal.

-SP
Title: Re: FS: mini SLG (scanline generator) is available! (Colorado, USA)
Post by: CraftyMech on April 10, 2013, 11:14:00 am
Hey everyone, I will be discontinuing international shipping at the end of April.

I have really appreciated the overseas orders, which have accounted for 1/4 of the 140 units I've sold. However, in order to keep shipping costs reasonable, I send those packages first class, which requires me to drive to the Post Office and wait in a glacially slow moving line. I am working hard to finish my CGA->VGA converter project, and so I need to reclaim some time to dedicate to wrapping up my new product.

I will continue to build and sell the mini SLG domestically, but if you live outside the US and have been thinking of ordering a mini SLG, make sure you order by the end of the month!
 
Title: Re: FS: mini SLG (scanline generator) is available! (Colorado, USA)
Post by: jmike on April 10, 2013, 01:29:20 pm
PM sent.


 :cheers:
Title: Re: FS: mini SLG (scanline generator) is available! (Colorado, USA)
Post by: MTPPC on April 10, 2013, 10:19:11 pm
Crafty, I just got around to implementing my SLG on a hyperspin setup. I leave the hyperspin at a resolution that isn't affected by the slg. Then I set all my emulators to run at 640x480. It is a beautiful thing. Thank you very much and I think your product is worth a lot more than you charge.
Title: Re: FS: mini SLG (scanline generator) is available! (Colorado, USA)
Post by: CraftyMech on April 11, 2013, 10:37:56 am
Awesome MTPPC, great to hear!
Title: Re: FS: mini SLG (scanline generator) is available! (Colorado, USA)
Post by: solid187 on April 12, 2013, 04:09:08 pm
Just installed mine today.  Wow...what a great little product.  I am very picky about scanlines and how they look, and so far out of everything I've tried, this is by far the best.  When used with a WG D9200 it works fabulously.  Thanks Crafty!! 
Title: Re: FS: mini SLG (scanline generator) is available! (Colorado, USA)
Post by: 1500points on April 13, 2013, 01:07:02 pm
Hi Crafty,

I tried your idea of using the extra d-sub cable. duct taped the slg inline and it works great.
the 60-1 scan lines look so nice on an LCD. thank you.
Title: Re: FS: mini SLG (scanline generator) is available! (Colorado, USA)
Post by: CraftyMech on April 14, 2013, 01:30:39 am
Hi Crafty,

I tried your idea of using the extra d-sub cable. duct taped the slg inline and it works great.
the 60-1 scan lines look so nice on an LCD. thank you.

Glad that worked! I've been thinking about the next iteration of the product, and am looking at an even smaller form factor that would be half the length, and provide the proper posts on the connectors for securely attaching to a monitor cable. I still have quite a lot of the current pcbs in stock, so it will probably be June/July before I would release version 2.

I didn't think I could make the mini SLG any smaller, but after working with SMD chips for my CGA->VGA board, I'm feeling much better about switching to SMD for the mini SLG as well, which would reduce the pcb size by 50%.
Title: Re: FS: mini SLG (scanline generator) is available! (Colorado, USA)
Post by: ebarlow99 on April 22, 2013, 12:18:14 pm
ordered! can't wait to get mine! thanks
Title: Re: FS: mini SLG (scanline generator) is available! (Colorado, USA)
Post by: CraftyMech on April 22, 2013, 01:09:37 pm
ordered! can't wait to get mine! thanks

Dropped your package off at the Post Office this morning, let me know how the mini SLG works with your setup!
Title: Re: FS: mini SLG (scanline generator) is available! (Colorado, USA)
Post by: jmike on April 22, 2013, 02:27:18 pm
Got mine on Thursday, and tested it this weekend.   

Very cool!



 :cheers:
Title: Re: FS: mini SLG (scanline generator) is available! (Colorado, USA)
Post by: Malenko on April 22, 2013, 08:05:54 pm
Crafty, Im about to post a project thread (I'll edit this post when Im done), do you want more pictures in here? I changed my set up and now I'm running the SLG with a Dreamcast running a VGA box to a 20" 4:3 LCD
Title: Re: FS: mini SLG (scanline generator) is available! (Colorado, USA)
Post by: CraftyMech on April 22, 2013, 08:41:25 pm
Sure Malenko, pics are always great  :cheers:

Great to hear jmike, glad the minis work nicely for your setups!
Title: Re: FS: mini SLG (scanline generator) is available! (Colorado, USA)
Post by: Malenko on April 22, 2013, 09:39:40 pm
Here is a without SLG shot:
(http://forum.arcadecontrols.com/index.php?action=dlattach;topic=103207.0;attach=288163;image)

VS

a shot WITH the SLG:
(http://forum.arcadecontrols.com/index.php?action=dlattach;topic=103207.0;attach=288151;image)

and heres one of the better pix I took:
(http://forum.arcadecontrols.com/index.php?action=dlattach;topic=103207.0;attach=288159;image)



Is there a way to make one with an off off switch lol? some of the DC games look better via VGA without the scan lines, honestly it only takes me 10 seconds to remove /re-add it.
Title: Re: FS: mini SLG (scanline generator) is available! (Colorado, USA)
Post by: HaRuMaN on April 25, 2013, 01:04:19 pm
Hey, I need one for my Dreamcast, so, I'd like to buy the same one Malenko has.  Please PM me with price / PayPal address.  :cheers:
Title: Re: FS: mini SLG (scanline generator) is available! (Colorado, USA)
Post by: deadpool18 on April 28, 2013, 02:01:59 pm
Do you have to enable vsync for this to work? When I do, my sound stutters in mame.  Right now I have a netbook with vga out to a 19" CRT pc monitor. What settings would I need to have in Mame to make this work?
Title: Re: FS: mini SLG (scanline generator) is available! (Colorado, USA)
Post by: CraftyMech on April 28, 2013, 06:30:44 pm
Do you have to enable vsync for this to work? When I do, my sound stutters in mame.  Right now I have a netbook with vga out to a 19" CRT pc monitor. What settings would I need to have in Mame to make this work?

For MAME, the resolution needs to be set to 640x480/1024x768 @ 60hz, with vsync enabled on the output signal. If I remember I have had one user who had that audio stuttering problem @ 70hz, so try 60hz for the vertical refresh and see if that solves the audio stuttering issue.
Title: Re: FS: mini SLG (scanline generator) is available! (Colorado, USA)
Post by: Malenko on April 29, 2013, 10:05:06 am
last picture threadjack, I promise! (well till I get a good pic of NesterDC running)

but man, the genesis emulator running on dreamcast looks AMAZING with the SLG:
(http://forum.arcadecontrols.com/index.php?action=dlattach;topic=103207.0;attach=288524;image)
Title: Re: FS: mini SLG (scanline generator) is available! (Colorado, USA)
Post by: CraftyMech on April 29, 2013, 10:52:53 am
Thanks for the pictures Malenko, the Genesis emulator pic looks awesome!
Title: Re: FS: mini SLG (scanline generator) is available! (Colorado, USA)
Post by: deadpool18 on May 03, 2013, 01:51:27 pm
Another happy customer! Got mine and it works great  :)

Might have to buy more now...
Title: Re: FS: mini SLG (scanline generator) is available! (Colorado, USA)
Post by: HaRuMaN on May 03, 2013, 01:58:33 pm
Got mine, haven't checked it out yet.   :cheers:
Title: Re: FS: mini SLG (scanline generator) is available! (Colorado, USA)
Post by: northerngames on May 06, 2013, 11:45:16 am
if i run it for 640x480 can I disable 1024x768.

would preffer 640 for classic and 1024 for current is why I ask and if not can a switch be modded in?
Title: Re: FS: mini SLG (scanline generator) is available! (Colorado, USA)
Post by: Malenko on May 06, 2013, 12:18:46 pm
I'd like an off switch for mine (even if I have to buy another) just because I want it on for some DC games and off for others.
Title: Re: FS: mini SLG (scanline generator) is available! (Colorado, USA)
Post by: CraftyMech on May 06, 2013, 03:54:35 pm
if i run it for 640x480 can I disable 1024x768.

would preffer 640 for classic and 1024 for current is why I ask and if not can a switch be modded in?

The mini SLG will add scanlines to 640x480 & 1024x768, but if you set your resolution at 1280x1024 for cases where you don't want scanlines, then the display will be normal.

Modding in a switch is a tricky proposition for a couple of reasons. The snap case the mini comes in is really tough to open without damaging it, and adding a switch would involve cutting a trace on the pcb. For the next generation of the design I am planning to provide solder points for a switch, so that modding the mini would be much easier.
Title: Re: FS: mini SLG (scanline generator) is available! (Colorado, USA)
Post by: Malenko on May 06, 2013, 04:35:12 pm
If you make one with a toggle switch, I'll buy one. button on the device or leads to tap and Im game. I love this thing. I even linked to this thread in my DC bartop build.
Title: Re: FS: mini SLG (scanline generator) is available! (Colorado, USA)
Post by: CraftyMech on May 06, 2013, 06:30:11 pm
Another happy customer! Got mine and it works great  :)

Might have to buy more now...

Great to hear! Just let me know if you need another one ;)
Title: Re: FS: mini SLG (scanline generator) is available! (Colorado, USA)
Post by: northerngames on May 06, 2013, 11:13:41 pm
if i run it for 640x480 can I disable 1024x768.

would preffer 640 for classic and 1024 for current is why I ask and if not can a switch be modded in?

The mini SLG will add scanlines to 640x480 & 1024x768, but if you set your resolution at 1280x1024 for cases where you don't want scanlines, then the display will be normal.

Modding in a switch is a tricky proposition for a couple of reasons. The snap case the mini comes in is really tough to open without damaging it, and adding a switch would involve cutting a trace on the pcb. For the next generation of the design I am planning to provide solder points for a switch, so that modding the mini would be much easier.

no trace or case stands a chance here guy  :cheers:

dremel and hot glue will fix that problem.

anyhow the problem with that is it is not a common res or standard res for most xp games that use 1024x768 "only" wich the majority of the decent xp games are like that so that does not do justice other then a custom desktop res really.

I plan on grabbing one and if it is possible I will add the switch but dont want to step on toes if you have a revised version to be realeased.

but if you dont mind sharing what needs to be done to add the switch I could offer it as a service to those that are interested but I dont want to take anything from you or leech off your product but personally I would add the switch to mine off the get becuase it is a must for the somewhat modern games.
Title: Re: FS: mini SLG (scanline generator) is available! (Colorado, USA)
Post by: CraftyMech on May 07, 2013, 02:14:42 am
There is one option I forgot to mention. If you are able to create a custom resolution (such as with the Nvidia drivers), then you just need to clone 1024x768, and change the vsync polarity from negative to positive. The mini won't produce scanlines if the vsync polarity is +.

If your video drivers don't support custom resolutions out of the box, I believe there is also software that can achieve the same result.
Title: Re: FS: mini SLG (scanline generator) is available! (Colorado, USA)
Post by: orion on May 10, 2013, 11:34:02 am
In the early days of making a HTPC, the program powerstrip was a must. I haven't used it in years, but it should work (or an older version probably will) I plan on buying one of your scanline genrators for my 60in1 at some point in the future.... basically when I am able to get my wife to let me spend some $$$$! :D

http://entechtaiwan.com/util/ps.shtm (http://entechtaiwan.com/util/ps.shtm)

http://www.ramelectronics.net/powerstrip.aspx (http://www.ramelectronics.net/powerstrip.aspx)

Title: Re: FS: mini SLG (scanline generator) is available! (Colorado, USA)
Post by: CraftyMech on May 10, 2013, 12:24:43 pm
In the early days of making a HTPC, the program powerstrip was a must. I haven't used it in years, but it should work (or an older version probably will) I plan on buying one of your scanline genrators for my 60in1 at some point in the future.... basically when I am able to get my wife to let me spend some $$$$! :D

http://entechtaiwan.com/util/ps.shtm (http://entechtaiwan.com/util/ps.shtm)

http://www.ramelectronics.net/powerstrip.aspx (http://www.ramelectronics.net/powerstrip.aspx)

Thanks for the links Orion. The mini works great with 60-in-1 boards, I have a unit here with your name on it whenever you are ready!
Title: Re: FS: mini SLG (scanline generator) is available! (Colorado, USA)
Post by: yotsuya on May 10, 2013, 12:50:17 pm
Thanks for the links Orion. The mini works great with 60-in-1 boards, I have a unit here with your name on it whenever you are ready!

Hey, how come I didn't have the option to get my personalized like that!!!!!  :soapbox:





 >:D
Title: Re: FS: mini SLG (scanline generator) is available! (Colorado, USA)
Post by: orion on May 10, 2013, 02:32:36 pm


Thanks for the links Orion. The mini works great with 60-in-1 boards, I have a unit here with your name on it whenever you are ready!

Your welcome! I hope I get approval for the funds soon. Pacman not having the scan lines on the 60 in 1 is quite noticeable with it sitting right next to my restored Pac. Based on the screen shots it should make it look pretty much authentic.

Thanks for the links Orion. The mini works great with 60-in-1 boards, I have a unit here with your name on it whenever you are ready!

Hey, how come I didn't have the option to get my personalized like that!!!!!  :soapbox:

There is a kit for that you know....


http://www.dremel.com/en-us/tools/Pages/ToolDetail.aspx?pid=290-01 (http://www.dremel.com/en-us/tools/Pages/ToolDetail.aspx?pid=290-01)





 >:D
Title: Re: FS: mini SLG (scanline generator) is available! (Colorado, USA)
Post by: ebarlow99 on May 11, 2013, 09:46:10 am
Just added mine and works awesome! I will be getting more soon
For my 60-1 builds!!
Title: Re: FS: mini SLG (scanline generator) is available! (Colorado, USA)
Post by: southpaw13 on May 11, 2013, 10:54:51 am
Hey CraftyMech, I think it's time to build a unit for standalone arcade machines.  For everyone who has to move to lcd's and still at cga resolution.  Maybe an inline unit that hooks up to G,R,B, video sync and ground.  There is a need for this.

Thanks,
Sp
Title: Re: FS: mini SLG (scanline generator) is available! (Colorado, USA)
Post by: chopperthedog on May 11, 2013, 12:59:36 pm
Hey CraftyMech, I think it's time to build a unit for standalone arcade machines.  For everyone who has to move to lcd's and still at cga resolution.  Maybe an inline unit that hooks up to G,R,B, video sync and ground.  There is a need for this.

Thanks,
Sp
http://forum.arcadecontrols.com/index.php/topic,131823.0.html (http://forum.arcadecontrols.com/index.php/topic,131823.0.html)


good day.
Title: Re: FS: mini SLG (scanline generator) is available! (Colorado, USA)
Post by: southpaw13 on May 11, 2013, 01:30:23 pm
No.  Don't want to upscale.  The replacement arcade lcd's can produce cga resolution. Just need to add the scan lines.
Title: Re: FS: mini SLG (scanline generator) is available! (Colorado, USA)
Post by: CraftyMech on May 11, 2013, 02:12:21 pm
The only issues I think would be needing to separate the composite sync, and the different connector ends. Otherwise the design is the same, and the different horizontal frequencies of CGA vs. VGA would not be a factor. Something to think about for the future!
Title: Re: FS: mini SLG (scanline generator) is available! (Colorado, USA)
Post by: CraftyMech on May 13, 2013, 10:28:09 pm
No.  Don't want to upscale.  The replacement arcade lcd's can produce cga resolution. Just need to add the scan lines.

I just realized something, with CGA you only have around 240 lines, and if you produce scanlines, the display will be down to 120 lines at 100% brightness. Versus with a VGA display, where usually the 240 line source has been doubled to 480, so with scanlines there is no real loss of display resolution.
Title: Re: FS: mini SLG (scanline generator) is available! (Colorado, USA)
Post by: CraftyMech on May 24, 2013, 02:30:43 pm
200 units sold! Thanks everyone for the support of this project, scanlines for everyone!
Title: Re: FS: mini SLG (scanline generator) is available! (Colorado, USA)
Post by: jk40001 on May 24, 2013, 05:27:39 pm
I would love to have one too, but I am Europe based. Any chance to get it posted to my address?
Title: Re: FS: mini SLG (scanline generator) is available! (Colorado, USA)
Post by: blashyrk on May 26, 2013, 03:53:38 am
Got mine a little while back for my arcade cab project, just got around to test it and it works like a charm :)
The only problem now is that i want to buy another one for my vertical cab build, but no international shipping is available at the moment :(
Title: Re: FS: mini SLG (scanline generator) is available! (Colorado, USA)
Post by: mike boss on May 28, 2013, 07:51:27 pm
Just read about these now, great price.
I know they are not at this time available to Canada, but I paid quite a bit more for two TSLG (Toodles Scanline Generator).
Wish I had seen these at the time !
Title: Re: FS: mini SLG (scanline generator) is available! (Colorado, USA)
Post by: CraftyMech on May 28, 2013, 10:26:07 pm
Just read about these now, great price.
I know they are not at this time available to Canada, but I paid quite a bit more for two TSLG (Toodles Scanline Generator).
Wish I had seen these at the time !

I'm looking into Stamps.com, I believe I can print International First Class labels through that service. If I can print the label & customs form, then it saves me a trip to the Post Office and I'll be able to offer International shipping again.
Title: Re: FS: mini SLG (scanline generator) is available! (Colorado, USA)
Post by: mike boss on May 29, 2013, 05:40:27 pm
I'll keep coming back looking for info.
I can see why it was a PITA always filling out forms, etc.
One thing that does however suck is the USPS is usually quite good to us in Canada.
Often stuff does not arrive with any hidden fees, etc.
Title: Re: FS: mini SLG (scanline generator) is available! (Colorado, USA)
Post by: Yvan256 on June 13, 2013, 11:15:52 am
I'll keep coming back looking for info.
I can see why it was a PITA always filling out forms, etc.
One thing that does however suck is the USPS is usually quite good to us in Canada.
Often stuff does not arrive with any hidden fees, etc.

I just received three small custom PCBs from OSHPark, I didn't pay anything for the shipping and there was not any customs fees either. The shipping time from Oregon, USA to Québec, Canada was around 10-12 days.

Crafty could ask Laen about which service he uses, the shipping label is all digital and has a built-in "Customs declaration CN22" on it.
Title: Re: FS: mini SLG (scanline generator) is available! (Colorado, USA)
Post by: mike boss on June 14, 2013, 11:22:17 pm
Cool.
I'd be interested to know.
As I said I like USPS as I've had good luck in the past.
I'm actually waiting on some KADE's to arrive via USPS. It's been about 2 weeks which I find odd...but thats a different topic.

I'll keep looking back for info.
Title: Re: FS: mini SLG (scanline generator) is available! (Colorado, USA)
Post by: CraftyMech on June 15, 2013, 01:02:21 am
Hey Mike,

I've signed up with Stamps.con and will be sending out a few international shipments this weekend to test the service. Shipment will be via USPS. Send me a PM with what you would like to order (PC/MAME or Arcade version) and I'll send you a PayPal invoice!
Title: Re: FS: mini SLG (scanline generator) is available! (Colorado, USA)
Post by: CraftyMech on June 17, 2013, 01:36:17 am
I have officially resumed shipping internationally :)

Rates are $9 Canada, and $14 Europe.
Title: Re: FS: mini SLG (scanline generator) is available! (Colorado, USA)
Post by: mike boss on June 17, 2013, 01:16:09 pm
Thanks for the info!
Thats $22 + $9 USD to ship via USPS into Canada ?

Title: Re: FS: mini SLG (scanline generator) is available! (Colorado, USA)
Post by: CraftyMech on June 17, 2013, 02:08:18 pm
Mike,

That is right, so the total for a single unit would be $31. For the 2-pack would be $49.

Let me know what you are interested in and I'll get your order started!
Title: Re: FS: mini SLG (scanline generator) is available! (Colorado, USA)
Post by: newmantjn on June 21, 2013, 11:13:18 am
I'm looking to buy one of these.  You could invoice me at packer dot fan at comcast dot net if you like.

This is my first post on this forum, so I'm not sure how the PM thing would go, but you can try that if it is easier.

Than you.  I'm looking forward to having scan lines.
Title: Re: FS: mini SLG (scanline generator) is available! (Colorado, USA)
Post by: CraftyMech on June 21, 2013, 12:39:41 pm
I'm looking to buy one of these.  You could invoice me at packer dot fan at comcast dot net if you like.

This is my first post on this forum, so I'm not sure how the PM thing would go, but you can try that if it is easier.

Than you.  I'm looking forward to having scan lines.

Sure thing! I sent you an email asking about the setup you are looking to use the mini SLG with (PC/MAME, consoles, arcade hardware, etc..).
Title: Re: FS: mini SLG (scanline generator) is available! (Colorado, USA)
Post by: mike boss on June 21, 2013, 07:47:20 pm
Payment sent for a 2 pack.
Using these and the KADE units I bought I'm looking to do some cool projects !
Title: Re: FS: mini SLG (scanline generator) is available! (Colorado, USA)
Post by: Dizzle on June 25, 2013, 01:10:14 am
Ordered 3 of these and received them already.

I'm running older computers with onboard video -- and thus, slightly older versions of Mame, so HLSL isn't an option for me.

These work great with my 19" LCDs.  640x480 is definitely the way to go.  These honestly work better than I anticipated -- most of the screenshots I've seen don't really do it justice. 

Another satisfied customer!  Thanks!!
Title: Re: FS: mini SLG (scanline generator) is available! (Colorado, USA)
Post by: CraftyMech on June 25, 2013, 02:10:07 am
Great to hear Dizzle, thanks for the feedback!
Title: Re: FS: mini SLG (scanline generator) is available! (Colorado, USA)
Post by: mike boss on June 26, 2013, 11:05:12 pm
I'm looking forward to getting mine.
I'll be sure to post feedback.
Title: Re: FS: mini SLG (scanline generator) is available! (Colorado, USA)
Post by: newmantjn on July 06, 2013, 06:42:44 am
I installed mine on a 60-1 and I am very happy with the results.  I will buy one of these again for sure.
Title: Re: FS: mini SLG (scanline generator) is available! (Colorado, USA)
Post by: CraftyMech on July 06, 2013, 01:58:38 pm
I installed mine on a 60-1 and I am very happy with the results.  I will buy one of these again for sure.

Awesome Newmantjn, thanks for the feedback! Just let me know when you'd like a second unit, I'll make sure you get the 2-pack discount even though you placed separate orders.  :cheers:
Title: Re: FS: mini SLG (scanline generator) is available! (Colorado, USA)
Post by: Malenko on July 07, 2013, 10:40:48 am
These honestly work better than I anticipated -- most of the screenshots I've seen don't really do it justice. 
Its sad that I agree with this, I took really good pictures but it just doesnt look as good as when your looking at the actual monitor. I blame my crummy iPhone :)
Title: Re: FS: mini SLG (scanline generator) is available! (Colorado, USA)
Post by: CraftyMech on July 09, 2013, 02:35:18 am
Thanks guys for the nice reviews! :cheers:

I've been testing the mini SLG 2 prototype over the last few days, and am just about ready to send the files over to have the boards printed.

The big change is that there will no longer be two different versions ("PC" or "Arcade"). Instead the mini 2 is a universal model with 2 modes, selected by a small switch. Mode 1 is recommended for Arcade hardware/consoles, and Mode 2 for PC/MAME.

The mini 2 will also feature an "off" setting, to completely disable scanlines. The unit is turned off by selecting the center position of the Mode switch.

The last change is that the mini 2 will be more stubby, and a little wider. The shorter length will help with tight spaces (like inside bartops), and will cause the unit to protrude less from PC video cards (less potential for cable strain).

I expect to have the mini SLG 2 ready for sale in the first week of August. The cost will go up slightly to $26 to accomodate an increase in production costs. I still have a few pcbs left for the current version, and will continue selling those units at $22 until I run out. If you already own a mini SLG, I'm planning on offering a special discount so you won't have to pay full price, stay tuned :)
Title: Re: FS: mini SLG (scanline generator) is available! (Colorado, USA)
Post by: 1500points on July 09, 2013, 11:35:54 am
will this model have proper tightening screws that match up with normal monitor cables?

Duct tape isn't working out as a way to hold the old model onto the 60-1 and i'm about ready to give up on clever ideas other than bolting the slg directly to the side of the cab with proper spacers.
Title: Re: FS: mini SLG (scanline generator) is available! (Colorado, USA)
Post by: HaRuMaN on July 09, 2013, 11:38:45 am
I've bought one, works great with my Dreamcast vga adapter to LCD monitor... however, when I connect it to my RGB -> VGA converter & then the LCD, it does nothing.  That mean I need the other (or the new) model?
Title: Re: FS: mini SLG (scanline generator) is available! (Colorado, USA)
Post by: CraftyMech on July 09, 2013, 12:59:47 pm
will this model have proper tightening screws that match up with normal monitor cables?

Duct tape isn't working out as a way to hold the old model onto the 60-1 and i'm about ready to give up on clever ideas other than bolting the slg directly to the side of the cab with proper spacers.

I am looking at using proper VGA connectors so that the connections can be made securely. Once I receive the connectors I've ordered I'll post up some photos.

I've bought one, works great with my Dreamcast vga adapter to LCD monitor... however, when I connect it to my RGB -> VGA converter & then the LCD, it does nothing.  That mean I need the other (or the new) model?

That is strange, I'm assuming the LCD you hooked to the VGA converter is the same one you used with the Dreamcast? Which VGA converter are you using, and what resolution are you outputting? I'm guessing you are getting a picture, but no scanlines, which will happen if you are outputting @ 800x600. Let me know and I'll help you get it working!
Title: Re: FS: mini SLG (scanline generator) is available! (Colorado, USA)
Post by: HaRuMaN on July 09, 2013, 01:14:16 pm
I've bought one, works great with my Dreamcast vga adapter to LCD monitor... however, when I connect it to my RGB -> VGA converter & then the LCD, it does nothing.  That mean I need the other (or the new) model?

That is strange, I'm assuming the LCD you hooked to the VGA converter is the same one you used with the Dreamcast? Which VGA converter are you using, and what resolution are you outputting? I'm guessing you are getting a picture, but no scanlines, which will happen if you are outputting @ 800x600. Let me know and I'll help you get it working!

No, different LCD's.  17" for the Dreamcast, 20.1" for the other system. 

I do get a picture, but no scanlines.  This is the converter I'm using:

http://www.ebay.com/itm/330605923350 (http://www.ebay.com/itm/330605923350)

I will try to check what the output is set at, what does it need to be?
Title: Re: FS: mini SLG (scanline generator) is available! (Colorado, USA)
Post by: CraftyMech on July 09, 2013, 01:51:24 pm
No, different LCD's.  17" for the Dreamcast, 20.1" for the other system. 

I do get a picture, but no scanlines.  This is the converter I'm using:

http://www.ebay.com/itm/330605923350 (http://www.ebay.com/itm/330605923350)

I will try to check what the output is set at, what does it need to be?

Looks like a Gonbes converter, which I have as well and have done quite a lot of testing with. So my guess is the output resolution needs to be changed to 640x480, I believe it is set at 800x600 for the factory default. There is a button on the converter board labeled 'Menu' that will get into the on-screen-display menu and from there you can change the resolution. let me know if that works!
Title: FS: mini SLG (scanline generator) is available! (Colorado, USA)
Post by: FlatEarth on July 09, 2013, 02:09:33 pm
Is the scan line generating circuitry going to be the same in the new version? Just wondering if the output will be different.
Title: Re: FS: mini SLG (scanline generator) is available! (Colorado, USA)
Post by: CraftyMech on July 09, 2013, 03:37:17 pm
Is the scan line generating circuitry going to be the same in the new version? Just wondering if the output will be different.

Same circuit design, just modified slightly to create two operating modes that represent the existing "Arcade" & "PC" versions. The scanline effect will appear the same with the mini 2 as with the original unit.
Title: Re: FS: mini SLG (scanline generator) is available! (Colorado, USA)
Post by: HaRuMaN on July 09, 2013, 07:54:39 pm
640 x 480 didn't work, but the next one up from 800 x 600 did.

Title: Re: FS: mini SLG (scanline generator) is available! (Colorado, USA)
Post by: CraftyMech on July 09, 2013, 09:42:59 pm
640 x 480 didn't work, but the next one up from 800 x 600 did.

That is some weirdness, but I'm glad you got it working for your VGA converter setup @ 1024x768, and from the photo you posted the results look nice! Looks like Metal Slug on a Neo Geo MVS?
Title: Re: Re: FS: mini SLG (scanline generator) is available! (Colorado, USA)
Post by: HaRuMaN on July 09, 2013, 09:53:30 pm
640 x 480 didn't work, but the next one up from 800 x 600 did.

That is some weirdness, but I'm glad you got it working for your VGA converter setup @ 1024x768, and from the photo you posted the results look nice! Looks like Metal Slug on a Neo Geo MVS?

Yes, it is. :-)
Title: Re: FS: mini SLG (scanline generator) is available! (Colorado, USA)
Post by: CraftyMech on July 09, 2013, 10:00:15 pm
Sweet, I love the Metal Slugs. Lately I've been playing Super Spy, took me awhile to find a cart at a decent price. The next game on my MVS wish list is Nam '75, but lately they have been going for $60+.
Title: Re: FS: mini SLG (scanline generator) is available! (Colorado, USA)
Post by: CraftyMech on July 11, 2013, 11:39:46 am
Well that didn't take long, I am out of the pcbs for the current version of the mini!

I'm going over the new board layout with a fine tooth comb, and will be submitting the files next week. Turn around time is about a week, so the mini SLG 2 is on track for release in the first week of August.

I promised a special deal for current mini owners, and here it is: $15 + shipping (limit 1).

Regular price will be $27 + shipping.

I'll post up photos of the new unit once I get the boards back!
Title: Re: FS: mini SLG (scanline generator) is available! (Colorado, USA)
Post by: HaRuMaN on July 11, 2013, 11:50:02 am
I'd be down for that deal.   :cheers:
Title: Re: FS: mini SLG (scanline generator) is available! (Colorado, USA)
Post by: jmike on July 11, 2013, 12:43:39 pm
I'd be down for that deal.   :cheers:

+1

Glad I bought mine when I did.


 :cheers:
Title: Re: FS: mini SLG (scanline generator) is available! (Colorado, USA)
Post by: Malenko on July 24, 2013, 11:31:42 am
I want a new one, PM me when they are ready, glad I bought a first run and glad you decided to take my advice and add an off button  :afro:
Title: Re: FS: mini SLG (scanline generator) is available! (Colorado, USA)
Post by: yotsuya on July 24, 2013, 11:51:53 am
I'll take you up on that deal, too :cheers:
Title: Re: FS: mini SLG (scanline generator) is available! (Colorado, USA)
Post by: CraftyMech on July 24, 2013, 11:55:36 am
Sure thing guys! The pcbs should arrive at my door on Friday, so I will be able start shipping next week. I'll post up photos of the new version, and contact everyone through PM when I am ready to send out invoices.
Title: Re: FS: mini SLG (scanline generator) is available! (Colorado, USA)
Post by: HaRuMaN on July 24, 2013, 11:58:06 am
Excellent.  I have money for you
Title: Re: FS: mini SLG (scanline generator) is available! (Colorado, USA)
Post by: jmike on July 24, 2013, 12:06:20 pm
Excellent.  I have money for you

Great send it on over.    ;D


CraftyMech,
          I'm using it on my 60-in-1 board and it really makes it look official.
Looking forward to seeing the new model.

 :cheers:
Title: Re: FS: mini SLG (scanline generator) is available! (Colorado, USA)
Post by: Rick on July 26, 2013, 10:33:01 am
So, it's $26 for the new version, and $9 shipping to Canada? (I'm just checking, since your sig still says $22.) Let me know, and I'm IN!
Title: Re: FS: mini SLG (scanline generator) is available! (Colorado, USA)
Post by: CraftyMech on July 26, 2013, 10:58:03 am
Hey Rick, you are right, I have not updated the prices yet on my website or signature, so I'll give you the $22 price + $9 shipping to Canada. You are added to the list! I'm going to be sending out PayPal invoices early next week.

I'm waiting until Monday when all the parts come in to change the pricing, so I can also update the product photos & description as well.
Title: Re: FS: mini SLG (scanline generator) is available! (Colorado, USA)
Post by: mike boss on July 26, 2013, 11:18:05 am
Old unit $22 + $9 to Canada, new unit $26 + $9 ?
Existing buyers can get a unit for $15 + $9 ?

I got these in the mail but haven't been able to test them.
First child arrived and some other family issues have left me with no time.

I'd like to test em ASAP and write up a review. I got one PC + 1 ARCADE .
Title: Re: FS: mini SLG (scanline generator) is available! (Colorado, USA)
Post by: CraftyMech on July 26, 2013, 11:37:25 am
Hey Mike, yep that pricing is correct. I wanted to offer up a deal for my existing customers with the $15 price.

The new unit performs the same way as the original with regard to how the scanlines look on screen, but combines the PC & Arcade versions by providing a mode switch that also has an off position to turn off scanlines all together.
Title: Re: FS: mini SLG (scanline generator) is available! (Colorado, USA)
Post by: northerngames on July 26, 2013, 12:03:16 pm
I will do a new version when there ready.
Title: Re: FS: mini SLG (scanline generator) is available! (Colorado, USA)
Post by: nexusmtz on July 28, 2013, 01:36:30 am
New version for me also.
Title: Re: FS: mini SLG (scanline generator) is available! (Colorado, USA)
Post by: CraftyMech on July 29, 2013, 04:51:47 pm
mini SLG 2 update: I am waiting on a shipment of slide switches which should arrive by Aug 1st.

I searched around for a quality slide switch to use for the new version. I wanted a switch that had a nice actuator, that would be easy to operate blind in a hard to reach place (like the inside of a bartop, or cramped cabinet). I choose a switch from C&K that fit that criteria, and also features a satisfying click in all three positions (Arcade mode, OFF, PC mode). The switch normally retails for $4+, but I was able to work out a great deal with a vendor for a bulk order. Because of the quantity, there was a little bit of lead time, and that is why I'm a bit behind schedule.

I'll send out PayPal invoices later this week to everyone who has contacted me or posted in this thread. Pricing is $15 for previous customers, and $22 for new buyers. After the mini SLG 2 is released, the price will be set at $27, so if you are interested get in now for the discount!
Title: Re: FS: mini SLG (scanline generator) is available! (Colorado, USA)
Post by: CraftyMech on August 05, 2013, 08:44:10 pm
All parts have arrived, and I've built two units tonight, and both passed all tests!

I'll be sending out PayPal invoices tonight and will start shipping on Wednesday.

You might notice the mini SLG 2 looks a little different. The new version is sans case, the VGA connectors are close enough together on the tiny board that they virtually form their own shell.

I'm going to update the first post in this thread with the new photo, and the feature run-down of the new version, but here is a recap:

-- Two operating modes for better compatibility in a single unit

-- Quality three position slide switch for mode selection & OFF (center position)

-- 5mm shorter than the original mini SLG

Title: Re: FS: mini SLG (scanline generator) is available! (Colorado, USA)
Post by: CraftyMech on August 06, 2013, 12:59:24 am
Size comparison with the original mini SLG. I was hoping to make this version even shorter, but the 5mm I shaved off the length will definitely help in a cramped space!
Title: Re: FS: mini SLG 2 (scanline generator) is now available! (Colorado, USA)
Post by: HaRuMaN on August 06, 2013, 09:38:26 am
Awesome.  I'll be using this new one in my DC bartop...  being able to turn the scanlines on / off is a huge plus!
Title: Re: FS: mini SLG 2 (scanline generator) is now available! (Colorado, USA)
Post by: Malenko on August 06, 2013, 09:41:21 am
replied to PM, and I dont think you can get it much shorter without vertically stacking the DB9s and having the SLG boards vertical (and I think that would be over engineering it)
Title: Re: FS: mini SLG 2 (scanline generator) is now available! (Colorado, USA)
Post by: PTD on August 06, 2013, 10:24:28 am
Has anyone devise a way to put this in the cabinet so that it is easily accessible without having to open the back of the cabinet to do the switching?

The vga port from the monitor would be too far away from either the sides/or back of the cabinet to fit into a hole of the sides/or back of the cabinet.  This is going to be a little tough.
Title: Re: FS: mini SLG 2 (scanline generator) is now available! (Colorado, USA)
Post by: PsychoAU on August 06, 2013, 11:02:26 am
I'm more concerned with trying not to snap this thing in half while plugging it in without a plastic housing...
Title: Re: FS: mini SLG 2 (scanline generator) is now available! (Colorado, USA)
Post by: Malenko on August 06, 2013, 11:36:59 am
Has anyone devise a way to put this in the cabinet so that it is easily accessible without having to open the back of the cabinet to do the switching?

The vga port from the monitor would be too far away from either the sides/or back of the cabinet to fit into a hole of the sides/or back of the cabinet.  This is going to be a little tough.

get a KVM or video splitter, wire it to near the coin door.

I'm more concerned with trying not to snap this thing in half while plugging it in without a plastic housing...
They sell the EDID dongles that are used with Soft15 the same way, no issues.
Title: Re: FS: mini SLG 2 (scanline generator) is now available! (Colorado, USA)
Post by: CraftyMech on August 06, 2013, 11:45:09 am
Regarding accessibility of the mode switch in a cabinet, either mode should work for most setups, so that once you have a preference you can leave that setting even with mixed hardware in the same cab. And for MAME cabs if you want the front end to not have scanlines, remember to run it @ 1280x1024 or higher resolution, which has the same effect as switching the unit off.

Quote
I'm more concerned with trying not to snap this thing in half while plugging it in without a plastic housing...

The stubby form factor combined with the close placement of the VGA connectors actually lends the pcb quite a bit of rigidity. You'd have to torque it pretty hard to bend the board.

PS - If you are a previous customer, you can still get the new version for $15! (limit 1)
Title: Re: FS: mini SLG 2 (scanline generator) is now available! (Colorado, USA)
Post by: Rick on August 06, 2013, 12:22:31 pm
Invoice received and payment sent! Even though my cab is nowhere close to complete, I'm excited to receive this!!! (I've got the monitor 'fit' in place, and have been showing my boys Galaga from my laptop, so I will happily do some playtesting once it arrives!)


Thanks again!
Title: Re: FS: mini SLG 2 (scanline generator) is now available! (Colorado, USA)
Post by: davidjake07 on August 06, 2013, 03:21:08 pm
Hi ,
i am interested in buying a mini SLG 2 scanline generator , what would be the price including shipping to the UK

thanks

dave
Title: Re: FS: mini SLG 2 (scanline generator) is now available! (Colorado, USA)
Post by: CraftyMech on August 06, 2013, 03:56:39 pm
Hi Dave,

Your are asking at the right time, I'll still give you the old price of $22 + $14 shipping/UK = $36 USD.

If that sounds good send me an email at orders@craftymech.com, and I will send you a PayPal invoice.

Thanks!
Aaron
Title: Re: FS: mini SLG 2 (scanline generator) is now available! (Colorado, USA)
Post by: davidjake07 on August 07, 2013, 11:25:33 am
GREAT THANKS email sent
Title: Re: FS: mini SLG 2 (scanline generator) is now available! (Colorado, USA)
Post by: CraftyMech on August 08, 2013, 10:49:12 pm
Hey everyone, I started shipping packages yesterday, running about a day behind but catching up.

Thanks for the great response so far to the mini SLG 2 release!

Title: Re: Re: FS: mini SLG 2 (scanline generator) is now available! (Colorado, USA)
Post by: Rick on August 08, 2013, 11:26:25 pm
Hey everyone, I started shipping packages yesterday, running about a day behind but catching up.

Thanks for the great response so far to the mini SLG 2 release!

Woot! Can't wait! Thank YOU for such a smart, innovative product.
Title: Re: FS: mini SLG 2 (scanline generator) is now available! (Colorado, USA)
Post by: Malenko on August 09, 2013, 11:27:37 am
Im still setting up the software side, so take your time with mine.  :cheers:
Title: Re: FS: mini SLG 2 (scanline generator) is now available! (Colorado, USA)
Post by: Aceisback on August 11, 2013, 03:46:26 am
Got mine. Screen looks better than I expected.

Thanks!
Title: Re: FS: mini SLG 2 (scanline generator) is now available! (Colorado, USA)
Post by: CraftyMech on August 11, 2013, 01:47:37 pm
Great to hear Aceisback!

I shipped another 4 packages on Saturday, and have six orders going out on Monday. If you don't receive a shipping notification from PayPal by Monday morning, then your order will most likely go out on Tuesday.

Thanks for everyone's patience, I will get everyone taken care of over the next few days.  :cheers:
Title: Re: FS: mini SLG 2 (scanline generator) is now available! (Colorado, USA)
Post by: Daro6666 on August 13, 2013, 10:16:20 am
I want to order albo skg 2
Send  me your info
Title: Re: FS: mini SLG 2 (scanline generator) is now available! (Colorado, USA)
Post by: HaRuMaN on August 13, 2013, 10:20:25 am
Got mine yesterday, still need to test it out, thanks!
Title: Re: FS: mini SLG 2 (scanline generator) is now available! (Colorado, USA)
Post by: Daro6666 on August 13, 2013, 10:31:00 am
Never mind , got it .
I'll order it today .
Thanks
Title: Re: FS: mini SLG 2 (scanline generator) is now available! (Colorado, USA)
Post by: CraftyMech on August 13, 2013, 11:10:49 am
Never mind , got it .
I'll order it today .
Thanks

Send an email to orders@craftymech.com and I will send you a PayPal invoice.
Title: Re: FS: mini SLG 2 (scanline generator) is now available! (Colorado, USA)
Post by: mike boss on August 13, 2013, 06:55:35 pm
I still haven't had a chance to set get these plugged in!
However the quality of the product, customer service, and shipping have all been bang on.
For anyone on the fence ORDER NOW!
Title: Re: FS: mini SLG 2 (scanline generator) is now available! (Colorado, USA)
Post by: yotsuya on August 13, 2013, 11:59:26 pm
Got mine yesterday, too. Solid little device. Anyone worried about the exposed board being flimsy has NOTHING to worry about.
Title: Re: FS: mini SLG 2 (scanline generator) is now available! (Colorado, USA)
Post by: CraftyMech on August 15, 2013, 11:11:18 am
I am almost all caught up on my BYOAC orders, hope to get the last batch out today or tomorrow.

For everyone that has already received theirs, let me know how it works with your setups! I'm anxious to hear how the new version performs  :cheers:
Title: Re: FS: mini SLG 2 (scanline generator) is now available! (Colorado, USA)
Post by: Rick on August 15, 2013, 06:58:26 pm
For everyone that has already received theirs, let me know how it works with your setups! I'm anxious to hear how the new version performs  :cheers:

I can't wait to get mine. I received a sheet of blue plexi (shh! miniproject is top secret) today, and hope to see mine soon! I'll be sure to post when I've got it.
Title: Re: FS: mini SLG 2 (scanline generator) is now available! (Colorado, USA)
Post by: northerngames on August 17, 2013, 03:46:15 pm
got my SLG 2 today.

will give it try/review sometime this weekend.

thanks again  :cheers:
Title: Re: FS: mini SLG 2 (scanline generator) is now available! (Colorado, USA)
Post by: HaRuMaN on August 18, 2013, 11:29:03 am
Hooked mine up in my dreamcast bartop, works great! I love that I can turn it off for games like Ikaruga but leave it on for MVC2.
Title: Re: FS: mini SLG 2 (scanline generator) is now available! (Colorado, USA)
Post by: TKW4rr10r on August 18, 2013, 12:06:57 pm
Here's a noob scanline generator question:
Say you have a VGA source being converted to another analogue signal before it reaches a monitor, how are the scanlines effected? Anyone done this?

On my X-men project, I was thinking of the possibility of getting two, one for each half of the picture. But my monitor only has one VGA in. The other would have to be run through a VGA to component box (which I have). Both signals will be the same resolution, but having them match as closely as possible is key.
Title: Re: FS: mini SLG 2 (scanline generator) is now available! (Colorado, USA)
Post by: CraftyMech on August 18, 2013, 01:28:32 pm
Here's a noob scanline generator question:
Say you have a VGA source being converted to another analogue signal before it reaches a monitor, how are the scanlines effected? Anyone done this?

On my X-men project, I was thinking of the possibility of getting two, one for each half of the picture. But my monitor only has one VGA in. The other would have to be run through a VGA to component box (which I have). Both signals will be the same resolution, but having them match as closely as possible is key.

The mini SLG needs a separate -vsync signal to operate correctly, so the only option would be to put the mini before the VGA->component box as you mentioned. Hard to tell the effect the conversion will have on the display image, that would be dependent on the quality of the component box. Adding scanlines after the component box, using the SLG HD (component scanline adapter sold by ArcadeForge.de) might be a better option. I believe you can adjust scanline intensity with that product as well, which would make it easier to match both sides of the display. And on that note, not to send you to the competition, but you might consider the SLG-3000 for the VGA scanlines (also sold by ArcadeForge). That unit also has a knob for scanline intensity, and I think in your case you will want both displays to be as adjustable as possible, so that you can get the screens to match.
Title: Re: FS: mini SLG 2 (scanline generator) is now available! (Colorado, USA)
Post by: CraftyMech on August 18, 2013, 01:31:57 pm
Hooked mine up in my dreamcast bartop, works great! I love that I can turn it off for games like Ikaruga but leave it on for MVC2.

Awesome :) The Off switch was a frequently requested feature so I'm glad I was able to make that work for the new version.
Title: Re: FS: mini SLG 2 (scanline generator) is now available! (Colorado, USA)
Post by: Malenko on August 18, 2013, 08:21:52 pm
Hooked mine up in my dreamcast bartop, works great! I love that I can turn it off for games like Ikaruga but leave it on for MVC2.

Awesome :) The Off switch was a frequently requested feature so I'm glad I was able to make that work for the new version.

Got mine, what exactly is different between mode 1 and mode 2? Both work on the DC but the colors look slightly different when the switch is towards the female end.

New one went into my DC bartop, the old one in the silver case is headed towards the ShoRyuKade.   Any change of getting a DVI version of this?
Title: Re: FS: mini SLG 2 (scanline generator) is now available! (Colorado, USA)
Post by: CraftyMech on August 19, 2013, 12:22:29 am
Got mine, what exactly is different between mode 1 and mode 2? Both work on the DC but the colors look slightly different when the switch is towards the female end.

New one went into my DC bartop, the old one in the silver case is headed towards the ShoRyuKade.   Any change of getting a DVI version of this?

Good to hear Malenko, glad the mini found a nice home in your DC bartop!

Mode 2 is for PC compatibility, and Mode 1 is the original "Arcade" setting. For non-PC hardware, modes 1 & 2 will appear pretty much identical, so try both and see if you have a preference.

No plans for a DVI version right now, but I have thought about the possibility.
Title: Re: FS: mini SLG 2 (scanline generator) is now available! (Colorado, USA)
Post by: CraftyMech on August 19, 2013, 01:19:21 pm
A new JROK Multi-Williams showed up before the weekend :)

Finally I can get to the bottom of why the mini SLG has compatibility issues with this board. Stay tuned!
Title: Re: FS: mini SLG 2 (scanline generator) is now available! (Colorado, USA)
Post by: Rick on August 23, 2013, 01:55:27 pm
My SLG2 finally came! (No thanks to Canada Customs, I'll say.) It looks AMAZING! It was packaged perfectly, and very securely. Once I freed the beast from it's prison, I attached it in between my laptop and my AOC 27" monitor. The screen came to life, and I went into the settings to make the appropriate resolution changes.

DAMN!!! The resolutions I need (640x480 or 1024x768) appear GRAYED OUT! So, it looks like I'll need to setup my system with before I can give my full review.

MANY THANKS to CraftyMech! It looks amazing - well built and packaged. I would definitely recommend the work!
Title: Re: FS: mini SLG 2 (scanline generator) is now available! (Colorado, USA)
Post by: CraftyMech on August 23, 2013, 03:08:03 pm
Glad the package arrived safely Rick!

To adjust your resolution choices in Windows, go to your resolution settings tab, and click on the "Advanced Settings' link. This will open another dialog where there will be a button labeled "List All Modes". From there you can choose 640x480 60hz (recommended), or 1024x768, and you will be in business!
Title: Re: FS: mini SLG 2 (scanline generator) is now available! (Colorado, USA)
Post by: Rick on August 23, 2013, 03:27:08 pm
To adjust your resolution choices in Windows, go to your resolution settings tab, and click on the "Advanced Settings' link. This will open another dialog where there will be a button labeled "List All Modes". From there you can choose 640x480 60hz (recommended), or 1024x768, and you will be in business!

I did that - unfortunately, for me, it was a bit more involved. I was using my HP G61 laptop, which has everything but 1280x720, 1366x768 and 800x600 grayed out. As it turns out, I needed to update my ATI Radeon Mobility HD 4200 drivers, and then, I could make the appropriate changes to the resolution. (Interestingly enough, you STILL can't make the changes through the Windows tabs - as above, and as you would think *should* work - and you have to do it through the ATI control panel.)

But, the good news is this: SUCCESS!!! The ATI Catalyst drivers support even 640x480 resolution (as well as 1024x768) and the SLG2 works BEAUTIFULLY!!! I'm totally impressed. It's an amazing piece of hardware I'll be proud to include into my project, as well as my future projects!!!
Title: Re: FS: mini SLG 2 (scanline generator) is now available! (Colorado, USA)
Post by: CraftyMech on August 23, 2013, 04:02:41 pm
Awesome Rick!  :cheers:

Between the two versions of the mini SLG, I have now shipped over 300 units in 2013 . Thanks to everyone who has supported the project!

I'd love to hear from everyone else who received a mini SLG 2 lately, let me know how it has worked with your setups!
Title: Re: FS: mini SLG 2 (scanline generator) is now available! (Colorado, USA)
Post by: northerngames on August 23, 2013, 05:16:39 pm
I been too busy at work and painting while the weather is good but I will still post soon as I try them.

I have 4 different screens to choose from and two more glass tube monitors to try it out on lol.
Title: Re: FS: mini SLG 2 (scanline generator) is now available! (Colorado, USA)
Post by: Thamiel on August 24, 2013, 10:25:40 pm
Awesome Rick!  :cheers:

Between the two versions of the mini SLG, I have now shipped over 300 units in 2013 . Thanks to everyone who has supported the project!

I'd love to hear from everyone else who received a mini SLG 2 lately, let me know how it has worked with your setups!

Just got mine on Thursday, works perfectly in between my Vigatec FX2 and Gefen VGA to DVI scaler. Been rocking some PS1 all weekend!
Title: Re: FS: mini SLG 2 (scanline generator) is now available! (Colorado, USA)
Post by: CraftyMech on August 24, 2013, 10:48:33 pm
Thanks for the feedback Thamiel, great to hear the mini works great with your setup!
Title: Re: FS: mini SLG 2 (scanline generator) is now available! (Colorado, USA)
Post by: CraftyMech on August 26, 2013, 02:53:50 am
Nearly caught up on orders, built these 10 units over the weekend!
Title: Re: FS: mini SLG 2 (scanline generator) is now available! (Colorado, USA)
Post by: CraftyMech on September 02, 2013, 03:12:22 pm
Good news, I now have a JROK compatible version of the mini SLG!

For the wiring setup, I ignored the 2-pin header on the JROK board (V/H sync), and took the sync/video lines from the Jamma harness (Sync, Ground, R, G, B) and wired those up to a VGA connector, putting the Sync into the VGA H (pin 13).

Next I had to remove the Vsync signal (since it is not connected) from the output VGA connector on the mini SLG. Since Vsync was not involved in the circuit anymore, the switch, and several other parts could be dropped as well.

The result is a mini SLG unit that only has two resistors and the chip (see picture), and works great with the JROK when wired the way I described above (tested on 2 CRTs, and 2 LCDs).

Due to the reduced functionality (only works with the JROK, no off switch) I am going to sell the JROK Multi-Williams version of the mini SLG for a reduced price: $21

Title: Re: FS: mini SLG 2 (scanline generator) is now available! (Colorado, USA)
Post by: emphatic on September 02, 2013, 03:47:26 pm
Hi,

I have a scaler (Cinemateq Picture Optimizer) that I'd like to use with a Supergun to LCD and Plasma TV that apparently won't work with the SLG3000 that I currently own due to the polarity output by the scaler being incompatible with the SLG3000.

Quote from: Shmups Hardware forum
The PO outputs the wrong sync polarity (-/+) for the SLG3000. You'll have to build your own sync inverter (which I never quite managed to do correctly) or use an Extron RGB Interface that can change -/+ to +/+.

What's the deal with the MiniSLG in this case?
Title: Re: FS: mini SLG 2 (scanline generator) is now available! (Colorado, USA)
Post by: CraftyMech on September 02, 2013, 04:42:22 pm
Quote
What's the deal with the MiniSLG in this case?

If the SLG-3000 had issues with the sync polarity of your Cinemateq scaler, the mini SLG will have the same problem. Both devices work in a similar fashion, and require a -Vsync signal.

The work-around I posted for the JROK Multi-Williams works because that board also outputs a composite sync, as well as the VGA standard separate H/V lines.
Title: Re: Re: FS: mini SLG 2 (scanline generator) is now available! (Colorado, USA)
Post by: ppv on September 02, 2013, 08:32:38 pm
I'd  be  interested in this, but I  would like to  see some comparisons shots with Mame' hlsl mode (which do not work on my ancient video card). Thanks!
Title: Re: FS: mini SLG 2 (scanline generator) is now available! (Colorado, USA)
Post by: CraftyMech on September 02, 2013, 10:51:05 pm
The best resource I've been able to find for Mame HLSL (plenty of screenshots) is this thread over on the Shmups forum: http://shmups.system11.org/viewtopic.php?f=6&t=45026 (http://shmups.system11.org/viewtopic.php?f=6&t=45026)

Ive never played around with HLSL myself, so I don't have any direct comparison shots.

More screenshots for the mini SLG can be found on my website: http://craftymech.com (http://craftymech.com)

Title: Re: FS: mini SLG 2 (scanline generator) is now available! (Colorado, USA)
Post by: scumball on September 03, 2013, 04:59:37 am
Hooked mine up yesterday.

XBox running Visionary 3 via X2VGA adaptor to Dell 1505 LCD monitor.  Works but does have green tint on all settings, even OFF.

Any ideas? I know this source is untested so not too disappointed...
Title: Re: FS: mini SLG 2 (scanline generator) is now available! (Colorado, USA)
Post by: CraftyMech on September 03, 2013, 08:40:05 am
Hooked mine up yesterday.

XBox running Visionary 3 via X2VGA adaptor to Dell 1505 LCD monitor.  Works but does have green tint on all settings, even OFF.

Any ideas? I know this source is untested so not too disappointed...

Sorry you are having trouble with your setup and the mini SLG. PM sent with some questions and suggestions!
Title: Re: FS: mini SLG 2 (scanline generator) is now available! (Colorado, USA)
Post by: DGP on September 10, 2013, 05:47:50 pm
I read something about these being $18 shipped and now see there are 2 versions, is the previous version the one that is $18 or is the v2 the only one available at $27?

Will this work at 1360x768 with the Gonbes 8220?

I need one of these as I am not happy with the smeary look of the 8220.  :-\


Thank You,
Jason
Title: Re: FS: mini SLG 2 (scanline generator) is now available! (Colorado, USA)
Post by: CraftyMech on September 10, 2013, 06:54:14 pm
Hi Jason,

I was offering version 2 to my previous customers at a special price of $18 shipped.

Version 2 is normally priced at $27, or $30 shipped in the US.

1360x768 uses a + sync polarity, so unfortunately the mini SLG is not compatible with that resolution.

The recommended resolution is 640x480, and 1024x768 is also supported.
Title: Re: FS: mini SLG 2 (scanline generator) is now available! (Colorado, USA)
Post by: CraftyMech on September 14, 2013, 07:56:33 pm
Can someone with an ArcadeSD board tell me what the video output options are?

Can you choose the output resolution? Is the output VGA only, or is there an 240p output option?

Thanks of any info, now that I believe I have developed a fix for the JROK Multi-Williams, I would like to get the mini SLG working with the Arcade SD board.
Title: Re: FS: mini SLG 2 (scanline generator) is now available! (Colorado, USA)
Post by: DGP on September 14, 2013, 08:15:15 pm
Received mine today and it's an instant gratification device. :o

I had to recalibrate the Gamma on my lcd display due to the black floor lift but once that was completed my MVS cab is not missing the crt nearly as much.

I have my MVS right next to my multi-cade and the difference is staggering versus mame running the exact same game (even HLSL did not look as good IMHO and they are both running at 1024x768).

I plan to make a short video and post on YouTube later to show just how nice the end result is, I'll link here once it's up.

Thanks Aaron for a fantastic and very cost effective product that delivers exactly what it was designed to do, bravo!
 
:cheers:
Jason
Title: Re: FS: mini SLG 2 (scanline generator) is now available! (Colorado, USA)
Post by: CraftyMech on September 14, 2013, 10:31:36 pm
Hey Jason, no problem! Great to hear the mini works well with your setup.  :cheers:

I have one hooked up to my MVS as well and can't imagine playing on an LCD without it now.








Title: Re: FS: mini SLG 2 (scanline generator) is now available! (Colorado, USA)
Post by: Pac-Fan on September 25, 2013, 01:27:10 pm
Can someone with an ArcadeSD board tell me what the video output options are?

Can you choose the output resolution? Is the output VGA only, or is there an 240p output option?

Thanks of any info, now that I believe I have developed a fix for the JROK Multi-Williams, I would like to get the mini SLG working with the Arcade SD board.

Here's what I can pass along regarding the ArcadeSD (I own 2 of them).

There is no video mode option other than CGA to arcade monitor over jamma harness or VGA to pc monitor over VGA connector.

Here is what Clay posted over at KLOV in the uber thread about ArcadeSD when someone asked why the SLG doesn't work with it:
http://forums.arcade-museum.com/showthread.php?p=2496080&highlight=slg#post2496080 (http://forums.arcade-museum.com/showthread.php?p=2496080&highlight=slg#post2496080)
Quote
>> I have one of those little SLG's but for whatever reason can't get it to work with ArcadeSD.

> That was actually on our wish-list (only for the VGA output), but there just wasn't room to include it in the FPGA (the chip is *packed*). A little external one wouldn't be hard to make though. I suspect that some other SLG's (depending on type) get confused if you're not exactly at VGA frequencies (we're close, but not *exact*).

> (In theory it shouldn't matter since you could just look for HSYNC pulses for exact scanline and you don't actually need to worry about the exact scan rate, but maybe their system goes a little crazy if it doesn't lock on 100% stock PC-style VGA for an input.)

Hope that helps. I really want to get some of the SLG's but need it to work with the ArcadeSD board first. (I own two and they're on arcade monitors, but friends I have would like them for their PC monitors)
Title: Re: FS: mini SLG 2 (scanline generator) is now available! (Colorado, USA)
Post by: CraftyMech on September 26, 2013, 01:53:14 pm
Quote
Hope that helps. I really want to get some of the SLG's but need it to work with the ArcadeSD board first. (I own two and they're on arcade monitors, but friends I have would like them for their PC monitors)

Thanks for the info Pac-Fan. Clay is right that on principal the VGA signal timing itself should not really matter, since the HSync is the driver for alternating the scanlines.

However, if the VSync is +, the mini SLG will not work as the VSync line is where it draws the power it needs for the scanline circuit.

I suspect the ArcadeSD is putting out a +Vsync for 640x480.

What surprises me a bit is that both the JROK and possibly the ArcadeSD use a +Vsync for 640x480, even though that is not the VESA VGA standard. Sure it works with VGA monitors, but a +Vsync for that resolution is out of spec vs what hardware makers have used for two decades. Why not just follow the well established VESA spec?

'Tis a mystery to me...
Title: Re: FS: mini SLG 2 (scanline generator) is now available! (Colorado, USA)
Post by: 1500points on September 27, 2013, 10:16:55 am
Hi Aaron, quick update.
the test SLG you sent, I can't get it working in one cab with a Dell LCD monitor, wired properly per JROK's d-sub connection.
no picture presented at all with the older green JROK MW board and the newer red JROK MW board (see earlier t-shooting in this thread, as I am 100% confident the wiring is correct and the cab works with all multi-boards from 60-1, 19-1, arcadesd, JROK MW, JROK Berzerk)

So I tried it in another cab with a different model Dell LCD and the JROK Berzerk PCB.  I get an image but it has angled horizontal lines and the image jumps all over the place and looks grainy and weird, then the monitor loses the sync, goes black, then starts the cycle over again.
In this same cab, the newer red JROK board generates nothing on the LCD, no signal messages.

I think this proves the SLG has some compatibility issue with the signal coming out of the JROKs.
--on a different note, JROK added scan lines as a software setting in the setup menu for the JROK Berzerk board.


Title: Re: FS: mini SLG 2 (scanline generator) is now available! (Colorado, USA)
Post by: CraftyMech on September 27, 2013, 12:02:03 pm
Thanks for the update Mark.

I'm not sure why the test unit is not working with your JROK setups, that is a real mystery. I had success with two different test units I built, on multiple monitors both LCD & CRT, using the latest red board Multi-Williams. Thanks for testing for me though, it was worth a shot!

I have only had one other user express interest in a JROK compatible version, so it is not likely I will look into the problem any further. Especially now that the Berzerk board has built-in scanline capability, the next version of the Multi-Williams is likely to offer the same.
 
Title: Re: FS: mini SLG 2 (scanline generator) is now available! (Colorado, USA)
Post by: 1500points on September 27, 2013, 03:24:43 pm
That seems fairly wise.  thanks for being such a diligent friend to the hobby.

I think you will get lots of new mileage out of figuring out how to make it work with the ArcadeSD.
That board has a ton of street cred, and your SLG would be a perfect accessory, since Clay/Matt have made it rather clear they won't be building the feature into their software.

cheers.
Title: Re: FS: mini SLG 2 (scanline generator) is now available! (Colorado, USA)
Post by: mike boss on October 07, 2013, 02:09:59 pm
Today I'll finally be getting this installed into my Final Fight.
To clarify using an RGB to VGA adapter I sitll use the ARCADE version correct ?

EDIT - I should add my reason for not installing sooner. My wife ! She misplaced the box.
But this weekend when I got a chance to sort out and box all my console(s) and related parts
by brand I found these.
Title: Re: FS: mini SLG 2 (scanline generator) is now available! (Colorado, USA)
Post by: CraftyMech on October 07, 2013, 02:48:20 pm
Hi Mike,

I believe I sent you a Arcade & PC version right? You are right that the Arcade unit would be the right one to use with your Final Fight setup. Just plug the mini SLG into the VGA output of your RGB->VGA converter, and the monitor cable into the other end of the SLG.

Let me know how it works!
Title: Re: FS: mini SLG 2 (scanline generator) is now available! (Colorado, USA)
Post by: mike boss on October 07, 2013, 03:07:00 pm
Thank you.
You had clarified that prior, but my brain as a daddy has gone down hill.
Thank  you AGAIN for clearing this up.
I'll find the 5 min to install this tonight.

Looking forward to bad ass retro scanlines !
Title: Re: FS: mini SLG 2 (scanline generator) is now available! (Colorado, USA)
Post by: mike boss on October 07, 2013, 03:08:07 pm
And yes, to confirm, you did indeed send me one and one.

Installed !

@ CraftyMech

Thanks for the help with the set up.
This thing looks awesome.
Title: Re: FS: mini SLG 2 (scanline generator) is now available! (Colorado, USA)
Post by: Bill_S on October 17, 2013, 05:24:00 pm
I love the idea of this, but am using hdmi to my monitor.  Is there any update to the idea of a dvi/hdmi version?
Title: Re: FS: mini SLG 2 (scanline generator) is now available! (Colorado, USA)
Post by: CraftyMech on October 18, 2013, 04:49:50 pm
Hi Bill,

No plans at the moment for a dvi/hdmi version. As LCDs move towards dvi/hdmi inputs exclusively, I'll no doubt look into the idea again of a digital mini SLG.
Title: Re: FS: mini SLG 2 (scanline generator) is now available! (Colorado, USA)
Post by: Bill_S on October 20, 2013, 04:57:25 pm
Hi Bill,

No plans at the moment for a dvi/hdmi version. As LCDs move towards dvi/hdmi inputs exclusively, I'll no doubt look into the idea again of a digital mini SLG.

Thanks.  I'll be watching :-)
Title: Re: FS: mini SLG 2X (scanline generator) is now available! (Colorado, USA)
Post by: CraftyMech on October 21, 2013, 01:31:47 am
Version 2X is now available!

The latest version of the mini SLG adds the following improvements:


This is a minor release, but I think adds some nice improvements to the product. I realized one night how to simplify the design to be universal for both PC & Arcade/Console sources, and jumped at the opportunity to reduce the size & number of components.

Thanks for your support this year, over 350 units sold!
Title: Re: FS: mini SLG 2X (scanline generator) is now available! (Colorado, USA)
Post by: mike boss on October 21, 2013, 09:03:51 am
Great product.
I'll no doubt be getting more of these in the future.
Safe to say I'll actually have one of these in all my cabinets (as I love using LCD monitors) .
Title: Re: FS: mini SLG 2X (scanline generator) is now available! (Colorado, USA)
Post by: CraftyMech on October 24, 2013, 01:52:46 pm
Thanks Mike!

I'm excited about the 2X, I was finally able to hit 90% of the goals I originally had for this project. I can see this version being around for quite awhile.
Title: Re: FS: mini SLG 2X (scanline generator) is now available! (Colorado, USA)
Post by: mike boss on October 27, 2013, 06:17:42 pm
PM sent for a buddy.
Title: Re: FS: mini SLG 2X (scanline generator) is now available! (Colorado, USA)
Post by: emphatic on October 28, 2013, 02:57:46 pm
2X looks very sexy!  :cheers:
Title: Re: FS: mini SLG 2X (scanline generator) is now available! (Colorado, USA)
Post by: CraftyMech on November 01, 2013, 12:25:46 pm
Thanks!  :cheers:

I have a couple version 2 units left from my previous run of boards. Now that the 2X is out, I'm looking to sell them together at a discount. How about $35 for both + shipping ? SOLD!
Title: Re: FS: mini SLG 2X (scanline generator) is now available! (Colorado, USA)
Post by: opt2not on November 01, 2013, 03:05:51 pm
Bah... too slow.  :hissy:
Title: Re: FS: mini SLG 2X (scanline generator) is now available! (Colorado, USA)
Post by: CraftyMech on November 01, 2013, 04:29:43 pm
Ohhh.. you gotta be quicker than that ;)

Title: Re: FS: mini SLG 2X (scanline generator) is now available! (Colorado, USA)
Post by: TKW4rr10r on November 01, 2013, 05:07:09 pm
 >:D >:D >:D
Title: Re: FS: mini SLG 2X (scanline generator) is now available! (Colorado, USA)
Post by: mike boss on November 12, 2013, 01:53:43 pm
@CraftyMech

I created a post of my local forum just talking about "must haves" when doing a project.
I mentioned the MINI-SLG as a must have for anyone looking for a retro feel.
I added the link to your site.
Here is a link to the post : http://www.cgcc.ca/forum/viewtopic.php?t=25904 (http://www.cgcc.ca/forum/viewtopic.php?t=25904)

(hope that is cool!)

Also, is the double pack still available ? .... I'm still waiting on my buddy to do the order BTW.
Sorry for the delay.

Title: Re: FS: mini SLG 2X (scanline generator) is now available! (Colorado, USA)
Post by: CraftyMech on November 13, 2013, 12:48:37 am
Hey Mike,

Thanks for spreading the word!

The double pack is $49, which is a $5 savings over buying the units individually.

No worries regarding your buddy, I've got plenty of stock so when you are ready I'll send the package your way!
Title: Re: FS: mini SLG 2X (scanline generator) is now available! (Colorado, USA)
Post by: ChanceKJ on November 28, 2013, 01:14:37 am
This thing is seriously a must have! I'm running a MacMini with a MiniDVI to VGA adaptor and this SLG is by far the simplest and best way to get scan lines. I will be putting one of these on every build i make from here on out. Shipping and packaging to Alberta was rock solid, he even provided me with a tracking number. Oh and CraftyMech's Service and Support is top notch, anyone who knows me and how picky i can be knows that that's high praise coming from me.  Through a little trial and error we discovered that Mini DisplayPort to VGA adaptors are not compatible.

Money. Well. Spent.
 :applaud:
Title: Re: FS: mini SLG 2X (scanline generator) is now available! (Colorado, USA)
Post by: yotsuya on November 28, 2013, 01:16:39 am
This thing is seriously a must have! I'm running a MacMini with a MiniDVI to VGA adaptor and this SLG is by far the simplest and best way to get scan lines. I will be putting one of these on every build i make from here on out. Shipping and packaging to Alberta was rock solid, he even provided me with a tracking number. Oh and CraftyMech's Service and Support is top notch, anyone who knows me and how picky i can be knows that that's high praise coming from me.  Through a little trial and error we discovered that Mini DisplayPort to VGA adaptors are not compatible.

Money. Well. Spent.
 :applaud:

That's why he won a well-deserved UCA last year.  :cheers:
Title: Re: FS: mini SLG 2X (scanline generator) is now available! (Colorado, USA)
Post by: CraftyMech on November 28, 2013, 06:28:35 pm
Glad we figured it out! I'll have to look into the Mini DisplayPort -> VGA issue. I have had success with an iPad -> VGA adapter, and now we know that Mini DVI -> VGA works great as well.

Happy Thanksgiving to everyone!
Title: Re: FS: mini SLG 2X (scanline generator) is now available! (Colorado, USA)
Post by: ChanceKJ on November 29, 2013, 02:33:41 am
Hey don't forget to add that feedback quote i gave you to the title post. ;) ;)  hahaha.
Title: Re: FS: mini SLG 2X (scanline generator) is now available! (Colorado, USA)
Post by: CraftyMech on November 29, 2013, 01:28:27 pm
Sure thing, I'll add that quote today! ;)

I guess a Black Friday deal is in order... so today only a 2 pack is $45 (normally $49). Get them while they are hot!
Title: Re: FS: mini SLG 2X (scanline generator) is now available! (Colorado, USA)
Post by: lilman573 on December 06, 2013, 07:30:44 am
Pm Sent. I need to see this in action myself!!

Thanks and can't wait to get it!
Title: Re: FS: mini SLG 2X (scanline generator) is now available! (Colorado, USA)
Post by: Carsten Carlos on December 10, 2013, 03:40:45 pm
Hey there,
sounds very interesting! I guess there should be no problem to solder a wire or relais to the switch? I'd need the option to remotely turn the scanlines off for vector games, preferred automatically through my frontend (the last part won't be any problem at all)
Title: Re: FS: mini SLG 2X (scanline generator) is now available! (Colorado, USA)
Post by: CraftyMech on December 12, 2013, 03:19:48 am
Hey there,
sounds very interesting! I guess there should be no problem to solder a wire or relais to the switch? I'd need the option to remotely turn the scanlines off for vector games, preferred automatically through my frontend (the last part won't be any problem at all)

The best option would be to solder two wires directly to the switch contact pads on the bottom, leave the switch on the mini in the off position, and run those wires to a separate switch installed somewhere handy on the control panel of your cab.

It might be tempting to remove the switch and relocate it, but I've tried before to salvage the switch from a defective unit, and it is almost impossible to desolder without damaging it. The prongs are an odd shape and fill the through hole with very little clearance, which makes it very tough to fully clear the solder.

I'll let you know the tracking # when your package ships on Friday!
Title: Re: FS: mini SLG 2X (scanline generator) is now available! (Colorado, USA)
Post by: Carsten Carlos on December 12, 2013, 05:28:38 am
Thanks, that option sound perfect for me - leaving the switch on its place was my intention, too.
So you can always check if everything works from the hardware itself.

I'm thinking of soldering the wires to a relais, so my frontend can tell the raster games to switch the scanline generator on, but leave it off for the vector ones. My interface should've some ports left for that.
Title: Re: FS: mini SLG 2X (scanline generator) is now available! (Colorado, USA)
Post by: brian.offenheim on December 16, 2013, 07:57:45 pm
I'd love to buy one of these. How do you take payments?
Title: Re: FS: mini SLG 2X (scanline generator) is now available! (Colorado, USA)
Post by: CraftyMech on December 16, 2013, 08:13:47 pm
Hi Brian,

Payment is via PayPal, just send me an email at orders@craftymech.com and I'll send you a PayPal invoice. Be sure to include your country if you live outside the US.

Thanks!
Title: Re: FS: mini SLG 2X (scanline generator) is now available! (Colorado, USA)
Post by: brian.offenheim on December 16, 2013, 10:21:19 pm
Thanks! Sent you an email...
Title: Re: FS: mini SLG 2X (scanline generator) is now available! (Colorado, USA)
Post by: CraftyMech on December 29, 2013, 11:49:25 am
Thanks to all my supporters for a great 2013!

430 units sold  :cheers:

To show my appreciation, I am running a sale in January:

$24 + FREE SHIPPING (US ONLY, International shipping rates still apply)

Ring in the new year with a $6 savings over the regular price (including US shipping, $3 savings for international orders).
Title: Re: FS: mini SLG 2X (scanline generator) is now available! (Colorado, USA)
Post by: dcninja on December 30, 2013, 03:59:27 pm
question on this: if i run it on an lcd the scanlines should work but won't the image look very very blurry since the default res won't be 640x480 or whatever the low res is that it runs on? is this more for crt pc monitors?
Title: Re: FS: mini SLG 2X (scanline generator) is now available! (Colorado, USA)
Post by: BadMouth on December 30, 2013, 04:52:22 pm
question on this: if i run it on an lcd the scanlines should work but won't the image look very very blurry since the default res won't be 640x480 or whatever the low res is that it runs on? is this more for crt pc monitors?

The mini SLG is an inexpensive, and compact scanline generator that is compatible with devices that output a standard VGA signal @ 640x480 (preferred) & 1024x768 resolutions.

Most people use it to get scanlines on an LCD, but it only works at those resolutions.
We're talking about original games that ran at 320x240.  Most used sprites, not rendered 3D images.
Running them at a higher resolution doesn't make them look better like it does with modern games.
Title: Re: FS: mini SLG 2X (scanline generator) is now available! (Colorado, USA)
Post by: CraftyMech on January 02, 2014, 11:23:34 am
Happy New Year!

$24 shipped in the US all through January!

(Shipping rates apply for international orders)
Title: Re: FS: mini SLG 2X (scanline generator) is now available! (Colorado, USA)
Post by: Pac-Fan on January 08, 2014, 11:11:51 pm
** ArcadeSD SUCCESS **

Thanks to CraftyMech for the ability to test this out.

Please note: This does NOT work with the MiniSLG2x (I tried that). It ONLY works with the JROK build, and possibly the older (pre-2x) builds.  CraftyMech will need to provide details on that and anything else relative to those interested in this for an ArcadeSD.

See the pictures and the diagram I whipped together from a few things found online.



Title: Re: FS: mini SLG 2X (scanline generator) is now available! (Colorado, USA)
Post by: CraftyMech on January 09, 2014, 12:50:24 am
Thanks for the photos and connection diagram Pac-Fan!

I have a couple dozen of the old version 2 boards, so I am still selling the JROK/ArcadeSD compatible mini SLG if anyone needs one. I'll extend my January sale to cover this version as well, so $21 + FREE shipping in the US (international shipping rates apply) :cheers:
Title: Re: FS: mini SLG 2X (scanline generator) is now available! (Colorado, USA)
Post by: MameMaster! on January 10, 2014, 10:29:56 am
Just as an aside on this gadget- I have an ultracade running with an LCD screen. I found that the laser disk games looked horrible-- but with this in place it actually helped clean up the video. WIN!
Title: Re: FS: mini SLG 2X (scanline generator) is now available! (Colorado, USA)
Post by: CraftyMech on January 11, 2014, 03:06:43 pm
Great to hear MameMaster!

Glad new uses are still being discovered for the mini SLG, as the product enters it's second year  :cheers:
Title: Re: FS: mini SLG 2X (scanline generator) is now available! (Colorado, USA)
Post by: CraftyMech on January 22, 2014, 02:01:06 am
 :burgerking: Superbowl 48 Contest!  :burgerking:

In honor of the Broncos (my team) & the Seahawks (wife's team) making the Superbowl this year, I am offering up a FREE mini SLG 2X as a prize for correctly guessing the final score of Superbowl 48.

There can be only one winner (queue Highlander theme), so as a potential tiebreaker also take a guess at Peyton Manning's passing yard total for the game.

Post your predictions in this thread, but please refrain from any game commentary!

Your post must be made by the official start of the game on Sunday, Feb 2nd. Multiple people can post the same score, so remember to take your best shot at Peyton's passing yards total as the potential tiebreaker. Winner will receive a mini SLG 2X shipped free on Monday Feb 3rd to any US address. If the winner lives outside the US, they are responsible for payment of international shipping fees.
Title: Re: FS: mini SLG 2X (scanline generator) (Colorado, USA) - Superbowl Contest!
Post by: Malenko on January 22, 2014, 02:01:36 pm
Broncos win 24-20 and Manning has 287 yards passing, no picks.
Title: Re: FS: mini SLG 2X (scanline generator) (Colorado, USA) - Superbowl Contest!
Post by: pbj on January 22, 2014, 02:58:50 pm
Seahawks win 28-24, Manning 260 yards
Title: Re: FS: mini SLG 2X (scanline generator) (Colorado, USA) - Superbowl Contest!
Post by: yotsuya on January 22, 2014, 03:41:28 pm
Super Blizzard Day Game, 6 to 3 total, Manning 55 yards.







Just kidding.  >:D

32-14 Broncos, Manning 325 yards passing.
Title: Re: FS: mini SLG 2X (scanline generator) (Colorado, USA) - Superbowl Contest!
Post by: HaRuMaN on January 22, 2014, 03:46:00 pm
31-10 Broncos, Manning 280 yards passing.
Title: Re: FS: mini SLG 2X (scanline generator) (Colorado, USA) - Superbowl Contest!
Post by: rablack97 on January 22, 2014, 05:13:13 pm
24-17  288 passing.....
Title: Re: FS: mini SLG 2X (scanline generator) (Colorado, USA) - Superbowl Contest!
Post by: CraftyMech on January 22, 2014, 06:15:05 pm
Keep 'em coming everyone!

rablack: Was that Broncos 24-17, or Seahawks 24-17 ?
Title: Re: FS: mini SLG 2X (scanline generator) (Colorado, USA) - Superbowl Contest!
Post by: jpS14 on January 23, 2014, 10:11:20 am
27 - 20 Seahawks  Manning 270 yards
Title: Re: FS: mini SLG 2X (scanline generator) (Colorado, USA) - Superbowl Contest!
Post by: Generic Eric on January 23, 2014, 02:56:18 pm
20-14 broncos 123 yards
Title: Re: FS: mini SLG 2X (scanline generator) (Colorado, USA) - Superbowl Contest!
Post by: Hoopz on January 24, 2014, 07:57:19 am
31 - 23 Broncos, Manning with 342
Title: Re: FS: mini SLG 2X (scanline generator) (Colorado, USA) - Superbowl Contest!
Post by: wp34 on January 24, 2014, 09:52:45 am
Broncos 34-21, Manning with 400 yards
Title: Re: FS: mini SLG 2X (scanline generator) (Colorado, USA) - Superbowl Contest!
Post by: rodan1967 on January 25, 2014, 04:41:26 am
I would like to purchase one. How or where do I? Please PM with details. Thanks
Title: Re: FS: mini SLG 2X (scanline generator) (Colorado, USA) - Superbowl Contest!
Post by: sharpfork on January 26, 2014, 12:14:47 pm
I don't need another miniSLG (they are great BTW) but want to enter my score and yardage:

24-13 Broncos FTW!
PFM 247 yards
Title: Re: FS: mini SLG 2X (scanline generator) (Colorado, USA) - Superbowl Contest!
Post by: CraftyMech on January 26, 2014, 04:30:26 pm
Keep the predictions coming!

Does anyone in Canada want an SLG for $24 shipped? I have a new SLG unit up there right now that I need to find a home for. PM me if you are interested!
Title: Re: FS: mini SLG 2X (scanline generator) (Colorado, USA) - Superbowl Contest!
Post by: jmike on January 27, 2014, 08:55:17 am
27-24 Broncos with Peyton throwing for 240 yards.



 :cheers:
Title: Re: FS: mini SLG 2X (scanline generator) (Colorado, USA) - Superbowl Contest!
Post by: CraftyMech on January 30, 2014, 01:14:48 pm
Reminder that my January offer of $24 shipped (international shipping extra) is good until midnight on January 31st!

Also you have until the start of the Super Bowl to make a game prediction for my free mini SLG contest. Just remember to also predict Manning's passing yards for any potential tie-breaker.
Title: Re: FS: mini SLG 2X (scanline generator) (Colorado, USA) - Superbowl Contest!
Post by: roknrol on January 31, 2014, 11:21:43 am
27-17 Broncos, 324 yards passing.

Cool contest!
Title: Re: FS: mini SLG 2X (scanline generator) (Colorado, USA) - Superbowl Contest!
Post by: opt2not on January 31, 2014, 12:58:17 pm
34 - 27 Seahawks, Manning with 316 passing
Title: Re: FS: mini SLG 2X (scanline generator) (Colorado, USA) - Superbowl Contest!
Post by: pbj on February 01, 2014, 08:47:35 pm
A lot of you are going to feel very silly when the Seahawks win this thing.   :lol 

LMK if any of you want to go 1:5 for the Broncos.

Title: Re: FS: mini SLG 2X (scanline generator) (Colorado, USA) - Superbowl Contest!
Post by: CraftyMech on February 02, 2014, 02:46:34 pm
Game day!

Here is the current pool of 13 predictions (Manning's passing yards in far right column):

Code: [Select]
malenko      24-20  Broncos     287
pbj          28-24  Seahawks    260
yotsuya      32-14  Broncos     325
haruman      31-10  Broncos     280
rablack      24-17  Broncos?    288
jps14        27-20  Seahawks    270
GenericEric  20-14  Broncos     123
hoopz        31-23  Broncos     342
wp34         34-21  Broncos     400
SharpFork    24-13  Broncos     247
jmike        27-24  Broncos     240
roknrol      27-17  Broncos     324
opt2not      34-27  Seahawks    316

Still a few hours left until game time, if you have not already get your predictions in!

You only have to guess the correct score & winning team to win. In the case of a tie, the closest guess for Manning's passing yards will be the tiebreaker.
Title: Re: FS: mini SLG 2X (scanline generator) (Colorado, USA) - Superbowl Contest!
Post by: Mr_Numbers on February 02, 2014, 04:57:39 pm
A contest seems like a good first post!  :)

Seahawks:  24

Broncos:  21

Manning Passing Yards:  165
Title: Re: FS: mini SLG 2X (scanline generator) (Colorado, USA) - Superbowl Contest!
Post by: ohioratrodder on February 02, 2014, 05:58:00 pm
Denver 30 Seattle 23 passing 343
Title: Re: FS: mini SLG 2X (scanline generator) (Colorado, USA) - Superbowl Contest!
Post by: opt2not on February 02, 2014, 08:59:29 pm
A lot of you are going to feel very silly when the Seahawks win this thing.   :lol 

LMK if any of you want to go 1:5 for the Broncos.

:lol
It's looking pretty good for sea-town. 29-0 right now in the 3rd?? Who would have thought such a blow-out??
Title: Re: FS: mini SLG 2X (scanline generator) (Colorado, USA) - Superbowl Contest!
Post by: Malenko on February 02, 2014, 10:25:45 pm
Id say Opt2Not won, Denver certainly didnt.
Title: Re: FS: mini SLG 2X (scanline generator) (Colorado, USA) - Superbowl Contest!
Post by: CraftyMech on February 03, 2014, 12:10:20 am
Well no one guessed the correct score, so who came closest to Mannings passing yards total?
Title: Re: FS: mini SLG 2X (scanline generator) (Colorado, USA) - Superbowl Contest!
Post by: Mr_Numbers on February 03, 2014, 12:56:57 am
Well no one guessed the correct score, so who came closest to Mannings passing yards total?

Direct from ESPN:

Passing: P. Manning (DEN) - 280 YDS, 1 TD, 2 INT

Title: Re: FS: mini SLG 2X (scanline generator) (Colorado, USA) - Superbowl Contest!
Post by: pbj on February 03, 2014, 10:39:30 am
Id say Opt2Not won, Denver certainly didnt.

I'd say jps14 wins for predicting the winner and getting closer to the yardage.

 :cheers:
Title: Re: FS: mini SLG 2X (scanline generator) (Colorado, USA) - Superbowl Contest!
Post by: yotsuya on February 03, 2014, 10:59:55 am
Although Opt2Not DID have the Seahawks winning and was closest to their actual score.  :dunno

Your call, CM.
Title: Re: FS: mini SLG 2X (scanline generator) (Colorado, USA) - Superbowl Contest!
Post by: opt2not on February 03, 2014, 01:27:45 pm
Hook a brother up! :lol  :cheers:
Title: Re: FS: mini SLG 2X (scanline generator) (Colorado, USA) - Superbowl Contest!
Post by: CraftyMech on February 03, 2014, 02:42:55 pm
I've have pondered over how to decide the winner from top of the mountain, and now I have come down to declare the victor. ;)

Here was how I decided:

1) Did anyone guess the correct score? No
2) Did anyone guess the correct winner? Yes: Opt2not, pjb, and jps14
2) Of those 3, who was closest to the actual point differential between Denver and Seattle.? Opt2Not (7) & jps14 (7)
3) Of those 2, who was closest to Manning's passing yards: jps14 (10)

So we have a winner, jps14! Just send me your address in a PM, and I will put your mini SLG in the mail tomorrow!
Title: Re: FS: mini SLG 2X (scanline generator) (Colorado, USA) - Superbowl Contest!
Post by: opt2not on February 03, 2014, 02:47:49 pm
Congratz jps14!  :cheers:
Title: Re: FS: mini SLG 2X (scanline generator) (Colorado, USA) - Superbowl Contest!
Post by: yotsuya on February 03, 2014, 02:51:03 pm
Fair enough!  :cheers:

You may want to PM him, though - looks like he hasn't logged in for almost two weeks...
Title: Re: FS: mini SLG 2X (scanline generator) (Colorado, USA) - Superbowl Contest!
Post by: Malenko on February 03, 2014, 03:12:47 pm
Fair enough!  :cheers:

You may want to PM him, though - looks like he hasn't logged in for almost two weeks...

give him a week then runner up takes the prize  :cheers:
Title: Re: FS: mini SLG 2X (scanline generator) (Colorado, USA) - Superbowl Contest!
Post by: jpS14 on February 03, 2014, 03:15:31 pm
Oh wow I won. That freakin awesome because I never win these kinda things   ;D
Title: Re: FS: mini SLG 2X (scanline generator) (Colorado, USA) - Superbowl Contest!
Post by: pbj on February 03, 2014, 03:15:38 pm
I think all three of us should get the prize.

 :cheers:
Title: Re: FS: mini SLG 2X (scanline generator) (Colorado, USA) - Superbowl Contest!
Post by: rablack97 on February 04, 2014, 01:12:23 pm
Son of a ---smurfette---.........i haven't been checking this.........I had posted with Seattle in my head, but didnt put it in the post........

I see where Craftymech asked, and i'm just now taking a peek.........sadl;ksflg;kajfl;kfjfdl;hjfl;jfdagl;kg Dammittttttt
Title: Re: FS: mini SLG 2X (scanline generator) (Colorado, USA) - Superbowl Contest!
Post by: CraftyMech on February 04, 2014, 05:49:43 pm
Oh man, sorry about that! You would have just eeked out a win by 2 yards.

Son of a ---smurfette---.........i haven't been checking this.........I had posted with Seattle in my head, but didnt put it in the post........

I see where Craftymech asked, and i'm just now taking a peek.........sadl;ksflg;kajfl;kfjfdl;hjfl;jfdagl;kg Dammittttttt
Title: Re: FS: mini SLG 2X (scanline generator) (Colorado, USA) - Superbowl Contest!
Post by: pbj on February 04, 2014, 07:16:32 pm
Can confirm a Cowboys fan would be stupid enough to have rooted for the Seahawks.

Title: Re: FS: mini SLG 2X (scanline generator) (Colorado, USA) - Superbowl Contest!
Post by: rablack97 on February 04, 2014, 09:12:09 pm
Can confirm a Cowboys fan would be stupid enough to have rooted for the Seahawks.

Um, I never said I was a Cowboys fan, I don't have a team.

I have family in Seattle, and I was rooting for Wilson anyhow, Manning already has a ring....

I live in Cowboy territory, hence all the Dallas Cowboy builds......Anyhow, no biggie, rooting for the Cowboys in this case would have been looney, i was trying to get a darn SLG  :afro:
Title: Re: FS: mini SLG 2X (scanline generator) (Colorado, USA) - Superbowl Contest!
Post by: CraftyMech on February 04, 2014, 09:46:04 pm
It was a fun contest, and we have a winner. So back to business now  :cheers:
Title: Re: FS: mini SLG 2X (scanline generator) (Colorado, USA)
Post by: Plampasso on February 04, 2014, 10:19:03 pm
Hello CraftyMech,

I would like to purchase 5 of your mini SLG's. I tried to send you a personal message but it wont allow me to.

Thanks,
Paul Lampasso
Title: Re: FS: mini SLG 2X (scanline generator) (Colorado, USA)
Post by: CraftyMech on February 04, 2014, 10:28:11 pm
Hi Paul,

Sure thing! Send me an email at orders@craftymech.com and we'll take it from there.

Hello CraftyMech,

I would like to purchase 5 of your mini SLG's. I tried to send you a personal message but it wont allow me to.

Thanks,
Paul Lampasso
Title: Re: FS: mini SLG 2X (scanline generator) (Colorado, USA)
Post by: Ginsu Victim on February 14, 2014, 12:00:49 pm
PM sent with order request.
Title: Re: FS: mini SLG 2X (scanline generator) (Colorado, USA)
Post by: Ginsu Victim on February 14, 2014, 02:32:21 pm
What's up with the lack of trade feedback for CraftyMech? This guy should have a ton. Time for some of you to start playing catch-up. (Change your theme if you can't see it.)
Title: Re: FS: mini SLG 2X (scanline generator) (Colorado, USA)
Post by: Malenko on February 14, 2014, 02:34:29 pm
What's up with the lack of trade feedback for CraftyMech? This guy should have a ton. Time for some of you to start playing catch-up. (Change your theme if you can't see it.)

I left my +1 when I got mine.
Title: Re: FS: mini SLG 2X (scanline generator) (Colorado, USA)
Post by: opt2not on February 14, 2014, 02:35:26 pm
Oh thanks for the reminder.  :cheers:
Title: Re: FS: mini SLG 2X (scanline generator) (Colorado, USA)
Post by: Ginsu Victim on February 14, 2014, 02:52:49 pm
What's up with the lack of trade feedback for CraftyMech? This guy should have a ton. Time for some of you to start playing catch-up. (Change your theme if you can't see it.)

I left my +1 when I got mine.

I noticed.
(http://cdn2.list25.com/wp-content/uploads/2012/06/headpat.png)
Title: Re: FS: mini SLG 2X (scanline generator) (Colorado, USA)
Post by: Malenko on February 14, 2014, 03:07:02 pm
is this where I sniff your butt or something?
Title: Re: FS: mini SLG 2X (scanline generator) (Colorado, USA)
Post by: Ginsu Victim on February 14, 2014, 03:36:21 pm
is this where I sniff your butt or something?
Or crotch. Surprise me.

(It's good to be back...)  :lol
Title: Re: FS: mini SLG 2X (scanline generator) (Colorado, USA)
Post by: Malenko on February 14, 2014, 03:52:58 pm
glad to see you back  :cheers:
Title: Re: FS: mini SLG 2X (scanline generator) (Colorado, USA)
Post by: CraftyMech on February 14, 2014, 03:54:59 pm
I was wondering why I all of a sudden received several feedback notices... I thought the system was going haywire :)

Thanks guys for the feedback!  :cheers:
Title: Re: FS: mini SLG 2X (scanline generator) (Colorado, USA)
Post by: Ginsu Victim on February 14, 2014, 04:01:47 pm
I was wondering why I all of a sudden received several feedback notices... I thought the system was going haywire :)

Thanks guys for the feedback!  :cheers:
I left before you joined. Now I'm back, and I'm here to clean up the streets.

Now, tell me, what do you think of these suspenders?
(http://www.blogcdn.com/www.aoltv.com/media/2007/11/sunnybums200.jpg)
Title: Re: FS: mini SLG 2X (scanline generator) (Colorado, USA)
Post by: Ginsu Victim on February 21, 2014, 09:20:27 am
Got mine yesterday and love it. I really wish there was room for a couple of screws to help secure it. The VGA port on the video card couldn't hold it in place because of the weight of the cable, so I had to use a DVI adapter which seems to work fine.

Picture difference is great. It's very natural looking, rather than the obviousness of software scanlines.

Thanks for selling such an awesome device.  :cheers:
Title: Re: FS: mini SLG 2X (scanline generator) (Colorado, USA)
Post by: CraftyMech on February 21, 2014, 01:25:14 pm
Great to hear Ginsu!

Thumbscrews for the video card connection is the last piece of the puzzle that I have not come up with a good solution for yet. The mini SLG 3 is in the planning stages, and will be about a 1/2" shorter which should help with strain relief. Probably wont be releasing that model to late summer, but making the video source connection more secure is the top goal for that iteration of the product.

Picture difference is great. It's very natural looking, rather than the obviousness of software scanlines.

The power of analog! There is a small amount of feedback introduced into the signal as an artifact of producing the scanlines, and I feel that helps to soften the image as a whole beyond just scanlines.

Thanks for the + trading feedback, + feedback coming your way!
Title: Re: FS: mini SLG 2X (scanline generator) (Colorado, USA)
Post by: Ginsu Victim on February 21, 2014, 02:34:01 pm
The power of analog! There is a small amount of feedback introduced into the signal as an artifact of producing the scanlines, and I feel that helps to soften the image as a whole beyond just scanlines.

When I was describing the effect to a friend today, I told him, "The image isn't just static lines like software solutions. It's.....analog.....it's......alive."
Title: Re: FS: mini SLG 2X (scanline generator) (Colorado, USA)
Post by: CraftyMech on February 21, 2014, 11:11:20 pm
The image isn't just static lines like software solutions. It's.....analog.....it's......alive."

Great quote for my website and sales threads, do you mind if I use it?
Title: Re: FS: mini SLG 2X (scanline generator) (Colorado, USA)
Post by: Ginsu Victim on February 22, 2014, 02:35:39 am
The image isn't just static lines like software solutions. It's.....analog.....it's......alive."

Great quote for my website and sales threads, do you mind if I use it?

Go for it. (And leave me feedback while you're at it.) ;)
Title: Re: FS: mini SLG 2X (scanline generator) (Colorado, USA)
Post by: CraftyMech on February 24, 2014, 12:33:17 pm
500 units sold!

Thanks to everyone for their support, this product has far exceeded my expectations when I released the first version in December 2012.  :cheers:
Title: Re: FS: mini SLG 2X (scanline generator) (Colorado, USA)
Post by: yotsuya on February 24, 2014, 12:39:23 pm
Hope you've made some decent coin for your hard work!  :cheers:
Title: Re: FS: mini SLG 2X (scanline generator) (Colorado, USA)
Post by: Ginsu Victim on February 24, 2014, 12:47:20 pm
500 units sold!

Thanks to everyone for their support, this product has far exceeded my expectations when I released the first version in December 2012.  :cheers:

Congrats! I might order another to give my friend as a birthday gift in May. He has an LCD in his cabinet and would benefit greatly from one of these.
Title: Re: FS: mini SLG 2X (scanline generator) (Colorado, USA)
Post by: Caparo8bit on February 27, 2014, 11:00:10 pm
im done trying to set mame.ini to apply scanline effect im getting one  ;D
Title: Re: FS: mini SLG 2X (scanline generator) (Colorado, USA)
Post by: Ginsu Victim on February 28, 2014, 09:48:29 am
im done trying to set mame.ini to apply scanline effect im getting one  ;D

This device is WAY better than that crap anyway.
Title: Re: FS: mini SLG 2X (scanline generator) (Colorado, USA)
Post by: CraftyMech on March 04, 2014, 03:32:57 am
I am waiting on a new order of circuit boards that should arrive by March 15th. I am still taking orders in the meantime, there will just be a small delay in shipping.
Title: Re: FS: mini SLG 2X (scanline generator) (Colorado, USA)
Post by: CraftyMech on March 18, 2014, 12:29:48 pm
Circuit boards are back in stock, so shipping times are back to normal for the mini SLG :)
Title: Re: FS: mini SLG 2X (scanline generator) (Colorado, USA)
Post by: CraftyMech on April 29, 2014, 08:02:15 pm
FREE US SHIPPING UNTIL CINCO DE MAYO!  :cheers:
Title: Re: FS: mini SLG 2X (scanline generator) (Colorado, USA)
Post by: roknrol on May 01, 2014, 03:41:30 pm
Sweet. I knew my procrastination in ordering one would pay off!
Title: Re: FS: mini SLG 2X (scanline generator) (Colorado, USA)
Post by: deadmoney5 on May 02, 2014, 04:06:07 pm
ordered one for my bartop using an LCD.  I'll report back with results. ;D
Title: Re: FS: mini SLG 2X (scanline generator) (Colorado, USA)
Post by: Malenko on May 02, 2014, 10:46:42 pm
I think Im going to need to order more, used my last one as a finishing touch to my mom's retirement gift:

(http://forum.arcadecontrols.com/index.php?action=dlattach;topic=136713.0;attach=307976;image)
Title: Re: FS: mini SLG 2X (scanline generator) (Colorado, USA)
Post by: CraftyMech on May 03, 2014, 02:01:38 pm
Sweet!

Just let me know, free shipping until the 5th!  :cheers:
Title: Re: FS: mini SLG 2X (scanline generator) (Colorado, USA)
Post by: 1500points on May 09, 2014, 10:39:43 am
Hi Aaron,
Checking in.
I recently got one of those 412-1 BlueElf jobbies.
It has 2 VGA settings 640x480 and 1024x768.

I plugged in that newer slg you sent that isn't in a case and is on a green circuit board.
No output makes it to the Dell monitor with either setting.
Is that one supposed to work with PCBs, I have forgotten which model you said it was.
Title: Re: FS: mini SLG 2X (scanline generator) (Colorado, USA)
Post by: CraftyMech on May 15, 2014, 12:24:14 pm
Sorry I missed this post until now, you have a PM incoming!

Hi Aaron,
Checking in.
I recently got one of those 412-1 BlueElf jobbies.
It has 2 VGA settings 640x480 and 1024x768.

I plugged in that newer slg you sent that isn't in a case and is on a green circuit board.
No output makes it to the Dell monitor with either setting.
Is that one supposed to work with PCBs, I have forgotten which model you said it was.
Title: Re: FS: mini SLG 2X (scanline generator) (Colorado, USA)
Post by: CraftyMech on May 15, 2014, 12:31:43 pm
New Spring Promotion!

Refer a friend to buy a mini SLG, and get $10 off your next order. Just make sure you have them mention your forum username/email when they place their order.
Title: Re: FS: mini SLG 2X (scanline generator) (Colorado, USA)
Post by: 1500points on May 15, 2014, 12:43:47 pm
email sent.

keep up the great work, love the slgs on the 60-1 machines.  :)
Title: Re: FS: mini SLG 2X (scanline generator) (Colorado, USA)
Post by: gottifour on May 21, 2014, 10:03:27 pm
I just wanted to chime in here to give a big +1 for the mini SLG. It works great in my LCD'd Crusin USA.
Title: Re: FS: mini SLG 2X (scanline generator) (Colorado, USA)
Post by: CraftyMech on May 25, 2014, 02:50:30 pm
I just wanted to chime in here to give a big +1 for the mini SLG. It works great in my LCD'd Crusin USA.

Thanks for the feedback gottifour!  :cheers:

Spread the good word, I have lots of mini SLG boards in stock :)

PS - I'm also happy to announce that Paradise Arcade (http://paradisearcadeshop.com (http://paradisearcadeshop.com)) now carries the mini SLG. If you've got a shopping list for a new project and need a mini SLG as well, you can now get everything in the same place :)
Title: Re: FS: mini SLG 2X (scanline generator) (Colorado, USA)
Post by: zartan6 on June 27, 2014, 02:53:08 pm
Are the schematics for this device still made available?

Thanks
Title: Re: FS: mini SLG 2X (scanline generator) (Colorado, USA)
Post by: CraftyMech on July 01, 2014, 12:14:04 pm
Are the schematics for this device still made available?

Thanks

Responded via email, and also shipped your unit yesterday!

To answer the question for everyone else who may be curious, I took the mini SLG closed source after the first board revision in early 2013. So unfortunately no schematics will be made available to the public, as the mini SLG is now considered a commercial product.

The current version (2X) is actually the 4th iteration of the design and has been in production since October 2013.
Title: Re: FS: mini SLG 2X (scanline generator) (Colorado, USA)
Post by: rpgposer on August 05, 2014, 09:26:54 am
I would like one!  PM sent.
Title: Re: FS: mini SLG 2X (scanline generator) (Colorado, USA)
Post by: CraftyMech on August 06, 2014, 11:28:06 am
Your package will be on its way today!  :cheers:
Title: Re: FS: mini SLG 2X (scanline generator) (Colorado, USA)
Post by: rpgposer on August 09, 2014, 06:37:48 pm
Your package will be on its way today!  :cheers:
Received this morning, hooked up and tested on Midway Strike Force.  Looks great!
Thanks, awesome product.  Now get busy and make one that inputs/outputs component video! 
Title: Re: FS: mini SLG 2X (scanline generator) (Colorado, USA)
Post by: mikoyv on August 09, 2014, 09:52:24 pm
Hi, I would like to order but can't PM you coz I'm a newb. I do have paypal and all. Thanks.
Title: Re: FS: mini SLG 2X (scanline generator) (Colorado, USA)
Post by: CraftyMech on August 11, 2014, 11:44:50 am
Hi Mikoyv,

Just send me an email at orders@craftymech.com with your order request :)

Thanks,
Aaron
Title: Re: FS: mini SLG 2X (scanline generator) (Colorado, USA)
Post by: aroenai on August 27, 2014, 03:25:50 am
I think I just found the perfect setup for this:
If you grab some female screw posts from an old video card or VGA extension cable you can screw everything together securely, and with the DVS-204 you can use the mini SLG 2 on all your CGA/RGBS 15 KHz, VGA, Composite, Component, and S-Video devices. Much better than the Gonbes GBS-8220 (http://www.jammaboards.com/store/cga-ega-yuv-to-vga-arcade-hd-converter-pcb-gbs-8220-gbs-8220.html) as far as ease of use and picture quality go with my RGB modded Nintendo 64. Using the mini SLG 2 on my GBS-8220 and having no proper screws to hold it in place messed up my first VGA connector, if I didn't have the cable propped up on a box the screen would just be pink.
Title: Re: FS: mini SLG 2X (scanline generator) (Colorado, USA)
Post by: 1500points on August 27, 2014, 11:19:10 am
I ended up zip tying everything together with tiny zip ties. holds well now.
Title: Re: FS: mini SLG 2X (scanline generator) (Colorado, USA)
Post by: CraftyMech on October 03, 2014, 12:44:09 pm
Thanks everyone for the awesome support over the last 1.5 years, the mini SLG reached the 700 mark for units sold!
Title: Re: FS: mini SLG 2X (scanline generator) (Colorado, USA)
Post by: CraftyMech on November 26, 2014, 11:43:00 pm
Coming up on the 2 year anniversary of the mini SLG next month!

From now until Christmas US shipping is free! So $29 gets you a mini SLG delivered in time for the holidays :)
Title: Re: FS: mini SLG 2X (scanline generator) (Colorado, USA)
Post by: gustos247 on December 06, 2014, 05:03:42 pm

can you email me with info.. Id like to try one out. 

gus @ noinfo . com

thx
Title: Re: FS: mini SLG 2X (scanline generator) (Colorado, USA)
Post by: 1500points on December 17, 2014, 09:30:53 am
Aaron, I would like to purchase an SLG that works with the 19-1 pcb.
thank you!
Title: Re: FS: mini SLG 2X (scanline generator) (Colorado, USA)
Post by: 1500points on December 28, 2014, 10:15:02 pm
arrived today. tried it with the 6xx n 1. worked great.
the new design is beefy. like it.
will try in the 4xx n 1 tomorrow and see how Qbert looks
thank you
Title: Re: FS: mini SLG 2X (scanline generator) (Colorado, USA)
Post by: CraftyMech on January 24, 2015, 02:32:22 pm
2 years, and 800 units sold, the mini SLG just keeps on rolling :)
Title: Re: FS: mini SLG 2X (scanline generator) (Colorado, USA)
Post by: Rick on January 25, 2015, 07:12:51 am
2 years, and 800 units sold, the mini SLG just keeps on rolling :)

You need to toot your own horn more:

"In a world... ...where arcade machines are only owned by the elite. Two years, and over eight hundred million units sold, and the mini SLG is the best selling scanline generator ... of all time." /DonLaFontaine

It's awesome, and everybody should own one!
Title: Re: FS: mini SLG 2X (scanline generator) (Colorado, USA)
Post by: ChanceKJ on January 26, 2015, 03:29:54 am
I've got one.
Title: Re: FS: mini SLG 2X (scanline generator) (Colorado, USA)
Post by: CraftyMech on January 27, 2015, 12:54:11 pm
2 years, and 800 units sold, the mini SLG just keeps on rolling :)

You need to toot your own horn more:

"In a world... ...where arcade machines are only owned by the elite. Two years, and over eight hundred million units sold, and the mini SLG is the best selling scanline generator ... of all time." /DonLaFontaine

It's awesome, and everybody should own one!

The mini SLG is taking over the world! ;)
Title: Re: FS: mini SLG 2X (scanline generator) (Colorado, USA)
Post by: CraftyMech on April 06, 2015, 02:01:36 pm
Getting close to 900 units shipped!

I have been giving the future of the mini SLG some thought, and have decided to sunset the product once I reach 1,000 units. After making and selling them for over 2 years, I'd like to free up more time to dedicate to developing new products.

There is still plenty of time to order one, it will probably be another three months before I get close to 1,000 units sold. Just wanted to give everyone a heads up in case you were thinking about buying an SLG for your project.
Title: Re: FS: mini SLG 2X (scanline generator) (Colorado, USA)
Post by: Scotty_C on April 07, 2015, 03:30:15 pm
Better jump in and get one. And your local to me :)  sent ya an email
Title: Re: FS: mini SLG 2X (scanline generator) (Colorado, USA)
Post by: Mr_Numbers on April 15, 2015, 11:28:24 pm
Thanks for the heads up, I'm going to have to save my pennies and get atleast one of these before they are no longer in production.
Title: Re: FS: mini SLG 2X (scanline generator) (Colorado, USA)
Post by: RetroGreg on April 24, 2015, 01:46:15 am
PM sent. Gotta get dat 2 pack  ;D

Edit: Thanks for the quick response! Payment sent. Such a great product!
Title: Re: FS: mini SLG 2X (scanline generator) (Colorado, USA)
Post by: CraftyMech on May 13, 2015, 12:15:30 pm
I've decided to partner with Paradise Arcade Shop to sell the mini SLG.

The product page is here: http://www.paradisearcadeshop.com/scan-line-generators/1253-mini-slg.html (http://www.paradisearcadeshop.com/scan-line-generators/1253-mini-slg.html)

If I can send Paradise a batch of units every month or so, then I'm thinking I will keep making the mini SLG for the foreseeable future. The time was really adding up for processing individual orders, and I recently took on a couple new web development contracts.

So going forward, if you would like to order the mini SLG, drop by the Paradise Arcade shop at the url above!
Title: Re: FS: mini SLG 2X (scanline generator) (Colorado, USA)
Post by: opt2not on May 13, 2015, 01:17:40 pm
Excellent!  perhaps this will also free up some time for some new products. *cough* BitBlitz *weeze* *cough*
Title: Re: FS: mini SLG 2X (scanline generator) (Colorado, USA)
Post by: CraftyMech on June 18, 2015, 11:53:10 am
I'm working on a new batch of SLGs for Paradise Arcade, they should have them by the end of the next week!
Title: Re: FS: mini SLG 2X (scanline generator) (Colorado, USA)
Post by: nelfichu on June 26, 2015, 12:10:42 am
Is Paradise the only place to order them from? They're still showing as unavailable (I know, I know, not quite a week yet, but I'm impatient!). You don't sell them local in Colorado at all, do you? I'm in Denver myself.
Title: Re: FS: mini SLG 2X (scanline generator) (Colorado, USA)
Post by: CraftyMech on June 28, 2015, 10:31:14 pm
I don't sell direct anymore, but I'm almost done with the new batch I am sending to Paradise Arcade, they should have them by the end of the week!
Title: Re: FS: mini SLG 2X (scanline generator) (Colorado, USA)
Post by: gingerone on July 09, 2015, 04:52:07 pm
Are these no longer available?
Title: Re: FS: mini SLG 2X (scanline generator) (Colorado, USA)
Post by: dmckean on July 09, 2015, 05:41:28 pm
Are these no longer available?

They're just not in stock right now. Also, Paradise Arcade is closed until August 1st.
Title: Re: FS: mini SLG 2X (scanline generator) (Colorado, USA)
Post by: CraftyMech on July 10, 2015, 11:39:34 am
Are these no longer available?

They're just not in stock right now. Also, Paradise Arcade is closed until August 1st.

Sorry about that guys, Paradise is scheduled to re-open on August 1st (they are moving to Minnesota I believe). I'll make sure they have a fresh shipment of units ready to sell when the doors open again!
Title: Re: FS: mini SLG 2X (scanline generator) (Colorado, USA)
Post by: T3quila on July 10, 2015, 01:00:40 pm
Are these no longer available?

They're just not in stock right now. Also, Paradise Arcade is closed until August 1st.

Sorry about that guys, Paradise is scheduled to re-open on August 1st (they are moving to Minnesota I believe). I'll make sure they have a fresh shipment of units ready to sell when the doors open again!

That should mean their shipping costs for small items should go down drastically. I'm excited  ;D
Title: Re: FS: mini SLG 2X (scanline generator) (Colorado, USA)
Post by: gingerone on July 10, 2015, 06:12:01 pm
Do they deliver to the UK?

Sent from my HTC One_M8 using Tapatalk

Title: Re: FS: mini SLG 2X (scanline generator) (Colorado, USA)
Post by: CraftyMech on July 13, 2015, 12:06:27 pm
Do they deliver to the UK?

Sent from my HTC One_M8 using Tapatalk

I believe Paradise does ship internationally from the US, but I am not sure on the shipping costs.
Title: Re: FS: mini SLG 2X (scanline generator) (Colorado, USA)
Post by: gingerone on July 14, 2015, 02:07:11 pm
Do they deliver to the UK?

Sent from my HTC One_M8 using Tapatalk

I believe Paradise does ship internationally from the US, but I am not sure on the shipping costs.
Thanks:)

Sent from my HTC One_M8 using Tapatalk

Title: Re: FS: mini SLG 2X (scanline generator) (Colorado, USA)
Post by: Kynrek on July 24, 2015, 12:23:31 am
Are these still available for sale anywhere? I dont seem to have the ability to PM anyone (including CraftyMech)
Title: Re: FS: mini SLG 2X (scanline generator) (Colorado, USA)
Post by: CraftyMech on July 26, 2015, 11:17:42 pm
Paradise Arcade Shop sells the mini SLG, and will be opening again on August 1st!
Title: Re: FS: mini SLG 2X (scanline generator) (Colorado, USA)
Post by: gingerone on July 29, 2015, 05:32:57 pm
Do these work with a dvi to vga adapter?

Sent from my HTC One_M8 using Tapatalk

Title: Re: FS: mini SLG 2X (scanline generator) (Colorado, USA)
Post by: CraftyMech on August 03, 2015, 11:08:00 pm
Do these work with a dvi to vga adapter?

There have been mixed results with DVI adapters, I recommend only using the mini SLG with VGA.
Title: Re: FS: mini SLG 2X (scanline generator) (Colorado, USA)
Post by: gingerone on August 04, 2015, 03:52:12 pm
Thanks crafty

Sent from my HTC One_M8 using Tapatalk

Title: Re: FS: mini SLG 2X (scanline generator) (Colorado, USA)
Post by: ArrogANT on August 19, 2015, 10:18:40 am
Hi Crafty,

Are you still selling these through Paradise? They are showing as unavailable on their website.
Title: Re: FS: mini SLG 2X (scanline generator) (Colorado, USA)
Post by: CraftyMech on August 20, 2015, 12:10:58 pm
Hi Crafty,

Are you still selling these through Paradise? They are showing as unavailable on their website.

I sent them a small batch about a week ago, so they should have a few. If their website is not taking orders yet (they were in the process of relocating to Minnesota), send them an email at: sales@paradisearcadeshop.com and they should be able to hook you up
Title: Re: FS: mini SLG 2X (scanline generator) (Colorado, USA)
Post by: ArrogANT on August 21, 2015, 07:33:18 am
Thanks Crafty, I'll send them a message.
Title: Re: FS: mini SLG 2X (scanline generator) (Colorado, USA)
Post by: g_block247 on August 22, 2015, 10:12:24 am
Just checked the site and for those interested, they are in stock as of this post!
Title: Re: FS: mini SLG 2X (scanline generator) (Colorado, USA)
Post by: gnomenthusiast on August 27, 2015, 06:50:53 am
Hi,

New to this sort of thing. I've purchased an SLG, but I want to use it with a 1600x1200 monitor  (Syncmaster 214T). Will it operate at that resolution, or will I have to set the resolution to one of the two supported ones?

Thanks in advance,

GE
Title: Re: FS: mini SLG 2X (scanline generator) (Colorado, USA)
Post by: langlem on September 30, 2015, 11:47:23 pm
Would this work on a 1680x1050 resolution monitor?  Thanks for any feedback...i have a 22 inch 16:10 monitor.
Title: Re: FS: mini SLG 2X (scanline generator) (Colorado, USA)
Post by: yotsuya on October 01, 2015, 03:26:57 am
Would this work on a 1680x1050 resolution monitor?  Thanks for any feedback...i have a 22 inch 16:10 monitor.
Sure.... if you run it at 640x480 or 1024x768...
Title: Re: FS: mini SLG 2X (scanline generator) (Colorado, USA)
Post by: southpaw13 on November 10, 2015, 09:25:37 am
FYI, I got the SLG working with a Raspberry PI.  You will need to google the setting on how to get a HDMI to VGA adapter to work, then force the settings to 640x480.  But it worked without any major tweaking!
Title: Re: FS: mini SLG 2X (scanline generator) (Colorado, USA)
Post by: holaplaneta on November 20, 2015, 03:38:19 am

New to this sort of thing. I've purchased an SLG, but I want to use it with a 1600x1200 monitor  (Syncmaster 214T). Will it operate at that resolution...


Same here, I have a Dell 2001FP and I was wondering if I could use this too. Thanks!
Title: Re: FS: mini SLG 2X (scanline generator) (Colorado, USA)
Post by: PL1 on November 20, 2015, 04:25:16 pm
New to this sort of thing. I've purchased an SLG, but I want to use it with a 1600x1200 monitor  (Syncmaster 214T). Will it operate at that resolution...
Same here, I have a Dell 2001FP and I was wondering if I could use this too. Thanks!
IIRC, resolutions higher than 640x480 or 1024x768 will not have scanlines because they don't have the sync signal that the SLG uses to blank alternating lines.

Higher resolution signals (front end, Windows desktop, modern games, etc) pass un-altered thru the SLG, while signals at 640x480 or 1024x768 get scanlines. (set your arcade games to one of these resolutions)


Scott
Confirmed:
Hey Joe, you are correct that if MAME sets the VGA resolution to 640x480 (or 1024x768), then the mini SLG will add scanlines to the image. If you have a MAME front-end and don't want scanlines for those screens, just run the front-end at a higher resolution than 1024x768.
Title: Re: FS: mini SLG 2X (scanline generator) (Colorado, USA)
Post by: CraftyMech on February 22, 2016, 11:05:54 am
If you have been thinking about buying a mini SLG, head on over to Paradise Arcade: http://www.paradisearcadeshop.com/scan-line-generators/1253-mini-slg.html (http://www.paradisearcadeshop.com/scan-line-generators/1253-mini-slg.html)

I recently sent them a shipment of 32 units, the last batch I will be producing for now. I might resume production sometime in the future, but I am discontinuing the product until further notice.

3 years & 1,000 units sold is not a bad run!

Title: Re: FS: mini SLG 2X (scanline generator) (Colorado, USA)
Post by: SusanInParadise on July 25, 2016, 07:24:59 pm
Special deal....
Mini SLG for sale
$15 dollars per Mini SLG, free shipping on all domestic orders with MINI SLGs
(http://www.paradisearcadeshop.com/2836-large_default/mini-slg.jpg) (http://"http://www.paradisearcadeshop.com/scan-line-generators/1253-mini-slg.html")
Title: Re: FS: mini SLG 2X (scanline generator) (Colorado, USA)
Post by: langlem on July 26, 2016, 02:51:18 am
I am having a strange situation with my MiniSLG. Latest version.  I have recently changed using this from an older computer XP 32 bit and version of MAME to a Win7 64 bit .174 MAME.

I have tried both 768x1028@60hz and 480x640hz and get the exact same results.

I THINK I have all my settings in Mame, Mala and desktop resolution set correctly. I get scanlines but its very jerky and all the fonts and other things a "off."  I am sure that I have something simple overlooked...or there is something in the MAME ini file that I have tweakes wrong.  Here are a few pics showing the issue. Fonts are off, ladders are very of in DK...

Any ideas/advice is appreciated! Thanks.

Title: Re: FS: mini SLG 2X (scanline generator) (Colorado, USA)
Post by: Nephasth on July 26, 2016, 02:32:03 pm
Can't see your whole monitor, but it looks like you're playing vertical games letter boxed on a horizontal monitor. In which case the scan lines are running in the wrong direction causing the games to look jacked up.
Title: Re: FS: mini SLG 2X (scanline generator) (Colorado, USA)
Post by: Maur0 on December 14, 2017, 04:02:33 am
Hi !
I hope it's not too late to comment on this thread.

I'm in Europe and I  bought the SlG 3000 ( not sure if it's related to you as well) .

It works great on  the emulators I'm using EXCEPT on MAME. I just can't manage to change the resolution to 640x480 in mame. I have modified the mame.ini file in different versions of MAME  but it doesn't do anything.

There's probably something I'm doing wrong but I don't know what :(

Anyway, any help will be appreciated.

Thanks !
Title: Re: FS: mini SLG 2X (scanline generator) (Colorado, USA)
Post by: Ginsu Victim on December 14, 2017, 11:54:44 am
Hi !

Welcome to BYOAC! Be sure to have a look around....this forum is a great resource.
Title: Re: FS: mini SLG 2X (scanline generator) (Colorado, USA)
Post by: watchin on February 07, 2018, 08:39:16 am
Hello everyone!

I just bought a mini slg to use with MAME but i'm not able to make it work and there are not scanlines at all. I set the computer reolution at 640x480 (and later 1024x768) and also in mame settings ... but nothing. 

I also bought a slg3000 months ago but I returned it because it didn't work, but I start thinking that the problem is not the scanlines hardware but my mame settings (even when I tried all the possible combinations with different computers and screens).

Is there anyone using the mini-slg (or slg3000) with MAME with happy results? Please, could you send me your mame.ini to check the differences with mine?

Thanks!
Title: Re: FS: mini SLG 2X (scanline generator) (Colorado, USA)
Post by: peterson65 on January 12, 2019, 10:41:17 am
this thing is awesome!! I have been converting a space invaders cocktail to a mame machine and been pulling my hair out trying to get it looking good with mame effects but that allways messed up something else (audio or frame drops) set it to 640x480@60 not effects and I cant ask for anything more. thanks
Title: Re: FS: mini SLG 2X (scanline generator) (Colorado, USA)
Post by: negative1 on January 12, 2019, 04:37:53 pm
this thing is awesome!! I have been converting a space invaders cocktail to a mame machine and been pulling my hair out trying to get it looking good with mame effects but that allways messed up something else (audio or frame drops) set it to 640x480@60 not effects and I cant ask for anything more. thanks

The scanlines are going the wrong direction, instead of vertical, they should be horizontal.
later
-1
Title: Re: FS: mini SLG 2X (scanline generator) (Colorado, USA)
Post by: nexusmtz on January 13, 2019, 02:04:39 am
The scanlines are going the wrong direction, instead of vertical, they should be horizontal.
You've seen real arcade games before, right? Scanlines run in the direction that the gun travels across the screen (the long side). Mounting the screen vertically doesn't change that.
Title: Re: FS: mini SLG 2X (scanline generator) (Colorado, USA)
Post by: Malenko on January 13, 2019, 11:22:14 am
The scanlines are going the wrong direction, instead of vertical, they should be horizontal.
later
-1

Are you English or Retarded?
Title: Re: FS: mini SLG 2X (scanline generator) (Colorado, USA)
Post by: Ginsu Victim on January 14, 2019, 11:15:56 am
The scanlines are going the wrong direction, instead of vertical, they should be horizontal.
later
-1

Good job of shitposting in this thread. You clearly have no clue what you're talking about.
Title: Re: FS: mini SLG 2X (scanline generator) (Colorado, USA)
Post by: CraftyMech on April 13, 2019, 12:34:45 pm
this thing is awesome!! I have been converting a space invaders cocktail to a mame machine and been pulling my hair out trying to get it looking good with mame effects but that allways messed up something else (audio or frame drops) set it to 640x480@60 not effects and I cant ask for anything more. thanks

Glad you like the mini SLG! I turned over ownership of the product to Paradise Arcade a couple years ago to focus on other projects, but great to know that people are still enjoying it.