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Main => Project Announcements => Topic started by: harveybirdman on November 18, 2014, 11:05:34 pm

Title: BulletReign: Vertical Jamma Switching SHMUP cab (Progress Report Jan '16)
Post by: harveybirdman on November 18, 2014, 11:05:34 pm
Bad ass marquee
(http://forum.arcadecontrols.com/index.php?action=dlattach;topic=136713.0;attach=343443;image)

Origingal marquee idea (poorly self done)
(http://forum.arcadecontrols.com/index.php?action=dlattach;topic=136713.0;attach=336534;image)

This project will be my attempt at my own Alpha One.  Current PCB roster, Raiden II, Storm Blade, Fighting Hawk

I am using a 6 in 1 Jamma Switcher that I plan to hard wire to a 6 way switch externally mounted on the cabinet.

More to come


Original Post Below:

So I bought this from CL for a hundred bucks, it has a big Hantarex and 1945 Strikers installed

I haven't gotten into it yet (just got it home tonight)

It powers on and the screen is all red and has some vertical waves (will post a video later)

As of right now the tentative plan is to do a vertical shooter cab influenced by Opt2Nots Alpha One, though I do not know if it will run boards or a PC with Mame, most likely the latter to accommodate my large game list tendencies.

In the meantime I was hoping some of the tech experts can help me troubleshoot and educate me on what I have, what is good about it and what sucks, general advice etc.

Here are some pics, more information to follow

(http://forum.arcadecontrols.com/index.php?action=dlattach;topic=136713.0;attach=336536;image)

(http://forum.arcadecontrols.com/index.php?action=dlattach;topic=136713.0;attach=336538;image)

(http://forum.arcadecontrols.com/index.php?action=dlattach;topic=136713.0;attach=336542;image)

(http://forum.arcadecontrols.com/index.php?action=dlattach;topic=136713.0;attach=336540;image)
Title: Re: Picked up what I believe was an angled MVS, need help
Post by: yotsuya on November 18, 2014, 11:37:05 pm
So I bought this from CL for a hundred bucks, it has a big Hantarex and 1945 Strikers installed

I haven't gotten into it yet (just got it home tonight)

It powers on and the screen is all red and has some vertical waves (will post a video later)

As of right now the tentative plan is to do a vertical shooter cab influenced by Opt2Nots Alpha One, though I do not know if it will run boards or a PC with Mame, most likely the latter to accommodate my large game list tendencies.

In the meantime I was hoping some of the tech experts can help me troubleshoot and educate me on what I have, what is good about it and what sucks, general advice etc.

Here are some pics, more information to follow

(https://farm6.staticflickr.com/5608/15638739028_5142ab437d_n.jpg) (https://flic.kr/p/pPWCgw)20141118_210410 (https://flic.kr/p/pPWCgw) by harveybirdman1 (https://www.flickr.com/people/71971293@N05/), on Flickr

(https://farm8.staticflickr.com/7470/15824154215_8fb2f04149_n.jpg) (https://flic.kr/p/q7jVK6)20141118_210349 (https://flic.kr/p/q7jVK6) by harveybirdman1 (https://www.flickr.com/people/71971293@N05/), on Flickr

(https://farm8.staticflickr.com/7489/15638745358_8c981268d9_n.jpg) (https://flic.kr/p/pPWE9E)20141118_210451 (https://flic.kr/p/pPWE9E) by harveybirdman1 (https://www.flickr.com/people/71971293@N05/), on Flickr

(https://farm8.staticflickr.com/7509/15638979767_b234b4b2cd_n.jpg) (https://flic.kr/p/pPXRQc)20141118_201834 (https://flic.kr/p/pPXRQc) by harveybirdman1 (https://www.flickr.com/people/71971293@N05/), on Flickr

Excellent pickup!
Title: Re: Picked up what I believe was an angled MVS, need help
Post by: Nephasth on November 19, 2014, 12:03:57 am
HA! I've got one of those too! Plan on doing the same ---steaming pile of meadow muffin--- with it too. Even paid the same price. :lol

(http://forums.arcade-museum.com/attachment.php?attachmentid=169255&d=1391915375)
Title: Re: Picked up what I believe was an angled MVS, need help
Post by: yotsuya on November 19, 2014, 12:07:03 am
HA! I've got one of those too! Plan on doing the same ---steaming pile of meadow muffin--- with it too. Even paid the same price. :lol

(http://forums.arcade-museum.com/attachment.php?attachmentid=169255&d=1391915375)

Wish I had one of those when I did my Macross build.  :cheers:
Title: Re: Picked up what I believe was an angled MVS, need help
Post by: Nephasth on November 19, 2014, 12:08:08 am
Damn you, now I gotta import a Macross PCB...
Title: Re: Picked up what I believe was an angled MVS, need help
Post by: harveybirdman on November 19, 2014, 12:11:56 am
HA! I've got one of those too! Plan on doing the same ---steaming pile of meadow muffin--- with it too. Even paid the same price. :lol

(http://forums.arcade-museum.com/attachment.php?attachmentid=169255&d=1391915375)

AWESOME!  I'm going to post a video of my monitor power-up and hope someone can walk me through troubleshooting and accomplishing the repair without frying myself.   Love the idea of a dedicated SHMUP cab.


Title: Re: Picked up what I believe was an angled MVS, need help
Post by: harveybirdman on November 19, 2014, 12:13:37 am
HA! I've got one of those too! Plan on doing the same ---steaming pile of meadow muffin--- with it too. Even paid the same price. :lol

(http://forums.arcade-museum.com/attachment.php?attachmentid=169255&d=1391915375)

Wish I had one of those when I did my Macross build.  :cheers:

Dude if anything I accomplish comes with 1/10th of the awesomeness of your Macross build then I will be totally stoked at my success level.
Title: Re: Picked up what I believe was an angled MVS, need help
Post by: yotsuya on November 19, 2014, 12:19:25 am
HA! I've got one of those too! Plan on doing the same ---steaming pile of meadow muffin--- with it too. Even paid the same price. :lol

(http://forums.arcade-museum.com/attachment.php?attachmentid=169255&d=1391915375)

Wish I had one of those when I did my Macross build.

Dude if anything I accomplish comes with 1/10th of the awesomeness of your Macross build then I will be totally stoked at my success level.

Thanks, bro. If you need anything, let me know.  I too was influenced by Opt2Not's build. Hope he gets around to finishing one day. :cheers: :cheers:
Title: Re: Picked up what I believe was an angled MVS, need help
Post by: harveybirdman on November 19, 2014, 12:23:41 am
lame recording but this is what happens upon power up, there is an audible ding and the marquee light and coin door light come on and this is what displays on screen.

This is as far as I've gotten so far, previous owners said it worked when they first received it.  Said they had been able to get it various results by adjusting some of the pots on the monitor.  I have not tried any adjustments at this point (still educating myself on this monitor)

(http://forum.arcadecontrols.com/index.php?action=dlattach;topic=136713.0;attach=336556;image)

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=9myBrpNAplE (http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=9myBrpNAplE)]https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=9myBrpNAplE
Title: Re: Picked up what I believe was an angled MVS, need help
Post by: yotsuya on November 19, 2014, 12:25:49 am
lame recording but this is what happens upon power up, there is an audible ding and the marquee light and coin door light come on and this is what displays on screen.

This is as far as I've gotten so far, previous owners said it worked when they first received it.  Said they had been able to get it various results by adjusting some of the pots on the monitor.  I have not tried any adjustments at this point (still educating myself on this monitor)

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=9myBrpNAplE (https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=9myBrpNAplE)

Make sure your cabling from the harness to the board is snug, then try the pots.
Title: Re: Picked up what I believe was an angled MVS, need help
Post by: Nephasth on November 19, 2014, 12:36:13 am
Looks like board issues too, the game doesn't boot up. What's your power supply output? And are you getting the same voltages at the board edge connector? If you've got other jamma boards or cabs swap em out and check out the results.
Title: Re: Picked up what I believe was an angled MVS, need help
Post by: harveybirdman on November 19, 2014, 12:41:12 am
Ill have to break the voltmeter out when I have some time to work on it, thanks for the suggestions.  :cheers:
Title: Re: Picked up what I believe was an angled MVS, need help
Post by: harveybirdman on November 19, 2014, 08:28:58 pm
Update: 5v from power supply is good, should I take a reading from the 5v pins on the Jamma plug at board?

What I believe is trying to display on screen is the start up bios.  I can make out

BG RAM Ok
PALETTE RAM OK
SECURITY CHIP

there is no "ok" following security chip, I checked in MAME and the expected boot screen also has work ram and obj ram but I may not see these on my monitor because of a display setting.

Could there be a bad chip on the board perhaps? Is the next step to remove the board and inspect?
Title: Re: Picked up what I believe was an angled MVS, need help
Post by: Haze on November 19, 2014, 09:22:08 pm
does sound like the security PIC is dead.

the chip isn't dumped either (we simulate the responses from it) so you're out of luck if you need to program a new one, the unprotected set runs on slightly different hardware too (gfx banking logic is different)
Title: Re: Picked up what I believe was an angled MVS, need help
Post by: harveybirdman on November 19, 2014, 09:29:16 pm
Bummer. Any idea where to go to find out where this chip is on the board so I can make sure it isn't a connectivity issue. Google?
Title: Re: Picked up what I believe was an angled MVS, need help
Post by: WindDrake on November 19, 2014, 10:02:12 pm
Looks like a 3-KOAM Z-Back cabinet. Real popular. I've got a blue one myself (2Player MAME Build.)

The Hantarex MTC-9110 is a decent 25" monitor. Not quite the pile of crap the 9000 was. Easy enough to work on.

+5v should be measured at the board, preferrably at an actual device like an EPROM.

IIRC these come up with Security issues a lot. If you have the skill and equipment, examine the QFP100 Psikyo customs and QFP64 & 100 CPU's for cold solder. I know these (like all QFP's in industrial use) are prone to stressed/cracked joints. Off the top of my head this is what I remember about the Psykio boards.

Absolutely do not do this if you don't have the proper equipment or experience.
Title: Re: Picked up what I believe was an angled MVS, need help
Post by: harveybirdman on November 19, 2014, 10:28:58 pm
Thanks for the reply! I think I understand what you mean but I'm definitely in the inexperienced and ill equipped category. I might try to source another Jamma board but in the meantime I will probably shift focus to the monitor to attempt to get my error message to show up clearly.

Title: Re: Picked up what I believe was an angled MVS, need help
Post by: harveybirdman on November 20, 2014, 08:22:46 pm
Ok so I managed to get the image looking better by adjusting the monitor pots.  BTW never trust a 7 and 5 year old to tell you "better" or "worse" when adjusting a monitor.  Once I had a mirror in front of the screen, it went much smoother.

I still have a little issue at the edge jumping that I can't seem to adjust out.  Could this indicate I might need some type of monitor repair?

Here's a video of the "after" adjustments I did, please don't make fun of my horrific Oklahoma accent.

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=AJmBZ1MikTs (http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=AJmBZ1MikTs)]https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=AJmBZ1MikTs


Also in the interest of full disclosure, when I measured the 5V from the power supply it was like 5.7, could that be impeding the board from booting correctly? Or could it have been what potentially fried the security chip?  I was going to try to regulate the output from the power supply but there is a hole where one might expect to see a potentiometer.  It's a Happ power supply, is there a screw in there that you turn? Surely it wasn't designed so that one needs to poke something into a power supply to make a voltage adjustment?



Title: Re: Picked up what I believe was an angled MVS, need help
Post by: WindDrake on November 20, 2014, 10:13:03 pm
Arcade (and most industrial) power supplies are adjustable to make up for losses in the harness. That hole is likely supposed to have a potentiometer behind it that you can adjust.

5.7vDC is way, way too high. 5.3 is usually the very top end of anything I'd consider safe while 4.9-5.1 is your usual sweet spot.

Monitor edge jumping means your monitor is due for a cap kit.

Hopefully your board issue is just a solder issue, and not a blown security device from overvoltage.
Title: Re: Picked up what I believe was an angled MVS, need help
Post by: harveybirdman on November 20, 2014, 11:06:24 pm
Thanks so much for the response.  I pulled the power supply there is definitely something rattling around in there wouldn't be surprised if its the remains of a busted pot.

I'm going to order a replacement since they are relatively cheap and I don't want to expose the current or any future boards to incorrect voltage.

As far as the solder issue you mentioned, is that visable from the top or bottom of the board? Is there some tell tale signs i should look for?

Thanks again for the responses I apologize for spamming the main forum.
Title: 3-Koam Z back project. (planning stage)
Post by: harveybirdman on November 25, 2014, 11:53:35 am
Moving forward I am considering  two options

1) Keep this as a dedicated Jamma cabinet and drop in something tasty (Raiden 2 anyone?), clean up the cab, maybe do some custom artwork, and either flip it or keep it and potentially incorporate compatible boards with a switcher.

Or

2) Mame it. Get either a transcoder or buy a pc with PCI E  Slot to support Arcade VGA (neither of which I currently have) and have it play as many vert shooters as I want.  Would need a Jpac as well to use existing controls and maintain compatabillity.

Which would you choose and why?

Also can a Mod move this to project announcements?

Title: Re: Picked up what I believe was an angled MVS, need help
Post by: Nephasth on November 25, 2014, 12:40:24 pm
Keep it jamma and amass a collection of sweet ass shmup boards. ;)
Title: Re: Picked up what I believe was an angled MVS, need help
Post by: opt2not on November 25, 2014, 04:02:40 pm
I too was influenced by Opt2Not's build. Hope he gets around to finishing one day.
:(  Alpha One will be resurrected in some form in the future. I'm not sure when, but the ideas, name, and artwork from A1 is definitely going to used eventually.


Quote from: harveybirdman
As of right now the tentative plan is to do a vertical shooter cab influenced by Opt2Nots Alpha One, though I do not know if it will run boards or a PC with Mame, most likely the latter to accommodate my large game list tendencies.
Moving forward I am considering  two options

1) Keep this as a dedicated Jamma cabinet and drop in something tasty (Raiden 2 anyone?), clean up the cab, maybe do some custom artwork, and either flip it or keep it and potentially incorporate compatible boards with a switcher.

Or

2) Mame it. Get either a transcoder or buy a pc with PCI E  Slot to support Arcade VGA (neither of which I currently have) and have it play as many vert shooters as I want.  Would need a Jpac as well to use existing controls and maintain compatabillity.

Which would you choose and why?
This is one of the things I struggled with Alpha One. In the end, I wanted both! Some shump titles in Mame, (or shmupmame) still do not play 100%. Recently Mame has updated support for Raiden II/DX, but it still isn't exactly the same as a the PCB original. There is a big thread on the shmups forum that has been comparing the differences.

While to the casual shmup player these differences aren't so big, for serious players this "can't fly". :)

chopperthedog set-up a simple 2-way relay switch for one of his cabinets. Cheaper than getting a Jamma Switcher, and the wiring looks simple enough.
http://forum.arcadecontrols.com/index.php/topic,130607.msg1360048.html#msg1360048 (http://forum.arcadecontrols.com/index.php/topic,130607.msg1360048.html#msg1360048)

This is something I want to get going on all my cabinets. Having the ability to run mame AND original PCB's is a great option, especially for those of us who still collect PCB's.
Title: Re: 3-Koam Z back project. (planning stage)
Post by: harveybirdman on November 26, 2014, 10:14:58 pm
I'll check out that Chopper thread, thanks!

In the meantime here's some more info on current condition.  This cab had an original power supply built into the back of the cabinet, it must have either developed issues or had some type of unique setup because at some point in this cab's life it was replaced with a Happ power plus mounted on the board rack.

Here you can see what I assume are 12V and 5V DC connections coming from one side of the original PSU and they weren't hooked up to anything when I got the cab.

(http://forum.arcadecontrols.com/index.php?action=dlattach;topic=136713.0;attach=336547;image)

The AC though still is coming through on the following side through, and was intended to go straight to the isolation transformer and then eventually to the monitor.  However when PSU number two was put in some jackass spliced into the hot and neutral with speaker wire and used that to run AC to the new power supply (pictured below)

(http://forum.arcadecontrols.com/index.php?action=dlattach;topic=136713.0;attach=336549;image)

So how to fix this nonsense?  I'm thinking I can run the AC from the original supply directly to the new power supply and then run wires from there to the isolation transformer right?  For that matter I may just scrap the original PSU all together and replace the only remaining functionality with something like this

http://images10.newegg.com/NeweggImage/ProductImageCompressAll300/A0KR_1_20110917_11145916.jpg (http://images10.newegg.com/NeweggImage/ProductImageCompressAll300/A0KR_1_20110917_11145916.jpg)


Also with regards to the Strikers board, I'm pretty sure I know what happened.  PSU # 2 was sending at least 5.7 volts to the board for god knows how long (adjustment knob was broken).  After some intense visual inspection of the board I saw this on PIN 15 at R30.  From what I've seen that's test pin on JAMMA?  It may have little to do with the board not functioning but still that doesn't look good.  Maybe some experts could tell me more about this.

(http://forum.arcadecontrols.com/index.php?action=dlattach;topic=136713.0;attach=336559;image)

Finally, there are several removable chips on this board. they are numbered in this picture 1, 2, 3, and 4.  Does anyone know if any of them are the security chip for this board?  The reason I ask is that  I saw 2 and 3 for sale on an ebay listing for a very reasonable price, that seem to match this specific board, and if I can get this board working for the price of a resistor and a couple of super inexpensive chips then that's all the more longer I can justify to the wife why the cabinet needs to stay indoors! 

(http://forum.arcadecontrols.com/index.php?action=dlattach;topic=136713.0;attach=336561;image)

All for now, thanks for looking.  Happy Thanksgiving!







 
Title: Re: Update: BulletReign: a Vertical Jamma Switching SHMUP cab
Post by: harveybirdman on December 04, 2014, 10:15:25 pm
Project officially has a direction now...

(http://forum.arcadecontrols.com/index.php?action=dlattach;topic=136713.0;attach=336535;image)

I will keep it Jamma, add a 6 game switcher, lose the remote, wire it to the coolest 6 way switch I can find mounted on the kick plate of the cab just under the CP.

The strikers board is officially dead, replacing the burned out resistor failed to make a difference at boot up.  However I'm working on sourcing a new board to truly test monitor.  Then I will probablly have to reach out for help with a cap kit.  The chassis in the cab doesn't match what is in the Hantarex manual so I'm guessing it too has been replaced at some point in this cabinet's life time. More to come on that later.

The old power supply on this cab (that if you remember was only passing AC to a faulty second power supply) failed during the first startup with the new Happ supply.  So I pulled it and ordered a power socket from twisted quarter.  I have a pretty neat idea for the installation of the new socket, more to come on that later as well.

Here you can see the original supply

(http://forum.arcadecontrols.com/index.php?action=dlattach;topic=136713.0;attach=336570;image)

New Power Supply wired up

(http://forum.arcadecontrols.com/index.php?action=dlattach;topic=136713.0;attach=336572;image)
 
Title: Re: BulletReign: a Vertical Jamma Switching SHMUP cab (Power rebuild underway)
Post by: harveybirdman on December 14, 2014, 09:33:39 pm
So after scrapping power supply # 1, I was left with this on the back of the cabinet...

(http://forum.arcadecontrols.com/index.php?action=dlattach;topic=136713.0;attach=336568;image)

What to do?  Well I knew that my project definitely needed a CoryBee Serial Plate once it was done, and now I have wire up a new power socket.  So how about combining both into one?

The Plan....

Recess mount a metal plate with a power socket from Twisted Quarter attached, combine it's aesthetic look with a serial plate for the cab.

Materials...

Well so I was going to go to Lowe's and look for some sheet metal, everything I found though was pretty flimsy, RATS!  So at first I thought I would just cover a thin piece of plywood with some of the stuff they sell in the HVAC area and just be done with it.  However after returning home and cleaning out the garage I found this laying around ....

(http://forum.arcadecontrols.com/index.php?action=dlattach;topic=136713.0;attach=336554;image)

The cover for a long dead PC my father gave me that was bound for the dumpster.  "This is pretty sturdy," I said to myself and suddenly in a moment of Zen-like clarity I decided to channel my inner PBJ.

Plus it was an excuse to use the cut off saw.

Plate Cut....

(http://forum.arcadecontrols.com/index.php?action=dlattach;topic=136713.0;attach=336552;image)

It isn't perfect but I squared it up pretty good on the table grinder.  Mapped out where the power socket would go....

(http://forum.arcadecontrols.com/index.php?action=dlattach;topic=136713.0;attach=336550;image)

I started to try to cut out the hole with an angle grinder, but that didn't go so well.  Using the drill press I managed to cut out a rectangle between two sloppy parallel cuts.  Yesterday I picked up a cheapo rotary tool from Harbor Freight and widened the hole enough for the socket to fit.  The Rotary tool was only $19.99 on sale and has 6 speeds.  Sure it's no Dremmel but for the price I can't complain.  The grinding bits were rubbish though so I had to go buy a Dremmel grinding bit from Wal Mart, and I damn near wore it slap out.

(http://forum.arcadecontrols.com/index.php?action=dlattach;topic=136713.0;attach=336564;image)

Next up squaring up the weirdo hole in the back, I started with my multipurpose oscillating tool, and I'll use the sanding bits on my rotary tool to even things up nicely.

(http://forum.arcadecontrols.com/index.php?action=dlattach;topic=136713.0;attach=336566;image)

Finally I jumped in paint.net to layout the plate portion that will eventually get printed on those full sheet clear Avery labels, which I picked up at Staples last week for about 16 bucks, OUCH! Of course I started with the KLOV template that Cory stole, and here is the first mockup.

(http://forum.arcadecontrols.com/index.php?action=dlattach;topic=136713.0;attach=336562;image)

Times running out on my weekend though, more to come.  Thanks for looking.
Title: Re: BulletReign: Vertical Jamma Switching SHMUP cab (power roughed in Raiden II!)
Post by: harveybirdman on December 26, 2014, 01:54:06 pm
Finishing touches on plate, sanded of the most egregious tool marks.

(http://forum.arcadecontrols.com/index.php?action=dlattach;topic=136713.0;attach=321467;image)



It helps to print the label on the right side... tsk tsk

(http://forum.arcadecontrols.com/index.php?action=dlattach;topic=136713.0;attach=321481;image)



Label correctly applied, I added a nod to Opt2Not and Alpha One in the Model No. for the inspiration.  Those are tiny screws! number 4 would fit the holes but I ended up going metric so I could get black ones.  I can't remember the size but they are little fellers!

(http://forum.arcadecontrols.com/index.php?action=dlattach;topic=136713.0;attach=321469;image)



I painted around the hole to give it a look of completeness but I was limited to my options because this is setting in my dining room right now, I just brushed on some acrylic craft paint, the whole back of the cab will be repainted before it's through.  Also I'm considering framing this out to hide a few sins.  masked the inside with Duct Tape.

(http://forum.arcadecontrols.com/index.php?action=dlattach;topic=136713.0;attach=321473;image)



Here are some shots with the plate mounted....

(http://forum.arcadecontrols.com/index.php?action=dlattach;topic=136713.0;attach=321471;image)

(http://forum.arcadecontrols.com/index.php?action=dlattach;topic=136713.0;attach=321458;image)

(http://forum.arcadecontrols.com/index.php?action=dlattach;topic=136713.0;attach=321475;image)

(http://forum.arcadecontrols.com/index.php?action=dlattach;topic=136713.0;attach=321479;image)
Title: Re: BulletReign: Vertical Jamma Switching SHMUP cab (power roughed in Raiden II!)
Post by: harveybirdman on December 26, 2014, 01:59:51 pm
Video on current project progress...

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=zQum54cUqiQ (http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=zQum54cUqiQ)]https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=zQum54cUqiQ

I figured out the screen flip (it's DIP Switch 8), pleased with myself so far....

(http://forum.arcadecontrols.com/index.php?action=dlattach;topic=136713.0;attach=321465;image)

As you may have seen from the video, my Chassis doesn't match the accompanying manual

(http://forum.arcadecontrols.com/index.php?action=dlattach;topic=136713.0;attach=321459;image)

I don't know if they replaced the entire monitor or if they just slapped in whatever 25in chassis they had at hand.  As you can see from the video the board has some issues.  I'm hoping that I can just buy the cap kit off eBay for 8 bucks and not f up the board on the subsequent soldering adventure...  Any tips? Advice? Warnings?

In the mean time I'm working on the panel, I just ordered some universal mounting plates and I'm about to drop some SERIOUS coin to Brian and Randy.  Look for more exterior and CP updates to come...
Title: Re: BulletReign: Vertical Jamma Switching SHMUP cab (power roughed in Raiden II!)
Post by: PL1 on December 26, 2014, 02:43:46 pm
Label correctly applied, I added a nod to Opt2Not and Alpha One in the Model No. for the inspiration.  Those are tiny screws! number 4 would fit the holes but I ended up going metric so I could get black ones.  I can't remember the size but they are little fellers!

(http://forum.arcadecontrols.com/index.php?action=dlattach;topic=136713.0;attach=321469;image)
Looks good, other than the math fail.   >:D

Watts = Volts * Amps   ;D


Scott
Title: Re: BulletReign: Vertical Jamma Switching SHMUP cab (power roughed in Raiden II!)
Post by: harveybirdman on December 26, 2014, 02:52:05 pm
Thanks Scott I'll fix that when I redo label to straighten...  ;D
Title: Re: BulletReign: Vertical Jamma Switching SHMUP cab (power roughed in Raiden II!)
Post by: harveybirdman on December 31, 2014, 12:38:04 am
So I decided to change gears and work on the panel.

It's freezing cold in Oklahoma this week, but I lit a nice fire in the shop and was able to work comfortably.

First order of business, remove the Primal Rage control panel overlay, now there may be better ways to do this but a heat gun and a scraper worked wonders for me.

(http://forum.arcadecontrols.com/index.php?action=dlattach;topic=136713.0;attach=321589;image)


After the first pass....

(http://forum.arcadecontrols.com/index.php?action=dlattach;topic=136713.0;attach=321591;image)

There are still some stubborn places where the the CPO and the adhesive already had separated, also several thin rusty areas...

(http://forum.arcadecontrols.com/index.php?action=dlattach;topic=136713.0;attach=321593;image)

I ran out of time but made good progress with a wire brush and paint thinner coupled with a sander.  I'll post another pic tomorrow after I finish cleaning it up.

(http://forum.arcadecontrols.com/index.php?action=dlattach;topic=136713.0;attach=321595;image)

Once it's clean I'll prime it, I don't want rust to rear it's ugly head in the future.  Anyone have a good primer recommendation?  Sure I'm just going to end up covering the two larger surfaces with another CPO but I want to paint it to protect it long term.

Other project notes

Two Seimitsu LS-60's and Octagonal restrictors ordered from Paradise Arcade Shop
Two Universal mounting plates ordered from Focus Attack
(more $ than Bryan sells them, but he was out. Didn't take long for the competition to pounce on his idea I see)
Forty foot of T-Molding, Happ Competition Convex buttons, and Ruby Gemstone Hand Candy Balltops from Groovy Game Gear

It's going to be arcade Christmas in my mailbox pretty soon!



Title: Re: BulletReign: Vertical Jamma Switching SHMUP cab (some lite CP work)
Post by: emphatic on December 31, 2014, 08:09:28 am
Wow, someone likes paying for shipping.  :dizzy:
Title: Re: BulletReign: Vertical Jamma Switching SHMUP cab (some lite CP work)
Post by: Malenko on December 31, 2014, 08:37:12 am
love the name, looking forward to the progress
Title: Re: BulletReign: Vertical Jamma Switching SHMUP cab (some lite CP work)
Post by: Nephasth on December 31, 2014, 08:40:19 am
Interested in seeing what you do with your CP. I've got mine stripped down and about ready to get some holes welded up right meow.
Title: Re: BulletReign: Vertical Jamma Switching SHMUP cab (some lite CP work)
Post by: harveybirdman on December 31, 2014, 08:56:04 am
I guess its just a necessary evil emphatic but yeah FA's shipping is retarded given that it was sent from PA.

Thanks Malenko  :cheers:

Nep: While I have access to welding equipment, my welding skills leave much to be desired.  I may take a page from the operators and merely cover the unused holes with overlay and then cut a polycarbonate sheet to go over the top.  They actually covered the bottom row of Primal Rage buttons with some padlock shaped black stickers when this was switched to a two button per player cab and with the arcylic overlay they had, you'd never know.
Title: Re: BulletReign: Vertical Jamma Switching SHMUP cab (some lite CP work)
Post by: Nephasth on December 31, 2014, 09:11:47 am
Yeah, I'm talking bolt holes, mine also has a split along the top seam. I'm just going to use button hole plugs since I'll be going a different route than a CPO.
Title: Re: BulletReign: Vertical Jamma Switching SHMUP cab (some lite CP work)
Post by: Malenko on December 31, 2014, 09:47:19 am
I went from this:
(http://forum.arcadecontrols.com/index.php?action=dlattach;topic=103207.0;attach=185938;image)

to this:
(http://forum.arcadecontrols.com/index.php?action=dlattach;topic=103207.0;attach=186529;image)

Didnt weld anything, just drilled the holes in the plexi and covered the swiss cheese with an overlay.
Title: Re: BulletReign: Vertical Jamma Switching SHMUP cab (some lite CP work)
Post by: harveybirdman on December 31, 2014, 09:42:29 pm
Finished cleaning up the panel today, might have time to paint tomorrow we'll see....

Top side sanded

(http://forum.arcadecontrols.com/index.php?action=dlattach;topic=136713.0;attach=321664;image)

Under side sanded

(http://forum.arcadecontrols.com/index.php?action=dlattach;topic=136713.0;attach=321666;image)

Unfortunately the sander won't reach the inner recesses on the inside of the panel and equally bad that is where most of the rust is hiding.

(http://forum.arcadecontrols.com/index.php?action=dlattach;topic=136713.0;attach=321668;image)

I started to sand by hand but yeah.... that sucks.  So I went to the Home Depot and picked up some Naval Jelly.  It works well but stinks and is messy also leaves behind a discolored patina not the best solution if one was going for a bare metal presentation.  Fortunately I'm painting mine and then covering with a CPO.

Here is the stuff in action (don't forget to wear gloves, that's acid yo...)

(http://forum.arcadecontrols.com/index.php?action=dlattach;topic=136713.0;attach=321671;image)

After rinsing it off, it's pretty effective

(http://forum.arcadecontrols.com/index.php?action=dlattach;topic=136713.0;attach=321672;image)

Here's a shot of the panel temporarily back on the cab until I can paint.  All for now, Happy New Year!

(http://forum.arcadecontrols.com/index.php?action=dlattach;topic=136713.0;attach=321674;image)
Title: Re: BulletReign: Vertical Jamma Switching SHMUP cab (some lite CP work)
Post by: harveybirdman on January 10, 2015, 12:34:02 pm
I got some stuff in for the cab so I thought I'd post an update...

Here are the Seimitsu LS-60's, the adapter plates work brilliantly, and Randy's Hand Candy Ball Tops complete things very nicely.  At first I was going to swap out the blue shaft covers but considering my overall art design plans I actually think the Seimitsu Clear Blue shaft cover/Hand Candy Ruby Gemstone combination looks pretty flipping sweet.

(http://forum.arcadecontrols.com/index.php?action=dlattach;topic=136713.0;attach=322143;image)

I had a Lowes card from Christmas so I figured I'd buy some Acrylic to cut a new CP cover so that I could test mount the controls.  Seriously.... ---fudgesicle--- Acrylic!  :angry:  I am so pissed that I wasted the money, that ---steaming pile of meadow muffin--- cracks if you fart while drilling it (EVEN WITH A FORSTNER BIT!)  Hell I can hand drill polycarbonate with a spade bit and not crack it!  If you have the $ ALWAYS use Lexan over Acrylic!  I will have to save some $ though because the ---daisies--- at Home Depot only have inexpensive sizes of Lexan 24 inches wide and my panel is 25 and a halfish.  So for that extra inch and a half?  I have to buy a damn 32 x 48 inch piece that is is freaking 70 bucks!

/endrant 

Here are some pictures of the buttons and joys mounted.  I can tell right away that I'm not going to be happy with the buttons in the provided holes.  Definitely want a more Japanese layout, going to head to slagcoin and try to figure out a solution that would require minimal drilling.  I'm thinking I may just drop button 1 down a few millimeters, but who knows?

(http://forum.arcadecontrols.com/index.php?action=dlattach;topic=136713.0;attach=322145;image)

(http://forum.arcadecontrols.com/index.php?action=dlattach;topic=136713.0;attach=322147;image)

Also two of the next three major projects are going to have to wait for warmer weather

One will be a tear down and refinish of the coin door, complete with pimped out paint job, and the other will be adding durable Formica laminate to the sides, kickplate, and speaker surround.  I know that their are other cheaper solutions like roll vinyl etc. but in a house with small children durability is important.  there is some water damage at the bottom of the side panels that will need to be dealt with as well but here's a tease of this girls new clothes....

First some swatches that I considered.

(http://forum.arcadecontrols.com/index.php?action=dlattach;topic=136713.0;attach=322149;image)


And of course the winning combination

(http://forum.arcadecontrols.com/index.php?action=dlattach;topic=136713.0;attach=322151;image)


One more thing I could use your help thinking about, is where the boards are going to live once this battle station becomes operational.  I have two areas inside the lower cab  on either side of the coin door.  The useable area is about 15 in high, by 9 in wide, and about 27 in deep or so.  There is also some room behind the coin door on the floor   I'm thinking some type of rack mounted vertical orientations of the JAMMA goodness.

I image googled rack mount circuit boards and some neat things showed up

(http://www.smtinspection.com/images/products/502.jpg)

(http://www.atlee.com/images/CardGuides.jpg)

(http://www.linkhamson.com/images/products/esd_racks_laberack_lo.jpg)

But I think I'm going to end up rolling my own less elegant solution... still wouldn't mind some killer ideas if you guys have any.
Title: Re: BulletReign: Vertical Jamma Switching SHMUP cab (some lite CP work)
Post by: emphatic on January 10, 2015, 03:17:19 pm
If the PCBs have holes that are lining up, you could use simple standoffs to do a PCB sandwich of sorts.

Like so:
(http://www.zerksus.com/images/overlay_stack.jpg)

About the button layout, you could just drop the 1st button to the hole below and try it out for a bit? What games are you planning on playing? Unless you're gonna play the later CAVE games, 3 buttons are enough.
Title: Re: BulletReign: Vertical Jamma Switching SHMUP cab (some lite CP work)
Post by: harveybirdman on January 10, 2015, 03:55:05 pm
Raiden II,  Final Star Force, and Brave Blade are all but confirmed... still not sure about the others.

The drop to the first level hole is a bit drastic, but that definitely deserves some consideration.
Title: Re: BulletReign: Vertical Jamma Switching SHMUP cab (some lite CP work)
Post by: Nephasth on January 10, 2015, 07:22:39 pm
I just snagged this from Twisted Quarter. Since the CP slides out with the board attached, it makes for fast swaps.
Title: Re: BulletReign: Vertical Jamma Switching SHMUP cab (some lite CP work)
Post by: harveybirdman on January 10, 2015, 09:04:06 pm
Thats sweet dude, making me rethink the switching piece of this project...

But there's plenty of time to think it through, gotta save money for boards first!
Title: Re: BulletReign: Vertical Jamma Switching SHMUP cab (some lite CP work)
Post by: Nephasth on January 11, 2015, 09:10:57 am
For a project I'm working on that will use a 6in1 switcher, I wanted to get one of these, but I can't find a source state side. So I'll probably end up making something similar out of MDF.

(http://www.megauk.com/images/PCB-rack.jpg)
Title: Re: BulletReign: Vertical Jamma Switching SHMUP cab (some lite CP work)
Post by: emphatic on January 11, 2015, 09:23:12 am
I just snagged this from Twisted Quarter. Since the CP slides out with the board attached, it makes for fast swaps.

I've got one of those in one of my cabinets.

(http://www.emphatic.se/EGRET_II_pics/innards_15kHz_3.jpg)

Had to saw off the top though, or it wouldn't fit in the metal slot for the wooden board.
Title: Re: BulletReign: Vertical Jamma Switching SHMUP cab (some lite CP work)
Post by: harveybirdman on January 16, 2015, 11:24:31 pm
Small Update

I currently have three projects in some stage of planning/execution.  Figured I'd let you in on a couple

Task 1 Refinish the Cab

I've begun to strip the vinyl from the cabinet.  I was unable to deduce a ninja way of doing it, therefore I committed to brute force, determination, and a paint scrapper.  When I got tired of pulling off tiny strips at a time I broke out the heat gun.  I wouldn't say it was faster, but it made things a bit easier.  It also had an unfortunate side effect, leaving adhesive/vinyl remnants but I figured ---fudgesicle--- it, I'll sand that ---steaming pile of meadow muffin--- off later....

Here are some pics of the ol' girl naked...

(http://forum.arcadecontrols.com/index.php?action=dlattach;topic=136713.0;attach=322510;image)

(http://forum.arcadecontrols.com/index.php?action=dlattach;topic=136713.0;attach=322512;image)

I haven't bought the laminate yet for her new clothes, because I figure I'll need to refinish it in the shop and you're supposed to do it when the temperature is greater than 70 degrees. 

I'm a little nervous about chipping the stuff though, I am pretty sure we have a laminate flush trim bit somewhere in the shop and the youtube videos I've watched make it look pretty simple but the stuff is spendy, and if I screw the pooch that's $ 40 down the drain.  Oh well that's a Spring problem...


Task 2

Fix that jumpy monitor picture....

I ordered a cap kit from Syracuse semiconductors on Ebay, I still am nervous as a long tailed cat in a room full of rocking chairs about tackling this but I'll be damned if I'm going to let my fear of failure prevent me from learning arcade Kung Fu.  What's the worse that could happen?  If I mess up the board I can replace it for 100ish bucks....  May the force be with me...

I made myself this...

(http://forum.arcadecontrols.com/index.php?action=dlattach;topic=136713.0;attach=322520;image)
and it's off to the races....  The discharge was pretty uneventful, before I could brace for a pop the anode cap popped off almost as soon as I put the screwdriver beneath it.  Went ahead and touched the discharge tool to the tube hole just to make sure but the since it's been off for weeks, there wasn't much if any fanfare.

So a few screws removed and I pulled the monitor as you can see here

(http://forum.arcadecontrols.com/index.php?action=dlattach;topic=136713.0;attach=322514;image)

(http://forum.arcadecontrols.com/index.php?action=dlattach;topic=136713.0;attach=322516;image)

Now for a closer look under the hood

(http://forum.arcadecontrols.com/index.php?action=dlattach;topic=136713.0;attach=322518;image)

Looks like we have a few suspicious caps...

(http://forum.arcadecontrols.com/index.php?action=dlattach;topic=136713.0;attach=322522;image)

(http://forum.arcadecontrols.com/index.php?action=dlattach;topic=136713.0;attach=322524;image)

(http://forum.arcadecontrols.com/index.php?action=dlattach;topic=136713.0;attach=322526;image)

(http://forum.arcadecontrols.com/index.php?action=dlattach;topic=136713.0;attach=322530;image)


Neck board doesn't look too bad but the cardboard backing seems to be separated, perhaps from humidity.

(http://forum.arcadecontrols.com/index.php?action=dlattach;topic=136713.0;attach=322528;image)


Next step is to get the board separated form the monitor and ask the monitor forum for a crash course...  Do any of you see anything else glaringly wrong?  How do I know if fly-back transformer is good?  Any other tips?


The third task is finishing the coin door but that's still under development.... I am expecting some new coin rejects in the mail soon though.



Title: Re: BulletReign: Vertical Jamma Switching SHMUP cab (Monitor Update)
Post by: harveybirdman on January 27, 2015, 07:42:23 pm
---fudgesicle--- YEAH!!! DEEZ nuts you WG K7193  :angry:

Turns out it helps if your sync is hooked up to -H instead of +H..... Lesson learned and excuse to buy a molex connector, crimper, and pins, going to need them when I wire up the CP anyway  :cheers: :cheers: :cheers:

(http://forum.arcadecontrols.com/index.php?action=dlattach;topic=136713.0;attach=323092;image)

(http://forum.arcadecontrols.com/index.php?action=dlattach;topic=136713.0;attach=323094;image)
Title: Re: BulletReign: Vertical Jamma Switching SHMUP cab (Laminate Application)
Post by: harveybirdman on February 09, 2015, 01:07:48 am
We've had a streak of unseasonably warm days here in the 918, so I started with the laminate facelift.

After reviewing this thread in the Woodworking forum: http://forum.arcadecontrols.com/index.php/topic,49927.0.html (http://forum.arcadecontrols.com/index.php/topic,49927.0.html) , and seeking the advice of the forum here: http://forum.arcadecontrols.com/index.php/topic,143704.0.html (http://forum.arcadecontrols.com/index.php/topic,143704.0.html) , I embarked on repairing the water damage on one side panel and the huge chuck from a corner on the other.

I was looking for a smaller 3/4 sheet of plywood but lately a lot of the plywood available (especially in smaller project sizes) seems to be 1/16 or so thinner and obviously that wouldn't match up to the existing structure.  I could have bought a sheet of Birch veneered ply, but even a small sheet of that mess is $25 so since there was no more that 3 or 4 inches of issues on each side of the cab I opted to just get a couple of 1x6's (one for the repair and one for the butt joint)

I don't know if anyone is reading my ramblings, so I'll just get right to the pictures....

The first step was to cut out the damage, to keep it simple I just cut out 5 1/12 inches which is the width of my replacement board.

(http://forum.arcadecontrols.com/index.php?action=dlattach;topic=136713.0;attach=323689;image)

Testing for fit

(http://forum.arcadecontrols.com/index.php?action=dlattach;topic=136713.0;attach=323691;image)

Oh but those sharp corners....  No worries I used this method to mark em...

(http://forum.arcadecontrols.com/index.php?action=dlattach;topic=136713.0;attach=323705;image)

Then I used THIS bad boy to make quick work of them (everyone needs a table sander)

(http://forum.arcadecontrols.com/index.php?action=dlattach;topic=136713.0;attach=323723;image)

When I was planning this project one of the things I was scared of the most was slot cutting the new work, I've read so many horror stories and seen pictures of blown out work.  But luckily for me my piece was small and was super easy cause I could do it on the router table.  The hardest part of this job was getting the bit at the right level (made several test cuts on scrap wood)

(http://forum.arcadecontrols.com/index.php?action=dlattach;topic=136713.0;attach=323693;image)

When It came time to actually attach the repair I had grand designs of gluing and doweling it it to place, I even bought a kit that comes with little pokers to help you align the pieces.

(http://forum.arcadecontrols.com/index.php?action=dlattach;topic=136713.0;attach=323695;image)

Ultimately though (probably because I couldn't get the holes on the existing panel straight because of the bottom getting in the way, the fit just wasn't right with the dowels and I said many cuss words.

(http://forum.arcadecontrols.com/index.php?action=dlattach;topic=136713.0;attach=323697;image)

So I just butt jointed it to hell, glued and screwed another 1x6 on the inside.

(http://forum.arcadecontrols.com/index.php?action=dlattach;topic=136713.0;attach=323703;image)

Some shots of the finished repairs

(http://forum.arcadecontrols.com/index.php?action=dlattach;topic=136713.0;attach=323699;image)

(http://forum.arcadecontrols.com/index.php?action=dlattach;topic=136713.0;attach=323701;image)







Title: Re: BulletReign: Vertical Jamma Switching SHMUP cab (Laminate Application)
Post by: harveybirdman on February 09, 2015, 01:19:25 am
Then it was time to Laminate son!

I did a little surface preparation (I got a bit greedy with the saw on this side)

(http://forum.arcadecontrols.com/index.php?action=dlattach;topic=136713.0;attach=323707;image)

I used the manufacturers instructions, watched a Lowe's video, and this method worked well

(http://forum.arcadecontrols.com/index.php?action=dlattach;topic=136713.0;attach=323715;image)

One side down

(http://forum.arcadecontrols.com/index.php?action=dlattach;topic=136713.0;attach=323713;image)

Laminating the speaker Panel

(http://forum.arcadecontrols.com/index.php?action=dlattach;topic=136713.0;attach=323709;image)

As I applied the laminate I thought, how in the hell am I going to cut out those slits for the speakers...  My flush trim bit was to large to fit in the holes...  TO LOWES BATMAN!  I bought this guy and it did STELLAR work!

(http://forum.arcadecontrols.com/index.php?action=dlattach;topic=136713.0;attach=323711;image)

(http://forum.arcadecontrols.com/index.php?action=dlattach;topic=136713.0;attach=323721;image)

And here are some shots of both cab sides laminated...

(http://forum.arcadecontrols.com/index.php?action=dlattach;topic=136713.0;attach=323719;image)

(http://forum.arcadecontrols.com/index.php?action=dlattach;topic=136713.0;attach=323717;image)

Sadly I broke the ---steaming pile of meadow muffin--- out of my kickplate removing it (they REALLY didn't want the local juvenile delinquents to get into these things, they glued and stapled the ---steaming pile of meadow muffin--- out of it.  Next time I will be cutting a new kickplate and adding a coin door opening. 

Thanks for following!  :cheers:
Title: Re: BulletReign: Vertical Jamma Switching SHMUP cab (Laminate Application)
Post by: BorgDog on February 09, 2015, 09:01:19 am
Nice work, and yes I do need the disc sander.  Where did you get your's?
Title: Re: BulletReign: Vertical Jamma Switching SHMUP cab (Laminate Application)
Post by: Louis Tully on February 09, 2015, 09:21:13 am
.
Title: Re: BulletReign: Vertical Jamma Switching SHMUP cab (Laminate Application)
Post by: harveybirdman on February 09, 2015, 09:47:33 am
Thanks Louis!    :cheers:

Borg: So I'm pretty spoiled, my father spent a lifetime amassing tools and I am lucky as the benefactor.  He actually got the sander,  router table, and many other tools in the shop as part of the purchase of their farm. The former owner taught woodshop at the local school,   pretty sure this may have come out of the classroom.

Here's a modern equivalent for $111 bucks.

https://www.google.com/shopping/product/4690366249741903410?q=table+sander&espv=2&biw=1201&bih=836&bav=on.2,or.r_qf.&bvm=bv.85464276,d.eXY&ion=1&tch=1&ech=1&psi=zcnYVMi8GoebNpOlhIgP.1423493576836.5&ei=18nYVIP_GoKUNpbTg5AP&ved=0CLgBEKYrMAI (https://www.google.com/shopping/product/4690366249741903410?q=table+sander&espv=2&biw=1201&bih=836&bav=on.2,or.r_qf.&bvm=bv.85464276,d.eXY&ion=1&tch=1&ech=1&psi=zcnYVMi8GoebNpOlhIgP.1423493576836.5&ei=18nYVIP_GoKUNpbTg5AP&ved=0CLgBEKYrMAI)
Title: Re: BulletReign: Vertical Jamma Switching SHMUP cab (Laminate Application)
Post by: wp34 on February 11, 2015, 05:48:57 pm
Those white sides look bangin!   :applaud:
Title: Re: BulletReign: Vertical Jamma Switching SHMUP cab (Laminate Application)
Post by: harveybirdman on February 11, 2015, 06:32:25 pm
Thanks!  :cheers:

I've always loved the look of the white sides, Liberator, Missile Command, quantum, Xevious....

since at the end of the day this is ultimately just a glorified art piece I know I want something that in that vein.
Title: Re: BulletReign: Vertical Jamma Switching SHMUP cab (Laminate Application)
Post by: zackt69 on February 12, 2015, 01:04:03 pm
Those white sides look bangin!   :applaud:

Agreed, that white laminate looks excellent! Everything is coming along great man, nice work.
Title: Re: BulletReign: Vertical Jamma Switching SHMUP cab (Laminate Application)
Post by: opt2not on February 12, 2015, 01:30:05 pm
So clean!  Love the white laminate.   :applaud:
Title: Re: BulletReign: Vertical Jamma Switching SHMUP cab (Laminate Application)
Post by: harveybirdman on February 12, 2015, 02:22:23 pm
So clean!  Love the white laminate.   :applaud:

Those white sides look bangin!   :applaud:

Agreed, that white laminate looks excellent! Everything is coming along great man, nice work.

Thanks guys it means a lot!  Wish I had more to show, hopefully the wife will let me get away with working on it some more over the long weekend. 

I have some cool ideas for the board access panel it will open like the second door she opens in this video:

http://www.thehardwarehut.com/product-video.php?p_ref=194246 (http://www.thehardwarehut.com/product-video.php?p_ref=194246)

and it's going to have graphics on the inside that pay homage to a certain "aircraft carrier"  something like this

(http://forum.arcadecontrols.com/index.php?action=dlattach;topic=136713.0;attach=324006;image)

Basically if it turns out right when its open you might half way expect planes to launch out of it  ;D

Plus I have to endeavor to convince Yots that doing something besides an all black coin door with turn out epic, don't really want to let the cat out of the bag on that one yet though, but I hope it turns out as awesome as it looks in my head.  Definitely more to come!  Thanks again for all the encouragement!
Title: Re: BulletReign: Vertical Jamma Switching SHMUP cab (Laminate Application)
Post by: RetroGreg on February 12, 2015, 10:30:22 pm
I really like the look of the z backs. Looks great so far and I can't wait to see more!
Title: Re: BulletReign: Vertical Jamma Switching SHMUP cab (Laminate Application)
Post by: Locke141 on February 13, 2015, 12:35:04 am
I really like the look of the z backs. Looks great so far and I can't wait to see more!

+1

This is looking very nicely.
Title: Re: BulletReign: Vertical Jamma Switching SHMUP cab (Laminate Application)
Post by: yotsuya on February 13, 2015, 12:50:03 am
Plus I have to endeavor to convince Yots that doing something besides an all black coin door with turn out epic, don't really want to let the cat out of the bag on that one yet though, but I hope it turns out as awesome as it looks in my head.  Definitely more to come!  Thanks again for all the encouragement!

I have yet to see one that doesn't look janky, but good luck, bro. I think the problem might be in the paint/finish that has been used in the past. Almost all of them look like a spray painted afterthought. Maybe you'll be a trailblazer.  :cheers:
Title: Re: BulletReign: Vertical Jamma Switching SHMUP cab (Laminate Application)
Post by: harveybirdman on February 16, 2015, 10:22:17 am
I don't know about trailblazer, I'm hoping I just don't screw it up.....


Well slowly but surely I'm putting things back together...

I apologize for the lack of documented picks, but I did measure and cut a new kickplate.  When it came time to cut the coin door I measured the remains of the old kickplate for the dimensions.  I watched several videos on cutting the sink hole out of counter tops, as I figured cutting my coin door out would be a similar task.  I don't have a jigsaw, so I went another route....

First the stupid curves.  I got all the way out to the shop with my 2 1/8 hole saw and I left the stupid bit that it fits on at home.... I'm sure dad has some but I couldn't find them so I used a forstner bit and a five minute job turned into a fifty minute job.  I had to stop often to cool off the bit.  Here's a pic of me using the wrong tools for this job....

(http://forum.arcadecontrols.com/index.php?action=dlattach;topic=136713.0;attach=324188;image)

For the straight cuts I used a speed square and some scrap wood to make a straight edge/fence for my router and it worked very well.

Somehow I didn't get a few holes line up right but the coin door seems to cover up all the sins

Here's the kickplate after some laminate application.

(http://forum.arcadecontrols.com/index.php?action=dlattach;topic=136713.0;attach=324198;image)

Sorry a few of the pics are blurry, I had a smudge on my lens.

Next up I primed and painted the back panels... Screw painting I'm super glad I went with the laminate on the important sides.  And I have plenty left over for the board access panel which I still have on the to do list.

Primer Coat

(http://forum.arcadecontrols.com/index.php?action=dlattach;topic=136713.0;attach=324190;image)

(http://forum.arcadecontrols.com/index.php?action=dlattach;topic=136713.0;attach=324192;image)

(http://forum.arcadecontrols.com/index.php?action=dlattach;topic=136713.0;attach=324194;image)

Finish Coat

(http://forum.arcadecontrols.com/index.php?action=dlattach;topic=136713.0;attach=324196;image)

(http://forum.arcadecontrols.com/index.php?action=dlattach;topic=136713.0;attach=324200;image)
Title: Re: BulletReign: Vertical Jamma Switching SHMUP cab (Laminate Application)
Post by: harveybirdman on February 16, 2015, 10:30:53 am
Here's a shot with the speaker panel and kickplate installed

(http://forum.arcadecontrols.com/index.php?action=dlattach;topic=136713.0;attach=324204;image)

Now that I had things painted it was time to install the T-Molding....  Man am I SUPER stoked with this Cool Blue T Molding from GroovyGameGear it REALLY set things off!

(http://forum.arcadecontrols.com/index.php?action=dlattach;topic=136713.0;attach=324202;image)

(http://forum.arcadecontrols.com/index.php?action=dlattach;topic=136713.0;attach=324206;image)

(http://forum.arcadecontrols.com/index.php?action=dlattach;topic=136713.0;attach=324208;image)


As you may recall if you were following my monitor issue thread, at some point the sync was incorrectly hooked up to this monitor.  I went ahead and set off for my molex crimper and molex connectors and I immediately put them to use.

Before the repair

(http://forum.arcadecontrols.com/index.php?action=dlattach;topic=136713.0;attach=324184;image)

And after

(http://forum.arcadecontrols.com/index.php?action=dlattach;topic=136713.0;attach=324186;image)


With any luck I'll have everything back in the cabinet by the weekend....

Next Steps

Board Storage Solution
Board Access Panel


Further down the road:
CP prep and finish
CP wire up
Coin Door prep and finish
JAMMA 6 in 1 Mod to physical 6 way switch.
Artwork

Thanks for following! :cheers:
Title: Re: BulletReign: Vertical Jamma Switching SHMUP cab (Laminate Application)
Post by: wp34 on February 16, 2015, 10:35:42 am

Now that I had things painted it was time to install the T-Molding....  Man am I SUPER stocked with this Cool Blue T Molding from GroovyGameGear it REALLY set things off!


That blue really does look great with the white.   :cheers:
Title: Re: BulletReign: Vertical Jamma Switching SHMUP cab (Laminate Application)
Post by: harveybirdman on February 16, 2015, 10:41:21 am

Now that I had things painted it was time to install the T-Molding....  Man am I SUPER stocked with this Cool Blue T Molding from GroovyGameGear it REALLY set things off!


That blue really does look great with the white.   :cheers:

Thanks, I'm going to start saving now for artwork worthy of this finish... Maybe I can bring opt2not out of retirement...
Title: Re: BulletReign: Vertical Jamma Switching SHMUP cab (kickplate, paint, t mold)
Post by: harveybirdman on February 27, 2015, 12:17:25 pm
This isn't really much of an update, but I need to dish out some props and take the opportunity for some feedback given I may have a few issues to work through soon.

So for board storage (I'm not completely sold that this is the way I'm going) I decided to build my way through the design process.

I'm toying with a sliding panel approach.  Fundamentally I know if I do this, I need to have all my grooves on the supports line up perfectly.  So I decided to cut them all out of the same 1x12 and then rip it down into supports.

The switch on my table saw went out midway through the project so I had to use something else, it took me a while to gauge the depth and spacing for my cuts as you can see here.

(http://forum.arcadecontrols.com/index.php?action=dlattach;topic=136713.0;attach=324865;image)

Once I had all the grooves cut on the actual project piece I bypassed the table saw switch and ripped the 1x12 (stupid dangerous, need to get a new switch before I continue using the table saw)  Here are the results.

(http://forum.arcadecontrols.com/index.php?action=dlattach;topic=136713.0;attach=324867;image)

Ripped down the tempered hardboard to 11 inch high panels.  This is really on the small end and could be the reason I go a different direction.  The board access panel is only a 12 inch opening so if any of my JAMMA boards won't fit on these panels I may have to consider a horizontal mounting option instead.  I'm interested to know opinions on this approach.  What is the widest JAMMA board you have? Do you have many wider than 11 inches?

(http://forum.arcadecontrols.com/index.php?action=dlattach;topic=136713.0;attach=324869;image)

(http://forum.arcadecontrols.com/index.php?action=dlattach;topic=136713.0;attach=324871;image)

I also did a few house cleaning things, I moved the "add credit" button to the top of the cabinet (ignore the sawdust)

(http://forum.arcadecontrols.com/index.php?action=dlattach;topic=136713.0;attach=324873;image)

It was ice cold in my garage and I had been storing my monitor out there temporarily while I worked on the Cab.  Once I got the laminate applied I was in a hurry to button things back up and get the components out of the garage and I got in a hurry.

When putting back in the bezel glass I didn't have it set properly, and that coupled with the CP being slightly bent caused an eruption of broken glass.  Thankfully noting was damaged outside of the glass.  I didn't take a picture but it was UGLY and I said many swears.

Thankfully Nep has this same cabinet, and was ever so kind to provide the dimensions of my now devastated bezel glass.  I owe you a beer bro if you're watching.  :cheers:

I was able to source some replacement glass locally for about 27 bucks.

(http://forum.arcadecontrols.com/index.php?action=dlattach;topic=136713.0;attach=324875;image)


Mounted in the cabinet:

(http://forum.arcadecontrols.com/index.php?action=dlattach;topic=136713.0;attach=324877;image)

I debated on weather or not to show this, because I still have a lot of work to do, but I did want to give a little mock up to see what things will look like, and I of course have been wanting to play through Raiden II so here's the current mock up.

The button location will change, and the Strikers Marquee is obviously a place holder.  I'm trying to finalize my marquee art so I can order one of those translites that stpcore is offering but I've decided to redo the space portion and lose the Macross jet.  After setting Macross Plus to easy mode, and playing through it in MAME I've decided it's a quarter muncher and so ridiculously hard it's barely fun.  I really want the art to have nods to specific games but not have the plane pictured be easily identifiable as "this" ship from "that" game.  Enough talk here's what she looks like.

(http://forum.arcadecontrols.com/index.php?action=dlattach;topic=136713.0;attach=324879;image)
Title: Re: BulletReign: Vertical Jamma Switching SHMUP cab (Board Stoarge? Mockup)
Post by: opt2not on February 27, 2015, 01:53:38 pm
Nice rack. :lol

The widest board I've owned has got to be a Midnight Resistance. I remember it was almost a square, > 11 inches.  It was a pain to find a box to fit it in for shipping when I sold it.

As for the credit button, I'm not sure I would have put it up there, especially using a Volcano button for it!  Atari Volcanos are meant to be seen, man!

Thanks, I'm going to start saving now for artwork worthy of this finish... Maybe I can bring opt2not out of retirement...
Maybe... ;)
Title: Re: BulletReign: Vertical Jamma Switching SHMUP cab (Board Stoarge? Mockup)
Post by: harveybirdman on February 27, 2015, 02:36:00 pm
I see the point about the button, I just knew I didn't want it on my panel.  If I change my mind holes can be filled (that's what she said)

I like the LS-60's but I wish the spring was stiffer.... Do the LS-56 or 58  have any more resistance?
Title: Re: BulletReign: Vertical Jamma Switching SHMUP cab (Board Stoarge? Mockup)
Post by: opt2not on February 27, 2015, 02:46:41 pm
The LS-56/58's spring is apparently a bit stiffer.  I believe the 60's were meant to be similar in feel to the Sanwa JLF's but with a much shorter throw. But I haven't tried the LS-60's yet to compare, this is just what I've been reading from the reviews.

But the LS-56/58's are my shmup sticks of choice! 

Title: Re: BulletReign: Vertical Jamma Switching SHMUP cab (Board Stoarge? Mockup)
Post by: Locke141 on March 09, 2015, 01:49:59 pm
This is really coming along well. I noticed you have some games you would like to add on that list in your signature that are out of your price range. Have you considered using one of your JAMMA slots with a J-PAC and running Mame for just the games that are just two expensive? Either way this is a very cool build.
Title: Re: BulletReign: Vertical Jamma Switching SHMUP cab (Board Stoarge? Mockup)
Post by: harveybirdman on March 09, 2015, 02:29:41 pm
This is really coming along well. I noticed you have some games you would like to add on that list in your signature that are out of your price range. Have you considered using one of your JAMMA slots with a J-PAC and running Mame for just the games that are just two expensive? Either way this is a very cool build.

Yes I've thought about it, I mean who wouldn't want to play Batsugun, Battle Bakraid, Cyvern, Mushihimesama Futari and Donpahchi on a dedicated SHMUP cab after all....  And let's face it, I could by a used Honda for what all of those boards cost!

Still I'd have to source a PC to do this (not only is my current Mame PC pulling double duty it has no PCI E slots), plus a Jpac, and either a transcoder or an arcade VGA, I could definitely get a Rayforce or an ESP RA. DE. for what that would cost.  I do have quite a bit of savings but I have other expenses with this build (Switcher plus mods, hinges, reasonably price Jamma boards, Artwork, and lots of spray paint  >:D)  Also I'm concerned about the 5 Volt  if I run both boards and a J-Pac when the J Pac is active in the switcher.  Anyone have any experience with this?  I notice Andy's page seems to advise against a power supply.

Then again I still love the idea of original hardware as much as possible, and coinopexpress does have a bunch of the boards I want.  Still I don't love the idea of paying an extra 5% for paypal and I've heard the shipping is a doozie.

We shall see, thanks for following man!
Title: Re: BulletReign: Vertical Jamma Switching SHMUP cab (Board Stoarge? Mockup)
Post by: Locke141 on March 10, 2015, 04:43:20 am
I don't recall where but I think I read that GroovyMAME has a way to force many older cheep ATI cards to out put to 15HRZ it may be a cheeper options the ARCADE VGA. With a real arcade monitor it not like you need to use any filters.

Over on Arrow direct you can get a plenty fast HP COMPAQ ELITE 8100 3.2GHZ CORE I5 for $194 before discounts, if the winter20 code is still working that's about $160. If you do go with the ARCADE VGA ($89.00), and the J-pac $59.00. Thats $308 before shipping, not cheep but not super expensive, and you could add all the console SHMUP.

Either way, I'm loving this project. These builds that focus in on one type of game.

By the way, do you follow Oklahoma State wrestling program? I got to meat John Smith a few time at some wrestling fundraiser in NYC. 
Title: Re: BulletReign: Vertical Jamma Switching SHMUP cab (Board Stoarge? Mockup)
Post by: RetroGreg on April 21, 2015, 11:46:44 pm
Paging Mr. Birdman....... any updates? Sorry - I'm eagerly anticipating this one  :cheers:
Title: Re: BulletReign: Vertical Jamma Switching SHMUP cab (Board Stoarge? Mockup)
Post by: harveybirdman on April 22, 2015, 05:19:25 pm
Metal chilling like the lost boys during the daytime
Title: Re: BulletReign: Vertical Jamma Switching SHMUP cab (Board Stoarge? Mockup)
Post by: harveybirdman on April 22, 2015, 05:31:21 pm
Oh and I bought a rubber sanding block and I've been watching OND videos.  :cheers:
Title: Re: BulletReign: Vertical Jamma Switching SHMUP cab (Board Stoarge? Mockup)
Post by: RetroGreg on April 24, 2015, 12:00:47 am
Thanks for humoring me. Great work so far.
Title: Re: BulletReign: Vertical Jamma Switching SHMUP cab (Board Stoarge? Mockup)
Post by: harveybirdman on April 24, 2015, 09:34:16 am
Thanks, I hope to get some paint down this weekend, but the weather hasn't been cooperating.

Plus I just cut a stupidly large (for me) check to the State of Oklahoma..... Oh well, such is life.

Thanks for following, the next update will be a jaw dropper....  ;)

not worth an update but here are some pics of some painting and wet sanding in process, these are after the second coat preceded by a 1500 wet sand

(http://forum.arcadecontrols.com/index.php?action=dlattach;topic=136713.0;attach=328396;image)

(http://forum.arcadecontrols.com/index.php?action=dlattach;topic=136713.0;attach=328398;image)
Title: Re: BulletReign: Vertical Jamma Switching SHMUP cab (anybody got a quarter?)
Post by: harveybirdman on July 13, 2015, 10:52:06 am
Well folks, it's been nearly three months, here's what ol harv has been up to.


We went from this: 

(http://forum.arcadecontrols.com/index.php?action=dlattach;topic=136713.0;attach=331776;image)






















to THIS:

(http://forum.arcadecontrols.com/index.php?action=dlattach;topic=136713.0;attach=331780;image)


(http://forum.arcadecontrols.com/index.php?action=dlattach;topic=136713.0;attach=331778;image)


(http://forum.arcadecontrols.com/index.php?action=dlattach;topic=136713.0;attach=331784;image)


(http://forum.arcadecontrols.com/index.php?action=dlattach;topic=136713.0;attach=331782;image)


(http://forum.arcadecontrols.com/index.php?action=dlattach;topic=136713.0;attach=331786;image)


(http://forum.arcadecontrols.com/index.php?action=dlattach;topic=136713.0;attach=331788;image)


(http://forum.arcadecontrols.com/index.php?action=dlattach;topic=136713.0;attach=331790;image)


More to come on the how and the frustrations during this section of the project that are STILL palpable!

 :cheers:
Title: Re: BulletReign: Vertical Jamma Switching SHMUP cab (anybody got a quarter?)
Post by: wp34 on July 13, 2015, 11:03:01 am
That turned out great.  I really like the stripes.  Are you going to extend them past the coin door?
Title: Re: BulletReign: Vertical Jamma Switching SHMUP cab (anybody got a quarter?)
Post by: harveybirdman on July 13, 2015, 11:09:56 am
That thought had crossed my mind yes, but it depends on what I end up doing with the artwork on the kick plate.
Title: Re: BulletReign: Vertical Jamma Switching SHMUP cab (anybody got a quarter?)
Post by: harveybirdman on July 13, 2015, 02:15:24 pm
So here are some of the materials I used for painting.  If I had it to do all over again I would probably use a self etching primer, perhaps some of the issues I had with peeling paint may have been due to the primer.  Most of the problems however were due to coats being applied above the recommended humidity level.  Pro tip:  If you want to paint something and it’s raining outside, don’t do it!  The stripes I first laid out (pictured below) had to be completely sanded off and redone because they didn’t adhere properly. 

When I had to tape over them the tape peeled sections right off!  By the time I finally laid down the final stripes and covered with the Shimmer Effect (to match the other metallic paints I was using) I didn’t take any chances with the masking, and covered most of the striped area with Aluminum foil (this worked VERY well).  I used various tapes, Frog tape, regular and delicate, Tamiya Tape, and what I found worked the best at preventing over-spray was the plain ol narrow blue painters tape.  It also helped to use small pieces to cover each raised portion of the door rather than one unbroken piece

(http://forum.arcadecontrols.com/index.php?action=dlattach;topic=136713.0;attach=331806;image)

(http://forum.arcadecontrols.com/index.php?action=dlattach;topic=136713.0;attach=331796;image)

(http://forum.arcadecontrols.com/index.php?action=dlattach;topic=136713.0;attach=331798;image)

(http://forum.arcadecontrols.com/index.php?action=dlattach;topic=136713.0;attach=331800;image)

(http://forum.arcadecontrols.com/index.php?action=dlattach;topic=136713.0;attach=331812;image)

(http://forum.arcadecontrols.com/index.php?action=dlattach;topic=136713.0;attach=331810;image)

(http://forum.arcadecontrols.com/index.php?action=dlattach;topic=136713.0;attach=331820;image)


Also if you haven’t watched Ond’s series on getting a mirror finish paint job it’s definitely worth a look, I wet sanded in stages like he suggests and polished with rubbing and polishing compounds.  I just broke down and bought a 20 orbital polisher from Wal-Mart to achieve these results.

(http://forum.arcadecontrols.com/index.php?action=dlattach;topic=136713.0;attach=331816;image)

(http://forum.arcadecontrols.com/index.php?action=dlattach;topic=136713.0;attach=331814;image)

Also as you no doubt noticed from the pictures, I altered the button layout to Sega Astro City Player 2 on both players’ buttons.  I used the print outs from slag coin and marked button one’s placement as it related to the existing holes for button’s two and three.  I drilled a pilot hole and then used a hole saw to widen the hole to spec.  I don’t know if this was the best way (broke several teeth on my hole saw doing this) but the thing said it was good for metal and I made it work.

(http://forum.arcadecontrols.com/index.php?action=dlattach;topic=136713.0;attach=331794;image)

(http://forum.arcadecontrols.com/index.php?action=dlattach;topic=136713.0;attach=331818;image)

If you missed my posts in the main forum, I replaced the incandescent bulbs with LED wedge bulbs that are much brighter.  I still don’t get exactly what I want from this and may look at other options to enhance the lighting.  Basically the issue is with the bulb placement.  Basically in keeping the functionality of the coin rejects it is difficult to avoid shadows being cast.  For now though things look good enough but in the future I may run another line from the power supply to some LED strips, we’ll see.

(http://forum.arcadecontrols.com/index.php?action=dlattach;topic=136713.0;attach=331804;image)

(http://forum.arcadecontrols.com/index.php?action=dlattach;topic=136713.0;attach=331802;image)


Oh yeah and I got this in the mail last week!

(http://forum.arcadecontrols.com/index.php?action=dlattach;topic=136713.0;attach=331826;image)

I am going to roll my own rotary switch control to replace the remote control.  This is pretty well documented at KLOV and on several YouTube videos.  Basically the way I envision it working is diagrammed below, do any of you electrical engineer types see any problem with running the five volt to the ground on this rotary switch and using the switch to direct it to the appropriate contact on the board?  I bought 100k ohm resistors to use per the videos I’ve watched to prevent voltage to multiple boards at once.

(http://forum.arcadecontrols.com/index.php?action=dlattach;topic=136713.0;attach=331824;image)

(http://forum.arcadecontrols.com/index.php?action=dlattach;topic=136713.0;attach=331822;image)
Title: Re: BulletReign: Vertical Jamma Switching SHMUP cab (anybody got a quarter?)
Post by: Locke141 on July 13, 2015, 05:09:02 pm
This is coming along nicely despite the paint issues. Try painting in the tropics some time.
Title: Re: BulletReign: Vertical Jamma Switching SHMUP cab (anybody got a quarter?)
Post by: harveybirdman on July 13, 2015, 05:47:45 pm
So that's why you intricately carve your cabs!   ;D
Title: Re: BulletReign: Vertical Jamma Switching SHMUP cab (CP Harness)
Post by: harveybirdman on July 17, 2015, 07:41:27 pm
Chance's Jamma harness inspired me to finish up the CP harness on the cab this evening

(http://forum.arcadecontrols.com/index.php?action=dlattach;topic=136713.0;attach=332492;image)
Title: Re: BulletReign: Vertical Jamma Switching SHMUP cab (CP Harness)
Post by: Locke141 on July 18, 2015, 03:33:01 am
 :laugh2: Beleave it or not it took less time for him to carve Out of Africa then it took me to do 3 Cots of primer on beat'em up-X

That is some nice good looking wirring.
Title: Re: BulletReign: Vertical Jamma Switching SHMUP cab (CP Harness)
Post by: harveybirdman on August 10, 2015, 11:08:40 am
So I’ve been working on the board access panel for a couple of weeks.  I’d say it’s about 90% done now.  I am still debating getting some soft cabinet downs for it so it opens a bit more impressively.  Additionally there will also be artwork on the inside.

I actually cut a panel at the same time I made the new kick plate, but it had been setting in the shop for several months.  Finally I got around to finishing it.  Sure I could have just painted it black but what fun is that?  I mean inside here is where the boards are going to live!  Still haven’t decided how they are going to be mounted, but at least their home and their front door will look nice!

Laminating all sides is a bit tricky, need to start with the sides.  I am really sucking at documenting everything with pictures, but hopefully you get the idea.

(http://forum.arcadecontrols.com/index.php?action=dlattach;topic=136713.0;attach=333531;image)

(http://forum.arcadecontrols.com/index.php?action=dlattach;topic=136713.0;attach=333533;image)

(http://forum.arcadecontrols.com/index.php?action=dlattach;topic=136713.0;attach=333535;image)


I bought some drop hinges for the panel, but wasn’t really sure of the best way to cut the mortises.  Ultimately I decided to just bite the bullet and use a forstner bit in the drill press.  As it turns out it worked flawlessly.  I also drilled a hole for the lock and widened one side to the correct shape for the barrel lock with my router; I then flipped it over and flush trimmed the other side to mirror the shape.  I got lucky with free handing that and lucky with the mortise placement too! I guess the drill press does have fine adjustments for x axis and y axis, but I should have measured and marked better.  As it turns out my eyeball is pretty good….

(http://forum.arcadecontrols.com/index.php?action=dlattach;topic=136713.0;attach=333537;image)

(http://forum.arcadecontrols.com/index.php?action=dlattach;topic=136713.0;attach=333539;image)

(http://forum.arcadecontrols.com/index.php?action=dlattach;topic=136713.0;attach=333541;image)

Or so I thought!  Of course I had too much confidence when I cut the corresponding mortises on the cab bottom.  I just used the forstner bit and my drill.  I marked it with the hinges attached to the access panel but I disproportionally accounted for the gap on each side.    It looks okay in this picture but it’s about an eighth of an inch off.  When I mounted the panel it was sticking on one side (scraped the T-molding pretty good too).  There’s also a pretty noticeable glue remnant that just won’t do. 

(http://forum.arcadecontrols.com/index.php?action=dlattach;topic=136713.0;attach=333543;image)

As my dad says it was time to, “lick my calf over,” which apparently means to restart something, especially due to an error.   You can see where I sanded off the glue and did other surface preparation.  Now it was Bondo time!  I sort of flirted with the idea to start this in the house but it wasn’t going to happen, that stuff is super toxic fumy!  This was my first time to use Bondo and well, there was a bit of a learning curve.  Maybe I never got the proportion on the hardener right, but that 15 mins to work with is some ---That which is odiferous and causeth plants to grow---!  Still I got it done and after sanding the holes were filled nicely (that’s what she said).

(http://forum.arcadecontrols.com/index.php?action=dlattach;topic=136713.0;attach=333545;image)

(http://forum.arcadecontrols.com/index.php?action=dlattach;topic=136713.0;attach=333547;image)

I’d like to point out the authenticity of my cab here, I mean how many of you can say you have actual arcade chewed gum on the bottom of your cab? I also found an interesting token in the bottom.  I’ll have to take a picture, the history of these things and where they have been is something that I have always found intriguing when watching someone do a refurbish.

(http://forum.arcadecontrols.com/index.php?action=dlattach;topic=136713.0;attach=333549;image)

While I had the cab outside with the kick plate off, I decided to fix a few other things, I never actually got the power panel opening square with my oscillating tool, so I put a straight edge inside the cab and used a flush trim bit on the router to make some adjustments. 

(http://forum.arcadecontrols.com/index.php?action=dlattach;topic=136713.0;attach=333551;image)

(http://forum.arcadecontrols.com/index.php?action=dlattach;topic=136713.0;attach=333553;image)


Once the Bondo was good and cured, I carefully measured for the floor panel mortises, and did much better this time.  Friday night I painted some of the interior of the panel area, and yesterday I installed the access panel.  Here are several shots from the inside and out.

(http://forum.arcadecontrols.com/index.php?action=dlattach;topic=136713.0;attach=333563;image)

(http://forum.arcadecontrols.com/index.php?action=dlattach;topic=136713.0;attach=333555;image)

(http://forum.arcadecontrols.com/index.php?action=dlattach;topic=136713.0;attach=333557;image)

(http://forum.arcadecontrols.com/index.php?action=dlattach;topic=136713.0;attach=333559;image)

(http://forum.arcadecontrols.com/index.php?action=dlattach;topic=136713.0;attach=333561;image)


Thanks for watching, this is the last bit of structural work, short of the actual board storage solution which I still haven’t completely worked out yet.  Tune it next time to watch me modify the JAMMA switcher.  Also the wheels might slowly be beginning to turn on artwork, can’t wait until I’m able to give an update on that.
Title: Re: BulletReign: Vertical Jamma Switching SHMUP cab (Board Access Panel)
Post by: harveybirdman on August 10, 2015, 11:12:01 am
few more pics

(http://forum.arcadecontrols.com/index.php?action=dlattach;topic=136713.0;attach=333567;image)

(http://forum.arcadecontrols.com/index.php?action=dlattach;topic=136713.0;attach=333565;image)
Title: Re: BulletReign: Vertical Jamma Switching SHMUP cab (anybody got a quarter?)
Post by: behrmr on August 10, 2015, 01:47:39 pm
Oh yeah and I got this in the mail last week!

(http://forum.arcadecontrols.com/index.php?action=dlattach;topic=136713.0;attach=331826;image)

I am going to roll my own rotary switch control to replace the remote control.  This is pretty well documented at KLOV and on several YouTube videos.  Basically the way I envision it working is diagrammed below, do any of you electrical engineer types see any problem with running the five volt to the ground on this rotary switch and using the switch to direct it to the appropriate contact on the board?  I bought 100k ohm resistors to use per the videos I’ve watched to prevent voltage to multiple boards at once.


Get a nomote-6 from DogP so you can use P1+P2 or other 2 button or dedicated up and down button to switch slots.  I think it will work with a rotary switch too.  Plus you can turn slots off and select a default slot to start.  The switcher defaults to no slot active when it starts.

Also be prepared to do all of the ground mods, the test switch mod, and the -5V mod on the switcher.  These mods compensate for the traces that are missing on the switcher.
Title: Re: BulletReign: Vertical Jamma Switching SHMUP cab (Board Access Panel)
Post by: harveybirdman on August 10, 2015, 01:59:18 pm
Thanks for the tips, I've seen the -5V mod, but since I don't plan on running any Midway boards I'm not sure that I need to do that one, we shall see.

I'll check out the rest of the info as well.  I like the idea of a rotary switch to toggle games, rather than button presses but I do appreciate the input and will investigate thoroughly before soldering anything.
Title: Re: BulletReign: Vertical Jamma Switching SHMUP cab (Board Access Panel)
Post by: Malenko on August 19, 2015, 09:21:36 pm
so this game seems like itd be perfect for the cab if it werent a horizontal shooter

http://store.steampowered.com/app/355350/ (http://store.steampowered.com/app/355350/)
Title: Re: BulletReign: Vertical Jamma Switching SHMUP cab (Board Access Panel)
Post by: harveybirdman on August 19, 2015, 10:32:42 pm
Cleary the solution is to build a horizontal shooting cab... Let's just say I've got a name picked out if that ever becomes a thing.

 :cheers:

Cool looking game.
Title: Re: BulletReign: Vertical Jamma Switching SHMUP cab (Let's brainstorm)
Post by: harveybirdman on September 02, 2015, 09:11:30 pm
So pretty much worst fears confirmed tonight....

I swapped boards tonight putting my new Aero fighters board in, which by the way is way better on original hardware than it is in MAME, but I digress.

Monitor settings are completely off from game to game.

So PBJ'S suggestion of a remote board makes sense but the question now is do I even want a rotary switch panel mounted to switch games if the monitor must be adjusted between boards every time?

Would it be ugly as sin to mount the remote board on speaker panel or somewhere else?


So this thread over at KLOV makes it sound like adding a remote board to a K7000 that doesn't already have one might be more than I want to bite off...  http://forums.arcade-museum.com/showthread.php?t=253612 (http://forums.arcade-museum.com/showthread.php?t=253612)

Anyone done this?

The main problem between boards seems to be Vertical Hold, is there any fine adjustments that can be made that I don't know about that could help me get to a universally acceptable setting?
Title: Re: BulletReign: Vertical Jamma Switching SHMUP cab (Let's brainstorm)
Post by: harveybirdman on September 09, 2015, 12:41:09 am
No ---smurfing--- idea what I did but now I have three boards running gangbusters with the same  monitor settings....

 :cheers:

Also got some extender harnesses from Twisted Quarter. Soon this ---smurfette--- will be switching!


I did end up with Twin Eagle instead of Twin Eagle II...... don't ask. After i get this jiving I will sell it to a member on the cheap if anyone is interested.
Title: Re: BulletReign: Vertical Jamma Switching SHMUP cab (and we're switching!)
Post by: harveybirdman on October 02, 2015, 11:25:28 pm
Mini update...

Switcher installed,  board rack mocked up, fully loaded extenders from Twisted Quarter installed.

Time for the first dry run with the remote. Hooked up Aero Fighters and Twin Hawk so I don't ruin any quality boards in test.

Fired up first try.

Will load some better pics in the coming week or so after board rack is mounted properly and painted

Also picked up a Fighting Hawk that needs some audio work...

Oh and you guys are going to ---steaming pile of meadow muffin--- when you see what's coming down the artwork pipeline!  Stay tuned!

Title: Re: BulletReign: Vertical Jamma Switching SHMUP cab (and we're switching!)
Post by: yotsuya on October 02, 2015, 11:29:53 pm
Sweet! Great job, brother!
Title: Re: BulletReign: Vertical Jamma Switching SHMUP cab (and we're switching!)
Post by: Vigo on October 02, 2015, 11:49:05 pm
Dang, this is just a more and more classy setup with every update.   :cheers:
Title: Re: BulletReign: Vertical Jamma Switching SHMUP cab (Board rack!)
Post by: harveybirdman on October 20, 2015, 10:38:29 am
Progress is slow, but the cab is still being worked on.

It is decision time for the board rack.  Originally it was going to be mounted horizontally closer to the access panel so boards could be very easily slid in and out.  However this caused two problems.  Firstly some JAMMA boards, such as the Aero Fighters that I currently have in the board lineup, just don’t fit in the 12 inch opening.  They are too wide.  Secondly six extending harnesses would need more clearance than is available at the back end of the slide-out or would need to be much longer than standard to reach the switcher .  Therefore I decided to go in a different direction, mounting the rack vertically behind the kick plate.  Here you can see where I mocked it up.

(http://forum.arcadecontrols.com/index.php?action=dlattach;topic=136713.0;attach=337557;image)

At the end of the day I simply just can’t allow it to not remain unfinished, so I opted to give everything coat of white paint, and painted the back of the kick plate black.   Still, it looked a bit plain to me so in the true spirit of BYOAC I went over board and decided to pinstripe the panels to echo the coin door design.  I had some more pics of this, but lost some with an unexpected phone change, but you get the idea.

(http://forum.arcadecontrols.com/index.php?action=dlattach;topic=136713.0;attach=337559;image)

(http://forum.arcadecontrols.com/index.php?action=dlattach;topic=136713.0;attach=337561;image)

(http://forum.arcadecontrols.com/index.php?action=dlattach;topic=136713.0;attach=337563;image)

(http://forum.arcadecontrols.com/index.php?action=dlattach;topic=136713.0;attach=337565;image)

(http://forum.arcadecontrols.com/index.php?action=dlattach;topic=136713.0;attach=337567;image)

(http://forum.arcadecontrols.com/index.php?action=dlattach;topic=136713.0;attach=337569;image)

(http://forum.arcadecontrols.com/index.php?action=dlattach;topic=136713.0;attach=337571;image)
Title: Re: BulletReign: Vertical Jamma Switching SHMUP cab (Board rack!)
Post by: harveybirdman on October 20, 2015, 10:40:48 am
With the new placement it makes accessing the boards easier with the Panel board removed, but we’ll still call the flap at the back the “board access panel.”

I ended up grabbing a couple of those PCB brackets that NEP suggested way back when to account for wider boards, you can see one of them in use on my Aero Fighters.

Will upload a video of the switching as soon as I find some reliable WiFi

(http://forum.arcadecontrols.com/index.php?action=dlattach;topic=136713.0;attach=337573;image)

(http://forum.arcadecontrols.com/index.php?action=dlattach;topic=136713.0;attach=337575;image)

(http://forum.arcadecontrols.com/index.php?action=dlattach;topic=136713.0;attach=337577;image)

(http://forum.arcadecontrols.com/index.php?action=dlattach;topic=136713.0;attach=337579;image)

(http://forum.arcadecontrols.com/index.php?action=dlattach;topic=136713.0;attach=337581;image)

(http://forum.arcadecontrols.com/index.php?action=dlattach;topic=136713.0;attach=337583;image)

(http://forum.arcadecontrols.com/index.php?action=dlattach;topic=136713.0;attach=337585;image)
Title: Re: BulletReign: Vertical Jamma Switching SHMUP cab (Board rack!)
Post by: Peabo on October 20, 2015, 11:48:19 am
I really like that board rack, nice job! 
Title: Re: BulletReign: Vertical Jamma Switching SHMUP cab (Board rack!)
Post by: wp34 on October 20, 2015, 12:23:44 pm
Striping those mounting boards is as awesome as it was unnecessary.  I love it!  Very nice touch.  :cheers:
Title: Re: BulletReign: Vertical Jamma Switching SHMUP cab (Board rack!)
Post by: BGoulette on October 20, 2015, 12:25:25 pm
Striping those mounting boards is as awesome as it was unnecessary.  I love it!  Very nice touch.  :cheers:

+1. Obligatory "Nice rack!" :cheers:
Title: Re: BulletReign: Vertical Jamma Switching SHMUP cab (Board rack!)
Post by: harveybirdman on October 20, 2015, 01:37:34 pm
Thanks guys!  :cheers:

Here's a little video

http://youtu.be/kXe2AyywW-g (http://youtu.be/kXe2AyywW-g)
Title: Re: BulletReign: Vertical Jamma Switching SHMUP cab (Board rack!)
Post by: opt2not on October 23, 2015, 06:54:43 pm
Awesome. I gotta get me a PCB switcher...

As for some replacement boards for the "cheapies" you have there,  might I suggest:

This is mainly for older, Raiden style shmups.

For manic style:
All of these are high $$$, well maybe except for ESP Ra.De. But I don't think you can find the rest for less than $350 these days.
Title: Re: BulletReign: Vertical Jamma Switching SHMUP cab (Board rack!)
Post by: harveybirdman on October 23, 2015, 07:02:15 pm
Thanks for the suggestions Opt.

I'm watching a Strikers 1945 II, they tend to come up alot on ebay. PSIKO has a bunch of fans in the SHMUP crowd but Dragon Blaze is far too hard for me  and I just don't get why people like Gunbird so much.

I rarely see Cave go for less than 5 hundy.

There's a Batsugun with special version rom up for sale now for 9 hundy... sheesh.... maybe if I was a single guy.... or maybe if I start making some better incentive at work..
Title: Re: BulletReign: Vertical Jamma Switching SHMUP cab (Board rack!)
Post by: opt2not on October 23, 2015, 07:50:01 pm
Yeah those are greasy ebay prices. My prices are from what the forums have been selling them at lately (shmups and klov).
I've pretty much stopped going to ebay for anything arcade related now. Prices are just getting absurd.
Title: Re: BulletReign: Vertical Jamma Switching SHMUP cab (Board rack!)
Post by: harveybirdman on October 23, 2015, 07:56:04 pm
I signed up at the Shmups forum recently.  I should get on KLOV too.

Greaseball pricing is for Griff Richers.

Title: Re: BulletReign: Vertical Jamma Switching SHMUP cab (Board rack!)
Post by: yotsuya on October 23, 2015, 08:25:21 pm
I signed up at the Shmups forum recently.  I should get on KLOV too.

Greaseball pricing is for Griff Richers.
If you need a KLOV reference,  lemme know
Title: Re: BulletReign: Vertical Jamma Switching SHMUP cab (Board rack!)
Post by: WakiMiko on October 24, 2015, 06:30:14 am
Man this is such an awesome project, can't believe you actually painted the rack panels. Certainly going the extra mile  :D

Sucks that the Cave games are so expensive, otherwise I'd have recommended Espgaluda, if you haven't played it already. It's one of Cave's "easier" games and has a "bullet time" mechanic that can be used either for high scores or just to save your ass. Great soundtrack too.
Title: Re: BulletReign: Vertical Jamma Switching SHMUP cab (Board rack!)
Post by: harveybirdman on October 24, 2015, 11:11:53 am
Thanks Yots, I'll definitely let to know  :cheers:

Thanks Waki, once I took all the time to pain the floor of the cabinet I knew I was going to have to do something.  After all Well Fed Games set the bar high for PCB racks.  And well I had tons of paint leftover so it just kind of happened.

Espgaluda, fun game played a bit in MAME this morning. It can be had reasonably on eBay these days but I think I'm going to wait on further purchases until getting on at the SHMUPS forum and at KLOV.




Title: Re: BulletReign: Vertical Jamma Switching SHMUP cab (Progress Report Jan '16)
Post by: harveybirdman on January 08, 2016, 11:14:03 am
So, I’m coming to the conclusion that in order to do things right and be satisfied with the results that my build is going to have to be spread out over a longer period of time than I had first hoped. 

When I started in Nov of 14 I had hoped to finish by the end of 2015.  However it is obvious that things are going to take a bit more time to complete, and that’s okay because plane tickets to Phoenix are higher up on the priority list as of late.
Here is what is left:

1)   Modify switcher from remote to rotary switch.
        a.   I have the switch, the 100k ohm resistors, and a couple of sweet looking knobs to choose from

2)   Finalize Board Roster
        a.   My Fighting Hawk is still sick, need to put in some time to try to fix it but even with an upgraded iron it’s a pain in the ass to get               
                the caps out.
        b.   I still want a Rayforce PCB, that’s probably my grail; I’m still kicking myself for not buying the last one I saw on ebay for $300.
        c.   I also would like a board to justify the three buttons, I’d love to come up with a DDP DOJ or ESP RaDE but the prices on those                 
                are prohibitive and something like Brave Blade is probably more realistic.

3)   Finish art suite (still need bezel, CPO, and side art as well as some decals here an there)

4)   Run power to the volcano add credit button

5)   Either replace the fluorescent light fixture with LEDs or add mirrors or something else to disperse light to the edges of marquee.

But on to the real reason for the post....

I have an impressive update coming on a project I’ve been collaborating on now for a while with my homeboy Opt2Not.  I count myself extremely lucky to have had the chance to work with him.  He is not only an amazing artist, but a large inspiration for this build in the first place as his original Alpha One cabinet concept along with Yotsuya’s Super Spacefortress Macross were the seeds of inspiration for this build.

Opt and I began chatting about what I wanted Bullet Reign to be about and I was able to explain what I wanted the artwork to embody, as well as give him detailed examples of nods to the SHMUP genre that I’d like to incorporate.  You may have noticed the rough draft of the marquee on his blog or on the first page of my thread (snuck it in several weeks ago), our goal was to capture the essence of classic marquees like Raiden and Zero Wing but maintain an originality as if this game might have existed in the early nineties arcades of it's own right

Opt recently completed the marquee work and I have emailed stpcore and hope to get a translite printed ASAP.  Until then I’m going to keep the finished artwork under wraps for the grand reveal but I don’t really like bumps without something to show so here’s a little taste…. 


Edit Who's paying attention?  here's some to tide anyone over that might be closely following, until printing is finished.

(http://forum.arcadecontrols.com/index.php?action=dlattach;topic=136713.0;attach=343445;image)

(http://forum.arcadecontrols.com/index.php?action=dlattach;topic=136713.0;attach=343447;image)

(http://forum.arcadecontrols.com/index.php?action=dlattach;topic=136713.0;attach=343443;image)
Title: .
Post by: ChanceKJ on January 31, 2016, 01:55:23 am
.
Title: Re: BulletReign: Vertical Jamma Switching SHMUP cab (Progress Report Jan '16)
Post by: Locke141 on January 31, 2016, 06:44:22 am
This may be my favorite ongoing build.

I love ever thing about it.

Keep up the good work.
Title: Re: BulletReign: Vertical Jamma Switching SHMUP cab (Progress Report Jan '16)
Post by: harveybirdman on January 31, 2016, 08:35:31 am
That Marquee is off the hook!  Loving that board rack too. I've been trying to visualize something exactly like that for my Olympia cab conversion.  :cheers:

Thanks! Opt2Not is ridiculously talented! The marquee isn't back-lit in this pic, it's just a trick of the flash, it's just a Staples print which frankly can be quite good for 5 bucks,  wonder who I leaned that from?  :cheers:

The rack isn't as elegant as I first envisioned, but it makes up for it in utilitarian simplicity.   Although It's not secure on there and would have to be removed for any major moving. My only advice in putting together a rack is to try to make it easily accessible.  I don't know what kind of room you have in the Olympia but real estate runs out soon even when you think you have a lot.

This may be my favorite ongoing build.

I love ever thing about it.

Keep up the good work.

Thanks for the kind words Locke, I appreciate it.
Title: Re: BulletReign: Vertical Jamma Switching SHMUP cab (Progress Report Jan '16)
Post by: yotsuya on January 31, 2016, 11:33:18 am
Yeah, that's a perfect example of why it pays to hire a real artist for custom work. Good job to all those involved.
Title: Re: BulletReign: Vertical Jamma Switching SHMUP cab (Progress Report Jan '16)
Post by: wp34 on January 31, 2016, 02:10:51 pm
That might be the best custom marquee I've ever seen.  Just fantastic.   :notworthy:

I'm glad you got to work with Opt.  My understanding was that he was retired.

Title: Re: BulletReign: Vertical Jamma Switching SHMUP cab (Progress Report Jan '16)
Post by: harveybirdman on January 31, 2016, 02:26:47 pm
That might be the best custom marquee I've ever seen.  Just fantastic.   :notworthy:

I'm glad you got to work with Opt.  My understanding was that he was retired.


Totally lucky and worth every penny.
Title: Re: BulletReign: Vertical Jamma Switching SHMUP cab (Progress Report Jan '16)
Post by: DudeRegular on January 31, 2016, 03:54:09 pm
This is a great project and the artwork is killer man. Keep doing what you are doing.
Title: Re: BulletReign: Vertical Jamma Switching SHMUP cab (Progress Report Jan '16)
Post by: flylear45 on January 31, 2016, 04:29:03 pm
+1 on the art and scheme. Really nice.
Title: Re: BulletReign: Vertical Jamma Switching SHMUP cab (Progress Report Jan '16)
Post by: emphatic on January 31, 2016, 04:39:36 pm
That marquee is truly spectacular. :cheers: WOW.
Title: Re: BulletReign: Vertical Jamma Switching SHMUP cab (Progress Report Jan '16)
Post by: harveybirdman on January 31, 2016, 04:53:11 pm
That marquee is truly spectacular. :cheers: WOW.

+1 on the art and scheme. Really nice.

I agree! The credit goes to Opt2Not, he took my ideas and took them beyond the next level.  His experience is invaluable, and it's not surprising based on what I know about him.

This is a great project and the artwork is killer man. Keep doing what you are doing.

I have to hit it out of the park the rest of the way to be worthy of the art and collaboration from everyone here and away from BYOAC!

Stay tuned!
Title: Re: BulletReign: Vertical Jamma Switching SHMUP cab (Progress Report Jan '16)
Post by: vwalbridge on January 31, 2016, 05:12:29 pm
Your artwork is just fantastic. Opt is very talented. He obviously put everything he had into it.

The Easter eggs in the artwork are a nice touch.  ;)

Fun build. Looks like your taking your time and getting just how you want it. Nice job man.
Title: Re: BulletReign: Vertical Jamma Switching SHMUP cab (Progress Report Jan '16)
Post by: BGoulette on February 01, 2016, 02:58:29 pm
Just to feed the echo chamber, but yeah, that marquee art is amazing!
Title: Re: BulletReign: Vertical Jamma Switching SHMUP cab (Progress Report Jan '16)
Post by: harveybirdman on February 01, 2016, 03:03:32 pm
Your artwork is just fantastic. Opt is very talented. He obviously put everything he had into it.

The Easter eggs in the artwork are a nice touch.  ;)

Fun build. Looks like your taking your time and getting just how you want it. Nice job man.

Just to feed the echo chamber, but yeah, that marquee art is amazing!

I need to update my thread title (but I'm sort of waiting until the printing's done) so Opt will see and come in and take a bow.  He's more of a lurker these days.  But yeah, can't say enough about how proud I am of how it turned out.
Title: Re: BulletReign: Vertical Jamma Switching SHMUP cab (Progress Report Jan '16)
Post by: Generic Eric on February 01, 2016, 07:34:01 pm
Nice marquee!
 Bullet! ♫Reign on me!!!♬

Title: Re: BulletReign: Vertical Jamma Switching SHMUP cab (Progress Report Jan '16)
Post by: opt2not on February 17, 2016, 08:01:34 pm
Whoop!  Thanks for the shout-out harveybirdman!  Glad you enjoy the artwork as much as I enjoyed making it.

Great project so far homie.  :cheers:
Title: Re: BulletReign: Vertical Jamma Switching SHMUP cab (Progress Report Jan '16)
Post by: harveybirdman on February 17, 2016, 09:17:19 pm
Whoop!  Thanks for the shout-out harveybirdman!  Glad you enjoy the artwork as much as I enjoyed making it.

Great project so far homie.  :cheers:

(http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-RuLhQO-c3YA/UWTw1Y5v89I/AAAAAAAABBM/cC6O-rMd1PM/s1600/j.png)