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Main => Project Announcements => Topic started by: wp34 on December 10, 2011, 09:14:57 pm

Title: Tron Legacy - Update 05/03/2016 - Mala Woes
Post by: wp34 on December 10, 2011, 09:14:57 pm
I’m building a cabinet based on the Tron Legacy theme.  The basic design is borrowed from Gamester (http://forum.arcadecontrols.com/index.php?topic=94891.0;all) with a few modifications.  I’ve been planning this for several years so I’m sure I’ve stolen ideas from many other projects.  In addition to Gamester you should see (hopefully) some influence from Martijn (http://forum.arcadecontrols.com/index.php?topic=84649.0l) and Eypx (http://forum.arcadecontrols.com/index.php?topic=96465.0) as I reviewed their projects frequently while planning.

Like Johnny Cash and his Cadillac I obtained my parts “One Piece at a Time” over a number of years.

•   P1 U360, Project Arcade Book I – Christmas 2007
•   TT2 / Electric Ice Trackball – March 2008
•   P2 U360 – Christmas 2008
•   Coin Door – September 2009
•   Wells Gardner D9800 – August 2010
•   Project Arcade Book II - January 2011
•   Tron Stick Parts – March 2011
•   Black Laminate – September 2011

…with many orders for buttons spread in between. 

Pretty pathetic timeline but hopefully worth it in the end.
Title: Re: Tron Legacy
Post by: wp34 on December 10, 2011, 09:18:38 pm
Laying out the template.  Shamelessly using Gamester’s plans that were obtained through Bothan spies.

(http://forum.arcadecontrols.com/index.php?action=dlattach;topic=103207.0;attach=176515;image)
Title: Re: Tron Legacy
Post by: wp34 on December 10, 2011, 09:30:11 pm
I cut the template with a circular saw using a level as a straight-edge.

(http://forum.arcadecontrols.com/index.php?action=dlattach;topic=103207.0;attach=176521;image)


(http://forum.arcadecontrols.com/index.php?action=dlattach;topic=103207.0;attach=176523;image)

Then I cut the corners with a trim saw.

(http://forum.arcadecontrols.com/index.php?action=dlattach;topic=103207.0;attach=176525;image)
Title: Re: Tron Legacy
Post by: Le Chuck on December 10, 2011, 09:37:08 pm
Good start, crisp corners!  Keep the picks coming ;)
Title: Re: Tron Legacy
Post by: wp34 on December 10, 2011, 09:37:39 pm
And now we have a finished template.

(http://forum.arcadecontrols.com/index.php?action=dlattach;topic=103207.0;attach=176527;image)

After all the planning it felt really good to finally have something resembling a cabinet made out of wood.  Even if it was just a template.  I sent my wife this picture and she accused me of photoshopping it.   ;D

This was back in October.  Then life got in the way and it was a month or so before I could start working again.  You know the drill.
Title: Re: Tron Legacy
Post by: wp34 on December 10, 2011, 11:28:38 pm
Since I'm going to laminate the sides I decided to go with 5/8" MDF so that 3/4" T-molding will cover the edges.  I special ordered two sheets from our local specialty store.  Even though I worked at a lumber yard for 3 years while in school and should know better I didn't check the width of the MDF when I picked it up.  Turns out they gave me 3/4" but like a rookie I didn't figure it out until after I had cut into it.   :banghead:

I was a little torqued at first but finally decided this would give me a chance to practice with my router.  So I ended up with a 3/4" template in addition to the one I made out of 1/4" hardboard earlier.  I also got to practice with my flush trim bit.

I went to order 2 more sheets of 5/8" MDF and they told me their supplier had 3 left but was discontinuing it.  I bought all 3 just in case and if I have some left over I'll just save it for another project.

They also mentioned that they could order 3/4 MDF pre-laminated from a local company.  I had already ordered my laminate but it might be something I explore for future project.



Title: Re: Tron Legacy
Post by: wp34 on December 11, 2011, 12:13:28 am
On to cutting a circle.  I had some trouble with this part of the project initially.   I used the Edge Guide that came with my router as a jig.  You drill a 1/4" hold where you want the middle of the circle.  The jig has a slot the pin fits in and you rotate the router in a circle.  Sounds easy right?

(http://forum.arcadecontrols.com/index.php?action=dlattach;topic=103207.0;attach=176532;image)

(http://forum.arcadecontrols.com/index.php?action=dlattach;topic=103207.0;attach=176534;image)

(http://forum.arcadecontrols.com/index.php?action=dlattach;topic=103207.0;attach=176536;image)

What I did wrong was not support the area around the pin so it would stay flush with the work piece as I cut.  The waste piece started to fall away as I routed. This changed the center of my circle slightly and caused the jig and router to walk on me since my locking pin was drilled through what would become the waste piece. 

I didn't take a lot of pictures at this point because I was in damage control.  But you can see from this picture that the circle is not round.  Looks like the monitor will not stick out the sides so I got that going for me.

(http://forum.arcadecontrols.com/index.php?action=dlattach;topic=103207.0;attach=176538;image)

Since necessity is the mother of invention I used the frame from a round mirror that was slightly larger than the "circle" I had cut.  One pass with the flush trim bit and it is all good.

(http://forum.arcadecontrols.com/index.php?action=dlattach;topic=103207.0;attach=176540;image)






Title: Re: Tron Legacy
Post by: wp34 on December 11, 2011, 02:16:44 pm
In order to make my sides I just used a Jigsaw to cut within a 1/2" or so from my template.  I then used a flush trim bit with my router to clean it up.

(http://forum.arcadecontrols.com/index.php?action=dlattach;topic=103207.0;attach=176545;image)

Now they tell you MDF is dirty.  But you have no idea until you put a router to it for real.  I covered a lot of my garage but it still wasn't enough.  There is dust everywhere and I don't think my garage will ever seem clean again.  I wanted to route in the driveway but it was too cold and windy the day I was working.   

I did try a bit of a makeshift dust collection after the first piece.  I hooked my ShopVac to my Jigsaw and using a Smart Strip (bought for this project) I rigged it so the vacuum would come on when ever I started the Jigsaw.  That worked pretty well but the Jigsaw doesn't kick out that much dust really.

I did the same thing with my router but the dust hood that came with it was not up to the task.  This is something I want to investigate in the near future.  I thought the hoses would get in the way but they really don't.  I think with an adequate hood it would help cut down on the mess. 

I did wear a mask when routing just in case.

(http://forum.arcadecontrols.com/index.php?action=dlattach;topic=103207.0;attach=176547;image)

And we finally have twins.  I'm pretty sure the spots you see in the picture are from the MDF dust still floating in the air.   ;D

(http://forum.arcadecontrols.com/index.php?action=dlattach;topic=103207.0;attach=176549;image)

Title: Re: Tron Legacy
Post by: wizkid32 on December 11, 2011, 04:56:55 pm
Definitely a unique design!  I haven't seen the movie.  Worthwhile?
Title: Re: Tron Legacy
Post by: wp34 on December 11, 2011, 05:21:53 pm
Definitely a unique design!  I haven't seen the movie.  Worthwhile?

I think so.  The story is a touch weak but the visuals, effects and soundtrack are amazing.   The callbacks to the first movie are also fun.  I think it looks better at home on BluRay than it did in the theater.

We went to see it as a family (including my mom) last year and had a great time.  The kids were so excited they wanted to watch the original right after we got home from the theater.  I had been struggling with a theme for a while and our experience at the movie cinched it for me. 
Title: Re: Tron Legacy
Post by: mgb on December 11, 2011, 08:58:09 pm
Lookin' good so far. I'm looking forward to seeing your progress.
Title: Re: Tron Legacy
Post by: gbeef on December 11, 2011, 10:26:32 pm
progress is looking good so far.
Curious on what your going to do with the holes.
Title: Re: Tron Legacy
Post by: wp34 on December 11, 2011, 10:47:29 pm
Thanks Le Chuck and mgb.   :cheers:

progress is looking good so far.
Curious on what your going to do with the holes.

Thanks gbeef.  My plan is to mount an Identity Disc hacked with brighter LED's in the hole.  I've made one prototype and I'm not 100% satisfied with it at the moment. 
Title: Re: Tron Legacy
Post by: Hoopz on December 14, 2011, 07:25:14 am
 :applaud:

More info on the identity discs please?  Colors, materials, custom made or modding something?  Will they stay lit after someone takes them out and tosses them around?

Are you going black laminate?  What color of t-molding?

We need answers and more pics please!  Good job so far.  :cheers:
Title: Re: Tron Legacy
Post by: SammyWI on December 14, 2011, 07:58:03 pm
:applaud:

More info on the identity discs please?  Colors, materials, custom made or modding something?  Will they stay lit after someone takes them out and tosses them around?

Are you going black laminate?  What color of t-molding?

We need answers and more pics please!  Good job so far.  :cheers:

This.  Interested to see where this is going.
Title: Re: Tron Legacy
Post by: Crazy Cooter on December 14, 2011, 09:49:08 pm
My plan is to mount an Identity Disc hacked with brighter LED's in the hole.  I've made one prototype and I'm not 100% satisfied with it at the moment. 

Try EL wire instead of LED's.   :cheers:
Title: Re: Tron Legacy
Post by: wp34 on December 14, 2011, 10:29:11 pm
More info on the identity discs please?  Colors, materials, custom made or modding something?  Will they stay lit after someone takes them out and tosses them around?

LOL - No.  I actually gave that some thought but realized I was going WAAAAAYYYY overboard.

The discs will be the deluxe toy model you can buy in toy stores.  I've picked up two of the black ones and one white one when they were on clearance.    I was pretty happy with the initial demo I did upgrading the lights until I saw this -

http://www.freewebs.com/inertiadesigns/disckits.htm (http://www.freewebs.com/inertiadesigns/disckits.htm)


Are you going black laminate?  What color of t-molding?


Black laminate.  I'm leaning towards white T-molding but it depends on where I go with the disc/artwork.



Title: Re: Tron Legacy
Post by: wp34 on December 14, 2011, 10:32:06 pm
Try EL wire instead of LED's.   :cheers:

I'm going to order some EL Wire and EL Tape to play around with. Do you have any experience with EL Wire?  I've read where you can hear a high pitched hum while it is turned on.  Like a bad fluorescent bulb.  It sure looks cool though.
Title: Re: Tron Legacy
Post by: Hoopz on December 15, 2011, 06:42:37 pm
You need a lot of neon and also stuff that reacts under blacklights.  Pimp this up!

And if you're music is loud enough, you can't hear the hum of the EL wire!  I can hear some classic Tron music playing to mask any ambient noise.

 :applaud:

And those disc kits look very nice.  Ordered any yet?
Title: Re: Tron Legacy
Post by: Pixelhugger on December 15, 2011, 06:47:47 pm
Doesn't el wire dim over time?
Title: Re: Tron Legacy
Post by: Le Chuck on December 15, 2011, 09:03:23 pm
Those upgraded ID Discs are the ---steaming pile of meadow muffin---!  That is going to be fantastic.  Instead of a Bezel you should have an have a rotating MCP cone that displays all the different TRON levels RPG, COBOL, BASIC, FORTRAN, SNOBOL, PL1, PASCAL, ALGOL, ASSEMBLY, OS, JCL, USER 
Title: Re: Tron Legacy
Post by: wp34 on December 15, 2011, 10:40:36 pm
You need a lot of neon and also stuff that reacts under blacklights.  Pimp this up!

And if you're music is loud enough, you can't hear the hum of the EL wire!  I can hear some classic Tron music playing to mask any ambient noise.

 :applaud:

And those disc kits look very nice.  Ordered any yet?

There will be Bling!  There will also be music you Daft Punk!

Doesn't el wire dim over time?

You are correct.   I'm really more intrigued by EL Tape at the moment.  I'm not sure if that has the same issue or not.

Those upgraded ID Discs are the ---steaming pile of meadow muffin---!  That is going to be fantastic.  Instead of a Bezel you should have an have a rotating MCP cone that displays all the different TRON levels RPG, COBOL, BASIC, FORTRAN, SNOBOL, PL1, PASCAL, ALGOL, ASSEMBLY, OS, JCL, USER 

As a former main frame programmer I like that idea.
Title: Re: Tron Legacy
Post by: BadMouth on December 16, 2011, 10:44:29 am

Doesn't el wire dim over time?

You are correct.   I'm really more intrigued by EL Tape at the moment.  I'm not sure if that has the same issue or not.

I'm glad this came up.  I was considering using EL Tape/sheet under smoked plexi on my next build to make instructions and button labels light up depending on what game was selected (mainly golden tee instructions and button labels for sports games).  
I had no idea about the noise or dimming over time issues (and the stuff isn't cheap).
Please share your findings!  :)

FYI (even though the subject didn't come up), I tinkered with lights inside a t-molding slot with clear t-molding in front of it and it doesn't work very well.
The clear t-molding doesn't diffuse the light whatsoever.  EL tape on each side of the slot might work, but it would take a lot.
You are probably better off sticking with white....maybe placing a blacklight nearby.

I'm really looking forward to this build.  
Particularly because it is by someone who has been on the boards long enough to know what they want and how to go about executing it.
 :cheers:
Title: Re: Tron Legacy
Post by: wp34 on December 16, 2011, 11:39:38 am

I'm glad this came up.  I was considering using EL Tape/sheet under smoked plexi on my next build to make instructions and button labels light up depending on what game was selected (mainly golden tee instructions and button labels for sports games).

I'd like to do something similar.  Once I get my Christmas shopping done I'm going to order some EL Tape to test with.  From the pictures it looks thick enough that you would have to route a channel for it to sit in so the plexi sits flush.  I'd like to see it in person before I go too crazy.

My main concern is what it looks like unlit.  Some of the white EL products reportedly look pink when turned off for example.  I like your idea of smoked plexi.  I had planned on going with clear but smoked should look a lot better in the daylight.  Thanks for sharing that.   :cheers:

FYI (even though the subject didn't come up), I tinkered with lights inside a t-molding slot with clear t-molding in front of it and it doesn't work very well.
The clear t-molding doesn't diffuse the light whatsoever.  EL tape on each side of the slot might work, but it would take a lot.
You are probably better off sticking with white....maybe placing a blacklight nearby.

That is an interesting idea.  I wonder if EL Wire on each side of the slot would work?
Title: Re: Tron Legacy
Post by: NiN^_^NiN on December 16, 2011, 12:19:42 pm

FYI (even though the subject didn't come up), I tinkered with lights inside a t-molding slot with clear t-molding in front of it and it doesn't work very well.
The clear t-molding doesn't diffuse the light whatsoever.  EL tape on each side of the slot might work, but it would take a lot.
You are probably better off sticking with white....maybe placing a blacklight nearby.

There are two options to fix this (Clear never works well as you stated it doesn't diffuse the light)
1) with a fine grit sand paper scuff the tmolding up so it will diffuse the surface
2) User strips of white window film that will diffuse the t-moulding and will be simple to install just like a sticker
3) Lightly coat it with a watered down mixture of paint so it's semi transparent and spray it onto the t-moulding
4) Ditch the t-moulding and run strips of leds in the channel in the wood then apply an already diffused plastic strip and glue it on.
5) Run the thin white ropelight on the edges I think the round shape would work well with a tron theme (http://img.diytrade.com/cdimg/1220163/13886380/0/1281665704/White_LED_Neon_Rope_light_LED_Neon_Flex.jpg (http://img.diytrade.com/cdimg/1220163/13886380/0/1281665704/White_LED_Neon_Rope_light_LED_Neon_Flex.jpg))

There are a few other ways to do this but these are the easiest and cheapest
Title: Re: Tron Legacy
Post by: wp34 on December 16, 2011, 09:42:48 pm
I've never laminated before. I decided to make a small sample piece first before I tackled a section as large as a cabinet side.  My dad was a woodworker and I remember as a kid when he would make a project that used laminate how it almost seemed like magic when he was done.  You buy things that are laminated you don't make them.  I was pleased when my kids had the same reaction when I brought my sample home. 

(http://forum.arcadecontrols.com/index.php?action=dlattach;topic=103207.0;attach=176812;image)

Another thing that has been bothering me is the T-molding.  I'm using a 5/8" piece of MDF with 3/4 T-molding.  As I feared the T-molding is going to leave a small lip.  I think if I go with black T-molding you won't even notice but I would really like to use white or some other color as an accent. 

(http://forum.arcadecontrols.com/index.php?action=dlattach;topic=103207.0;attach=176814;image)

I tried trimming a sample piece as outlined here. (http://forum.arcadecontrols.com/index.php?topic=86699.0) The chisel I used was not nearly sharp enough and the edge of the T-molding was very jagged after I trimmed it.   This  (http://forum.arcadecontrols.com/index.php?topic=80567.msg840739#msg840739) method recommended by Bender looks interesting and it would mean buying another new tool.  ;D

I'll try another sample using a sharp chisel before I decide which way to go.

As a side-note my wife and daughter think I am being way too anal about the T-molding fit.   :dunno


Title: Re: Tron Legacy
Post by: wizkid32 on December 18, 2011, 12:05:12 am
Sure it will look great, no matter what you do.   ;D
Title: Re: Tron Legacy
Post by: Le Chuck on December 18, 2011, 08:51:05 am
Obsess away. If you don't it gives them the justification to say their favorite phrase, "I don't want that thing in my house" or if they are the passive-aggressive type "Wouldn't that look better in the (room where guests never go)." Perfection guarantees choice placement.  :lol
Title: Re: Tron Legacy
Post by: wp34 on December 19, 2011, 09:17:11 am
Thanks wizkid32 and Le Chuck. 

My wife has been very supportive.  She actually bought my two U360's as presents and is painting my Q*Bert restore.  Her only concern is that after trying MAME I want a couple of dedicated cabinets. She will say "how many are you going to have" or my favorite "that much to play just one game".   >:D
Title: Re: Tron Legacy
Post by: wizkid32 on December 19, 2011, 07:42:29 pm
Does your wife share your love of Tron?   ;D
Title: Re: Tron Legacy
Post by: wp34 on December 19, 2011, 09:28:19 pm
Does your wife share your love of Tron?   ;D

Ya got me there.  Although the kids love Tron so I got that going.   :D
Title: Re: Tron Legacy
Post by: wp34 on December 19, 2011, 10:36:28 pm
I picked up my laminate off eBay. With shipping it was $35 a sheet.  This laminate is much less ridged than I was expecting.  I think it is because it is rated for vertical use.  The stuff I remember my dad using seemed thicker and more sturdy and I assume was rated for counter tops.  I found moving the full sheets around by myself difficult and even had one sheet rip on me--although it was in a waste area so no biggie.

I used the tutorial posted by Epyx here  (http://forum.arcadecontrols.com/index.php?topic=101315.0) as well as information gleaned from Martijn's builds. 

Laying out the sheet.

(http://forum.arcadecontrols.com/index.php?action=dlattach;topic=103207.0;attach=176889;image)

I glued each piece and layed the MDF on top of the full sheet of 4x8 laminate. 

(http://forum.arcadecontrols.com/index.php?action=dlattach;topic=103207.0;attach=176889;image)

The only problem I had with this method was that the laminate is so brittle that I had a hard time cutting it to size.  The laminate would just start tearing as I tried to cut it due to the weight of the MDF. 

I ended up with one bad spot due to the tearing.   :banghead: 

(http://forum.arcadecontrols.com/index.php?action=dlattach;topic=103207.0;attach=176895;image)

I should be able to hide it with a sharpie.

One side done.   Even with the bad spot this felt really good.   :cheers:
(http://forum.arcadecontrols.com/index.php?action=dlattach;topic=103207.0;attach=176893;image)



Title: Re: Tron Legacy
Post by: wp34 on December 19, 2011, 10:48:54 pm
For the next side I decided to deviate a little from Epyx's tutorial and cut the laminate to fit before applying the glue.  This made it much easier to move the laminate around and also eliminated any ripping issues.

(http://forum.arcadecontrols.com/index.php?action=dlattach;topic=103207.0;attach=176909;image)

I used all three of these to cut the laminate.  The band cutters on the left worked the best.  I've had that pair for 25 years and they are not particularly sharp but still worked fine.

(http://forum.arcadecontrols.com/index.php?action=dlattach;topic=103207.0;attach=176897;image)

I left quite a bit of a lip and was able to route with the flush trip bit just fine.

(http://forum.arcadecontrols.com/index.php?action=dlattach;topic=103207.0;attach=176899;image)

To trip the circle I just drilled a hole through the laminate and made it a bit wider using my band cutters so the flush trim bit would fit in the hole.

(http://forum.arcadecontrols.com/index.php?action=dlattach;topic=103207.0;attach=176901;image)

Insert router bit and route.  This part is really, really fun.
(http://forum.arcadecontrols.com/index.php?action=dlattach;topic=103207.0;attach=176903;image)

For some reason when I was planning I thought I had to pre-trim the laminate to around a 1/2" and then run the flush trim bit over it.  Turns out that is not the case.

Here is a picture of some of the waste pieces.  I thought they looked interesting.  Seems like I should be able to use them for something.
(http://forum.arcadecontrols.com/index.php?action=dlattach;topic=103207.0;attach=176907;image)







Title: Re: Tron Legacy
Post by: wp34 on December 19, 2011, 10:52:03 pm
A new set of twins with the insides laminated.  They need cleaning but still look good to me.

(http://forum.arcadecontrols.com/index.php?action=dlattach;topic=103207.0;attach=176911;image)

Next step is to build the base and decide how I want to attach the cleats.  I wanted to have the basic cabinet assembled and in my basement by the time the Christmas Tree comes down.  I don't think I am going to make it but maybe by New Years.


Title: Re: Tron Legacy - Laminating has begun
Post by: Well Fed Games on December 19, 2011, 11:18:04 pm
Nice, thanks for the laminate process documentation.  :applaud:
Title: Re: Tron Legacy
Post by: Le Chuck on December 20, 2011, 12:15:14 am

(http://forum.arcadecontrols.com/index.php?action=dlattach;topic=103207.0;attach=176911;image)


This totally looks like a badass owl right now.   ;D

I contemplated using laminate on my build and am very appreciative for the process feedback and refinement that you have provided.  Your results are outstanding but you're going to need to grow wings to make your deadline, can't wait to see it come together!
Title: Re: Tron Legacy - Laminating has begun
Post by: Bender on December 20, 2011, 12:46:17 am
method recommended by Bender looks interesting and it would mean buying another new tool.  ;D

I'll try another sample using a sharp chisel before I decide which way to go.

As a side-note my wife and daughter think I am being way too anal about the T-molding fit.   :dunno


just an update, the last few times I did this I just removed the specialty blade that is inside the trimmer and used that by itself one side at a time (and you can buy just the replacement blades)
Title: Re: Tron Legacy
Post by: wp34 on December 20, 2011, 09:12:09 am
This totally looks like a badass owl right now.   ;D

I contemplated using laminate on my build and am very appreciative for the process feedback and refinement that you have provided.  Your results are outstanding but you're going to need to grow wings to make your deadline, can't wait to see it come together!

Thanks Le Chuck.  I'm really enjoying reading through your build.

just an update, the last few times I did this I just removed the specialty blade that is inside the trimmer and used that by itself one side at a time (and you can buy just the replacement blades)

Thanks for the update Bender.   I take it you are using the blades alone.  Are you using anything to hold the blade as you cut?
Title: Re: Tron Legacy - Laminating has begun
Post by: Hoopz on December 20, 2011, 09:22:22 am
Good work so far.  What made you choose laminate over painting the sides?
Title: Re: Tron Legacy - Laminating has begun
Post by: wp34 on December 20, 2011, 09:36:21 am
Good work so far.  What made you choose laminate over painting the sides?

Thanks Hoopz.  The main reason is that I always wanted to try it.  My dad made Kicker-style speaker boxes for my car when I was in high school using laminate.  They looked like something bought in a store and I always thought that was cool.  Also my Q*Bert restore has been stuck in the painting/surface-prep stage for a while.  I thought with the laminate I could get it done quicker and so far that is proving to be the case. 


Title: Re: Tron Legacy - Laminating has begun
Post by: Woodshop Flunky on December 22, 2011, 12:13:06 am
method recommended by Bender looks interesting and it would mean buying another new tool.  ;D

I'll try another sample using a sharp chisel before I decide which way to go.

As a side-note my wife and daughter think I am being way too anal about the T-molding fit.   :dunno


just an update, the last few times I did this I just removed the specialty blade that is inside the trimmer and used that by itself one side at a time (and you can buy just the replacement blades)

I trimmed the t-molding on my build and it turned out great with a very crisp edge.  I started out using a sharp chisel, but finally decided to use a razor box cutter.  The razor worked much better, and was very easy to work without scratching the laminate or my artwork.  One thing I noticed, when I was moving at a good speed, the razor would tend to climb up off the side.  After I trimmed, I would run my hand back over the edge and feel for any high spots... there were quite a few.  Whenever I found one, I'd just go over it again with the razor and  remove the high spot. http://forum.arcadecontrols.com/index.php?topic=111377.msg1203138#msg1203138 (http://forum.arcadecontrols.com/index.php?topic=111377.msg1203138#msg1203138)
(http://forum.arcadecontrols.com/index.php?action=dlattach;topic=103207.0;attach=170249;image)
Title: Re: Tron Legacy - Laminating has begun
Post by: wp34 on December 22, 2011, 08:59:32 am

I trimmed the t-molding on my build and it turned out great with a very crisp edge.  I started out using a sharp chisel, but finally decided to use a razor box cutter.  The razor worked much better, and was very easy to work without scratching the laminate or my artwork.  One thing I noticed, when I was moving at a good speed, the razor would tend to climb up off the side.  After I trimmed, I would run my hand back over the edge and feel for any high spots... there were quite a few.  Whenever I found one, I'd just go over it again with the razor and  remove the high spot.

Thanks for the tip.     :cheers:

I'm getting ready to glue the battens on mine and like you am a little nervous about not having wood on wood.  I'd like to do something similar to what you did.

I love how your cabinet turned out BTW.  That artwork is awesome.

Title: Re: Tron Legacy - Laminating has begun
Post by: BobA on December 24, 2011, 04:00:12 pm
There is a trimming tool you can use on t molding.  It is made for edge banding but it does the same thing for both.  Trim tool (http://www.mikestools.com/Q-Trim-Fastcap-Pneumatic-Quad-Trimmer.aspx)
Title: Re: Tron Legacy
Post by: Bender on December 24, 2011, 09:39:50 pm
This totally looks like a badass owl right now.   ;D

I contemplated using laminate on my build and am very appreciative for the process feedback and refinement that you have provided.  Your results are outstanding but you're going to need to grow wings to make your deadline, can't wait to see it come together!

Thanks Le Chuck.  I'm really enjoying reading through your build.

just an update, the last few times I did this I just removed the specialty blade that is inside the trimmer and used that by itself one side at a time (and you can buy just the replacement blades)

Thanks for the update Bender.   I take it you are using the blades alone.  Are you using anything to hold the blade as you cut?


BobA's talkin bout the same thing

I just holding the blade in my hand
The cool thing is that there is only a small area this is actually a blade so it's next to impossible to mess up the laminate or artwork

click to go to woodcraft
(http://www.woodcraft.com/Images/products/836876_400.jpg) (http://www.woodcraft.com/Product/2020358/21986/Quad-Trimmer-replacement-carbon-steel-blades.aspx)
Title: Re: Tron Legacy - Laminating has begun
Post by: wp34 on December 24, 2011, 11:19:43 pm
Thanks BobA and Bender.  Merry Christmas!
Title: Re: Tron Legacy - Laminating has begun
Post by: Woodshop Flunky on January 04, 2012, 01:06:51 pm

I love how your cabinet turned out BTW.


Thanks!  :cheers:
Title: Re: Tron Legacy
Post by: wp34 on January 07, 2012, 12:50:15 pm
Not much progress over the holidays.  A lot of time off work but not much real "free" time.   I did get a chance to position the D9800 on one of my templates to take measurements for the supports.

(http://forum.arcadecontrols.com/index.php?action=dlattach;topic=103207.0;attach=177642;image)

(http://forum.arcadecontrols.com/index.php?action=dlattach;topic=103207.0;attach=177644;image)

Man that thing is heavy.  Not looking forward to trying to get it mounted.

Title: Re: Tron Legacy
Post by: wp34 on January 07, 2012, 12:52:47 pm
Also when I bought the monitor it came with a bent support bracket.   When I contacted X-Gaming they wanted me to ship the whole monitor back instead of just sending me a new bracket.  I decided to just keep the monitor but haven't gotten around to straightening it yet.

(http://forum.arcadecontrols.com/index.php?action=dlattach;topic=103207.0;attach=177646;image)

Title: Re: Tron Legacy - Laminating has begun
Post by: Hoopz on January 12, 2012, 11:44:13 am
Is that bracket one you can replace with something off the shelf at a big box hardware store?  Angle iron or anything like that?
Title: Re: Tron Legacy - Laminating has begun
Post by: Green Giant on January 12, 2012, 07:29:09 pm
Is that bracket one you can replace with something off the shelf at a big box hardware store?  Angle iron or anything like that?
No need.  That stuff doesn't look that thick.

Grab a big ass wrench, grab that metal, and torque that bad boy into place.
Title: Re: Tron Legacy - Laminating has begun
Post by: wp34 on January 12, 2012, 09:35:59 pm
Is that bracket one you can replace with something off the shelf at a big box hardware store?  Angle iron or anything like that?

Good idea but it is an odd shaped bracket with an angle on each end.

(http://forum.arcadecontrols.com/index.php?action=dlattach;topic=103207.0;attach=177885;image)
Title: Re: Tron Legacy - Laminating has begun
Post by: wp34 on January 12, 2012, 11:39:28 pm

No need.  That stuff doesn't look that thick.

Grab a big ass wrench, grab that metal, and torque that bad boy into place.

You are right it isn't that thick but that monitor is a member of an endangered species.  Gotta treat it with kid gloves.   ;D
Title: Re: Tron Legacy - Laminating has begun
Post by: Green Giant on January 13, 2012, 01:21:46 am

No need.  That stuff doesn't look that thick.

Grab a big ass wrench, grab that metal, and torque that bad boy into place.

You are right it isn't that thick but that monitor is a member of an endangered species.  Gotta treat it with kid gloves.   ;D
I have heard stories about those old monitors bouncing off concrete.  I don't thing a little bending on a piece a metal will hurt anything.

Just channel this guy when bending:
(http://www.motifake.com/image/demotivational-poster/0912/bender-bending-rodrguez-bender-demotivational-poster-1260374184.jpg)
Title: Re: Tron Legacy - Laminating has begun
Post by: Nephasth on January 13, 2012, 07:13:13 am
Grab a big ass wrench, grab that metal, and torque that bad boy into place.

Definitely the easiest solution. My first pick would be a crescent wrench, second pick would be a pair of channel lock pliers.
Title: Re: Tron Legacy - Laminating has begun
Post by: Hoopz on January 14, 2012, 09:43:16 am
Is that bracket one you can replace with something off the shelf at a big box hardware store?  Angle iron or anything like that?

Good idea but it is an odd shaped bracket with an angle on each end.

(http://forum.arcadecontrols.com/index.php?action=dlattach;topic=103207.0;attach=177885;image)

Shoot, this isn't a set back.  It's a chance to improve your skills and, in turn, better support your family.  Looks like you'll need some new tools to cut through metal, weld, etc.  The tools you'll be buying are an investment and should not be factored in to the cost of this project.

And what FE are you going to be running?  GameEx has a Tron theme that's pretty nice.
Title: Re: Tron Legacy - Laminating has begun
Post by: SammyWI on January 14, 2012, 11:27:50 am
Grab a big ass wrench, grab that metal, and torque that bad boy into place.

Definitely the easiest solution. My first pick would be a crescent wrench, second pick would be a pair of channel lock pliers.

I would recommend removing the bracket from the monitor when you straighten it.   ;)
Title: Re: Tron Legacy - Laminating has begun
Post by: wp34 on January 20, 2012, 11:12:11 pm
And what FE are you going to be running?  GameEx has a Tron theme that's pretty nice.

Oddly enough I've never looked at GameEx in all these years.  I took a look at the Tron theme and I like it.  I've been using Mala but am not real happy with it so I'll give GameEx a try.  Thanks for the tip.   :cheers:

Title: Re: Tron Legacy
Post by: wp34 on January 20, 2012, 11:30:17 pm
Been slow going lately but I did get some time to get the base done. 

Here is is clamped and glued.
(http://forum.arcadecontrols.com/index.php?action=dlattach;topic=103207.0;attach=178169;image)

All Done.  Once I flipped it over I saw that I didn't get the holes drilled perfectly straight so the bolts don't line up.  Oh well.  I'm the only one that will notice.
(http://forum.arcadecontrols.com/index.php?action=dlattach;topic=103207.0;attach=178171;image)







Title: Re: Tron Legacy - Laminating has begun
Post by: wp34 on January 20, 2012, 11:32:43 pm
I test fit it on one of the sides.  Looks great.

(http://forum.arcadecontrols.com/index.php?action=dlattach;topic=103207.0;attach=178173;image)

I took the base home from the shop to test it for level.  The kids are taking turns riding on it.

Built to Shred!
(http://forum.arcadecontrols.com/index.php?action=dlattach;topic=103207.0;attach=178175;image)

Title: Re: Tron Legacy
Post by: BadMouth on February 15, 2012, 10:50:37 am
 :bump
What's the holdup?
Get back on it!
Title: Re: Tron Legacy
Post by: wp34 on February 15, 2012, 10:23:08 pm
:bump
What's the holdup?
Get back on it!

I've been out of town and we have been busy with kids stuff.  You know the drill.

I actually made some progress right before my trip but have not had time to post.  I'll try to get something up this weekend.
Title: Re: Tron Legacy
Post by: wp34 on February 18, 2012, 09:20:11 am
I decided to route out the cut-outs for the battons similar to Woodshop Flunky (http://forum.arcadecontrols.com/index.php?topic=111377.msg1189740#msg1189740), Martijn  (http://forum.arcadecontrols.com/index.php?topic=112721.msg1198091#msg1198091) and others.

Instead of making a full template I decided to make one jig I could use for each batton.  The cutouts don't need to be absolutely perfect as they will be either covered by the front/back panels or on the inside of the cabinet.  I used a piece 1/4 pine and cut out the inside using a table saw.  The lip is about 7/8" as I'm going to want my battons to be 1" in from the lip.  I just line up the lip of the jig with the edge of the side piece and clamp.  I used a scrap piece from the jig when I need to adjust the size of the cutout.

(http://forum.arcadecontrols.com/index.php?action=dlattach;topic=103207.0;attach=179460;image)

Now the fun part.

(http://forum.arcadecontrols.com/index.php?action=dlattach;topic=103207.0;attach=179462;image)

Later I went back with a chisel and smoothed out the rough edges. 

(http://forum.arcadecontrols.com/index.php?action=dlattach;topic=103207.0;attach=179464;image)

Title: Re: Tron Legacy
Post by: wp34 on February 18, 2012, 09:31:10 am
I set the two side panels side-by-side on tables and just went back and forth.  Only screwed up once but that will be hidden.  ;D

Like others I frequently use my laptop in the shop.  I get a kick out of the juxtaposition of old and new technologies.  Here I am sneaking a peak at Gamester's thread again.   :cheers:

(http://forum.arcadecontrols.com/index.php?action=dlattach;topic=103207.0;attach=179474;image)

I made a jig to ensure that the battons are 1" from the lip.

(http://forum.arcadecontrols.com/index.php?action=dlattach;topic=103207.0;attach=179470;image)

(http://forum.arcadecontrols.com/index.php?action=dlattach;topic=103207.0;attach=179472;image)



Title: Re: Tron Legacy
Post by: wp34 on February 18, 2012, 09:44:07 am
I pre-drilled some holes thinking I might drill back from the outside to ensure the battons are secure.

(http://forum.arcadecontrols.com/index.php?action=dlattach;topic=103207.0;attach=179476;image)

Line up the batton with my jig leaving a 1" gap.  After the side panels are installed this will leave me with a consistent 3/8" reveal.

(http://forum.arcadecontrols.com/index.php?action=dlattach;topic=103207.0;attach=179468;image)

Glue and screw.

(http://forum.arcadecontrols.com/index.php?action=dlattach;topic=103207.0;attach=179480;image)






Title: Re: Tron Legacy
Post by: wp34 on February 18, 2012, 09:48:03 am
Rinse and repeat.

(http://forum.arcadecontrols.com/index.php?action=dlattach;topic=103207.0;attach=179482;image)

Can you see where I messed up?   ;D  One of these things is not like the other...

(http://forum.arcadecontrols.com/index.php?action=dlattach;topic=103207.0;attach=179484;image)


Title: Re: Tron Legacy
Post by: wp34 on February 24, 2012, 09:41:59 pm
My brother-in-law is a professional carpenter.  I asked him to come help me cut the angles on the side panels as I had a number of precise cuts to make.  He worked for a company that specialized in laminating for a while and he showed me a different and somewhat easier way to laminate.  I had not seen this before and thought I should document it here.

First off he uses a can of Loctite as glue so no rolling.  He also cuts the panels to a rough size before laminating.  We laminated and then cut the laminated pieces to the final size.  It seems bass-ackward but really went amazingly quick.

(http://forum.arcadecontrols.com/index.php?action=dlattach;topic=103207.0;attach=179868;image)

You spray an even coat on each piece.  Spray the glue up and down on one piece and side-to-side on the other.

(http://forum.arcadecontrols.com/index.php?action=dlattach;topic=103207.0;attach=179872;image)

You should end up with a spider-web looking mess of glue. 

(http://forum.arcadecontrols.com/index.php?action=dlattach;topic=103207.0;attach=179870;image)

His process seemed to go much faster than the way I was laminating.  For one thing the roll-on glue I was using would get soaked up by the MDF requiring multiple coats.  The spray does not.  The spray also tacks up much faster. 

(http://forum.arcadecontrols.com/index.php?action=dlattach;topic=103207.0;attach=179874;image)



Title: Re: Tron Legacy
Post by: wp34 on February 26, 2012, 08:59:45 pm
Here are a few photos that show how we measured the angle cuts for the panels and set up the saw.

Measure the angle with a compass.

(http://forum.arcadecontrols.com/index.php?action=dlattach;topic=103207.0;attach=180019;image)

Cut some test pieces at that angle using the miter saw.

(http://forum.arcadecontrols.com/index.php?action=dlattach;topic=103207.0;attach=180021;image)

Test fit.

(http://forum.arcadecontrols.com/index.php?action=dlattach;topic=103207.0;attach=180023;image)

Use the test pieces as a jig to set the angle on the table saw.

(http://forum.arcadecontrols.com/index.php?action=dlattach;topic=103207.0;attach=180025;image)

(http://forum.arcadecontrols.com/index.php?action=dlattach;topic=103207.0;attach=180039;image)



Title: Re: Tron Legacy
Post by: wp34 on February 26, 2012, 09:10:12 pm
The panels are laminated and cut at this point.  Now I need to cut holes for vents and the coin door.

I used a hole saw to rough cut the vent.

(http://forum.arcadecontrols.com/index.php?action=dlattach;topic=103207.0;attach=180033;image)

Used a flange as a template to route the hole to size--another idea from Gamester.   :cheers:
(http://forum.arcadecontrols.com/index.php?action=dlattach;topic=103207.0;attach=180035;image)

I found a PVC vent at Menards for $1.00 that will work nicely as a vent cover.
(http://forum.arcadecontrols.com/index.php?action=dlattach;topic=103207.0;attach=180037;image)



Title: Re: Tron Legacy
Post by: wp34 on February 26, 2012, 09:15:10 pm
Test fitting the coin door.  I've been waiting to see this for a long time.   :cheers:

(http://forum.arcadecontrols.com/index.php?action=dlattach;topic=103207.0;attach=180045;image)

Just need to cut the back door and make holes for the speakers then it is time to put it together.  I couldn't resist lining all the pieces up.  It looks like I ordered a kit.

(http://forum.arcadecontrols.com/index.php?action=dlattach;topic=103207.0;attach=180041;image)

(http://forum.arcadecontrols.com/index.php?action=dlattach;topic=103207.0;attach=180043;image)

Title: Re: Tron Legacy
Post by: PIZZ on February 26, 2012, 10:22:26 pm
PCV vent cover, nice idea. im going to have to steal that from you  ;D
Title: Re: Tron Legacy
Post by: dandare on February 26, 2012, 11:18:29 pm
Does look like you just had a pro kit delivered.

This is looking great man, look forward to seeing more!  :applaud:
Title: Re: Tron Legacy
Post by: wp34 on February 27, 2012, 09:12:33 am
Thanks PIZZ and dandare.
Title: Re: Tron Legacy
Post by: wp34 on February 27, 2012, 07:14:01 pm
Got a little careless on the table saw last night.  Really stupid on my part.  I was trying to use it like a miter saw and the 2x4 got away from me.

Two stitches and a tetanus shot later... 

Take a look at my middle finger.  The blade cut a "v" in my fingernail.

(http://forum.arcadecontrols.com/index.php?action=dlattach;topic=103207.0;attach=180087;image)

Here is one of the gloves I was wearing.  Ouch.

(http://forum.arcadecontrols.com/index.php?action=dlattach;topic=103207.0;attach=180089;image)
Title: Re: Tron Legacy
Post by: Le Chuck on February 27, 2012, 07:17:35 pm
Glad you still have all your digits.  Take care man. 
Title: Re: Tron Legacy
Post by: SammyWI on February 27, 2012, 07:28:21 pm
Cab is coming along nicely.  Hope you heal up fast so you can back at it.
Title: Re: Tron Legacy
Post by: wp34 on February 27, 2012, 07:59:36 pm
Thanks guys.  Should be back at it in a couple of days.
Title: Re: Tron Legacy
Post by: Hoopz on February 28, 2012, 01:35:58 pm
Glad you're ok.  Wife get mad at you once she knew you were ok?
Title: Re: Tron Legacy
Post by: wp34 on February 28, 2012, 02:41:54 pm
Glad you're ok.  Wife get mad at you once she knew you were ok?

Thanks Hoopz.

Funny.  Somebody at work just asked me that a few minutes ago.  She really didn't.  No "I told you so's" either.  But I made it really clear from the get-go that I screwed up.

The doctor told me I should have gone to the emergency room.  I think she felt bad after the fact that she didn't make me go. Neither one of us thought it could be stitched though.  Lesson learned.

I think if my dad were alive I might have heard a little about it being that it was his saw.  I knew better and was just in a hurry.
Title: Re: Tron Legacy
Post by: Le Chuck on February 28, 2012, 02:47:24 pm
I watched my sculpture prof in college saw his index finger in half longways to the first knuckle.  Not a whole lot you can do for that one because of the waste.  He was teaching a safety class, it can happen to anybody.  Just be glad you didn't shoot yourself or anything too traumatic. 
Title: Re: Tron Legacy
Post by: bigmatty77 on February 28, 2012, 03:02:44 pm
I watched my sculpture prof in college saw his index finger in half longways to the first knuckle.

Ouch!  :cry:

wp34, glad you're ok man. Glad it was only a couple of stitches and nothing worse.  :) Just wanted to say you're cab is looking amazing so far, very proffesional. Starting wish i'd gone laminate now  :P
Title: Re: Tron Legacy
Post by: wp34 on February 28, 2012, 03:19:21 pm
Thanks bigmatty77. 

I'm biased because I suck at painting but laminating is a lot of fun.
Title: Re: Tron Legacy
Post by: BadMouth on February 28, 2012, 05:52:03 pm
My father is missing half his right index finger and the end of this right thumb from two different accidents.
Both occured when it was late, he was tired, and should have stopped working.
Every time I get tired, but just want to get done, I think about his missing fingers and stop.  :lol
Title: Re: Tron Legacy
Post by: wp34 on February 28, 2012, 06:44:20 pm
I watched my sculpture prof in college saw his index finger in half longways to the first knuckle.  Not a whole lot you can do for that one because of the waste.  He was teaching a safety class, it can happen to anybody.  Just be glad you didn't shoot yourself or anything too traumatic. 

Yuck.  Did they just amputate part of his finger?

Every time I get tired, but just want to get done, I think about his missing fingers and stop.  :lol

That will be me now.   ;D
Title: Re: Tron Legacy
Post by: Hoopz on February 28, 2012, 06:55:38 pm
Thanks bigmatty77. 

I'm biased because I suck at painting but laminating is a lot of fun.
Maybe I need to try laminate but it seems like painting would be  easier.

Though your sides do look great.  The rest of the build is top notch.  Projects like this make me feel bad about mine.  Big meany.   ;D
Title: Re: Tron Legacy
Post by: Le Chuck on February 28, 2012, 06:57:56 pm
I watched my sculpture prof in college saw his index finger in half longways to the first knuckle.  Not a whole lot you can do for that one because of the waste.  He was teaching a safety class, it can happen to anybody.  Just be glad you didn't shoot yourself or anything too traumatic. 

Yuck.  Did they just amputate part of his finger?


No, the blade ran along the side of the bone kinda shaving it a bit but didn't split it.  The nail was thrown off completely.  The stitched it together and it kinda healed back okay but his finger got a lot thinner towards the tip.  No idea how it looks now but it was wicked grody at the time.  Nothing beats the time I saw a specialist get a M240B retaining spring through the lap.  He's got a teflon nut now.  I've been around some really twisted crap... now that I think about it I'm probably bad luck.  
Title: Re: Tron Legacy
Post by: wp34 on February 29, 2012, 11:11:45 pm
We laminated the back panel prior to cutting out the door.  I tried a few test cuts and was not happy with the results so I asked my brother-in-law to come bail me out.  Here are some pictures of how he used the table saw to cut out the door. 


He drew a line on the fence to line up where the blade began.  He then drew lines on the work piece to be able to line up where he wanted each cut to begin.

(http://forum.arcadecontrols.com/index.php?action=dlattach;topic=103207.0;attach=180266;image)

(http://forum.arcadecontrols.com/index.php?action=dlattach;topic=103207.0;attach=180268;image)

(http://forum.arcadecontrols.com/index.php?action=dlattach;topic=103207.0;attach=180270;image)

(http://forum.arcadecontrols.com/index.php?action=dlattach;topic=103207.0;attach=180272;image)

The door had to be shimmed for the last cut to keep the door from falling out and cracking the laminate.

(http://forum.arcadecontrols.com/index.php?action=dlattach;topic=103207.0;attach=180274;image)

And the back is done!

(http://forum.arcadecontrols.com/index.php?action=dlattach;topic=103207.0;attach=180276;image)

I just need to finish routing the speaker grills and it will be time to start assembling.   :cheers:

Title: Re: Tron Legacy
Post by: gbeef on March 01, 2012, 12:51:11 am
very nice build so far sorry to hear about those fingers you need them for play the arcade cabinet so watch out!@
Title: Re: Tron Legacy
Post by: wp34 on March 01, 2012, 10:00:14 am
very nice build so far sorry to hear about those fingers you need them for play the arcade cabinet so watch out!@

Thanks gbeef!
Title: Re: Tron Legacy
Post by: Sparkolicious on March 01, 2012, 11:09:00 am
Really nice build you have going!   :applaud:  Awesome idea for the vent covers!  Have you straightened the monitor bracket yet?  Cresent wrench will do the trick if not.

Grats on not loosing a finger!  I've been around power tools most of my life and I have seen some pretty devastating  injuries.  I don't wear gloves around saws ever.  Just doesn't have the same "feel", and I have seen more than one person get their finger pulled into the blade when working with smaller pieces/rips. 
Title: Re: Tron Legacy
Post by: wp34 on March 01, 2012, 06:43:34 pm
Really nice build you have going!   :applaud:  Awesome idea for the vent covers!  Have you straightened the monitor bracket yet?  Cresent wrench will do the trick if not.

Grats on not loosing a finger!  I've been around power tools most of my life and I have seen some pretty devastating  injuries.  I don't wear gloves around saws ever.  Just doesn't have the same "feel", and I have seen more than one person get their finger pulled into the blade when working with smaller pieces/rips. 

Thanks Sparkolicious.  I don't always use gloves but I feel like they helped me with this one.  But I can definitely see your point of the blade sucking in your fingers via the glove.

I did get the bracket straightened.  I ended up removing the bracket and flattening it with a hammer.  I didn't want to take a chance on hurting the monitor.

(http://forum.arcadecontrols.com/index.php?action=dlattach;topic=103207.0;attach=180336;image)


(http://forum.arcadecontrols.com/index.php?action=dlattach;topic=103207.0;attach=180338;image)
Title: Re: Tron Legacy
Post by: wp34 on March 06, 2012, 10:36:24 pm
I have this Friday off and had planned to spend the day putting the cabinet together.  Working by myself I figured it would take most of the day.  My brother in-law called this afternoon and offered to help me work on it tonight.    :cheers:

With two sets of hands and 4 drills it went much faster than I ever could have imagined.  

(http://forum.arcadecontrols.com/index.php?action=dlattach;topic=103207.0;attach=180772;image)

First we secured the two sides and back to the base using an air nailer.  Then we went back using clamps and screwed the panels together.
(http://forum.arcadecontrols.com/index.php?action=dlattach;topic=103207.0;attach=180774;image)

(http://forum.arcadecontrols.com/index.php?action=dlattach;topic=103207.0;attach=180776;image)

(http://forum.arcadecontrols.com/index.php?action=dlattach;topic=103207.0;attach=180778;image)

Whoops.  Missed one.  At least it is on top.   ;D
(http://forum.arcadecontrols.com/index.php?action=dlattach;topic=103207.0;attach=180780;image)

(http://forum.arcadecontrols.com/index.php?action=dlattach;topic=103207.0;attach=180784;image)

I need to install the monitor mounts and speaker section.  I have a little more work to do on both of those yet.  

Then it will be time for a little sanding/bondo on the screw holes.  Should have the sides laminated by the weekend.  



Title: Re: Tron Legacy - Update 3/6/2012
Post by: dandare on March 06, 2012, 11:48:53 pm
Gorgeous!

Its a lovely feeling when you stand it up for the first time.

And I'm super jealous of your workshop!  ;D
Title: Re: Tron Legacy - Update 3/6/2012
Post by: wp34 on March 07, 2012, 09:44:44 am
Gorgeous!

Its a lovely feeling when you stand it up for the first time.

And I'm super jealous of your workshop!  ;D

Thanks dandare.

The workshop actually was my fathers.  It is pretty awesome.   It is heated, has a built-in stereo system and had DirectTV at one time.  He was going to help me but passed away before I got started on my build. It has been important to me to use his shop and tools as much as possible.
Title: Re: Tron Legacy - Update 3/6/2012
Post by: Woodshop Flunky on March 07, 2012, 12:47:27 pm
Loving the look of this cab... keep it up!  :applaud:
Title: Re: Tron Legacy - Update 3/6/2012
Post by: wp34 on March 07, 2012, 02:26:31 pm
Loving the look of this cab... keep it up!  :applaud:

High praise coming from you.  Thanks!
Title: Re: Tron Legacy - Update 3/6/2012
Post by: wp34 on March 09, 2012, 09:40:12 pm
As long as I go with white or black my T-molding concerns from earlier are solved.  T-Molding.com has 11/16" that lines up perfectly.   

I've been leaning towards white for some time so I'm really excited the sample fits so good.  :cheers: 

(http://forum.arcadecontrols.com/index.php?action=dlattach;topic=103207.0;attach=180998;image)
Title: Re: Tron Legacy - Update 3/9/2012
Post by: wp34 on March 09, 2012, 09:44:45 pm
Learned another interesting trick from my brother-in-law.  He uses an industrial glue gun to seal the corners and edges.  It seems to work real well where two angled panels meet.

(http://forum.arcadecontrols.com/index.php?action=dlattach;topic=103207.0;attach=181002;image)

(http://forum.arcadecontrols.com/index.php?action=dlattach;topic=103207.0;attach=181000;image)
Title: Re: Tron Legacy - Update 3/6/2012
Post by: Well Fed Games on March 10, 2012, 12:56:06 am
As long as I go with white or black my T-molding concerns from earlier are solved.  T-Molding.com has 11/16" that lines up perfectly.   

I've been leaning towards white for some time so I'm really excited the sample fits so good.  :cheers: 


That does look really sharp!
Title: Re: Tron Legacy - Update 3/6/2012
Post by: wp34 on March 10, 2012, 12:02:25 pm
As long as I go with white or black my T-molding concerns from earlier are solved.  T-Molding.com has 11/16" that lines up perfectly.   

I've been leaning towards white for some time so I'm really excited the sample fits so good.  :cheers: 


That does look really sharp!

Thanks.   I just wish I would have found that size earlier.  Would have saved a lot of consternation.
Title: Re: Tron Legacy - Update 3/9/2012
Post by: wp34 on March 10, 2012, 12:17:45 pm
For some reason the speaker grill has been one of the most tedious parts of this project.  I won't say frustrating because working on it has been a lot of fun but it is taking much longer than I anticipated. 

I tried using an old 5x7 picture frame as a jig but that ended up being a major fail.  I decided to make a jig using strips left over from cutting the cabinet.

(http://forum.arcadecontrols.com/index.php?action=dlattach;topic=103207.0;attach=181019;image)

(http://forum.arcadecontrols.com/index.php?action=dlattach;topic=103207.0;attach=181021;image)

I want a 1/8" or so reveal so I had to plunge route around my opening to make room for the black mesh.

A 2x4 worked real well as an edge-guide.

(http://forum.arcadecontrols.com/index.php?action=dlattach;topic=103207.0;attach=181023;image)

(http://forum.arcadecontrols.com/index.php?action=dlattach;topic=103207.0;attach=181027;image)

(http://forum.arcadecontrols.com/index.php?action=dlattach;topic=103207.0;attach=181025;image)

I was a little worried about this part since the work piece was already laminated but it went very well.
(http://forum.arcadecontrols.com/index.php?action=dlattach;topic=103207.0;attach=181029;image)

My wife used this handy acrylic paint pen to paint the revealed edge black.   :cheers:

I'm going to use this to touch up other areas of the cabinet if/when required. 
(http://forum.arcadecontrols.com/index.php?action=dlattach;topic=103207.0;attach=181031;image)




Title: Re: Tron Legacy - Update 3/9/2012
Post by: wp34 on March 10, 2012, 12:23:53 pm
For some reason securing the mesh and speaker fabric proved troublesome.  I tied a few different methods before settling on 1/2" trim to hold it in place. 

Trying to work on this part out at my dad's shop proved troublesome.  There is so much saw dust in the air that the speaker fabric kept getting dirty.  I decided to finish this part at home.


I took my oldest son to see Steve Wozniak speak on Thursday.  He left his badge on the counter so I used the back of it to protect the speaker fabric as I hammered the trim in place.
(http://forum.arcadecontrols.com/index.php?action=dlattach;topic=103207.0;attach=181033;image)

Here is the finished piece.  I'm happy with how it turned out.
(http://forum.arcadecontrols.com/index.php?action=dlattach;topic=103207.0;attach=181035;image)


Title: Re: Tron Legacy - Update 3/10/2012
Post by: SammyWI on March 10, 2012, 04:44:43 pm
Really coming along nicely.  It starts getting exciting once the main structure comes together. 
Title: Re: Tron Legacy - Update 3/10/2012
Post by: wp34 on March 10, 2012, 09:10:26 pm
Really coming along nicely.  It starts getting exciting once the main structure comes together. 

Thanks SammyWI. 

There really is something to getting the cabinet upright.  On Tuesday I had a hard time leaving the shop.  I just wanted to hang around and look at it.  ;D
Title: Re: Tron Legacy - Update 3/9/2012
Post by: wp34 on March 10, 2012, 10:27:34 pm
The speaker grill is mounted.  It was a little tough without a second pair of hands but judicious use of clamps helped.

I taped some paper over the grills to try and keep sawdust out as much as possible.

(http://forum.arcadecontrols.com/index.php?action=dlattach;topic=103207.0;attach=181051;image)



Title: Re: Tron Legacy - Update 3/10/2012
Post by: Knievel on March 11, 2012, 11:59:08 am
Arrr..I love me a good porthole cabinet

Nice work so far :cheers:
Title: Re: Tron Legacy - Update 3/10/2012
Post by: wp34 on March 11, 2012, 02:09:00 pm
Arrr..I love me a good porthole cabinet

Nice work so far :cheers:

Thanks Knievel.  I didn't know that was what this style was called.  You (http://forum.arcadecontrols.com/index.php/topic,30538.msg257557.html#msg257557) would know though.   ;)

I was just showing my wife your Jet's Cocktail (http://forum.arcadecontrols.com/index.php?topic=118729.0;all) this morning.  Nice work as always.   :cheers:

We like the artwork you have hanging above it as well.
Title: Re: Tron Legacy - Update 3/10/2012
Post by: Knievel on March 11, 2012, 03:20:38 pm
haha.. I don't think it's really a cabinet style.

Thanks. Kids are having fun with it.

Artwork is by Michael Lang. Give him a search on eBay for some cool original works.  ;)
Title: Re: Tron Legacy - Update 3/9/2012
Post by: wp34 on March 13, 2012, 01:55:07 pm
Minor update.  I finally got the top monitor bracket installed.  This was the piece I cut my finger on.  Wish there at least would have been some blood on the board for conversation's sake.

This was a little tough with just two hands but "Jed Clampett" to the rescue again!

(http://forum.arcadecontrols.com/index.php?action=dlattach;topic=103207.0;attach=181142;image)

(http://forum.arcadecontrols.com/index.php?action=dlattach;topic=103207.0;attach=181144;image)

I had just enough time to put another coat of bondo on the screw holes.  Need to sand those down next and it will be time for the outside laminate.
(http://forum.arcadecontrols.com/index.php?action=dlattach;topic=103207.0;attach=181146;image)

Title: Re: Tron Legacy - Update 3/10/2012
Post by: Hoopz on March 14, 2012, 02:41:10 pm
That looks really cool.   :applaud:
Title: Re: Tron Legacy - Update 3/10/2012
Post by: wp34 on March 14, 2012, 03:12:05 pm
Thanks Hoopz.  A little slow but she is coming along.
Title: Re: Tron Legacy - Update 3/10/2012
Post by: mcseforsale on March 14, 2012, 03:27:53 pm
More! More! More!  C'mon man!  It's been 4 days!!!!

Feel you on the table saw thing.  Growing up, my dad was a woodworker, too.  I always wondered why he didn't wear his wedding ring until he showed it to me...it stopped the saw blade on his table saw, saving his hand when I was about 5. 

He always told me to get the cheapest wedding ring I could find (I dented mine in a MTB wreck...luckily it was 10 karat).

AJ
Title: Re: Tron Legacy - Update 3/9/2012
Post by: Green Giant on March 14, 2012, 04:05:06 pm
For some reason securing the mesh and speaker fabric proved troublesome.  I tied a few different methods before settling on 1/2" trim to hold it in place. 

Trying to work on this part out at my dad's shop proved troublesome.  There is so much saw dust in the air that the speaker fabric kept getting dirty.  I decided to finish this part at home.


I took my oldest son to see Steve Wozniak speak on Thursday.  He left his badge on the counter so I used the back of it to protect the speaker fabric as I hammered the trim in place.
(http://forum.arcadecontrols.com/index.php?action=dlattach;topic=103207.0;attach=181033;image)
I had no idea you were from Valhalla
Title: Re: Tron Legacy - Update 3/9/2012
Post by: PIZZ on March 14, 2012, 06:14:35 pm
I took my oldest son to see Steve Wozniak speak on Thursday.  He left his badge on the counter so I used the back of it to protect the speaker fabric as I hammered the trim in place.
(http://forum.arcadecontrols.com/index.php?action=dlattach;topic=103207.0;attach=181033;image)
(http://forum.arcadecontrols.com/index.php?action=dlattach;topic=103207.0;attach=181035;image)

I take it you dont like the Woz? lol
Title: Re: Tron Legacy - Update 3/10/2012
Post by: wp34 on March 14, 2012, 06:39:11 pm

Feel you on the table saw thing.  Growing up, my dad was a woodworker, too.  I always wondered why he didn't wear his wedding ring until he showed it to me...it stopped the saw blade on his table saw, saving his hand when I was about 5. 

He always told me to get the cheapest wedding ring I could find (I dented mine in a MTB wreck...luckily it was 10 karat).

AJ

Wow.  I assume he still had some damage to his hand if the blade got that close to his ring.  I think I would wear extra rings after that. 

Title: Re: Tron Legacy - Update 3/9/2012
Post by: wp34 on March 14, 2012, 06:40:32 pm
For some reason securing the mesh and speaker fabric proved troublesome.  I tied a few different methods before settling on 1/2" trim to hold it in place. 

Trying to work on this part out at my dad's shop proved troublesome.  There is so much saw dust in the air that the speaker fabric kept getting dirty.  I decided to finish this part at home.


I took my oldest son to see Steve Wozniak speak on Thursday.  He left his badge on the counter so I used the back of it to protect the speaker fabric as I hammered the trim in place.
(http://forum.arcadecontrols.com/index.php?action=dlattach;topic=103207.0;attach=181033;image)
I had no idea you were from Valhalla

LOL - I made that hammer in metal shop back in junior high.  It does sorta look like Thor's Hammer on a stick.  I never noticed that before.
Title: Re: Tron Legacy - Update 3/9/2012
Post by: wp34 on March 14, 2012, 06:42:02 pm
I took my oldest son to see Steve Wozniak speak on Thursday.  He left his badge on the counter so I used the back of it to protect the speaker fabric as I hammered the trim in place.
(http://forum.arcadecontrols.com/index.php?action=dlattach;topic=103207.0;attach=181033;image)
(http://forum.arcadecontrols.com/index.php?action=dlattach;topic=103207.0;attach=181035;image)

I take it you dont like the Woz? lol

I love the Woz.   ;D  Notice I said I used the BACK of HIS badge.  My badge is safely on display in my office.
Title: Re: Tron Legacy - Update 3/10/2012
Post by: MacGyver on March 15, 2012, 04:16:23 am
Your project looks great.  I can't wait to see the end result. :applaud: It gives me hope. :)

Every time I see a table saw accident I think of this.
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=TCdfOWUfgUw
I don't know how much the modification costs or anything, but I guess you have to weigh it against how much a finger costs. >:D
Title: Re: Tron Legacy - Update 3/10/2012
Post by: wp34 on March 15, 2012, 09:53:12 am
Your project looks great.  I can't wait to see the end result. :applaud: It gives me hope. :)

Every time I see a table saw accident I think of this.
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=TCdfOWUfgUw
I don't know how much the modification costs or anything, but I guess you have to weigh it against how much a finger costs. >:D

That is really slick.  Turns your blade into a touch-screen that stops the blade when something conductive comes in contact.   ;D 

I just gave their site a quick look but it sounds like you have to buy an entire saw and it is not an add-on.  Plus there is a $70 part that has to be replaced every time you save a finger. 

Still pretty cool.  Thanks for posting.
Title: Re: Tron Legacy - Update 3/10/2012
Post by: Sparkolicious on March 15, 2012, 10:10:50 am
If some members of congress have their way, that technology will be required by all manufacturers.  Definitely cool technology even with having to replace the  blade and the brake. Still... I don't know if I want to be forced to pay the premium because BB wants to protect me.

Project is looking really nice!
Title: Re: Tron Legacy - Update 3/10/2012
Post by: dandare on March 15, 2012, 08:43:29 pm
that break is so fast. it almost looks fake, like a really cheap special effect where they edit 2 bits of film together. 
Title: Re: Tron Legacy - Update 3/10/2012
Post by: mcseforsale on March 16, 2012, 10:55:59 am
Yeah, some new embroidery, but the finger is still there. 

AJ


Feel you on the table saw thing.  Growing up, my dad was a woodworker, too.  I always wondered why he didn't wear his wedding ring until he showed it to me...it stopped the saw blade on his table saw, saving his hand when I was about 5. 

He always told me to get the cheapest wedding ring I could find (I dented mine in a MTB wreck...luckily it was 10 karat).

AJ

Wow.  I assume he still had some damage to his hand if the blade got that close to his ring.  I think I would wear extra rings after that. 


Title: Re: Tron Legacy - Update 3/9/2012
Post by: wp34 on March 20, 2012, 09:34:08 pm
I test-fitted the monitor bezel and was not happy with the upper monitor bracket.  I decided to move it up slightly before I laminated the sides.

(http://forum.arcadecontrols.com/index.php?action=dlattach;topic=103207.0;attach=181394;image)

With that done I met my brother in-law tonight and he helped me laminate the sides.
(http://forum.arcadecontrols.com/index.php?action=dlattach;topic=103207.0;attach=181383;image)

(http://forum.arcadecontrols.com/index.php?action=dlattach;topic=103207.0;attach=181385;image)

(http://forum.arcadecontrols.com/index.php?action=dlattach;topic=103207.0;attach=181387;image)

(http://forum.arcadecontrols.com/index.php?action=dlattach;topic=103207.0;attach=181389;image)

It was too rainy tonight to be able to take it home.  As soon as the rain lets up I intend to bring it home and mount the monitor. 
Title: Re: Tron Legacy - Update 3/20/2012 - Laminating done!
Post by: dandare on March 20, 2012, 11:39:55 pm
Awesome!

(Fancy laminate user! - lol)
Title: Re: Tron Legacy - Update 3/20/2012 - Laminating done!
Post by: Hoopz on March 21, 2012, 09:01:07 am
That looks amazing.
Title: Re: Tron Legacy - Update 3/20/2012 - Laminating done!
Post by: wp34 on March 21, 2012, 10:26:13 am
Thanks dandare and Hoopz. 

Woke up to rain.  More in the forecast.   :badmood:
Title: Re: Tron Legacy - Update 3/20/2012 - Laminating done!
Post by: wp34 on March 29, 2012, 11:38:19 pm
Minor Update -

Got the cabinet home over the weekend.   We almost had a major problem with cracked laminate while loading it so I decided to leave the cabinet in the garage until I got my T-molding on.  I also decided to play it safe and wait to test-fit the monitor as well.  I ordered it Sunday from T-molding.com and it came in this afternoon.

This is my first time working with white T-molding.  I usually break out the rubber mallet but was afraid of scuffing the white T-mold with the black mallet.  My wife walked in on me hammering the T-molding in place with my hands, left and came back with this.  It actually worked great and I felt dumb for not thinking of it first.

(http://forum.arcadecontrols.com/index.php?action=dlattach;topic=103207.0;attach=181746;image)

I also ended up consulting my Project Arcade book as I hadn't done an inside curve yet.  Saint's technique for notching in several places worked great.   :cheers:

(http://forum.arcadecontrols.com/index.php?action=dlattach;topic=103207.0;attach=181748;image)

Title: Re: Tron Legacy - Update 3/20/2012 - Laminating done!
Post by: wp34 on April 06, 2012, 12:57:22 pm
I finally got around to mounting the monitor.  I test fit it the other day and the rear shelf was too short.  The front brackets seemed to hold it just fine but I feel more comfortable with extra support since it is do dang heavy. 

(http://forum.arcadecontrols.com/index.php?action=dlattach;topic=103207.0;attach=182169;image)

(http://forum.arcadecontrols.com/index.php?action=dlattach;topic=103207.0;attach=182165;image)

I'm having some trouble getting the bezel to fit right and am going to work on that next.  I have the one that came with the monitor but I'm debating whether or not to just make a custom bezel. 



Title: Re: Tron Legacy - Update 3/20/2012 - Laminating done!
Post by: wp34 on April 07, 2012, 11:56:29 pm
I built a quick mock-up of a CP today.  I wanted to see what the CP might look like as I figure out what I want to do with the bezel.  It looks a bit too deep on the cabinet and I'll shorten it when I make the real one.

(http://forum.arcadecontrols.com/index.php?action=dlattach;topic=103207.0;attach=182280;image)

I'm not happy with the location of the monitor.  It is a little low.  Looks like I'll have to raise the monitor slightly yet again. 

(http://forum.arcadecontrols.com/index.php?action=dlattach;topic=103207.0;attach=182282;image)

My family visited the Rusty Quarter's arcade in MN recently.  My daughter mentioned she read the instructions on all the games and wondered how she was going to do the same on my cabinet.   I bought this 7" Mimo monitor a couple of years ago but I designed this cabinet not thinking I would use it.  Now I'd like to use it to display in the button layout for each game but I'm not sure how to make it fit.  Even if I move the monitor up an inch or two there still won't be room unless I notch it into the CP.   :dunno

(http://forum.arcadecontrols.com/index.php?action=dlattach;topic=103207.0;attach=182284;image)
Title: Re: Tron Legacy - Update 4/6/2012
Post by: Le Chuck on April 08, 2012, 12:40:10 am
Looking tight man.  I would totally inlay that small display into the CP, have it bordered and titled and everything.  That'd be pretty tits. 
Title: Re: Tron Legacy - Update 4/6/2012
Post by: emphatic on April 08, 2012, 04:03:19 am
Looking tight man.  I would totally inlay that small display into the CP, have it bordered and titled and everything.  That'd be pretty tits. 

^^this.
Title: Re: Tron Legacy - Update 4/6/2012
Post by: mcseforsale on April 08, 2012, 09:24:16 am
Tits are nice.  I like them very much.

I'd love to see that as well.  Wonder if anyone has any examples...

AJ


Looking tight man.  I would totally inlay that small display into the CP, have it bordered and titled and everything.  That'd be pretty tits. 
Title: Re: Tron Legacy - Update 4/6/2012
Post by: wp34 on April 08, 2012, 10:40:19 am
Thanks for the feedback guys. 

I was thinking the same thing about mounting it on the CP.  I've got an idea how to do it but it depends on what I do with my artwork. 
Title: Re: Tron Legacy - Update 4/6/2012
Post by: wp34 on April 08, 2012, 11:15:23 pm
I need to do a mock-up but I'm thinking of mounting the 7" Mimo under the plexi on the CP.  This will be on homage to Dillinger's desk from the first Tron movie.  I just need to make sure it can be seen clearly since it will be mounted flush.

(http://forum.arcadecontrols.com/index.php?action=dlattach;topic=103207.0;attach=182327;image)
Title: Re: Tron Legacy - Update 4/6/2012
Post by: dandare on April 09, 2012, 02:47:34 pm
That is a wicked idea! will look bad ass!
Title: Re: Tron Legacy - Update 4/6/2012
Post by: Santoro on April 14, 2012, 02:02:26 pm
Looking good... Watching this build!
Title: Re: Tron Legacy - Update 4/6/2012
Post by: wp34 on April 14, 2012, 02:41:29 pm
Thanks guys.  I've been working on some lighting options and should have a minor update this weekend.
Title: Re: Tron Legacy - Update 4/6/2012
Post by: wp34 on April 14, 2012, 08:03:54 pm
I mentioned a while back that my plan is to mount Tron Identity Discs in the portholes on the side of the cabinet. 

Initially I hollowed out the inside of an Identity Disc and mounted some LED's.  The result was not really what I was looking for.

(http://forum.arcadecontrols.com/index.php?action=dlattach;topic=103207.0;attach=182543;image)

The light did not diffuse well and to be real honest the disc still looked too much like a toy.

(http://forum.arcadecontrols.com/index.php?action=dlattach;topic=103207.0;attach=182545;image)

So I picked up a kit from SoulInertia (http://www.freewebs.com/inertiadesigns/disckits.htm) to retrofit an existing disc.  Today I finally got around to installing the kit. 
I need to do some cleanup on it yet but I'm happy with the results so far.

(http://forum.arcadecontrols.com/index.php?action=dlattach;topic=103207.0;attach=182547;image)

(http://forum.arcadecontrols.com/index.php?action=dlattach;topic=103207.0;attach=182549;image)



Title: Re: Tron Legacy - Update 4/14/2012 - Playing with Bling
Post by: emphatic on April 15, 2012, 04:03:29 am
WOW!  :applaud:
Title: Re: Tron Legacy - Update 4/14/2012 - Playing with Bling
Post by: dandare on April 15, 2012, 05:30:03 pm
that looks so much better.

man you are gonna have one sweet looking cab!
Title: Re: Tron Legacy - Update 4/14/2012 - Playing with Bling
Post by: Hoopz on April 15, 2012, 09:54:18 pm
That's way cool.   :applaud:
Title: Re: Tron Legacy - Update 4/6/2012
Post by: wp34 on April 15, 2012, 10:01:38 pm
Thanks for the feedback guys.   :cheers:

I test-mounted my secondary monitor underneath my practice CP tonight.  I was curious if my kids could see it mounted flush.  It is not lined up quite right and is only held in place with tape but I like how it looks.

(http://forum.arcadecontrols.com/index.php?action=dlattach;topic=103207.0;attach=182632;image)

(http://forum.arcadecontrols.com/index.php?action=dlattach;topic=103207.0;attach=182634;image)

It was a big hit with the family.  Kids could read it just fine. :applaud:  My daughter called me a dork though when I said I was going to post pictures here.   :lol

I think it will look even better once the top is black and there is plexi over the whole thing.

Title: Re: Tron Legacy - Update 4/14/2012 - Playing with Bling
Post by: dandare on April 15, 2012, 11:09:54 pm
OMG! just keeps getting better.

screen looks great! and seems like such an obvious feature now you see it there ('specially with that font!). :applaud:
Title: Re: Tron Legacy - Update 4/14/2012 - Playing with Bling
Post by: emphatic on April 16, 2012, 02:03:54 am
Thanks, dork! :lol
Title: Re: Tron Legacy - Update 4/14/2012 - Playing with Bling
Post by: wp34 on April 16, 2012, 09:14:40 am
Thanks, dork! :lol

 >:D
Title: Re: Tron Legacy - Update 4/14/2012 - Playing with Bling
Post by: KagatoAMV on April 16, 2012, 11:29:55 am
Are you happy with that kit? I like the way it looks and have one of those discs itching to be modded. :)
Title: Re: Tron Legacy - Update 4/14/2012 - Playing with Bling
Post by: wp34 on April 16, 2012, 11:49:49 am
Are you happy with that kit? I like the way it looks and have one of those discs itching to be modded. :)

I am happy with it although I wish it were cheaper.  Once I buy the second kit I'll have as much money in discs as I would have had for side-art.   :dizzy:

The kit is well laid out.  He clearly has refined the process through trial and error.  Having tried modding a disc myself first I'm impressed with the design of the kit.  It comes with very detailed instructions and even a Tron-themed receipt. There are some air bubbles in outer ring but you have to stare at it to see them.  

My implementation will not be using batteries but keep in mind if you go the battery route you have to disassemble the disc to replace them.   Now that I have worked with the kit I would find that to be a big pain.  I have seen at least one other person modify this kit to use rechargeable batteries.

I've got an unopened Kevin Flynn white disc and now I'm trying to decide if the white disc would look better on the side of the cabinet.


Edited to fix grammar.

Title: Re: Tron Legacy - Update 4/14/2012 - Playing with Bling
Post by: P-chan on April 16, 2012, 03:04:44 pm
I love the idea of the small LCD under the CP showing the button layout for each game.  How are you planning to get that information to the display?

It'd be easy to make a graphic for each game to show the button layout, but I don't know how to get that info on the monitor....

I have an old laptop with a 10.1" LCD that I wouldn't mind cannibalizing if I could do something like this.
Title: Re: Tron Legacy - Update 4/14/2012 - Playing with Bling
Post by: wp34 on April 16, 2012, 06:43:47 pm
I love the idea of the small LCD under the CP showing the button layout for each game.  How are you planning to get that information to the display?

It'd be easy to make a graphic for each game to show the button layout, but I don't know how to get that info on the monitor....

I have an old laptop with a 10.1" LCD that I wouldn't mind cannibalizing if I could do something like this.

I'm planning on using Headsoft's CPWizard.  I need to start testing it soon to make sure it does what I want.

http://headsoft.com.au/index.php?category=cpwizard (http://headsoft.com.au/index.php?category=cpwizard)

Title: Re: Tron Legacy - Update 4/14/2012 - Playing with Bling
Post by: P-chan on April 17, 2012, 10:44:08 am
I love the idea of the small LCD under the CP showing the button layout for each game.  How are you planning to get that information to the display?

It'd be easy to make a graphic for each game to show the button layout, but I don't know how to get that info on the monitor....

I have an old laptop with a 10.1" LCD that I wouldn't mind cannibalizing if I could do something like this.

I'm planning on using Headsoft's CPWizard.  I need to start testing it soon to make sure it does what I want.

http://headsoft.com.au/index.php?category=cpwizard (http://headsoft.com.au/index.php?category=cpwizard)



Very interesting.  Now to find a tiny LCD or figure out how to make that old laptop LCD function as a 2nd monitor.
Title: Re: Tron Legacy - Update 4/14/2012 - Playing with Bling
Post by: wp34 on April 17, 2012, 11:40:10 am
Before I bought the Mimo I played around with using an old Pocket PC as a secondary monitor.

http://www.engadget.com/2005/07/18/sidewindow-turns-your-pocket-pc-into-a-secondary-display/ (http://www.engadget.com/2005/07/18/sidewindow-turns-your-pocket-pc-into-a-secondary-display/)

I prefer the size of the Pocket PC to the Mimo but I had trouble making it work reliably. 
Title: Re: Tron Legacy - Update 4/14/2012 - Playing with Bling
Post by: kahlid74 on April 17, 2012, 11:50:15 am
Very nice!  Keep up the great work.  Makes me want to add a secondary LCD monitor on my next machine.
Title: Re: Tron Legacy - Update 4/14/2012 - Playing with Bling
Post by: P-chan on April 17, 2012, 12:05:58 pm
Very nice!  Keep up the great work.  Makes me want to add a secondary LCD monitor on my next machine.

Me too.  I am in full-on LCD scouting mode.  In order to get the laptop LCD to accept a VGA input, a controller board is needed which is about $30 off ebay.  I'm not really willing to pay that since I can find a used 15" LCD for that much....
Title: Re: Tron Legacy - Update 4/14/2012 - Playing with Bling
Post by: Santoro on April 17, 2012, 02:17:44 pm
My daughter called me a dork though when I said I was going to post pictures here.   :lol

Glad it's not just me. I have 3 kids and a wife thinking I am a dork for posting my arcade projects.
Title: Re: Tron Legacy - Update 4/14/2012 - Playing with Bling
Post by: emphatic on April 17, 2012, 03:53:40 pm
My daughter called me a dork though when I said I was going to post pictures here.   :lol

Glad it's not just me. I have 3 kids and a wife thinking I am a dork for posting my arcade projects.

Every time I take photos of my arcade stuff my girlfriend call me "nerd".
Title: Re: Tron Legacy - Update 4/14/2012 - Playing with Bling
Post by: wp34 on April 17, 2012, 04:07:09 pm
I wonder how many of these name-callers post everything they do on Facebook?    ;D
Title: Re: Tron Legacy - Update 4/14/2012 - Playing with Bling
Post by: mcseforsale on April 18, 2012, 11:48:28 pm
I put my arcade shots on FB, too!  I'm ultra-nerd!!

AJ


I wonder how many of these name-callers post everything they do on Facebook?    ;D
Title: Re: Tron Legacy - Update 4/14/2012 - Playing with Bling
Post by: Santoro on April 19, 2012, 08:25:56 am
ditto.
Title: Re: Tron Legacy - Update 4/14/2012 - Playing with Bling
Post by: Le Chuck on April 19, 2012, 10:21:18 am
I post a link to the finished project thread. 
Title: Re: Tron Legacy - Update 4/6/2012
Post by: wp34 on April 20, 2012, 12:14:55 pm
Not much progress.  Been too busy posting pictures of my cat on Facebook.   :lol

I wanted to see what the Tron stick would look like on the cabinet.  I'm going to light it and don't want it to get in the way of the display.  On my sample CP I cheated it over to the side as far as it will go.  I think it will work out okay.

(http://forum.arcadecontrols.com/index.php?action=dlattach;topic=103207.0;attach=182866;image)

(http://forum.arcadecontrols.com/index.php?action=dlattach;topic=103207.0;attach=182868;image)

Title: Re: Tron Legacy - Update 4/6/2012
Post by: wp34 on April 20, 2012, 10:09:22 pm
I needed to get my cabinet speakers out of the basement so today I finished installing them in the the cabinet.  For speakers I went with pretty much the same method that is recommended in the Project Arcade book.  I got a good deal on the Klipsch ProMedia 2.1 speakers just before Thanksgiving.  A bit overkill but the sound is great and I'll be prepared whenever the Mamedev's get around to converting Pac Man to stereo sound.  :cheers:

(http://forum.arcadecontrols.com/index.php?action=dlattach;topic=103207.0;attach=182900;image)

I took a scrap piece of MDF and cut holes for the speakers.  As in Saint's book I drilled holes through the work piece, removed the screws holding the speakers together and used longer screws to attached the speakers to the work piece.

(http://forum.arcadecontrols.com/index.php?action=dlattach;topic=103207.0;attach=182914;image)

(http://forum.arcadecontrols.com/index.php?action=dlattach;topic=103207.0;attach=182905;image)

There is a slight gap because the speaker's are rounded.  I don't want any light from the Marquee to come through the speaker grills so I sealed the gap with a little electrical tape.

(http://forum.arcadecontrols.com/index.php?action=dlattach;topic=103207.0;attach=182907;image)

I wanted to install the speakers after the cabinet was put together so I added a lip at the back of the speaker grill shelf so I could just slide the speaker assembly in place. 

(http://forum.arcadecontrols.com/index.php?action=dlattach;topic=103207.0;attach=182903;image)

Here it is installed in the cabinet.  The lip makes it so I don't have to worry about trying to screw the speaker shelve down in back.

(http://forum.arcadecontrols.com/index.php?action=dlattach;topic=103207.0;attach=182909;image)

I just slid the speaker grill in place (making sure it fit securely under the lip) and put a couple of set-screws to hold it in the front.  This way I should be able to easily remove the speakers if I should have the need in the future.

(http://forum.arcadecontrols.com/index.php?action=dlattach;topic=103207.0;attach=182911;image)









Title: Re: Tron Legacy - Update 4/14/2012 - Playing with Bling
Post by: BadMouth on May 10, 2012, 11:07:28 am
 :bump

Stop looking at responses to the pictures of your cat of Facebook and get back to work.
Title: Re: Tron Legacy - Update 4/14/2012 - Playing with Bling
Post by: wp34 on May 10, 2012, 11:29:10 am
:bump

Stop looking at responses to the pictures of your cat of Facebook and get back to work.

 :lol  Man you ain't kidding.  Pretty pathetic progress recently.  I'm really envious of guys like LeChuck that can fly through a project.

I'm have been doing some minor work but nothing worth posting.  Hope to have something by this weekend.
Title: Re: Tron Legacy - Update 4/14/2012 - Playing with Bling
Post by: BadMouth on May 10, 2012, 12:07:54 pm
I'm really envious of guys like LeChuck that can fly through a project.

I took an afternoon off from work to cut out the side panels.
My girlfriend was out of town last weekend, so I ignored everything else and spent a solid day and a half working on it.
That's why I made such "fast" progress.  ;)
If it were done in a couple hours each evening, it would have taken me a month.
Title: Re: Tron Legacy - Update 4/14/2012 - Playing with Bling
Post by: Le Chuck on May 10, 2012, 01:28:52 pm
:bump

Stop looking at responses to the pictures of your cat of Facebook and get back to work.

 :lol  Man you ain't kidding.  Pretty pathetic progress recently.  I'm really envious of guys like LeChuck that can fly through a project.

I'm have been doing some minor work but nothing worth posting.  Hope to have something by this weekend.

I can't hear you over the sound of my router!
Title: Re: Tron Legacy - Update 4/6/2012
Post by: wp34 on May 14, 2012, 07:00:54 pm
I think I've had that monitor in and out at least 10 times as I try to get it to fit just right.   :banghead:

I'm happy with it now and am on to working on the bezel and glass.  I've been holding off on mounting the completed Tron disc until the monitor was ready since the board it will mount to will rest on the monitor shelf.

(http://forum.arcadecontrols.com/index.php?action=dlattach;topic=103207.0;attach=184369;image)

I've also been slowed down just a touch on this project because I picked up a dedicated Asteroids Deluxe.  (http://forum.arcadecontrols.com/index.php?topic=120267.0)   Good problem to have in this hobby.   :cheers:

I now officially have three projects going at once.   :dizzy:
Title: Re: Tron Legacy - Update 4/14/2012 - Playing with Bling
Post by: tony.silveira on May 18, 2012, 09:10:46 pm
check out my sig for where i have my secondary monitor.  i want to add a servo so that it pops out when turned on
Title: Re: Tron Legacy - Update 4/14/2012 - Playing with Bling
Post by: wp34 on May 18, 2012, 10:56:11 pm
check out my sig for where i have my secondary monitor.  i want to add a servo so that it pops out when turned on

I had wanted to do something similar to yours at one point.  I designed my cabinet without a 2nd monitor in mind though so there is no room there.

I like how you incorporated the SW Yoke.   :cheers:
Title: Re: Tron Legacy - Update 4/6/2012
Post by: wp34 on May 24, 2012, 11:51:49 pm
I've been working on the template to my CP top.  I wanted to have a curved front and ended up making a jig.  There are easier ways to do this but I thought this would be more fun.

I started off by making a plate for my router to attach to.
(http://forum.arcadecontrols.com/index.php?action=dlattach;topic=103207.0;attach=184999;image)

I attached the plate to a 2x4.
(http://forum.arcadecontrols.com/index.php?action=dlattach;topic=103207.0;attach=185001;image)

I drilled a hole through the 2x4 and secured it using a bench dog.
(http://forum.arcadecontrols.com/index.php?action=dlattach;topic=103207.0;attach=185003;image)

(http://forum.arcadecontrols.com/index.php?action=dlattach;topic=103207.0;attach=185005;image)

(http://forum.arcadecontrols.com/index.php?action=dlattach;topic=103207.0;attach=185007;image)

It took me several tries as my initial cuts were not round enough.  I just shortened the 2x4 a little each time to get a bigger arc.

I'm still not sure this is quite what I want but I'm going to go with it for now.
(http://forum.arcadecontrols.com/index.php?action=dlattach;topic=103207.0;attach=185009;image)

(http://forum.arcadecontrols.com/index.php?action=dlattach;topic=103207.0;attach=185011;image)



Title: Re: Tron Legacy - Update 5/24/2012
Post by: Woodshop Flunky on May 25, 2012, 08:58:18 am
Nice job... love a perfect curve!  :cheers:
Title: Re: Tron Legacy - Update 5/24/2012
Post by: DaOld Man on May 25, 2012, 10:05:48 am
Now THAT is a circle cutter!

Good work.
Title: Re: Tron Legacy - Update 5/24/2012
Post by: wp34 on May 25, 2012, 10:08:39 am
Thanks guys.  I'm sure there are easier ways to cut an arc but that I always wanted to try something like that.
Title: Re: Tron Legacy - Update 5/24/2012
Post by: wp34 on June 20, 2012, 08:12:19 pm
I've been working on the CP box here and there for the past few weeks.  My plan was to curve the front at the same angle as the CP top.  I'm also laminating the outside.

I kerfed the front and rabbit cut the sides to hold the bottom together.

(http://forum.arcadecontrols.com/index.php?action=dlattach;topic=103207.0;attach=186322;image)

I glued the sides and back first.
(http://forum.arcadecontrols.com/index.php?action=dlattach;topic=103207.0;attach=186324;image)

I laminated the front before I glued it in place.  I had to file the laminate carefully as the top was beveled and I was unable to make it flush with my router.

(http://forum.arcadecontrols.com/index.php?action=dlattach;topic=103207.0;attach=186326;image)

Had to use a lot of clamps to hold the front in place
(http://forum.arcadecontrols.com/index.php?action=dlattach;topic=103207.0;attach=186328;image)

(http://forum.arcadecontrols.com/index.php?action=dlattach;topic=103207.0;attach=186330;image)

Needs a little clean-up but I like it.
(http://forum.arcadecontrols.com/index.php?action=dlattach;topic=103207.0;attach=186332;image)

I'd never laminated a corner before and had trouble finding many "best practices".  As a precaution I painted the corners black to ensure no wood would show.  This turned out not to be required.

(http://forum.arcadecontrols.com/index.php?action=dlattach;topic=103207.0;attach=186334;image)

(http://forum.arcadecontrols.com/index.php?action=dlattach;topic=103207.0;attach=186336;image)

(http://forum.arcadecontrols.com/index.php?action=dlattach;topic=103207.0;attach=186338;image)

(http://forum.arcadecontrols.com/index.php?action=dlattach;topic=103207.0;attach=186340;image)

(http://forum.arcadecontrols.com/index.php?action=dlattach;topic=103207.0;attach=186342;image)

Here it is test mounted.  I'm happy with the look but it seems a little big.  Not an aircraft carrier but very close.

(http://forum.arcadecontrols.com/index.php?action=dlattach;topic=103207.0;attach=186344;image)

(http://forum.arcadecontrols.com/index.php?action=dlattach;topic=103207.0;attach=186346;image)





Title: Re: Tron Legacy
Post by: wp34 on June 20, 2012, 10:45:42 pm

Next step is to build the base and decide how I want to attach the cleats.  I wanted to have the basic cabinet assembled and in my basement by the time the Christmas Tree comes down.  I don't think I am going to make it but maybe by New Years.


Dumbass.   ;D   

Almost 6 months to the day.  Better late than never.

(http://forum.arcadecontrols.com/index.php?action=dlattach;topic=103207.0;attach=186348;image)

Title: Re: Tron Legacy - Update 6/20/2012
Post by: BadMouth on June 21, 2012, 10:13:50 am
Glad to see you back on it!  Sometimes it's good to take a break instead of dropping the quality to get it done (like I usually do).
The laminate work on that CP box looks sweet!
Title: Re: Tron Legacy - Update 6/20/2012
Post by: wp34 on June 21, 2012, 10:34:51 am
Thanks BadMouth.  I found that Spring wasn't really a good time to work.  We had way to many commitments with our kids in sports, band and dance.  Things are finally starting to slow down so I should be able to make more progress. 

Now if I could just decide on artwork.   :banghead:
Title: Re: Tron Legacy - Update 6/20/2012
Post by: GIZMOGAMES on June 21, 2012, 01:05:49 pm
do you have a rough layout idea for your control pannel ?????
ive been josling some tron ideas for the past 2 weeks :) seems to be the theme style lately :) i like those disk kits tho very cool :)
Title: Re: Tron Legacy - Update 6/20/2012
Post by: wp34 on June 21, 2012, 07:28:25 pm
GIZMOGAMES -

Here is a rough layout of what I have in mind.  It is your basic panel with a Tron stick and spinner--and a recessed monitor.

You are right about Tron becoming quite the style lately.  I could have been a trend-setter had I started earlier.   ;D

(http://forum.arcadecontrols.com/index.php?action=dlattach;topic=103207.0;attach=186382;image)

do you have a rough layout idea for your control pannel ?????
ive been josling some tron ideas for the past 2 weeks :) seems to be the theme style lately :) i like those disk kits tho very cool :)


Title: Re: Tron Legacy - Update 6/20/2012
Post by: Le Chuck on June 21, 2012, 10:09:38 pm
  I could have been a trend-setter had I started earlier finished on time.   ;D

FTFY :duckhunt
Title: Re: Tron Legacy - Update 6/20/2012
Post by: wp34 on June 21, 2012, 10:20:28 pm
  I could have been a trend-setter had I started earlier finished on time.   ;D

FTFY :duckhunt

You say tomato...   ;)

I was showing my daughter the lit up Tron disc last night.  She mentioned she didn't think she would ever see it in the basement.   She "helped" me build my first mock-up CP 4 years ago.    :dizzy:
Title: Re: Tron Legacy - Update 6/20/2012
Post by: GIZMOGAMES on June 22, 2012, 07:45:44 am
(http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v716/gizmo_69/ARCADE%20BUILD/tronleg.jpg)

this kind of idea flows well and fits very well if you use the cutouts in the buttons to make a complete image :)
took a few hrs but fits better than other ideas im away a few days so will work on some more if you like :)
also tried to keep it samescale as yr image
hope this inspires you oh and one more thing if your pc in there can cope with up to date graphics i found out tron EVOLUTION is on the pc/360/wii/ps3 games amazing "grabbed my 360 vs"thanks fleabay lol :D
and would make an awsome addition to yr collection/theme :)
keep up the awsome work :)
http://uk.ign.com/videos/2010/12/07/tron-evolution-video-review?objectid=14319752 (http://uk.ign.com/videos/2010/12/07/tron-evolution-video-review?objectid=14319752)
Title: Re: Tron Legacy - Update 6/20/2012
Post by: mcseforsale on June 22, 2012, 10:28:59 am
Wow.  That's really really good.

AJ
Title: Re: Tron Legacy - Update 6/20/2012
Post by: wp34 on June 22, 2012, 10:35:57 am
Thanks GizmoGames.  I like the look of that image but I've been thinking of going with something like this -

http://forum.arcadecontrols.com/index.php?topic=113679.0 (http://forum.arcadecontrols.com/index.php?topic=113679.0)

I'd like to pick up that Tron game for the cabinet.  Have you played it?  We have the PS3 version but I think it is a different game.


(http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v716/gizmo_69/ARCADE%20BUILD/tronleg.jpg)

this kind of idea flows well and fits very well if you use the cutouts in the buttons to make a complete image :)
took a few hrs but fits better than other ideas im away a few days so will work on some more if you like :)
also tried to keep it samescale as yr image
hope this inspires you oh and one more thing if your pc in there can cope with up to date graphics i found out tron EVOLUTION is on the pc/360/wii/ps3 games amazing "grabbed my 360 vs"thanks fleabay lol :D
and would make an awsome addition to yr collection/theme :)
keep up the awsome work :)
http://uk.ign.com/videos/2010/12/07/tron-evolution-video-review?objectid=14319752 (http://uk.ign.com/videos/2010/12/07/tron-evolution-video-review?objectid=14319752)
Title: Re: Tron Legacy - Update 6/20/2012
Post by: GIZMOGAMES on June 22, 2012, 10:45:07 am
not sure to be honest and no worries that one youve seen is cool :)
i only just saw evolution and thought y dont i own that lol ive got over 850 originals for my 360 now so thats my dedicated console altho i do own all the others :)
hence gizmogames lol
the one you chose could overlay the one i did pretty easily with some merge fading could be something maybe ill spitball it later gotto go hospital and lack of internet means no posts but meh got to hope i get better
keep up the great effort anyhow and see what i can throw into the ideas pot later
ciao for now
Title: Re: Tron Legacy - Update 6/20/2012
Post by: wp34 on June 24, 2012, 05:06:15 pm
Finally got the first disc mounted.

I mounted the disc on a piece of MDF that had been wrapped in carbon fiber vinyl to give it some contrast with the laminate.

Here is a shot of the bottom of the disc with the insides "Dremeled" out.
(http://forum.arcadecontrols.com/index.php?action=dlattach;topic=103207.0;attach=186549;image)

Here are the LED's waiting to be covered.
(http://forum.arcadecontrols.com/index.php?action=dlattach;topic=103207.0;attach=186547;image)

(http://forum.arcadecontrols.com/index.php?action=dlattach;topic=103207.0;attach=186545;image)

Here are a couple of shots of the modified disc with an unmodified one.

(http://forum.arcadecontrols.com/index.php?action=dlattach;topic=103207.0;attach=186541;image)

(http://forum.arcadecontrols.com/index.php?action=dlattach;topic=103207.0;attach=186539;image)

Here is one unlit.
(http://forum.arcadecontrols.com/index.php?action=dlattach;topic=103207.0;attach=186543;image)

Here is one lit.  I ended up having to do a lot of tweaking with the Dremel to get the disc looking how I wanted.  There were a lot of shadows initially and I had to keep trimming plastic to get the light to show through evenly.   As most of you know it is really hard to take pictures in the dark.  Suffice it to say the disc looks much cooler in person.

(http://forum.arcadecontrols.com/index.php?action=dlattach;topic=103207.0;attach=186551;image)

I need to order a second kit now for the other side.  As with most things I expect the second one to go much faster.

 
Title: Re: Tron Legacy - Update 6/20/2012
Post by: wp34 on July 01, 2012, 11:34:08 pm
Did a little cosmetic work this weekend.

Here is the coin door mounted.
(http://forum.arcadecontrols.com/index.php?action=dlattach;topic=103207.0;attach=186849;image)

I couldn't find any carriage bolts locally that would fit so I used some of these.  Originally they were just going to be temporary until I could find some black carriage bolts but I like the look.  They are a little more industrial and I'm going to keep them.

(http://forum.arcadecontrols.com/index.php?action=dlattach;topic=103207.0;attach=186847;image)

I finally mounted the back door.  I was originally going to hinge it but decided to go with a removable door to match my Asteroids Deluxe.

(http://forum.arcadecontrols.com/index.php?action=dlattach;topic=103207.0;attach=186851;image)

Next up - Mounting the computer and configuring software.



Title: Re: Tron Legacy - Update 7/1/2012
Post by: BadMouth on July 02, 2012, 09:11:15 am
The back of that thing looks nice and clean.
Top notch work!
Title: Re: Tron Legacy - Update 7/1/2012
Post by: Le Chuck on July 02, 2012, 09:22:21 am
Love that coin door style.  The bolts do catch they eye but not necessarily in a bad way.  Keep going!
Title: Re: Tron Legacy - Update 7/1/2012
Post by: wp34 on July 02, 2012, 09:22:50 am
Thanks BadMouth.  There are a few bad spots on the back but I made sure they didn't show up in the picture.   ;D
Title: Re: Tron Legacy - Update 7/1/2012
Post by: Hoopz on July 02, 2012, 09:33:07 am
Pretty awesome work.  The CP curve and laminate looks amazing.

How about replacing the coin return art with something tron related?  Small touch that really adds a little something extra.
Title: Re: Tron Legacy - Update 7/1/2012
Post by: wp34 on July 02, 2012, 09:33:49 am
Thanks LeChuck.  I dragged my coin door to a couple of hardware stores looking for carriage bolts that fit.  I couldn't find any that would sit flush in the square opening.

I did get a lot of interesting looks and a few questions lugging around a coin door.  That was fun.
Title: Re: Tron Legacy - Update 7/1/2012
Post by: wp34 on July 02, 2012, 09:36:07 am
Pretty awesome work.  The CP curve and laminate looks amazing.

How about replacing the coin return art with something tron related?  Small touch that really adds a little something extra.

Thanks Hoopz.  That's a good idea.  Maybe something with the Tron disc on it? 

I'm also going to get a different color coin return once I settle on artwork.  I don't like the color of the one that came with the door. 
Title: Re: Tron Legacy - Update 7/1/2012
Post by: BadMouth on July 02, 2012, 09:52:22 am
How about replacing the coin return art with something tron related?  Small touch that really adds a little something extra.

ENCOM logo in place of Happ
maybe ditch the "push to reject" and make the 25c bigger
Title: Re: Tron Legacy - Update 7/1/2012
Post by: wp34 on July 02, 2012, 10:07:58 am
How about replacing the coin return art with something tron related?  Small touch that really adds a little something extra.

ENCOM logo in place of Happ
maybe ditch the "push to reject" and make the 25c bigger

I like that idea.  I might also add the ENCOM logo to the flat spot of the door like some of the older Atari and Williams doors had.

(http://forum.arcadecontrols.com/index.php?action=dlattach;topic=103207.0;attach=186875;image)
Title: Re: Tron Legacy - Update 7/1/2012
Post by: Hoopz on July 02, 2012, 10:10:12 am
How about Tron's bit on each one?  One could be "yes" and the other "no".

And it looks like someone has my skills in MSPaint with the shaky line!  That's how I do it.   :cheers:
Title: Re: Tron Legacy - Update 7/1/2012
Post by: wp34 on July 02, 2012, 10:33:42 am
How about Tron's bit on each one?  One could be "yes" and the other "no".

And it looks like someone has my skills in MSPaint with the shaky line!  That's how I do it.   :cheers:

That's good as well.  As an old Assembler programmer I always liked that character from the first movie.

Too bad my frankenpanel is going to totally eclipse the coin door anyway.   >:D
Title: Re: Tron Legacy - Update 7/1/2012
Post by: emphatic on July 02, 2012, 04:46:49 pm
Wow, that disc looks badass!
Title: Re: Tron Legacy - Update 7/1/2012
Post by: Woodshop Flunky on July 02, 2012, 08:11:44 pm
This keeps getting better!  Really like the allen head screws.  :applaud:
Title: Re: Tron Legacy - Update 7/1/2012
Post by: wp34 on August 06, 2012, 08:23:51 am
I may have gotten too cute with the curved front on my CP.  I'm having trouble figuring out a good way to hinge the top.  I've uploaded some pictures here that I hope will accurately represent the problem. 


With the front being kerfed I'm a little leary of trying to attached the hinges there.
(http://forum.arcadecontrols.com/index.php?action=dlattach;topic=103207.0;attach=242472;image)

(http://forum.arcadecontrols.com/index.php?action=dlattach;topic=103207.0;attach=242474;image)

I picked up some hinges I thought would work mounted on the sides but the curve makes it so there is not enough clearance.

(http://forum.arcadecontrols.com/index.php?action=dlattach;topic=103207.0;attach=242476;image)

(http://forum.arcadecontrols.com/index.php?action=dlattach;topic=103207.0;attach=242478;image)

(http://forum.arcadecontrols.com/index.php?action=dlattach;topic=103207.0;attach=242480;image)

I've kicked around hinging the CP at the back but there doesn't appear to be enough clearance---particularly with the Tron stick.

I've been leaning towards rebuilding the CP for a while anyway.  I think it is an inch or two too deep.  It wouldn't be the end of the world if I did rebuild it (with a flat front) but I thought I would throw this problem up to the group to see if there is a workable solution I'm missing.
Title: Re: Tron Legacy - Looking for advice
Post by: Le Chuck on August 06, 2012, 08:30:24 am
Make the curve integral to the top and hinge from the bottom so the front panel and top fold out as a unit from the sides. Just run your break straight across the bottom at the side panel edges. Keep the curve, it's cool.
Title: Re: Tron Legacy - Looking for advice
Post by: wp34 on August 06, 2012, 09:20:52 am
Make the curve integral to the top and hinge from the bottom so the front panel and top fold out as a unit from the sides. Just run your break straight across the bottom at the side panel edges. Keep the curve, it's cool.

I like that idea.  I wish I would have thought of it when I built it originally.  I was so focused on getting the curves right I didn't stop to think how I would hinge the top.
Title: Re: Tron Legacy - Looking for advice
Post by: Le Chuck on August 06, 2012, 09:50:54 am
Make the curve integral to the top and hinge from the bottom so the front panel and top fold out as a unit from the sides. Just run your break straight across the bottom at the side panel edges. Keep the curve, it's cool.

I like that idea.  I wish I would have thought of it when I built it originally.  I was so focused on getting the curves right I didn't stop to think how I would hinge the top.

You don't have to break the sides off or anything, just run a jigsaw right along the bottom line and you should be alright.  Then you can go with something as simple as a piano hinge cut to fit and some bolted on wires to limit the open.  Just be sure and put a few relief pieces in against the curve to help keep it all together.  Whatever you come up with will be cool tho. 
Title: Re: Tron Legacy - Update 4/14/2012 - Playing with Bling
Post by: MaxVolume on August 06, 2012, 04:12:16 pm
I put my arcade shots on FB, too!  I'm ultra-nerd!!

AJ

+1  ;D
Title: Re: Tron Legacy - Update 6/20/2012
Post by: MaxVolume on August 06, 2012, 04:43:00 pm
I couldn't find any carriage bolts locally that would fit so I used some of these.  Originally they were just going to be temporary until I could find some black carriage bolts but I like the look.  They are a little more industrial and I'm going to keep them.
(http://forum.arcadecontrols.com/index.php?action=dlattach;topic=103207.0;attach=186847;image)

Whoa... used pretty much the same bolts to mount my metal control panel to the wood base... uncanny.  :o
Title: Re: Tron Legacy - Looking for advice
Post by: MaxVolume on August 06, 2012, 04:51:18 pm

Just read the whole thread... very interesting project you've got going there.

Does this mean I win? --->  http://www.flickr.com/photos/planetdust1/sets/72157630100411654 (http://www.flickr.com/photos/planetdust1/sets/72157630100411654)

Obviously yours is a bit more elaborate than mine with the TRON stick, spinner and side-mounted discs, but I thought that might give you some motivation to keep working on it, or maybe you could "borrow" a few ideas.  I have a few more pics that haven't been added to the flickr photostream, so check back for updates.
Title: Re: Tron Legacy - Looking for advice
Post by: griffindodd on August 06, 2012, 05:55:14 pm
Excellent thread and build so far.

Thanks for sharing your tips on laminate, I have mine sitting in a box in the garage and will be doing the same thing with my project very soon.

Joel
Title: Re: Tron Legacy - Looking for advice
Post by: wp34 on August 06, 2012, 10:00:03 pm
Thanks MaxVolume.  I like the artwork on your cabinet.  That Disc around your trackball is awesome.
Title: Re: Tron Legacy - Looking for advice
Post by: MaxVolume on August 07, 2012, 12:29:26 pm
Thanks MaxVolume.  I like the artwork on your cabinet.  That Disc around your trackball is awesome.

Thanks. :)  I can't take credit for the sideart... found it here, I think.  Pretty sure it's the same guy who does the ENCOM mini-cab projects.  I had to modify it to fit my purposes, though.  The disc around the trackball was found online, but I did a LOT of tweaking because it wasn't quite as hi-res as it needed to be.  I was able to smooth it out without losing detail, and it does look kind of nice on the control panel.  Took several "test prints" to make sure it was in the right place, though.  I also instructed the sign shop to cut that hole first and make sure it was centered rather than worrying about the edges, etc.  I don't think they listened to me, but it did end up pretty much perfect.  I was really surprised that the rings around the joystick were also centered, because I was assuming one of the two were going to be off a little.  I probably should have sent my graphics out to be done on a bit heavier material, but what I have is nice and smooth and I remember "real" CPOs as being rather rough.  I can always have it redone if absolutely necessary, though.

Since I went with a translucent illuminated trackball, there's sort of the appearance that it's a glowing sphere in the center of the disc like when Flynn was "fixing" Quorra.  Unfortunately, I'm limited to just that trackball for racing games, so my joke is gonna be that it's really an advanced controller called a "DiscSphere".  There really wasn't room for anything else, so that's what I'm stuck with.  I'll probably get some sort of racing chassis for my console project in the future, but I didn't want to leave racing games like Pole Position out of this project.  They'll be in a separate category though, so if it's too annoying to use the trackball I can always drop them later.
Title: Re: Tron Legacy - Looking for advice
Post by: wp34 on August 18, 2012, 07:15:52 pm
Finally got the monitor mounted for (I hope) the last time.  It was sitting on my table for a few weeks and I was struck by just how big the thing looks.  Here is a picture next to my Galaga for scale.   ;D

(http://forum.arcadecontrols.com/index.php?action=dlattach;topic=103207.0;attach=255316;image)

I made a bracket for the top of the glass out of MDF.  It will hopefully be the only exposed piece I have to paint.

(http://forum.arcadecontrols.com/index.php?action=dlattach;topic=103207.0;attach=255318;image)

(http://forum.arcadecontrols.com/index.php?action=dlattach;topic=103207.0;attach=255320;image)

Here is a picture of it mounted.  I think it turned out pretty good.  I'm anxious to see how it looks with the glass installed.
(http://forum.arcadecontrols.com/index.php?action=dlattach;topic=103207.0;attach=255322;image)

Here is the bottom mount for the glass.  It will be hidden by the control panel.
(http://forum.arcadecontrols.com/index.php?action=dlattach;topic=103207.0;attach=255324;image)

I cut a piece of scrap hardboard to the exact size I want for the glass.  This should hopefully make it so the glass fits right the first time.

(http://forum.arcadecontrols.com/index.php?action=dlattach;topic=103207.0;attach=255326;image)






Title: Re: Tron Legacy - Looking for advice
Post by: wp34 on August 18, 2012, 07:26:50 pm

Just some quick shots of the shelve I build for the computer.  Nothing special but it was fun to build.
(http://forum.arcadecontrols.com/index.php?action=dlattach;topic=103207.0;attach=255350;image)

I love clamps.
(http://forum.arcadecontrols.com/index.php?action=dlattach;topic=103207.0;attach=255348;image)

(http://forum.arcadecontrols.com/index.php?action=dlattach;topic=103207.0;attach=255350;image)

(http://forum.arcadecontrols.com/index.php?action=dlattach;topic=103207.0;attach=255352;image)

I needed a way to mount my smart strip.  I ended up taking it apart and put it back together screwing these braces in at the same time.
Then I could mount the smart strip using the braces.  This saved me screwing into the side of the smart strip.

(http://forum.arcadecontrols.com/index.php?action=dlattach;topic=103207.0;attach=255354;image)
Title: Re: Tron Legacy - Looking for advice
Post by: Nephasth on August 18, 2012, 07:34:34 pm
I needed a way to mount my smart strip.  I ended up taking it apart and put it back together screwing these braces in at the same time.
Then I could mount the smart strip using the braces.  This saved me screwing into the side of the smart strip.

(http://forum.arcadecontrols.com/index.php?action=dlattach;topic=103207.0;attach=255354;image)

Just curious why you didn't use the mounting hole(s) of the smart strip. Red arrow, assuming there was another one under the green circle...
Title: Re: Tron Legacy - Looking for advice
Post by: wp34 on August 18, 2012, 08:56:31 pm
Just curious why you didn't use the mounting hole(s) of the smart strip. Red arrow, assuming there was another one under the green circle...

I should have been more clear.  The first time I mounted it using that method but was not happy with the results.   The smart strip wiggled a little and I wanted something more secure.  Just being picky I guess.

(http://forum.arcadecontrols.com/index.php?action=dlattach;topic=103207.0;attach=255386;image)
Title: Re: Tron Legacy - Update 8/18/2012
Post by: Nephasth on August 18, 2012, 09:05:57 pm
Ah, gotchya.
Title: Re: Tron Legacy - Looking for advice
Post by: wp34 on August 18, 2012, 09:07:47 pm
I came up with a method to hinge the top.  I'm not sure I'm going to keep it this way but thought I would document what I did regardless.

Basically I decided to build another box that would sit inside the CP.  This box is square and has a notch in the front so it can rest on the front of the external CP.

Here are a couple of shots of my practice piece.
(http://forum.arcadecontrols.com/index.php?action=dlattach;topic=103207.0;attach=255388;image)

(http://forum.arcadecontrols.com/index.php?action=dlattach;topic=103207.0;attach=255390;image)

Here is the finished box.
(http://forum.arcadecontrols.com/index.php?action=dlattach;topic=103207.0;attach=255392;image)

Opens nice and does the job.
(http://forum.arcadecontrols.com/index.php?action=dlattach;topic=103207.0;attach=255394;image)

(http://forum.arcadecontrols.com/index.php?action=dlattach;topic=103207.0;attach=255396;image)

(http://forum.arcadecontrols.com/index.php?action=dlattach;topic=103207.0;attach=255398;image)

I put pin holes in the back to help secure the box both when it is in and out.
(http://forum.arcadecontrols.com/index.php?action=dlattach;topic=103207.0;attach=255400;image)

(http://forum.arcadecontrols.com/index.php?action=dlattach;topic=103207.0;attach=255402;image)

(http://forum.arcadecontrols.com/index.php?action=dlattach;topic=103207.0;attach=255404;image)

I'm still deciding whether or not to keep this CP.  It just feels a little too big.   Also the internal CP box is a little awkward to get in and out. 
Adding controls will just exacerbate the problem.  Whether I do or don't it was fun coming up with a solution.




Title: Re: Tron Legacy - Update 8/18/2012
Post by: wp34 on August 18, 2012, 09:09:12 pm
Ah, gotchya.

There might be a trick to mounting those power strips that I am unaware of.  I've just never been happy with the fit on any one I've ever done.
Title: Re: Tron Legacy - Update 8/18/2012
Post by: mcseforsale on August 18, 2012, 09:37:29 pm
Still a big fan of making my own.  A lot cheaper than a smart strip, too.

http://forum.arcadecontrols.com/index.php/topic,117977.msg1267034.html#msg1267034 (http://forum.arcadecontrols.com/index.php/topic,117977.msg1267034.html#msg1267034)

AJ
Title: Re: Tron Legacy - Update 8/18/2012
Post by: ChadTower on August 19, 2012, 10:31:48 am



I usually wad up some paper towel into the mounting hole.  That will give you enough padding in there to tighten up the mount without making it a real effort to pull off later.
Title: Re: Tron Legacy - Update 8/18/2012
Post by: Santoro on August 19, 2012, 10:36:27 am
Honestly I think it the bigger box really messes up the aesthetics.   Personally I'd rather have a fixed CP top on that nice curved front than a big honking box that has easy hinged access. 

The craftsmanship and design of this cab are too nice to kludge up that way.. 

$0.02
Title: Re: Tron Legacy - Update 8/18/2012
Post by: wp34 on August 19, 2012, 11:19:12 am
Honestly I think it the bigger box really messes up the aesthetics.   Personally I'd rather have a fixed CP top on that nice curved front than a big honking box that has easy hinged access. 

The craftsmanship and design of this cab are too nice to kludge up that way.. 

$0.02

I agree.  It just seems a little big.  If I rebuild a smaller CP I don't think I'm going to curve it though.
Title: Re: Tron Legacy - Update 8/18/2012
Post by: wp34 on August 19, 2012, 09:40:47 pm
Xiaou2 -

I appreciate you taking the time to make some mock-ups.  I do like the what you did with the plexi but that isn't really the look I'm going for and would be difficult to pull off effectively this late in the build.

Title: Re: Tron Legacy - Update 8/18/2012
Post by: Hoopz on August 20, 2012, 09:52:54 am
Great looking cab! Love seeing it done even if it does make me feel inadequate with my handiwork.
Title: Re: Re: Tron Legacy - Update 8/18/2012
Post by: wp34 on August 20, 2012, 11:07:48 am
Great looking cab! Love seeing it done even if it does make me feel inadequate with my handiwork.

Thanks Hoopz.  You need to start a build thread so I can decide whether or not you are inadequate.  :D

Sent from my Atari 800 mobile device using Tapatalk
Title: Re: Tron Legacy - Update 8/18/2012
Post by: MaxVolume on August 20, 2012, 12:22:01 pm
I usually wad up some paper towel into the mounting hole.  That will give you enough padding in there to tighten up the mount without making it a real effort to pull off later.

<cough> FIRE HAZARD <cough>

;)
Title: Re: Tron Legacy - Looking for advice
Post by: wp34 on August 27, 2012, 10:00:15 pm
I decided to build another CP.  The size of my first one was really bugging me.  Not to mention the clunky way the lid came open.

I'm much happier with this one.  It is slightly narrower and fits the aesthetics of the cabinet much better. 

(http://forum.arcadecontrols.com/index.php?action=dlattach;topic=103207.0;attach=260415;image)

The lid opens real nice now.   ;D
(http://forum.arcadecontrols.com/index.php?action=dlattach;topic=103207.0;attach=260413;image)


Title: Re: Tron Legacy - Update 8/27/2012
Post by: mcseforsale on August 27, 2012, 10:24:28 pm
In the words of the famous philosopher, Rocky Balboa...."That's Butiful".

AJ
Title: Re: Tron Legacy - Looking for advice
Post by: rablack97 on August 28, 2012, 08:08:04 am
I decided to build another CP.  The size of my first one was really bugging me.  Not to mention the clunky way the lid came open.

I'm much happier with this one.  It is slightly narrower and fits the aesthetics of the cabinet much better. 

(http://forum.arcadecontrols.com/index.php?action=dlattach;topic=103207.0;attach=260415;image)

The lid opens real nice now.   ;D
(http://forum.arcadecontrols.com/index.php?action=dlattach;topic=103207.0;attach=260413;image)

That might be ok, but i am weary of the scewing the hinge into the front of MDF, causes it to split....Considering you haven't even put your controls in yet, there will be added weight to the top when you open it up, and there will be a chance the hinge on the CP base will rip right out.

As clunky as you say your other idea was it was sturdier i think.....

http://rdowney.com/arcadeodyssey/cp/index.html (http://rdowney.com/arcadeodyssey/cp/index.html)

Check out that link the last 8 or so photos, same concept just different hinges and better support.....
Title: Re: Tron Legacy - Update 8/27/2012
Post by: wp34 on August 28, 2012, 08:21:56 am
In the words of the famous philosopher, Rocky Balboa...."That's Butiful".
AJ

Thanks AJ.

That might be ok, but i am weary of the scewing the hinge into the front of MDF, cause it to split....Considering you haven't even put your controls in yet, there will be added weight when you open it up, and there will be a chance the hinge on the CP base will rip right out.

As clunky as you say your other idea was it was sturdier i think.....

http://rdowney.com/arcadeodyssey/cp/index.html (http://rdowney.com/arcadeodyssey/cp/index.html)

Check out that link the last 8 or so photos, same concept just different hinges and better support.....

Thanks for the link.  Those hinges do look nice.  I'm expecting that since the piano hinges is 2 feet long the pressure will be spread more evenly across the front making it less likely to split or come loose.  Either way it is MDF so I will have to be careful opening and closing it once the controls are installed.
Title: Re: Tron Legacy - Update 8/27/2012
Post by: Hoopz on August 28, 2012, 08:58:01 am
I dont think it'll be an issue.  I had a larger CP with more controls on it than most and used the same hinge.  I never had a problem.  As long as you don't allow the top to open all the way so the hinge is at 180 degrees, it's not going to hurt anything.

I liked the old CP but this one is good too.  Gonna put some controls on soon?  And are you painting or using an overlay?  Did I miss that?
Title: Re: Tron Legacy - Update 8/18/2012
Post by: ChadTower on August 28, 2012, 09:23:59 am
I usually wad up some paper towel into the mounting hole.  That will give you enough padding in there to tighten up the mount without making it a real effort to pull off later.

<cough> FIRE HAZARD <cough>




That is no more of a fire hazard than putting an outlet strip onto a carpet.  It's outside the casing.
Title: Re: Tron Legacy - Update 8/27/2012
Post by: wp34 on August 28, 2012, 09:42:53 am
I dont think it'll be an issue.  I had a larger CP with more controls on it than most and used the same hinge.  I never had a problem.  As long as you don't allow the top to open all the way so the hinge is at 180 degrees, it's not going to hurt anything.

I liked the old CP but this one is good too.  Gonna put some controls on soon?  And are you painting or using an overlay?  Did I miss that?

Thanks Hoopz.  Good to know you did not have any trouble with the same setup.

I installed the Tron stick last night just to see how it looked.  I may cut holes for Player 1 and 2 next just to see if I am happy with the spacing.  The top that is on it now is just a template.

I'm still debating what to do with the CP top.  I have been playing around with laminate and EL Tape but have not been happy with the results.    :dunno
Title: Re: Tron Legacy - Update 8/27/2012
Post by: mcseforsale on August 28, 2012, 10:13:19 am
Yeah, I'm not a fan of the piano hinge, but if you just put a limiting chain/wire on there, you're good.  That's a LOT of surface area, so it's pretty strong I'd imagine.

AJ
Title: Re: Tron Legacy - Update 8/27/2012
Post by: wp34 on August 28, 2012, 10:45:47 am
It is a nice thick piano hinge as well.  The Woodsmith Store had them on clearance for $10.
Title: Re: Tron Legacy - Update 8/18/2012
Post by: MaxVolume on August 28, 2012, 12:58:44 pm
I usually wad up some paper towel into the mounting hole.  That will give you enough padding in there to tighten up the mount without making it a real effort to pull off later.

<cough> FIRE HAZARD <cough>

That is no more of a fire hazard than putting an outlet strip onto a carpet.  It's outside the casing.


Not really... most of the time the "mounting hole" is cut into the housing, so anything "wadded up" in there is a prime target for sparks that may occur inside, and worse yet, the material may work itself inside the casing.  I was mostly joking, but it's probably not a good idea.  Also, a tiny wad of paper towel is going to catch fire much more quickly than carpet.
Title: Re: Tron Legacy - Looking for advice
Post by: MaxVolume on August 28, 2012, 01:00:46 pm
I decided to build another CP.  The size of my first one was really bugging me.  Not to mention the clunky way the lid came open.

I'm much happier with this one.  It is slightly narrower and fits the aesthetics of the cabinet much better. 

Nice!  :applaud:
Title: Re: Tron Legacy - Update 8/27/2012
Post by: Hoopz on November 26, 2012, 08:41:09 am
Any progress on this?  More pics????

 :cheers:
Title: Re: Tron Legacy - Update 8/27/2012
Post by: wp34 on November 26, 2012, 09:34:22 am
I've been mostly working on software and artwork so not much progress to document. I did build an XP64 machine with GroovyMAME only to find out the Mimo monitor I want to mount in the CP does not work with XP64.   :badmood:

Since GroovyMAME doesn't work as well with Windows 7 I ended up having to start over with XP32.  Lost a lot of momentum on that one.

As much fun as the woodworking has been I'm finding the software to be a bit tedious.

Title: Re: Tron Legacy - Looking for advice
Post by: wp34 on December 09, 2012, 11:03:56 pm
My fall was busy with Band, Soccer, Football, Dance and now Basketball so I've not made much progress.  I've been mainly working on the software when I can.  The most recent milestone was to get the tinted glass installed.  The Bears game absolutely stunk today so I worked on that while I paid half attention to the game.

I ordered my glass from OneDayGlass.com and could not be happier.  Well I guess I would have been happier if the shipping were free but I digress.

Shape: Square/Rectangle
Glass Type: Tempered
Glass Thickness: 3/16"
Glass Tint: Solar Gray (Light Gray)
Edgework (Step 1): Seamed Edge
Option: No Tong Marks

It came boxed very well.

(http://forum.arcadecontrols.com/index.php?action=dlattach;topic=103207.0;attach=273565;image)

(http://forum.arcadecontrols.com/index.php?action=dlattach;topic=103207.0;attach=273567;image)

My special rubberized gloves.  These worked very well for installing the glass without leaving fingerprints.
(http://forum.arcadecontrols.com/index.php?action=dlattach;topic=103207.0;attach=273569;image)

It is hard to get a good picture but suffice it to say it looks great in person.  I went with the Solar Gray 31 because I was afraid of having too much tint.  It is a touch lighter than I wanted but it looks fantastic.  It is dark enough to give an "arcade" feel but light enough that the monitor didn't even need adjusting.

I've got GroovyMame configured and am using HeadKaze's CPwizard to drive the 2nd monitor.  The joystick I'm testing with his a piece of crap so I'm not worried (too much) about slowing down because the cabinet is technically "working". 


(http://forum.arcadecontrols.com/index.php?action=dlattach;topic=103207.0;attach=273571;image)

Title: Re: Tron Legacy - Minor Update 12/09/2012
Post by: BadMouth on December 10, 2012, 10:19:16 am
Lookin' good.  :applaud:
Title: Re: Tron Legacy - Minor Update 12/09/2012
Post by: rbarr110 on December 10, 2012, 02:35:30 pm
Best looking set of gloves I have ever seen (damn vikings this weekend).  Oh, and the cab is looking great as well.
Title: Re: Tron Legacy - Minor Update 12/09/2012
Post by: wp34 on December 10, 2012, 05:33:11 pm
Lookin' good.  :applaud:

Thanks BadMouth.

Best looking set of gloves I have ever seen (damn vikings this weekend).  Oh, and the cab is looking great as well.

Yeah if Hester would have been wearing my gloves he might not have dropped that easy pass in the red zone.   :badmood:
Title: Re: Tron Legacy - Looking for advice
Post by: wp34 on September 06, 2013, 09:46:24 pm
Time to get back at it. 

This week I wired up my Happ Analog Trigger Stick to an A-Pac.  I decided to post some pictures because I had a hard time finding very good documentation while doing mine. 

Radio Shack had a six pin molex connector that mated perfectly with the Happ.  Sad will be the day when Radio Shack goes bye-bye. 

(http://forum.arcadecontrols.com/index.php?action=dlattach;topic=103207.0;attach=296090;image)

I wanted to match the colors of the wires as much as possible.  An old power supply I was going to throw away turned out to have every color I needed except brown--to which I substituted orange.

(http://forum.arcadecontrols.com/index.php?action=dlattach;topic=103207.0;attach=296094;image)

There were not enough wires coming out of the joystick to go into the A-Pac.  What I finally figured out was that the red wire was connected to both axis.   I had not seen that done in the examples I found on-line.
(http://forum.arcadecontrols.com/index.php?action=dlattach;topic=103207.0;attach=296100;image)

The red was combined at the molex connector.
(http://forum.arcadecontrols.com/index.php?action=dlattach;topic=103207.0;attach=296102;image)

Since I was out of wires it seemed logical to split the red and connect the wires to both axis of the A-Pac.  After a little trial and error it was working perfectly.  The A-Pac is really a great little board.
(http://forum.arcadecontrols.com/index.php?action=dlattach;topic=103207.0;attach=296098;image)

(http://forum.arcadecontrols.com/index.php?action=dlattach;topic=103207.0;attach=296096;image)

Title: Re: Tron Legacy - Looking for advice
Post by: Audiowizard on September 07, 2013, 10:49:55 am


I've got GroovyMame configured and am using HeadKaze's CPwizard to drive the 2nd monitor.  The joystick I'm testing with his a piece of crap so I'm not worried (too much) about slowing down because the cabinet is technically "working". 


(http://forum.arcadecontrols.com/index.php?action=dlattach;topic=103207.0;attach=273571;image)

I love that you said this and then your next post wasn't for nine months...lol
Title: Re: Tron Legacy - Looking for advice
Post by: wp34 on September 07, 2013, 04:57:03 pm
I love that you said this and then your next post wasn't for nine months...lol

Yeah I noticed that when I posted last night.  Pretty pathetic.
Title: Re: Tron Legacy - Wiring an A-Pac 09/06/13
Post by: CaptainMarvel on October 01, 2013, 12:57:21 pm
As an admitted novice and someone who has been passively "researching" and envisioning the day when I will finally start my own MAME cabinet project, I have to say that this has been one of the single most educational build threads I have found/read yet.  I think I've learned more reading through this thread than any other reference I had found thus far ... THANK YOU !!!

 :cheers:


Out of curiosity, what happened that you (apparently) had to side-shelf this project for nine months?

Had you made any further progress with the control panel?  Do you have your buttons, joysticks, track ball, etc?


I'm very much looking forward to seeing and continuing to learn from your further progress .... as I'm sure you are as well.   ;)



TOM
Title: Re: Tron Legacy - Wiring an A-Pac 09/06/13
Post by: wp34 on October 01, 2013, 01:51:24 pm
Thanks for the kind words.  I sometimes felt like I was over-documenting so I'm glad to hear you got some value out of this thread.  Hopefully you clicked on some of the many other build threads I referenced that were inspirations.

To answer your question life got in the way but I never stopped working on it.  I've done a lot of R&D over the past year but just haven't posted because I was still experimenting.  I had to learn some new routing techniques and did a lot of practicing. 

My plan has been to use EL Panels to light up the CP.  I want the panel to have a "Tron" look within the limits of what can be done with EL Panels.

Here is a sample of what I've done.

(http://forum.arcadecontrols.com/index.php?action=dlattach;topic=103207.0;attach=297640;image)

This loop will go around the trackball.  I've actually got the major cuts done to the CP and ordered the last of the EL Panels this morning.  Barring any major roadblocks it should be playable in a couple of weeks.


As an admitted novice and someone who has been passively "researching" and envisioning the day when I will finally start my own MAME cabinet project, I have to say that this has been one of the single most educational build threads I have found/read yet.  I think I've learned more reading through this thread than any other reference I had found thus far ... THANK YOU !!!

 :cheers:


Out of curiosity, what happened that you (apparently) had to side-shelf this project for nine months?

Had you made any further progress with the control panel?  Do you have your buttons, joysticks, track ball, etc?


I'm very much looking forward to seeing and continuing to learn from your further progress .... as I'm sure you are as well.   ;)



TOM
Title: Re: Tron Legacy - Wiring an A-Pac 09/06/13
Post by: UFO on October 01, 2013, 06:51:47 pm
WOW!

Great build. Bookmarked!  :applaud:
Title: Re: Tron Legacy - Wiring an A-Pac 09/06/13
Post by: CaptainMarvel on October 01, 2013, 10:08:38 pm
WOW!

Great build. Bookmarked!  :applaud:
How do I bookmark threads ??    ???
Title: Re: Re: Tron Legacy - Wiring an A-Pac 09/06/13
Post by: Brian74 on October 01, 2013, 10:18:52 pm
WOW!

Great build. Bookmarked!  :applaud:
How do I bookmark threads ??    ???
Same as you do any web page :))
Sent from my SGH-M919 using Tapatalk 2

Title: Re: Re: Tron Legacy - Wiring an A-Pac 09/06/13
Post by: BadMouth on October 02, 2013, 09:08:22 am
WOW!

Great build. Bookmarked!  :applaud:
How do I bookmark threads ??    ???
Same as you do any web page :))
Sent from my SGH-M919 using Tapatalk 2

If you use the "Curve" layout, there is a "My Bookmarks" tab and an "add bookmark" button.
Profile>Forum Profile
Modify Profile>Look and Layout

I think the buttons aren't there on some of the other layouts, but I haven't tried them.
Title: Re: Re: Tron Legacy - Wiring an A-Pac 09/06/13
Post by: CaptainMarvel on October 02, 2013, 12:03:11 pm
If you use the "Curve" layout, there is a "My Bookmarks" tab and an "add bookmark" button.
Profile>Forum Profile
Modify Profile>Look and Layout

I think the buttons aren't there on some of the other layouts, but I haven't tried them.


THANK YOU !!!
- I didn't have the "Add Bookmark" button with the default theme.  Got it now.

 :cheers:
Title: Re: Tron Legacy - Wiring an A-Pac 09/06/13
Post by: wp34 on October 06, 2013, 04:43:20 pm
I got a little further this weekend.

Here is a shot of the trackball.  This is just a test fit without the plexi.  I've thinking a black trackball would look nice.

(http://forum.arcadecontrols.com/index.php?action=dlattach;topic=103207.0;attach=297844;image)

Here is a test fit shot of the player 2 joystick.
(http://forum.arcadecontrols.com/index.php?action=dlattach;topic=103207.0;attach=297846;image)

For the longest time I've been worried about how the "C" ring around the trackball would look.  I'm real happy with the results.  The bad news is I messed up the pattern around the Tron stick.  The hole in the middle isn't quite centered.
(http://forum.arcadecontrols.com/index.php?action=dlattach;topic=103207.0;attach=297842;image)

Even worse I buggered the laminate up trying to fix it and have to start over.  It should go faster this time and it will allow me to make some adjustments to the CP.
Title: Re: Tron Legacy - Wiring an A-Pac 09/06/13
Post by: BadMouth on October 07, 2013, 10:00:21 am
I've thinking a black trackball would look nice.
Rather than illuminated?
You've already got the electric Ice ball.  I'd think it would be perfect.
Randy mentioned once that the electric Ice buttons were fairly UV reactive.
It might be cool to experiment with UV lights since you already have the tron handle.

For the longest time I've been worried about how the "C" ring around the trackball would look.  I'm real happy with the results.  The bad news is I messed up the pattern around the Tron stick.  The hole in the middle isn't quite centered.
The tron stick has a pretty big dustwasher.  Does it cover everything?
You can always make one slightly larger.
Title: Re: Tron Legacy - Wiring an A-Pac 09/06/13
Post by: wp34 on October 07, 2013, 11:17:22 am
Rather than illuminated?
You've already got the electric Ice ball.  I'd think it would be perfect.
Randy mentioned once that the electric Ice buttons were fairly UV reactive.
It might be cool to experiment with UV lights since you already have the tron handle.

Great points.   I do have a UV LED strip that I could try inside the trackball housing.   :cheers:

The tron stick has a pretty big dustwasher.  Does it cover everything?
You can always make one slightly larger.

I thought of that but I've got an EL Hoop that I would like to use as a light-up dust washer.  In order to do that I need to have the dust washer located under the laminate.  If I make the same mistake again I'll go that route---although my trigger stick did not come with a washer so I'll need to find one. 
Title: Re: Tron Legacy - CP Started 10/6/2013
Post by: rablack97 on October 07, 2013, 12:50:27 pm
question, how are you routing the laminate patterns like that....very precise
Title: Re: Tron Legacy - CP Started 10/6/2013
Post by: wp34 on October 07, 2013, 02:17:02 pm
question, how are you routing the laminate patterns like that....very precise

I'm using Template Guides with my router and a circle jig for the "C" ring.  I'll try and post pics of the process tonight.
Title: Re: Tron Legacy - CP Started 10/6/2013
Post by: rablack97 on October 07, 2013, 03:12:57 pm
awesome much appreciated, i work with laminate alot, this would be great to add to the arsenal...
Title: Re: Tron Legacy - CP Started 10/6/2013
Post by: Martijn on October 07, 2013, 03:30:00 pm
Love it!, it must be a small (dremmel?) bit or router to cut that small ? and a circle guide?

Looking forward to that how-to  :D
Title: Re: Tron Legacy - CP Started 10/6/2013
Post by: rablack97 on October 07, 2013, 03:33:34 pm
I was thinking same thing, those inside edges and inside curves are perfection....
Title: Re: Tron Legacy - Wiring an A-Pac 09/06/13
Post by: wp34 on October 07, 2013, 09:12:56 pm
I tried BadMouth's idea and threw some UV LED's inside the trackball housing.  I really like the look.

(http://forum.arcadecontrols.com/index.php?action=dlattach;topic=103207.0;attach=297964;image)

Here is a shot with the EL Panels just for color comparison.  I don't know if I like the two together.  But the UV Trackball might look really awesome with the Tron stick lit up with the UV LED's.  I'll try that when I get further along. 

(http://forum.arcadecontrols.com/index.php?action=dlattach;topic=103207.0;attach=297960;image)

Thanks for the idea BadMouth.   :cheers:
Title: Re: Tron Legacy - CP Started 10/6/2013
Post by: wp34 on October 07, 2013, 10:29:07 pm
Love it!, it must be a small (dremmel?) bit or router to cut that small ? and a circle guide?

Looking forward to that how-to  :D

Right about everything but the dremmel.  I did give that some thought but could not figure out how to make it work.
Title: Re: Tron Legacy - CP Started 10/6/2013
Post by: wp34 on October 07, 2013, 10:38:35 pm
The basic premise of my plan is to take EL Panels and hide them behind laminate that has been routed into "Tron-like" shapes.  The reason for this is that the EL Panels don't have a very clean look when unlit.

(http://forum.arcadecontrols.com/index.php?action=dlattach;topic=103207.0;attach=297980;image)

Here is the same one lit.
(http://forum.arcadecontrols.com/index.php?action=dlattach;topic=103207.0;attach=297982;image)

Even then you can still see some of the wires.

I wanted to create a "C" ring around the trackball that mimicked the identity discs I used as side-art.  I used one of the "C" rings I removed from my identity discs as a guide.
(http://forum.arcadecontrols.com/index.php?action=dlattach;topic=103207.0;attach=297978;image)


Title: Re: Tron Legacy - CP Started 10/6/2013
Post by: wp34 on October 07, 2013, 10:47:27 pm
A circle jig was used to create the ring.  I made marks on my template (using the blue "C" ring as a guide) where I needed to stop routing.  I didn't want a complete circle.  Also I put a waste piece on top and underneath the laminate whenever I routed.  This helps to keep the laminate from splitting.
(http://forum.arcadecontrols.com/index.php?action=dlattach;topic=103207.0;attach=297974;image)

(http://forum.arcadecontrols.com/index.php?action=dlattach;topic=103207.0;attach=297970;image)

(http://forum.arcadecontrols.com/index.php?action=dlattach;topic=103207.0;attach=297976;image)

I tried this a few times by making my own circle jig but was not happy with the results.  The jig I bought has marks every 1/16" of an inch.  That made it much easier to try different radius until I had the perfect size for the EL Panel.  The hole I drilled for the jig pin also served as a guide for the 3" hole saw I used later to create a hole for the trackball.
Title: Re: Tron Legacy - CP Started 10/6/2013
Post by: wp34 on October 07, 2013, 11:28:45 pm
It took me a long time to figure out exactly how to make the patterns that go around the joysticks.   

This thread by MikeDuece was one of my original inspirations -
http://forum.arcadecontrols.com/index.php?topic=105795.0 (http://forum.arcadecontrols.com/index.php?topic=105795.0)

This entire process would be much easier with a CNC.   Since I didn't have access to a CNC I wanted to find existing patterns I could use.  I spent hours walking through hardware stores looking for ideas.  The pattern had to be big enough to go around a joystick but also be the right size to allow me to use pre-cut EL Panels.  Ultimately the plumbing aisle yielded the best results and I used several different PVC fittings as patterns.

(http://forum.arcadecontrols.com/index.php?action=dlattach;topic=103207.0;attach=297986;image)

I carefully cut a sliver off the end of the PVC fitting with my chopsaw.  This was more difficult than I anticipated because I was trying to keep the sliver very thin.  The sliver was then sanded with my orbital sander to make it as smooth and level as possible.

I picked up a set of template guides off Amazon. 

(http://forum.arcadecontrols.com/index.php?action=dlattach;topic=103207.0;attach=297984;image)

The premise is that the bushing works somewhat like a flush-trim bit using the PVC pattern as a guide.  The bushing allowed me to use a very small bit--in this case a 1/16" double flute straight bit.  Using a small bit has a couple of advantages.  First I wanted to use the smallest bit I could find to avoid the "rounding" you inevitably end up with in the corners when routing.  If you look at the "C" Ring I cut you can see the rounding at the ends of the partial circle.  In that case I wanted the rounding for effect.  These patterns needed to be more crisp.  Secondly the smaller bit allowed me use a smaller PVC pattern.  I could not find a flush trim bit that would fit in the grooves of my patterns.

Here is a shot of the bushing installed in the router. 

(http://forum.arcadecontrols.com/index.php?action=dlattach;topic=103207.0;attach=297990;image)

I drew crisscrossing lines where I wanted the joystick to be and used those to center the pattern.  Double-sided tape holds the pattern in place very nicely.  I don't recall who on this forum gave me that idea but thanks.  That stuff is magic.   :cheers:

(http://forum.arcadecontrols.com/index.php?action=dlattach;topic=103207.0;attach=297992;image)

Very carefully route out the pattern.  The key here is patience.  I turned off the router every time I had to move it from one section of the pattern to another.

(http://forum.arcadecontrols.com/index.php?action=dlattach;topic=103207.0;attach=297988;image)

And here is a shot of the partially finished laminate before I messed it up. 
(http://forum.arcadecontrols.com/index.php?action=dlattach;topic=103207.0;attach=297995;image)

Title: Re: Tron Legacy - CP Started 10/6/2013
Post by: wp34 on October 10, 2013, 01:39:58 pm
I did a test fit of the rings around the admin buttons.  I'm not liking how this looks and will try a smaller reveal.  I used a 1-3/4 bit for this one.

(http://forum.arcadecontrols.com/index.php?action=dlattach;topic=103207.0;attach=298129;image)
Title: Re: Tron Legacy - CP Started 10/6/2013
Post by: wp34 on October 10, 2013, 02:21:53 pm
The post above was made with an 1-3/4" hole saw. 

I made this with a 1-5/8" Forstner bit which gave me a much cleaner opening.
(http://forum.arcadecontrols.com/index.php?action=dlattach;topic=103207.0;attach=298140;image)

This one is 1-1/2".
(http://forum.arcadecontrols.com/index.php?action=dlattach;topic=103207.0;attach=298142;image)

I'm liking the 1-1/2 reveal at this point.
Title: Re: Tron Legacy - CP Started 10/10/2013
Post by: Martijn on October 10, 2013, 03:04:56 pm
Yep nailed it  :applaud:
Title: Re: Tron Legacy - CP Started 10/10/2013
Post by: rablack97 on October 10, 2013, 05:51:38 pm
how the hell did you do that....dude, your skipping steps.....i love that look. :applaud: :applaud: :applaud:

lets back it up and teach the students properly... :cheers:
Title: Re: Re: Tron Legacy - CP Started 10/10/2013
Post by: wp34 on October 10, 2013, 07:34:10 pm
how the hell did you do that....dude, your skipping steps.....i love that look. :applaud: :applaud: :applaud:

lets back it up and teach the students properly... :cheers:

Sorry I just got excited while working today and wanted to share.  I'll post some build pics later.

Sent from my Atari 800 mobile device using Tapatalk

Title: Re: Tron Legacy - CP Started 10/6/2013
Post by: wp34 on October 10, 2013, 09:30:35 pm
I picked up these EL Hoops from EL Wirecraft in the UK. 

(http://forum.arcadecontrols.com/index.php?action=dlattach;topic=103207.0;attach=298147;image)

The cool thing about these hoops is that a standard arcade push button will fit inside them.
(http://forum.arcadecontrols.com/index.php?action=dlattach;topic=103207.0;attach=298149;image)

I want the laminate to cover the outside of the hoop and be slightly larger than the bezel on the button.  To do this I cut a pattern of holes the size I wanted.   Then using a flush-trim bit I used the pattern to cut my holes in the laminate.  As a test I tried using a forstener bit directly on the laminate but it chipped badly. 

(http://forum.arcadecontrols.com/index.php?action=dlattach;topic=103207.0;attach=298153;image)

(http://forum.arcadecontrols.com/index.php?action=dlattach;topic=103207.0;attach=298155;image)

Now you just make a sandwich of everything.  First put the EL Hoops on top of the MDF CP.

(http://forum.arcadecontrols.com/index.php?action=dlattach;topic=103207.0;attach=298151;image)

Now place the laminate on top of the EL Hoops and the CP.

(http://forum.arcadecontrols.com/index.php?action=dlattach;topic=103207.0;attach=298157;image)

When I go "live" the the plexi will go on next but I don't have that cut yet so here is a shot with just the buttons.

(http://forum.arcadecontrols.com/index.php?action=dlattach;topic=103207.0;attach=298159;image)

In this example the holes are 1-3/4".  I''m going to redo this with 1-1/2" holes this weekend as I didn't like how the 1-3/4" looked.
Title: Re: Tron Legacy - CP Started 10/10/2013
Post by: rablack97 on October 10, 2013, 09:44:14 pm
Awesome man.

Are you recessing the wires?
Title: Re: Tron Legacy - CP Started 10/10/2013
Post by: wp34 on October 10, 2013, 09:57:32 pm
Awesome man.

Are you recessing the wires?

Thanks. 

I'm going to drill holes near every panel to get the wire through to the underside of the CP.  I'll have to recess the portion of the wire that stays underneath the laminate.
Title: Re: Tron Legacy - CP Started 10/10/2013
Post by: rablack97 on October 10, 2013, 10:05:54 pm
Yeah thats what i was thinking you would have to do...

Keep it going man.....nice innovations going on here... :cheers:
Title: Re: Tron Legacy - CP Started 10/10/2013
Post by: wp34 on October 10, 2013, 10:20:13 pm
Yeah thats what i was thinking you would have to do...

Keep it going man.....nice innovations going on here... :cheers:

Thanks man.

This concept could be done much better with a CNC.  I'd love to see someone take this idea and improve on it.
Title: Re: Tron Legacy - CP Started 10/10/2013
Post by: Le Chuck on October 25, 2013, 07:38:24 am
This is really fantastic work.  I love it when new ground is being explored and you've found something unique!  Now hurry and get it done so we can see how awesome it is.
Title: Re: Tron Legacy - CP Started 10/10/2013
Post by: wp34 on October 25, 2013, 08:52:11 am
Thanks Le Chuck.  That's high praise coming from you.

If all goes well I'll be copying some of your work tomorrow -
http://forum.arcadecontrols.com/index.php/topic,116602.msg1235923.html#msg1235923 (http://forum.arcadecontrols.com/index.php/topic,116602.msg1235923.html#msg1235923)

Title: Re: Tron Legacy - CP Started 10/10/2013
Post by: thehammer12 on October 25, 2013, 04:42:41 pm
Awesome freakin work man, wow.
Title: Re: Tron Legacy - CP Started 10/10/2013
Post by: wp34 on October 27, 2013, 10:28:04 pm
Awesome freakin work man, wow.

Thanks man.  I appreciate it.

No real progress this weekend.  I wasn't being careful and accidentally broke the 1/16" router bit.  I can't get much further with the laminate until I get a replacement.  These things are very delicate and I've now broken two of them.  Oh well.
Title: Re: Tron Legacy - Update 6/20/2012
Post by: wp34 on November 17, 2013, 04:06:51 pm
Very small update today.

To get around the problem I was having with the joystick hole being centered I found some PVC fittings that fit in the center of my templates.
(http://forum.arcadecontrols.com/index.php?action=dlattach;topic=103207.0;attach=300386;image)

(http://forum.arcadecontrols.com/index.php?action=dlattach;topic=103207.0;attach=300392;image)

With the insert in the middle I can route the joystick hole and have it be perfectly centered within the template.
(http://forum.arcadecontrols.com/index.php?action=dlattach;topic=103207.0;attach=300388;image)

The one of the right was done with the new technique.
(http://forum.arcadecontrols.com/index.php?action=dlattach;topic=103207.0;attach=300390;image)

While I was routing my CP top the double-sided tape on my template slipped and I ruined my last piece of laminate.  I think I made the mistake of not wiping off all the sawdust before putting down my template.  Now I know (somewhat) how Somunny felt with his Ark Project laminate troubles.  I went from seeing the finish line to basically starting over with the CP top.   

I promised a friend I would build him a cocktail cabinet for Christmas.  So that coupled with  my laminate issues has forced me to set this aside for a few weeks.
Title: Re: Tron Legacy - Press Pause - 11/17/2013
Post by: Hoopz on November 18, 2013, 09:38:29 am
Hadn't popped in here in a while and I have to say this is amazing work!
Title: Re: Tron Legacy - Press Pause - 11/17/2013
Post by: lcmgadgets on November 18, 2013, 09:53:55 am
Wow this is sweet! & you've documented so thoroughly! I'm going back to read thru this from the start--there's so much helpful stuff here!  :applaud:
Title: Re: Tron Legacy - Press Pause - 11/17/2013
Post by: wp34 on November 18, 2013, 11:21:08 am
Thanks Hoopz and lcmgadgets.
Title: Re: Tron Legacy - Press Pause - 11/17/2013
Post by: rablack97 on November 18, 2013, 11:59:09 am
what thickness is your laminate man... 1/16/ or 1/32 i have some 1/32 that i use in my builds, black....

Also when routing.....order some of these, they are awesome....

(http://rockler.resultspage.com/thumb.php?s=273&f=http%3a%2f%2fassets.rockler.com%2fmedia%2fcatalog%2fproduct%2f4%2f6%2f46902-05-1000.jpg)

http://woodworking.rockler.com/ppc/bench%20cookies?sli_sid=v9113&gclid=CMec_6rm7roCFUwV7AodXzIABw (http://woodworking.rockler.com/ppc/bench%20cookies?sli_sid=v9113&gclid=CMec_6rm7roCFUwV7AodXzIABw)

Another idea, is get you a router mat.

http://www.rockler.com/non-slip-router-mat?utm_source=google&utm_medium=cpc&utm_term=&utm_content=pla&utm_campaign=PL&gclid=CNy3tIvn7roCFVFk7Aody00AnQ
 (http://www.rockler.com/non-slip-router-mat?utm_source=google&utm_medium=cpc&utm_term=&utm_content=pla&utm_campaign=PL&gclid=CNy3tIvn7roCFVFk7Aody00AnQ)

This has elimimated the use of clamps on alot of my routes......

Title: Re: Tron Legacy - Press Pause - 11/17/2013
Post by: mcseforsale on November 18, 2013, 12:12:53 pm
I'm getting some of those bench cookies.  Those are wicked cool.

AJ
Title: Re: Tron Legacy - Press Pause - 11/17/2013
Post by: wp34 on November 18, 2013, 12:18:54 pm
I've got those cookies but of course they are Chicago Bear orange and not Cowboy blue.   >:D  They are quite handy.

I like your idea but in this case I have to clamp a guide piece over the laminate so that all my cuts will line up properly with the controls.  My problem was the double-sided tape on the PVC template.  It started to give while I was routing.  More tape and less sawdust should fix that problem.

Thanks for the offer on the laminate.  I appreciate it.   :cheers:  I already ordered a new sheet from Home Depot though.

The routing mat is a great idea.  It looks a lot like toolbox liner and I have some of that around I will try.  Thanks for the tip.

what thickness is your laminate man... 1/16/ or 1/32 i have some 1/32 that i use in my builds, black....

Also when routing.....order some of these, they are awesome....

(http://rockler.resultspage.com/thumb.php?s=273&f=http%3a%2f%2fassets.rockler.com%2fmedia%2fcatalog%2fproduct%2f4%2f6%2f46902-05-1000.jpg)

http://woodworking.rockler.com/ppc/bench%20cookies?sli_sid=v9113&gclid=CMec_6rm7roCFUwV7AodXzIABw (http://woodworking.rockler.com/ppc/bench%20cookies?sli_sid=v9113&gclid=CMec_6rm7roCFUwV7AodXzIABw)

Another idea, is get you a router mat.

http://www.rockler.com/non-slip-router-mat?utm_source=google&utm_medium=cpc&utm_term=&utm_content=pla&utm_campaign=PL&gclid=CNy3tIvn7roCFVFk7Aody00AnQ
 (http://www.rockler.com/non-slip-router-mat?utm_source=google&utm_medium=cpc&utm_term=&utm_content=pla&utm_campaign=PL&gclid=CNy3tIvn7roCFVFk7Aody00AnQ)

This has elimimated the use of clamps on alot of my routes......
Title: Re: Tron Legacy - Press Pause - 11/17/2013
Post by: rablack97 on November 18, 2013, 05:12:55 pm
Sweet man , enjoying this build, sorry to hear your chilling on it for a bit.....

Anything to help out... :cheers:
Title: Re: Tron Legacy - Press Pause - 11/17/2013
Post by: mgb on November 19, 2013, 12:38:24 am
Very Nice.
I like where this is going. Keep it up
Title: Re: Tron Legacy - Press Pause - 11/17/2013
Post by: jordanshadow on May 07, 2014, 03:17:09 pm
I really like the liberal use of the light rings. Really makes the cab.
Title: Re: Tron Legacy - Press Pause - 11/17/2013
Post by: wp34 on May 07, 2014, 03:34:44 pm
I really like the liberal use of the light rings. Really makes the cab.

Thanks.  :cheers:

I was going to use neon rings on the side originally like you are for your build.  The first rings I bought came broken and I had to return them.  I also had a mishap similar to yours when cutting the circles which left the hole a little too big for the neon rings.   :banghead:
Title: Re: Tron Legacy - Press Pause - 11/17/2013
Post by: wp34 on May 07, 2014, 03:36:50 pm
Great call on the non-slip mat and the bench cookies.    I've been using the heck out of them.  I still have to clamp but not nearly as much.   :cheers:

what thickness is your laminate man... 1/16/ or 1/32 i have some 1/32 that i use in my builds, black....

Also when routing.....order some of these, they are awesome....

(http://rockler.resultspage.com/thumb.php?s=273&f=http%3a%2f%2fassets.rockler.com%2fmedia%2fcatalog%2fproduct%2f4%2f6%2f46902-05-1000.jpg)

http://woodworking.rockler.com/ppc/bench%20cookies?sli_sid=v9113&gclid=CMec_6rm7roCFUwV7AodXzIABw (http://woodworking.rockler.com/ppc/bench%20cookies?sli_sid=v9113&gclid=CMec_6rm7roCFUwV7AodXzIABw)

Another idea, is get you a router mat

http://www.rockler.com/non-slip-router-mat?utm_source=google&utm_medium=cpc&utm_term=&utm_content=pla&utm_campaign=PL&gclid=CNy3tIvn7roCFVFk7Aody00AnQ
 (http://www.rockler.com/non-slip-router-mat?utm_source=google&utm_medium=cpc&utm_term=&utm_content=pla&utm_campaign=PL&gclid=CNy3tIvn7roCFVFk7Aody00AnQ)

This has elimimated the use of clamps on alot of my routes......
Title: Re: Tron Legacy - Update 6/20/2012
Post by: wp34 on June 01, 2014, 10:50:22 pm
We are in the home stretch finally!

Here are some shots of making the mount for the Turbo Twist High Low Spinner.

This is the template that ships with the spinner.
(http://forum.arcadecontrols.com/index.php?action=dlattach;topic=136713.0;attach=309881;image)

A 2-3/8 forstner bit works great to create the main opening.
(http://forum.arcadecontrols.com/index.php?action=dlattach;topic=136713.0;attach=309883;image)

The shoulder for the spinner should be as level as possible so that the spinner is parallel to the top of the CP.  The throat on my drill press was about 1/2" from being able to reach the spot I needed.   Vigo had a great tip here (http://forum.arcadecontrols.com/index.php/topic,139041.msg1439731.html#msg1439731) which I used to use my hand drill to create a straight hole. 
(http://forum.arcadecontrols.com/index.php?action=dlattach;topic=136713.0;attach=309885;image)

(http://forum.arcadecontrols.com/index.php?action=dlattach;topic=136713.0;attach=309887;image)

To cut the middle opening I used a 1-3/8 hole saw.
(http://forum.arcadecontrols.com/index.php?action=dlattach;topic=136713.0;attach=309889;image)

I tried this on a scrap piece first and at this stage I tried to use a pattern bit with the supplied template.   The bit slipped off the template cutting both the template and the wrong part of the wood.
(http://forum.arcadecontrols.com/index.php?action=dlattach;topic=136713.0;attach=309891;image)

For the final piece I ended up using my wood chisels to finish out the cutting.  It went fairly fast and MDF is actually a lot of fun to chisel.
(http://forum.arcadecontrols.com/index.php?action=dlattach;topic=136713.0;attach=309893;image)

Test fit looks great.
(http://forum.arcadecontrols.com/index.php?action=dlattach;topic=136713.0;attach=309895;image)
Title: Re: Tron Legacy - Update 6/20/2012
Post by: wp34 on June 01, 2014, 11:01:01 pm

For this build I made a few rectangular routing templates for the joysticks and monitor.  After some trial and error I found that the easiest method was to use my chop saw to make 4 cuts.  With this method you end up with some over-cuts.  Since I was using a routing template it really didn't matter that the template had notches in the corner because the brass template stops the bit before the over-cut.

(http://forum.arcadecontrols.com/index.php?action=dlattach;topic=136713.0;attach=309925;image)

(http://forum.arcadecontrols.com/index.php?action=dlattach;topic=136713.0;attach=309927;image)

With the monitor opening the other advantage of using the routing template was that I could use a 1/16" straight bit.  This left me with an almost perfect right-angle in the corners.  With a normal bearing-based pattern bit you always end up with a rounded corner.
(http://forum.arcadecontrols.com/index.php?action=dlattach;topic=136713.0;attach=309929;image)
Title: Re: Tron Legacy - Update 6/20/2012
Post by: wp34 on June 01, 2014, 11:06:57 pm
When I ran out of laminate and had to order more I decided to go with a micro-dot pattern.  I like the contrast with the plain black laminate on the rest of the cabinet.  But I had to be careful to make sure the dots were straight when I cut.
(http://forum.arcadecontrols.com/index.php?action=dlattach;topic=136713.0;attach=309935;image)
Title: Re: Tron Legacy - Update 6/20/2012
Post by: wp34 on June 01, 2014, 11:14:11 pm
The mount for the happ analog trigger stick was an odd duck.
(http://forum.arcadecontrols.com/index.php?action=dlattach;topic=136713.0;attach=309937;image)

But it turned out nice.
(http://forum.arcadecontrols.com/index.php?action=dlattach;topic=136713.0;attach=309939;image)

Here is the finished CP.
(http://forum.arcadecontrols.com/index.php?action=dlattach;topic=136713.0;attach=309941;image)

And with a coat of black paint.
(http://forum.arcadecontrols.com/index.php?action=dlattach;topic=136713.0;attach=309943;image)

Title: Re: Tron Legacy - Update 6/1/2014
Post by: yotsuya on June 01, 2014, 11:17:37 pm
Looking good, my friend! Can't wait to see this one finished!
Title: Re: Tron Legacy - Update 6/1/2014
Post by: wp34 on June 01, 2014, 11:39:27 pm
Thanks yotsuya.  It feels great to be nearing the end!
Title: Re: Tron Legacy - Update 6/1/2014
Post by: Gatsu on June 02, 2014, 02:03:45 am
Lookin good. Wish I could route that cleanly.  :laugh:
Title: Re: Tron Legacy - Update 6/1/2014
Post by: Hoopz on June 02, 2014, 09:18:30 am
Great job and good job sharing the detailed pics.    :applaud:
Title: Re: Tron Legacy - Update 6/1/2014
Post by: wp34 on June 02, 2014, 09:37:59 am
Thanks Hoopz and Gatsu.   :cheers:
Title: Re: Tron Legacy - Update 6/20/2012
Post by: wp34 on June 02, 2014, 10:31:29 pm
In order to light up the pattern around the Tron stick I had to find an EL panel big enough to fit the opening.  The closest I could find was 8"x5" and it was actually too big.  In order to make it fit I had to cut a couple of inches off one end and then cut a circle out of the middle of it for the joystick opening.  It sounds insane but EL panels are designed to be able to cut and still light up.

The EL panel came with 4 wires attached to it.  The idea being you can cut it into 4 separate shapes if needed.

(http://forum.arcadecontrols.com/index.php?action=dlattach;topic=136713.0;attach=310012;image)

Here is the initial cut.  Make sure you use sharp scissors.
(http://forum.arcadecontrols.com/index.php?action=dlattach;topic=136713.0;attach=310014;image)

It is important that you reseal the cut end with clear tape as the inside of the panel has an electrical charge.

(http://forum.arcadecontrols.com/index.php?action=dlattach;topic=136713.0;attach=310016;image)

The inside hole was fairly easy to cut with an exacto knife.   Again I sealed the hole with clear tape.  It may need just a little more trimming but I'm leaving it as is for now.  I have to admit to being thoroughly surprised when this worked.   ;D
(http://forum.arcadecontrols.com/index.php?action=dlattach;topic=136713.0;attach=310018;image)

I had to route a channel on the CP for the insulated portion of the wire to fit in everywhere there was an EL panel.
(http://forum.arcadecontrols.com/index.php?action=dlattach;topic=136713.0;attach=310020;image)

Here is a test fit with the laminate top.
(http://forum.arcadecontrols.com/index.php?action=dlattach;topic=136713.0;attach=310022;image)

(http://forum.arcadecontrols.com/index.php?action=dlattach;topic=136713.0;attach=310024;image)
Title: Re: Tron Legacy - Update 6/2/2014
Post by: Le Chuck on June 02, 2014, 10:39:27 pm
(http://www.trggaming.net/forums/images/smilies/BasicSmiles/jawdrop.gif) WOW!  That is so freaking sharp bro!
Title: Re: Tron Legacy - Update 6/2/2014
Post by: wp34 on June 02, 2014, 10:56:32 pm
Thanks Le Chuck.  High praise coming from you.   :cheers:
Title: Re: Tron Legacy - Update 6/2/2014
Post by: BadMouth on June 03, 2014, 07:52:33 pm
 :applaud:  Good to see you back on this. 
Title: Re: Tron Legacy - Update 6/2/2014
Post by: wp34 on June 03, 2014, 09:37:39 pm
Thanks BadMouth.  Not getting much done tonight.    ;D

Title: Re: Tron Legacy - Update 6/2/2014
Post by: ChanceKJ on June 04, 2014, 02:25:03 am
This has to be the best looking stick lighting i've seen.   :applaud:
Title: Re: Tron Legacy - Update 6/2/2014
Post by: emphatic on June 04, 2014, 06:22:58 am
Very well done! :cheers:
Title: Re: Tron Legacy - Update 6/2/2014
Post by: Vigo on June 04, 2014, 01:51:39 pm
 :cheers: Looking good!
Title: Re: Tron Legacy - Update 6/2/2014
Post by: wp34 on June 04, 2014, 06:06:17 pm
Thanks guys.     :cheers:

Hoopz gave me the idea to do my wiring in front of the TV.  Turns out I am too easily distracted.
Title: Re: Tron Legacy - CP Started 10/6/2013
Post by: wp34 on June 05, 2014, 11:19:08 pm
I wanted to have my admin buttons light up but wasn't sure exactly how.

First I tried a half circle but was really not happy with the look.
(http://forum.arcadecontrols.com/index.php?action=dlattach;topic=136713.0;attach=310215;image)

Then I tried a full circle.  I really liked this look but had a lot of trouble getting 4 of them in a row to line up perfectly.  Between the laminate and the plexi things would get just off enough to bug me.  Again this is where a CNC would simplify things. 

(http://forum.arcadecontrols.com/index.php?action=dlattach;topic=103207.0;attach=298142;image)

Finally I settled on trying to mimic this shape from the original Discs of Tron CP.
(http://forum.arcadecontrols.com/index.php?action=dlattach;topic=136713.0;attach=310217;image)

To make the shape I had to route a 1/2 circle that was slightly larger than the button hole.  Then I had to route a 1/4 circle that is slightly larger than the 1/2 circle. 

To line all the circles up properly I drilled my circle patterns at the center of intersecting lines. 
(http://forum.arcadecontrols.com/index.php?action=dlattach;topic=136713.0;attach=310219;image)

Then I could line up the patterns using the intersecting lines.  Here I added another board so that when I routed I ended up with a half-circle.
(http://forum.arcadecontrols.com/index.php?action=dlattach;topic=136713.0;attach=310221;image)

Then I added a larger circle and a board with a 90 degree cutout that left me with a 1/4 circle.
(http://forum.arcadecontrols.com/index.php?action=dlattach;topic=136713.0;attach=310223;image)

Which left me with this pattern.
(http://forum.arcadecontrols.com/index.php?action=dlattach;topic=136713.0;attach=310225;image)

Here it is unlit.
(http://forum.arcadecontrols.com/index.php?action=dlattach;topic=136713.0;attach=310227;image)

And lit.
(http://forum.arcadecontrols.com/index.php?action=dlattach;topic=136713.0;attach=310229;image)

Here is the completed laminate.  Time to start putting everything together.
(http://forum.arcadecontrols.com/index.php?action=dlattach;topic=136713.0;attach=310258;image)
Title: Re: Tron Legacy - Update 6/5/2014
Post by: Santoro on June 06, 2014, 12:22:24 pm
Whoa.  :o :notworthy:

Title: Re: Tron Legacy - Update 6/5/2014
Post by: Xarcade on June 06, 2014, 05:51:10 pm
wow freakin awesome man
Title: Re: Tron Legacy - Update 6/5/2014
Post by: wp34 on June 08, 2014, 12:03:26 am
Thanks Santoro and Xarcade.    :cheers:
Title: Re: Tron Legacy - CP Started 10/6/2013
Post by: wp34 on June 09, 2014, 11:02:46 pm
Inching closer.  lining up the joysticks, trackball and lights has proven to be more tedious than I expected.

(http://forum.arcadecontrols.com/index.php?action=dlattach;topic=136713.0;attach=310480;image)
Title: Re: Tron Legacy - Update 6/9/2014
Post by: wp34 on June 09, 2014, 11:03:40 pm
I’m building a cabinet based on the Tron Legacy theme.  The basic design is borrowed from Gamester (http://forum.arcadecontrols.com/index.php?topic=94891.0;all) with a few modifications.  I’ve been planning this for several years so I’m sure I’ve stolen ideas from many other projects.  In addition to Gamester you should see (hopefully) some influence from Martijn (http://forum.arcadecontrols.com/index.php?topic=84649.0l) and Eypx (http://forum.arcadecontrols.com/index.php?topic=96465.0) as I reviewed their projects frequently while planning.

Like Johnny Cash and his Cadillac I obtained my parts “One Piece at a Time” over a number of years.

•   P1 U360, Project Arcade Book I – Christmas 2007
•   TT2 / Electric Ice Trackball – March 2008
•   P2 U360 – Christmas 2008
•   Coin Door – September 2009
•   Wells Gardner D9800 – August 2010
•   Project Arcade Book II - January 2011
•   Tron Stick Parts – March 2011
•   Black Laminate – September 2011

…with many orders for buttons spread in between. 

Pretty pathetic timeline but hopefully worth it in the end.
Title: Re: Tron Legacy - Update 6/5/2014
Post by: mcseforsale on June 10, 2014, 11:09:24 am
Wow.  pretty sad.   :laugh:

AJ
Title: Re: Tron Legacy - Update 6/5/2014
Post by: wp34 on June 10, 2014, 01:36:06 pm
Wow.  pretty sad.   :laugh:

AJ

Whoops.  I meant to modify the date on my first post and must have clicked qoute by mistake.

And to your point that time line is pretty sad. 
Title: Re: Tron Legacy - Update 6/5/2014
Post by: ChanceKJ on June 10, 2014, 01:37:47 pm
At least it's getting done and not sitting derelict in the corner of a garage.

Mission Control took what? 10 years?
Title: Re: Tron Legacy - Update 6/5/2014
Post by: wp34 on June 10, 2014, 01:55:21 pm
Wow.  pretty sad.   :laugh:

AJ

Whoops.  I meant to modify the date on my first post and must have clicked qoute by mistake.

And to your point that time line is pretty sad. 
Title: Re: Tron Legacy - Update 6/5/2014
Post by: wp34 on June 10, 2014, 01:59:56 pm
At least it's getting done and not sitting derelict in the corner of a garage.

Mission Control took what? 10 years?

Great point but my project shouldn't be in the same sentence as Mission Control.  That thing is a work of art.
Title: Re: Tron Legacy - CP Started 10/6/2013
Post by: wp34 on September 15, 2014, 10:21:49 pm
I've made a lot of progress this summer but have not had time to post pictures.  I apologize for the dumping all these pictures at once.

I decided AFTER the cabinet was built that I wanted a vandal switch for power.  Originally I was going to just have the machine turn on when plugged in like a dedicated cabinet.  This change led to me having to drill into a basically finished cabinet.  Yuck.

The nut for the button would not quite reach so I had to use a forstner on the back side. 
(http://forum.arcadecontrols.com/index.php?action=dlattach;topic=136713.0;attach=316370;image)

(http://forum.arcadecontrols.com/index.php?action=dlattach;topic=136713.0;attach=316372;image)

(http://forum.arcadecontrols.com/index.php?action=dlattach;topic=136713.0;attach=316374;image)

(http://forum.arcadecontrols.com/index.php?action=dlattach;topic=136713.0;attach=316376;image)

(http://forum.arcadecontrols.com/index.php?action=dlattach;topic=136713.0;attach=316378;image)


Title: Re: Tron Legacy - CP Started 10/6/2013
Post by: wp34 on September 15, 2014, 10:36:07 pm
To cut the plexi I first made a starter hole with this step bit.
(http://forum.arcadecontrols.com/index.php?action=dlattach;topic=136713.0;attach=316382;image)

Then I routed each hole with this fluted flush trim bit.
(http://forum.arcadecontrols.com/index.php?action=dlattach;topic=136713.0;attach=316384;image)

What a wonderful mess.   ;D
(http://forum.arcadecontrols.com/index.php?action=dlattach;topic=136713.0;attach=316380;image)

I didn't come up with this method but it worked perfectly.  Apologies to whomever came up with this idea but I can't find the original thread to link to. 

Title: Re: Tron Legacy - CP Started 10/6/2013
Post by: wp34 on September 15, 2014, 11:08:25 pm
PinballWizard79 had this crazy idea 4 years ago to light up a Tron stick from the inside.  I fell in love with the concept and spent quite a bit of time working on implementing it.   See his original thread here. (http://forum.arcadecontrols.com/index.php/topic,107497.0.html;all)

One evening this summer I spent several hours trying to jam two wires up the middle of a hollowed out Happ Analog Stick.  It was amazingly frustrating.

(http://forum.arcadecontrols.com/index.php?action=dlattach;topic=136713.0;attach=316386;image)

Success!
(http://forum.arcadecontrols.com/index.php?action=dlattach;topic=136713.0;attach=316388;image)

In the example I linked to you could make out the individual LED dots through the blue plastic.  To minimize that effect I tried to reverse the LED strip.  What I mean is that I had the LED's point inward as much as possible.  This acted to diffuse the dots.   

Reversing the strip made the back of the strip visible in daylight and I did not like this look.  To get around this I lined the back of the UV strip with silver duct tape thinking this would blend in somewhat with the silver joystick. 

To get more light coverage I looped the UV strip around the wide base of the Tron stick and also packed the top of the base with LED's again pointing away from the plastic.

(http://forum.arcadecontrols.com/index.php?action=dlattach;topic=136713.0;attach=316400;image)

(http://forum.arcadecontrols.com/index.php?action=dlattach;topic=136713.0;attach=316402;image)

(http://forum.arcadecontrols.com/index.php?action=dlattach;topic=136713.0;attach=316394;image)

This was easily one of the most challenging portions of my build.  I spent hours just trying to get the UV strip to fit properly in the stick casing.  I would get it all packed in and then find that the trigger button no longer worked.    Then I would have to take the stick back apart and start all over.  :banghead:

That being said I'm very happy with how it turned out.  Pictures really don't do it justice.  There are a few LED's visible on the right-hand side but I'm living with that for now.  It is not noticeable when you are playing.  Also when I tried to point this defect out to my family they looked at me like I was absolutely nuts. ;D


Title: Re: Tron Legacy - CP Started 10/6/2013
Post by: wp34 on September 15, 2014, 11:30:30 pm
Here are some random shots of the mostly finished cabinet.  The marquee that is on there is just a paper printout.  I'll probably not get to the marquee until this winter.

(http://forum.arcadecontrols.com/index.php?action=dlattach;topic=136713.0;attach=316404;image)

(http://forum.arcadecontrols.com/index.php?action=dlattach;topic=136713.0;attach=316406;image)

(http://forum.arcadecontrols.com/index.php?action=dlattach;topic=136713.0;attach=316408;image)

(http://forum.arcadecontrols.com/index.php?action=dlattach;topic=136713.0;attach=316412;image)

(http://forum.arcadecontrols.com/index.php?action=dlattach;topic=136713.0;attach=316416;image)

(http://forum.arcadecontrols.com/index.php?action=dlattach;topic=136713.0;attach=316420;image)

(http://forum.arcadecontrols.com/index.php?action=dlattach;topic=136713.0;attach=316422;image)

(http://forum.arcadecontrols.com/index.php?action=dlattach;topic=136713.0;attach=316424;image)

(http://forum.arcadecontrols.com/index.php?action=dlattach;topic=136713.0;attach=316426;image)

Title: Re: Tron Legacy - Update 9/15/2014
Post by: wp34 on September 15, 2014, 11:40:01 pm
(http://forum.arcadecontrols.com/index.php?action=dlattach;topic=136713.0;attach=316410;image)

(http://forum.arcadecontrols.com/index.php?action=dlattach;topic=136713.0;attach=316414;image)

Here is a shot of the original Sketchup model I made. 
(http://forum.arcadecontrols.com/index.php?action=dlattach;topic=136713.0;attach=316428;image)




Title: Re: Tron Legacy - Update 9/15/2014 - 97.4% Done!
Post by: wp34 on September 15, 2014, 11:50:49 pm
Here is what I have left -

1. Configure CP Wizard
2. Install blue coin reject buttons
3. Finish configuring Hyperspin
4. Design marquee

I'd like to get on to a couple of other projects that have been on hold and will likely not finish this until winter as everything on this list is inside work.  The cabinet is basically playable at this point and we have had a ball using it.  Discs of Tron has been popular which I did not expect thinking the kids would find it too hard.  Roadblasters is another fun one as the spinner works surprisingly well as a steering wheel.
Title: Re: Tron Legacy - Update 9/15/2014 - 97.4% Done!
Post by: horizon on September 16, 2014, 12:04:07 am
I'm pretty late to this party, but man, this looks fantastic man.  I hope you are proud of the mostly finished product. A+

 :cheers:
Title: Re: Tron Legacy - Update 9/15/2014 - 97.4% Done!
Post by: wp34 on September 16, 2014, 12:13:08 am
Thanks Horizon.  There are a few things I would have done different but overall I'm very happy with the result. 
Title: Re: Tron Legacy - Update 9/15/2014 - 97.4% Done!
Post by: Vigo on September 16, 2014, 01:14:56 am
 :notworthy: That is some Neon-tastic eye candy there
Title: Re: Tron Legacy - Update 9/15/2014 - 97.4% Done!
Post by: rablack97 on September 16, 2014, 08:26:59 am
(http://forum.arcadecontrols.com/index.php?action=dlattach;topic=136713.0;attach=316406;image)

This shot here is awesome....

Very nice work sir, very unique.... :applaud: :applaud: :applaud:   :notworthy: :notworthy: :notworthy:
Title: Re: Tron Legacy - Update 9/15/2014 - 97.4% Done!
Post by: wp34 on September 16, 2014, 08:41:46 am
Thanks Vigo.  Neon is a great choice of words considering one of my inspirations.
http://knievel.webs.com/neonmame.htm (http://knievel.webs.com/neonmame.htm)

Thanks rablack97.  That's one of my favorite shots as well.

In that picture you can kind of tell the track ball is lit up in white.  It now lights up a blue that matches the el panels.  I do not understand why the color changed.  At one point I had to take the CP back off and mess with the wiring.  When I put it back together it was blue.  A happy accident I guess.





Title: Re: Tron Legacy - Update 9/15/2014 - 97.4% Done!
Post by: Hoopz on September 16, 2014, 09:56:21 am
You suck.  So much.


FREAKING AMAZING LOOKING.



But you still suck.
Title: Re: Tron Legacy - Update 9/15/2014 - 97.4% Done!
Post by: wp34 on September 16, 2014, 12:30:00 pm
You suck.  So much.


FREAKING AMAZING LOOKING.



But you still suck.

I don't know what to say other than "That's what she said."

Thanks Hoopz.   :cheers:
Title: Re: Tron Legacy - Update 9/15/2014 - 97.4% Done!
Post by: yotsuya on September 16, 2014, 01:31:16 pm
You know me, I'm not a fan of frankenpanels with Tronsticks and mini-LCD panels that look like afterthoughts....



but in THIS CASE, you ---smurfing--- nailed it, bro. ---smurfing--- NAILED IT. Outstanding job. Everything integrates well. It LOOKS like it's supposed to look like that. It's like with Blip! I'm not a fan of LCD Marquee monitors because they look weird, or too big, or unproportioned, but Blip! did it right and it looks awesome. You accomplished the same thing here with the Tronstick and the mini-Screen. It's all about the design, the little things that make these non-arcade parts fit and fit well. I love it!  :cheers:
Title: Re: Tron Legacy - Update 9/15/2014 - 97.4% Done!
Post by: wp34 on September 16, 2014, 02:42:20 pm
Thanks Yotsuya.  I really appreciate that feedback since I tried really hard to have it both ways. :cheers: I wanted a frankenpanel that didn't look too frankeny if that makes sense.  You can't have a Tron cabinet without a Tron stick can you?    >:D

That Blip! cabinet is just amazing.  Easily my favorite build in recent years.

You know me, I'm not a fan of frankenpanels with Tronsticks and mini-LCD panels that look like afterthoughts....



but in THIS CASE, you ---smurfing--- nailed it, bro. ---smurfing--- NAILED IT. Outstanding job. Everything integrates well. It LOOKS like it's supposed to look like that. It's like with Blip! I'm not a fan of LCD Marquee monitors because they look weird, or too big, or unproportioned, but Blip! did it right and it looks awesome. You accomplished the same thing here with the Tronstick and the mini-Screen. It's all about the design, the little things that make these non-arcade parts fit and fit well. I love it!  :cheers:
Title: Re: Tron Legacy - Update 9/15/2014 - 97.4% Done!
Post by: yotsuya on September 16, 2014, 03:12:59 pm
Thanks Yotsuya.  I really appreciate that feedback since I tried really hard to have it both ways. :cheers: I wanted a frankenpanel that didn't look too frankeny if that makes sense.  You can't have a Tron cabinet without a Tron stick can you?    >:D

Yep. To me, it's all about theme and execution. That Tronstick works for me because of the lighting and design. The miniscreen works for me because it's under the plexi, like the table Dillinger used in the first movie. It all fits together and works.  :applaud:
Title: Re: Tron Legacy - Update 9/15/2014 - 97.4% Done!
Post by: Hoopz on September 16, 2014, 03:26:40 pm
Yep. To me, it's all about theme and execution. That Tronstick works for me because of the lighting and design. The miniscreen works for me because it's under the plexi, like the table Dillinger used in the first movie. It all fits together and works.  :applaud:
Desk.  Badass desk.
Title: Re: Tron Legacy - Update 9/15/2014 - 97.4% Done!
Post by: Hoopz on September 16, 2014, 03:43:46 pm
You still have time to add this stuff to the cabinet:

http://gizmodo.com/tronify-anything-with-this-new-colorful-glowing-thread-1635446074 (http://gizmodo.com/tronify-anything-with-this-new-colorful-glowing-thread-1635446074)
Title: Re: Tron Legacy - Update 9/15/2014 - 97.4% Done!
Post by: wp34 on September 16, 2014, 03:50:45 pm
You still have time to add this stuff to the cabinet:

http://gizmodo.com/tronify-anything-with-this-new-colorful-glowing-thread-1635446074 (http://gizmodo.com/tronify-anything-with-this-new-colorful-glowing-thread-1635446074)

Wow that would look awesome under clear T-molding.  Hmmm.....
Title: Re: Tron Legacy - Update 9/15/2014 - 97.4% Done!
Post by: PhoenixGG on September 17, 2014, 05:28:51 am
Just read the build and this cab is INSANE. That trackball lighting makes the whole cabinet.

 :notworthy: :notworthy:
Title: Re: Tron Legacy - Update 9/15/2014 - 97.4% Done!
Post by: BadMouth on September 17, 2014, 08:50:44 am
Looking awesome.  :notworthy:

Have you experimented with putting a blacklight near the white t-molding?
I'm thinking one on the ceiling in front of the cab might make it pop.

Any plans to light the buttons?
Of course that can always be done someday down the road.
Title: Re: Tron Legacy - Update 9/15/2014 - 97.4% Done!
Post by: wp34 on September 17, 2014, 10:08:50 am
Just read the build and this cab is INSANE. That trackball lighting makes the whole cabinet.

 :notworthy: :notworthy:

Thanks PhoenixGG.  The loop around the trackball took a while to figure out and I'm happy with how it looks.  At one point I was going to go with a black trackball but BadMouth talked me into lighting it up.   He was right of course. 


Looking awesome.  :notworthy:

Have you experimented with putting a blacklight near the white t-molding?
I'm thinking one on the ceiling in front of the cab might make it pop.

Any plans to light the buttons?
Of course that can always be done someday down the road.

I have not tried that but I do have a blacklight I can play with though.  Another good idea.   Thanks BadMouth.  :cheers: 

I'm undecided on lighting the buttons.  It would be cool to do and my kids would really appreciate it. But I like the clean even look of the light coming from the EL Panels.  I also like the look of the white buttons when it is turned off.  I suspect it is something I'll play with down the road.
Title: Re: Tron Legacy - Update 9/15/2014 - 97.4% Done!
Post by: AzureKnight on September 24, 2014, 02:16:25 pm

The Tron look is one of my favorite "styles".  You have done a fantastic job with it here.  This is one very nice looking machine, nice work.  :applaud:

I may steal your EL panel technique if my plexiglass design I'm working on fails. 

 :notworthy:
Title: Re: Tron Legacy - Update 9/15/2014 - 97.4% Done!
Post by: wp34 on September 24, 2014, 02:40:48 pm
Thanks AzureKnight.   :cheers:

Please do steal the idea.  I think it can be implemented better than I did---particularly with the use of a CNC.


The Tron look is one of my favorite "styles".  You have done a fantastic job with it here.  This is one very nice looking machine, nice work.  :applaud:

I may steal your EL panel technique if my plexiglass design I'm working on fails. 

 :notworthy:
Title: Re: Tron Legacy - Update 9/15/2014 - 97.4% Done!
Post by: ChanceKJ on September 24, 2014, 08:02:41 pm
I haven't congratulated you on the bad ass job you've done yet have I?   Seriously awesome. Love the attention to detail with this build.  :applaud:
Title: Re: Tron Legacy - Update 9/15/2014 - 97.4% Done!
Post by: wp34 on September 24, 2014, 09:58:56 pm
Thanks ChanceKJ.  It needs more Encom bling like your awesome cabinet. 

I haven't congratulated you on the bad ass job you've done yet have I?   Seriously awesome. Love the attention to detail with this build.  :applaud:
Title: Re: Tron Legacy - Update 9/15/2014 - 97.4% Done!
Post by: wp34 on September 24, 2014, 10:04:22 pm
The front-end is held together with spit and bailing wire but she survived the first party.   

Anybody else get nervous the first time a bunch of kids are around your cabinet?

Title: Re: Tron Legacy - Update 9/15/2014 - 97.4% Done!
Post by: DeLuSioNal29 on January 05, 2015, 10:57:19 pm
Did this cab ever get completed?
Title: Re: Tron Legacy - Update 9/15/2014 - 97.4% Done!
Post by: wp34 on January 05, 2015, 11:09:35 pm
Not yet.  I  still need to create the marquee artwork and wire up the marquee lights.  I also need to get the front-end completely configured and get the 2nd monitor working.

It is playable though.   >:D
Title: Re: Tron Legacy - Update 9/15/2014 - 97.4% Done!
Post by: yotsuya on January 05, 2015, 11:13:18 pm
Not yet.  I  still need to create the marquee artwork and wire up the marquee lights.  I also need to get the front-end completely configured and get the 2nd monitor working.

It is playable though.   >:D

Get this thing finished before December 31, 2015, will ya???    :cheers:
Title: Re: Tron Legacy - Update 9/15/2014 - 97.4% Done!
Post by: wp34 on January 05, 2015, 11:20:24 pm
Not yet.  I  still need to create the marquee artwork and wire up the marquee lights.  I also need to get the front-end completely configured and get the 2nd monitor working.

It is playable though.   >:D

Get this thing finished before December 31, 2015, will ya???    :cheers:

Word.   :cheers:
Title: Re: Tron Legacy - Update 9/15/2014 - 97.4% Done!
Post by: yotsuya on January 05, 2015, 11:21:10 pm
Good. I want to be the first one to nominate it next year.  :cheers:
Title: Re: Tron Legacy - Update 9/15/2014 - 97.4% Done!
Post by: bfauska on January 05, 2015, 11:47:35 pm
Not yet.
It is playable though.   >:D

Problem...
Cause.  :D

If only my unfinished projects ever looked this finished.

Nice cab.
Title: Re: Tron Legacy - Update 9/15/2014 - 97.4% Done!
Post by: wp34 on January 06, 2015, 10:54:02 am
Not yet.
It is playable though.   >:D

Problem...
Cause.  :D

If only my unfinished projects ever looked this finished.

Nice cab.

Thanks bfauska.  Making it playable has slowed me down but on the flip-side being able to play games whenever I want has re-invigorated me towards the hobby.  Having a working cabinet has been even more enjoyable than I'd hoped years ago when I was lurking on this site and dreaming of getting started on a build.


Title: Re: Tron Legacy - Update 9/15/2014 - 97.4% Done!
Post by: Hoopz on January 06, 2015, 11:00:09 am
Good. I want to be the first one to nominate it next year.  :cheers:
secondthird'ed.
Title: Re: Tron Legacy - Update 9/15/2014 - 97.4% Done!
Post by: yotsuya on January 06, 2015, 11:05:07 am
Good. I want to be the first one to nominate it next year.  :cheers:
secondthird'ed.
We're also going to allow forthfifthed and sixseventhed next year. But no eigthninth. We're not Communists.
Title: Re: Tron Legacy - Update 9/15/2014 - 97.4% Done!
Post by: Hoopz on January 06, 2015, 11:17:48 am
We're going to need a thread about the proper spelling of those terms.

Good. I want to be the first one to nominate it next year.  :cheers:
secondthird'ed.
We're also going to allow forthfifthed and sixseventhed next year. But no eigthninth. We're not Communists.
Title: Re: Tron Legacy - Update 9/15/2014 - 97.4% Done!
Post by: yotsuya on January 06, 2015, 11:29:03 am
We're going to need a thread about the proper spelling of those terms.

Good. I want to be the first one to nominate it next year.  :cheers:
secondthird'ed.
We're also going to allow forthfifthed and sixseventhed next year. But no eigthninth. We're not Communists.

I'm going to make a unilateral decision and state that forthfifthed should be changed to fourthfifthed and sixseventhed should be changed to sixthseventhed. No budge on eigthninth, tho.
Title: Re: Tron Legacy - Update 9/15/2014 - 97.4% Done!
Post by: Hoopz on January 06, 2015, 11:41:15 am
Just like that?  No discussion, no dialogue?

The kid's got balls, I'll tell ya that.

 :applaud:
Title: Re: Tron Legacy - Update 9/15/2014 - 97.4% Done!
Post by: jugger18 on January 13, 2015, 09:52:17 pm
Awesome build.  Just read the whole thread through.  You don't have to worry about timelines though.  You are a Chicago fan, there is always next year
Title: Re: Tron Legacy - Update 9/15/2014 - 97.4% Done!
Post by: wp34 on January 14, 2015, 08:25:13 am
Awesome build.  Just read the whole thread through.  You don't have to worry about timelines though.  You are a Chicago fan, there is always next year

Thanks man. 

Wait till next year.  The Cubs mantra.   :lol
Title: Re: Tron Legacy - Update 9/15/2014 - 97.4% Done!
Post by: taylormadelv on January 16, 2015, 12:59:37 pm
Just had to say something...This build is inspiring for me! I just love the light cutouts in the CP, totally awesome! I am not quite going that far with my current project but I will mimic this with GGG Spectra Eclipse buttons. :applaud:
Title: Re: Tron Legacy - Update 9/15/2014 - 97.4% Done!
Post by: wp34 on January 16, 2015, 01:14:35 pm
Just had to say something...This build is inspiring for me! I just love the light cutouts in the CP, totally awesome! I am not quite going that far with my current project but I will mimic this with GGG Spectra Eclipse buttons. :applaud:

Thanks man.  Sometimes I wish I hadn't gone quite that far.   ;D

My son had some friends over the other day to play games.  I wave a switch to turn on/off the EL lighting and they happened to be off at the time.  The surprised reactions when the lights came on did make it worthwhile. 
Title: Re: Tron Legacy - Update 9/15/2014 - 97.4% Done!
Post by: chrism on January 17, 2015, 08:28:07 am
I read your thread early this morning and getting dressed to go to town I realized I'd put on Tron black and blue... your machine was it my head.

Dude, your cab is awesome and 7? years into the build, you simply gotta finish it.

Hope that's soon.

Excellent work. Cheers
Title: Re: Tron Legacy - Update 9/15/2014 - 97.4% Done!
Post by: wp34 on January 17, 2015, 01:29:49 pm
I read your thread early this morning and getting dressed to go to town I realized I'd put on Tron black and blue... your machine was it my head.

Dude, your cab is awesome and 7? years into the build, you simply gotta finish it.

Hope that's soon.

Excellent work. Cheers

Thanks man.  I keep telling myself that I'm just amortizing the cost over more years by delaying.   >:D
Title: Re: Tron Legacy - Update 9/15/2014 - 97.4% Done!
Post by: n3wt0n on January 31, 2015, 10:29:31 am
I just finished reading through this thread and all I can say is WOW! The cab is beautiful and the lighting recreates the Tron feeling so well.  This build has everything and you documented it VERY well. Thank you for that.
Title: Re: Tron Legacy - Update 9/15/2014 - 97.4% Done!
Post by: wp34 on January 31, 2015, 04:49:35 pm
I just finished reading through this thread and all I can say is WOW! The cab is beautiful and the lighting recreates the Tron feeling so well.  This build has everything and you documented it VERY well. Thank you for that.

Thanks man I appreciate the comments.  It is sometimes hard to tell how much documenting is too much documenting so I'm real glad you found it worthwhile.
Title: Re: Tron Legacy - Update 9/15/2014 - 97.4% Done!
Post by: wp34 on February 24, 2015, 11:53:01 pm
The first step to knowing you have a problem is asking for help.  So I asked a buddy for help with my marquee.  Despite being a Packers fan he is a really great guy and he agreed to make the logo for me.  I'm trying to figure out how best to use the logo.

Here is my first draft.  Imagine that the white border does not extend to the left past the Encom logo.  I'm still struggling with how to make that work in Illustrator.

Any thoughts?

Title: Re: Tron Legacy - Update 2/25/2015 - Marquee Draft
Post by: n3wt0n on February 25, 2015, 12:17:24 am
Looks pretty good but leaves a lot of open black space to the left and the right.

If the Encom logo and the white outline overlap this may help.

In illustrator, select both paths that make up the Encom logo and the path that makes up the white outline. Then find pathfinder and use the divide tool. Then ungroup and you should be able to select the piece that you want to remove. Hit delete. I typically join the other parts back together with the combine function in pathfinder to prevent accidentally creating lines in my work but that's up to you.

Top notch build. I really love what you have done here.
Title: Re: Tron Legacy - Update 2/25/2015 - Marquee Draft
Post by: wp34 on February 25, 2015, 12:22:15 am
I agree with you about the black space. I'd like to fit an Identity Disc image in somehow but can't make it work.

I'll try your tip tomorrow. I fought with the Encom logo for over an hour tonight and finally gave up.

Thanks for the feedback.

Looks pretty good but leaves a lot of open black space to the left and the right.

If the Encom logo and the white outline overlap this may help.

In illustrator, select both paths that make up the Encom logo and the path that makes up the white outline. Then find pathfinder and use the divide tool. Then ungroup and you should be able to select the piece that you want to remove. Hit delete. I typically join the other parts back together with the combine function in pathfinder to prevent accidentally creating lines in my work but that's up to you.

Top notch build. I really love what you have done here.
Title: Re: Tron Legacy - Update 2/25/2015 - Marquee Draft
Post by: harveybirdman on February 25, 2015, 12:33:24 am
Do you know what kicks ass about your Tron themed build?

It  actualy has Tron controls on it!

I like the simple marquee,  understated is awesome considering everything that is glowing!
Title: Re: Tron Legacy - Update 2/25/2015 - Marquee Draft
Post by: wp34 on February 25, 2015, 12:44:54 am
Thanks man.  Discs of Tron has been surprisingly popular with my kids and their friends.  They love using the trigger stick and spinner.

Do you know what kicks ass about your Tron themed build?

It  actualy has Tron controls on it!

I like the simple marquee,  understated is awesome considering everything that is glowing!
Title: Re: Tron Legacy - Update 9/15/2014 - 97.4% Done!
Post by: rablack97 on February 25, 2015, 06:51:25 pm
The first step to knowing you have a problem is asking for help.  So I asked a buddy for help with my marquee.  Despite being a Packers fan he is a really great guy and he agreed to make the logo for me.  I'm trying to figure out how best to use the logo.

Here is my first draft.  Imagine that the white border does not extend to the left past the Encom logo.  I'm still struggling with how to make that work in Illustrator.

Any thoughts?

Boring, the marquee is boring.........

J/K looking good my man..... :applaud:
Title: Re: Tron Legacy - Update 9/15/2014 - 97.4% Done!
Post by: wp34 on February 25, 2015, 07:43:55 pm
The first step to knowing you have a problem is asking for help.  So I asked a buddy for help with my marquee.  Despite being a Packers fan he is a really great guy and he agreed to make the logo for me.  I'm trying to figure out how best to use the logo.

Here is my first draft.  Imagine that the white border does not extend to the left past the Encom logo.  I'm still struggling with how to make that work in Illustrator.

Any thoughts?


Boring, the marquee is boring.........

J/K looking good my man..... :applaud:

Ha ha.  I actually got a similar response from someone I showed it to.  Thanks man.   :cheers:
Title: Re: Tron Legacy - Update 2/25/2015 - Marquee Draft
Post by: wp34 on February 25, 2015, 08:11:46 pm
Here is another option I'm playing with.  I like that there are discs in the image but the logo had to be smaller to not cover their faces.

Title: Re: Tron Legacy - Update 2/25/2015 - Marquee Draft
Post by: Vigo on February 25, 2015, 08:40:10 pm
I agree with you about the black space. I'd like to fit an Identity Disc image in somehow but can't make it work.

I dunno, I think these Identity discs look rather lovely on the Marquee.  ;D
Title: Re: Tron Legacy - Update 2/25/2015 - Marquee Draft
Post by: harveybirdman on February 25, 2015, 08:46:58 pm
Don't get me wrong, I love me some Olivia Wilde, I mean who doesn't?  But if it were me (and it definitely isn't) I'd stick to something more subtle.
Title: Re: Tron Legacy - Update 2/25/2015 - Marquee Draft
Post by: wp34 on February 25, 2015, 09:02:38 pm
I walked in to that one.   :cheers:

Also you remind me how much I suck at Photoshop.   :banghead:

I agree with you about the black space. I'd like to fit an Identity Disc image in somehow but can't make it work.

I dunno, I think these Identity discs look rather lovely on the Marquee.  ;D
Title: Re: Tron Legacy - Update 2/25/2015 - Marquee Draft
Post by: wp34 on February 25, 2015, 09:06:11 pm
Don't get me wrong, I love me some Olivia Wilde, I mean who doesn't?  But if it were me (and it definitely isn't) I'd stick to something more subtle.

I see what you are saying.  There is one other "gaudy" image I may try but I'm leaning the simple direction.  I think the plain black background and white border will look nice with the black and white on my cabinet.  Tomorrow I'm going to print a test print on our large format printer at work and see how it looks on the cabinet. 


Title: Re: Tron Legacy - Update 2/25/2015 - Marquee Draft
Post by: yotsuya on February 25, 2015, 10:38:04 pm
I like it sans characters. 
Title: Re: Tron Legacy - Update 2/25/2015 - Marquee Draft
Post by: wp34 on February 25, 2015, 10:57:47 pm
I like it sans characters.

That's the feedback I'm getting in my house as well.  Everybody but the dog likes the simpler one.   ;D

My daughter made a great point that the one with the actor's pictures will date my cabinet much quicker.
Title: Re: Tron Legacy - Update 2/25/2015 - Marquee Draft
Post by: yotsuya on February 25, 2015, 11:00:58 pm
I like it sans characters.

That's the feedback I'm getting in my house as well.  Everybody but the dog likes the simpler one.   ;D

My daughter made a great point that the one with the actor's pictures will date my cabinet much quicker.

Your daughter should be here hanging out giving advice.  :cheers:
Title: Re: Tron Legacy - Update 2/25/2015 - Marquee Draft
Post by: wp34 on February 25, 2015, 11:09:21 pm
She might be a bit off-putting to some.  When she runs into a 4-way game in the wild that has an 8-way joystick installed she gets pissed.  Donkey Kong in-particular MUST have an original joystick.  Of course I love that about her. 

I like it sans characters.

That's the feedback I'm getting in my house as well.  Everybody but the dog likes the simpler one.   ;D

My daughter made a great point that the one with the actor's pictures will date my cabinet much quicker.

Your daughter should be here hanging out giving advice.  :cheers:
Title: Re: Tron Legacy - Update 2/25/2015 - Marquee Draft
Post by: yotsuya on February 25, 2015, 11:29:59 pm
She might be a bit off-putting to some.  When she runs into a 4-way game in the wild that has an 8-way joystick installed she gets pissed.  Donkey Kong in-particular MUST have an original joystick.  Of course I love that about her. 

http://youtu.be/q357cCcTYf8 (http://youtu.be/q357cCcTYf8)
Title: Re: Tron Legacy - Update 2/25/2015 - Marquee Draft
Post by: wp34 on February 25, 2015, 11:34:32 pm
She might be a bit off-putting to some.  When she runs into a 4-way game in the wild that has an 8-way joystick installed she gets pissed.  Donkey Kong in-particular MUST have an original joystick.  Of course I love that about her. 

http://youtu.be/q357cCcTYf8 (http://youtu.be/q357cCcTYf8)

 :cheers:
Title: Re: Tron Legacy - Update 2/25/2015 - Marquee Draft
Post by: Vigo on February 26, 2015, 01:28:25 am
Sounds like a chip off the block. Good to see youth with discerning tastes.  :cheers:
Title: Re: Tron Legacy - Update 2/25/2015 - Marquee Draft
Post by: wp34 on March 01, 2015, 11:20:51 pm
Thanks for the tips n3wt0n.  I tried but was unable to get this to work.  I ended up asking one of our art faculty at work to help me.  After watching her work for 45 minutes I have a new appreciation for artists and why good quality artwork is worth paying for.


Looks pretty good but leaves a lot of open black space to the left and the right.

If the Encom logo and the white outline overlap this may help.

In illustrator, select both paths that make up the Encom logo and the path that makes up the white outline. Then find pathfinder and use the divide tool. Then ungroup and you should be able to select the piece that you want to remove. Hit delete. I typically join the other parts back together with the combine function in pathfinder to prevent accidentally creating lines in my work but that's up to you.

Top notch build. I really love what you have done here.
Title: Re: Tron Legacy - Update 2/25/2015 - Marquee Draft
Post by: wp34 on March 01, 2015, 11:21:50 pm
Here are the samples I'm working off of currently.  I'm leaning towards A or B.

Thoughts?



Title: Re: Tron Legacy - Update 3/1/2015 - Marquee Draft
Post by: yotsuya on March 01, 2015, 11:30:49 pm
3, then 5.
Title: Re: Tron Legacy - Update 3/1/2015 - Marquee Draft
Post by: wp34 on March 01, 2015, 11:38:09 pm
3, then 5.

Interesting. I need to look at these some more.
Title: Re: Tron Legacy - Update 3/1/2015 - Marquee Draft
Post by: bfauska on March 02, 2015, 01:36:43 am
3 then 5 or 1
Title: Re: Tron Legacy - Update 3/1/2015 - Marquee Draft
Post by: wp34 on March 02, 2015, 11:19:54 am
Thanks for the feedback guys.  Is this too much?

Title: Re: Tron Legacy - Update 3/2/2015 - Marquee Feedback
Post by: yotsuya on March 02, 2015, 11:22:26 am
It's good. I'd keep characters off it, like your daughter recommended.
Title: Re: Tron Legacy - Update 3/1/2015 - Marquee Draft
Post by: bfauska on March 02, 2015, 01:21:22 pm
Thanks for the feedback guys.  Is this too much?
Seems like too much to me, but it's your cab.
I think the reason #3 was so appealing was the simplicity without being boring. 5 seems potentially busy and then adding the border takes it too far for me.
Title: Re: Tron Legacy - Update 3/1/2015 - Marquee Draft
Post by: wp34 on March 02, 2015, 02:23:33 pm
It seems a bit busy to me as well.  I'm in love with that border though because it was such a PITA to make. 

I just threw 3 & 5 together to have some variety before posting last night and at the time was really leaning towards #2.  I'm starting to like #3 best.  It is simple but not quite as plain as #2.

Thanks for the feedback guys.  Is this too much?
Seems like too much to me, but it's your cab.
I think the reason #3 was so appealing was the simplicity without being boring. 5 seems potentially busy and then adding the border takes it too far for me.
Title: Re: Tron Legacy - Update 3/2/2015 - Marquee Feedback
Post by: Hoopz on March 02, 2015, 02:30:03 pm
I'll vote 3, then 2.  I like something faint in the background.
Title: Re: Tron Legacy - Update 3/2/2015 - Marquee Feedback
Post by: yotsuya on March 02, 2015, 02:31:43 pm
Yeah, I think 3 meshes best with the overall cabinet. The cabinet itself looks like something out of the Tron universe, not just something simply branded as Tron.
Title: Re: Tron Legacy - Update 3/2/2015 - Marquee Feedback
Post by: wp34 on March 02, 2015, 02:46:28 pm
Thanks Hoopz and yotsuya.   I'm going to have a copy of #3 printed to see how it looks.
Title: Re: Tron Legacy - Update 3/2/2015 - Marquee Feedback
Post by: Hoopz on March 02, 2015, 03:00:58 pm
I know it's different than the rest, but what if the grid lines on #2 were either red or yellow?  NOT bright colors though.  Muted or ark enough that you'd have to look closely to see them.  I think the muted contrast would look nice.  Just a thought.

The lines remind me of the light cycles albeit in the original as I can't recall the sequel's lines. 
Title: Re: Tron Legacy - Update 3/2/2015 - Marquee Feedback
Post by: wp34 on March 02, 2015, 03:37:02 pm
I like that idea.  Having other colors would look better lit up as well.   The cabinet is only black/white and "Tron Blue/Green" though.  I may play with it tonight and see.

I know it's different than the rest, but what if the grid lines on #2 were either red or yellow?  NOT bright colors though.  Muted or ark enough that you'd have to look closely to see them.  I think the muted contrast would look nice.  Just a thought.

The lines remind me of the light cycles albeit in the original as I can't recall the sequel's lines.
Title: Re: Tron Legacy - Update 3/2/2015 - Marquee Feedback
Post by: Le Chuck on March 02, 2015, 04:18:43 pm
#3 FTW!
Title: Re: Tron Legacy - Update 3/2/2015 - Marquee Feedback
Post by: ChanceKJ on March 02, 2015, 07:13:23 pm
#4.

Your cab has a minimalistic feel. In a good way. Why over complicate it with anything other then minimalistic art. #4 is by far the best in my humble opinion.
Title: Re: Tron Legacy - Update 3/2/2015 - Marquee Feedback
Post by: ChanceKJ on March 02, 2015, 07:14:42 pm
Even #1 without the white lines or encom logo.


Title: Re: Tron Legacy - Update 3/2/2015 - Marquee Feedback
Post by: wp34 on March 02, 2015, 11:26:49 pm
Yeah, I think 3 meshes best with the overall cabinet. The cabinet itself looks like something out of the Tron universe, not just something simply branded as Tron.

You make a great point here.  #5 does look like I just slapped some Tron movie artwork on the cabinet.  If I had artwork on the side or CP to match it might make more sense. 

#4.

Your cab has a minimalistic feel. In a good way. Why over complicate it with anything other then minimalistic art. #4 is by far the best in my humble opinion.

Minimalist is the way to go I agree.  I'm just not sure how minimalist to go yet.  I do like the Encom logo and I'm really hoping that it will pop next to the white T-molding. 

I wasn't able to get to the printer today but hopefully I'll be able to get a couple of samples printed tomorrow.  Seeing them on the cabinet should help.

Thanks again for all the feedback.   :cheers:
Title: Re: Tron Legacy - Update 3/2/2015 - Marquee Feedback
Post by: Vigo on March 03, 2015, 12:31:52 am
I would agree 5 is too busy. You might be able to darken the area around the text to make it pop more.

I like 3, but I don't think it is quite there. Other than the coin door, I don't recall seeing rounded squares anywhere else on your cabinet... By chance did you try circular patterns?

I am personally thinking something inspired by the suits worn in tron legacy. Not that I am coming up with anything better, but here is a rough example of what I mean.


(http://forum.arcadecontrols.com/index.php?action=dlattach;topic=116519.0;attach=325176;image)
Title: Re: Tron Legacy - Update 3/2/2015 - Marquee Feedback
Post by: yotsuya on March 03, 2015, 12:34:30 am
(http://www.troll.me/images/kevin-hart-iz-mad/oooooooooooooo.jpg)
Title: Re: Tron Legacy - Update 3/2/2015 - Marquee Feedback
Post by: ChanceKJ on March 03, 2015, 12:38:40 am
Vigo, i like where you're going with that, but it just reminds me of the marquee on top of an Atari 720.

(http://i3.photobucket.com/albums/y85/jedidentist/720/IMG_108850.jpg)
Title: Re: Tron Legacy - Update 3/2/2015 - Marquee Feedback
Post by: wp34 on March 03, 2015, 12:47:57 am
Wow Vigo.  I like that.    Originally I was trying to mimic the Discs of Tron marquee and wanted to include an actual Identity Disc as it did.  I tried several variations with real discs but didn't like any of them.   You might be on to something with the shapes. 

 :cheers:

I would agree 5 is too busy. You might be able to darken the area around the text to make it pop more.

I like 3, but I don't think it is quite there. Other than the coin door, I don't recall seeing rounded squares anywhere else on your cabinet... By chance did you try circular patterns?

I am personally thinking something inspired by the suits worn in tron legacy. Not that I am coming up with anything better, but here is a rough example of what I mean.


(http://forum.arcadecontrols.com/index.php?action=dlattach;topic=116519.0;attach=325176;image)
Title: Re: Tron Legacy - Update 3/2/2015 - Marquee Feedback
Post by: bfauska on March 03, 2015, 01:13:01 am
Vigo's is pretty nice.
I also want to point out we are all a bunch of dummies. His original samples were all titled... A, B, C, D, E not one of us could avoid using numbers instead.
Title: Re: Tron Legacy - Update 3/2/2015 - Marquee Feedback
Post by: ChanceKJ on March 03, 2015, 01:22:37 am
I also want to point out we are all a bunch of dummies. His original samples were all titled... A, B, C, D, E not one of us could avoid using numbers instead.

Oh, i saw that.  However i play by my own rules...

(http://annakie.com/cpg/albums/userpics/10002/Drop-the-mic.gif)
Title: Re: Tron Legacy - Update 3/2/2015 - Marquee Feedback
Post by: Hoopz on March 03, 2015, 08:13:48 am
I like Vigo's also, but I think the white needs to be dimmer.  It overpowers the blue and draws the eye away from the name.  I think the blue needs to pop but I wouldn't brighten it up.  Mute the white.
Title: Re: Tron Legacy - Update 3/2/2015 - Marquee Feedback
Post by: ChanceKJ on March 03, 2015, 12:36:36 pm
I like Vigo's also, but I think the white needs to be dimmer.  It overpowers the blue and draws the eye away from the name.  I think the blue needs to pop but I wouldn't brighten it up.  Mute the white.

This.

...man, Hoopz IS right.
Title: Re: Tron Legacy - Update 3/2/2015 - Marquee Feedback
Post by: Hoopz on March 03, 2015, 12:40:03 pm
I like Vigo's also, but I think the white needs to be dimmer.  It overpowers the blue and draws the eye away from the name.  I think the blue needs to pop but I wouldn't brighten it up.  Mute the white.

This.

...man, Hoopz IS right.

George Goes Out On A High Note (http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=8YaaZZN9VYs#)
Title: Re: Tron Legacy - Update 3/2/2015 - Marquee Feedback
Post by: wp34 on March 03, 2015, 10:35:37 pm
Well my family really, really likes Vigo's example.  I spent a little time trying to recreate it tonight but didn't get far.  I'll work on it some more later this week.  Also I sent B and C (or is it 2 and 3  ;D ) to the printer at work today.

I also want to point out we are all a bunch of dummies. His original samples were all titled... A, B, C, D, E not one of us could avoid using numbers instead.

Oh, i saw that.  However i play by my own rules...

(http://annakie.com/cpg/albums/userpics/10002/Drop-the-mic.gif)

My wife laughed out loud when she saw this.  I don't think she had ever seen anything like it and is a huge Parks and Rec fan.
Title: Re: Tron Legacy - CP Started 10/6/2013
Post by: wp34 on March 04, 2015, 11:22:44 pm
My samples came back today.  I was about 1/8" off in my width but better to find that out now.  The top one looks better to me.

I had trouble getting good pictures but I like the look of it IRL.

(http://forum.arcadecontrols.com/index.php?action=dlattach;topic=136713.0;attach=325381;image)

(http://forum.arcadecontrols.com/index.php?action=dlattach;topic=136713.0;attach=325373;image)

(http://forum.arcadecontrols.com/index.php?action=dlattach;topic=136713.0;attach=325389;image)

(http://forum.arcadecontrols.com/index.php?action=dlattach;topic=136713.0;attach=325391;image)

(http://forum.arcadecontrols.com/index.php?action=dlattach;topic=136713.0;attach=325393;image)
Title: Re: Tron Legacy - Update 3/2/2015 - Marquee Feedback
Post by: yotsuya on March 05, 2015, 12:19:59 am
Beautiful, man. Beautiful.
Title: Re: Tron Legacy - Update 3/2/2015 - Marquee Feedback
Post by: harveybirdman on March 05, 2015, 12:34:02 am
 :applaud:
Title: Re: Tron Legacy - Update 3/2/2015 - Marquee Feedback
Post by: bfauska on March 05, 2015, 01:51:40 am
Looks real good. Nice job.
Title: Re: Tron Legacy - Update 3/2/2015 - Marquee Feedback
Post by: Hoopz on March 05, 2015, 09:51:10 am
Looks awesome.  :applaud:   And you suck.
Title: Re: Tron Legacy - Update 3/2/2015 - Marquee Feedback
Post by: jdbailey1206 on March 05, 2015, 09:57:25 am
(http://tattletailzz.com/wp-content/uploads/2014/07/GlTwCV.gif)
Title: Re: Tron Legacy - Update 3/2/2015 - Marquee Feedback
Post by: Vigo on March 05, 2015, 10:02:35 am
:cheers: Looks great.............................................even if you are a closet Vikings fan.


 

Title: Re: Tron Legacy - Update 3/2/2015 - Marquee Feedback
Post by: ChanceKJ on March 05, 2015, 10:03:24 am
 :applaud:
Title: Re: Tron Legacy - Update 3/2/2015 - Marquee Feedback
Post by: Hoopz on March 05, 2015, 10:06:28 am
:cheers: Looks great.............................................even if you are a closet Vikings fan.
#1 - stalker much?   :applaud:
#2 - Nobody is a Viqueens fan.  Not even the (other) clowns in Minnesota.   ;D
Title: Re: Tron Legacy - Update 3/2/2015 - Marquee Feedback
Post by: wp34 on March 05, 2015, 10:23:15 am
:cheers: Looks great.............................................even if you are a closet Vikings fan.

That is hilarious.  You made my day.   :cheers:

http://www.gvvikings.com/ (http://www.gvvikings.com/)

My kids wear them to the games.
Title: Re: Tron Legacy - Update 3/2/2015 - Marquee Feedback
Post by: wp34 on March 05, 2015, 10:29:52 am

#2 - Nobody is a Viqueens fan.  Not even the (other) clowns in Minnesota.   ;D

Word.
Title: Re: Tron Legacy - Update 3/2/2015 - Marquee Feedback
Post by: Vigo on March 05, 2015, 10:35:37 am
#1 - stalker much?   :applaud:

Corner of my eye....  :lol



#2 - Nobody is a Viqueens fan.  Not even the (other) clowns in Minnesota.   ;D

Word.

No joke, MN is becoming peppered with Bears and Packers Fans who converted simply because they couldn't handle being a vikings fan. I've seen 3 converts this season alone. For the record, I've never come across anyone who converted to a Lions fan.
Title: Re: Tron Legacy - Update 3/2/2015 - Marquee Feedback
Post by: BorgDog on March 05, 2015, 10:45:34 am
Now that's just wrong to become a Bears or Packers fan.  I can see if you totally become a fan of a team far away (I converted to Eagles fan growing up in MN back in the Jaws, Montgomery, Carmichael, Quick days).  Of course a lot of the MN town I grew up in became Packers fan because one of the locals played middle linebacker for them for a couple years, that at least is excusable.
Title: Re: Tron Legacy - Update 3/2/2015 - Marquee Feedback
Post by: Hoopz on March 05, 2015, 10:51:34 am
Of course a lot of the MN town I grew up in became Packers fan because one of the locals played middle linebacker for them for a couple years, that at least is excusable.
Nope.  If one of my kids played for the Packers, I'd root for them while they played.  After that, I'd root for them to never win another game ever.  EVER.  Heck, I'd probably root for them to play well but the team to lose.  Probably.

My inlaws are huge ND fans but when my youngest sister in law went to Florida State, they started rooting for them?  HELLO??? Do you not remember the early 90s?  WTF?  The NFL's commercial about the Viqueens fans who had kids who married fans of other teams, after moving or whatever, makes my physically ill.  Children get disowned and written out of wills for crap like that.

Yes, I'm completely serious.
Title: Re: Tron Legacy - Update 3/2/2015 - Marquee Feedback
Post by: wp34 on March 05, 2015, 10:58:03 am
Of course a lot of the MN town I grew up in became Packers fan because one of the locals played middle linebacker for them for a couple years, that at least is excusable.
Nope.  If one of my kids played for the Packers, I'd root for them while they played.  After that, I'd root for them to never win another game ever.  EVER.  Heck, I'd probably root for them to play well but the team to lose.  Probably.


Quoted for truth. My son asked me this question once and this is pretty much the answer I gave.

Kyle Orton is from around here and we rooted for every team he played for (except the Cowboys) but only while he was with the team.
Title: Re: Tron Legacy - Update 3/2/2015 - Marquee Feedback
Post by: Hoopz on March 14, 2015, 09:30:42 pm
TL:DR version:  he voted for #3 also.
Title: Re: Tron Legacy - Update 3/2/2015 - Marquee Feedback
Post by: abkaz on March 14, 2015, 11:05:29 pm
Awesome build. I'm not sure how I missed the mini display in the CP. We're doing something similar in our current build but we're putting ours below the main screen. How's the viewing angle on yours?
Title: Re: Tron Legacy - Update 3/2/2015 - Marquee Feedback
Post by: wp34 on March 14, 2015, 11:35:49 pm
TL:DR version:  he voted for #3 also.

 :laugh2:

Awesome build. I'm not sure how I missed the mini display in the CP. We're doing something similar in our current build but we're putting ours below the main screen. How's the viewing angle on yours?

Thanks.  So far I haven't noticed any viewing angle issues.
Title: Re: Tron Legacy - Update 3/2/2015 - Marquee Feedback
Post by: Pinfritz on June 18, 2015, 05:31:24 pm
Awesome build! Looks really great!!!! :applaud: :applaud:
Title: Re: Tron Legacy - Update 3/2/2015 - Marquee Feedback
Post by: wp34 on June 18, 2015, 06:07:21 pm
Awesome build! Looks really great!!!! :applaud: :applaud:

Thanks!

You reminded me I need to post some updates soon.
Title: Re: Tron Legacy - Update 3/2/2015 - Marquee Feedback
Post by: Pinfritz on June 18, 2015, 06:24:56 pm
can you tell and show a little bit more about the smaller monitor....what is the purpose of it?

?
Title: Re: Tron Legacy - Update 3/2/2015 - Marquee Feedback
Post by: wp34 on June 18, 2015, 06:26:29 pm
My plan for the second monitor is to have it display instructions for each game.  It isn't quite working 100% however.  Maybe like 24.6%.
Title: Re: Tron Legacy - Update 3/2/2015 - Marquee Feedback
Post by: ChanceKJ on June 18, 2015, 11:40:09 pm
One of those "Software is never done" kinda things?
Title: Re: Tron Legacy - Update 3/2/2015 - Marquee Feedback
Post by: n3wt0n on June 19, 2015, 08:05:05 am
Good choice on the marquee. The artwork is clean and understated but fits the cab perfectly. You now have one of my favorite cabs on the site because you picked a Tron theme and knocked it out of the park. Also, the work you did with the EL was out of the box and looks fantastic. Congratulations. I will definitely be looking for this cabinet when nominations come around this year.

 :applaud:
Title: Re: Tron Legacy - Update 3/2/2015 - Marquee Feedback
Post by: wp34 on March 15, 2016, 01:40:26 pm
I ended up not being happy with the marquee and set the whole thing aside for a while to work on other projects.  Turns out I didn't take too many pictures of the old marquee but I did find this one I took to show my friend I had framed their "Flynn's Arcade" Christmas present.  You can see the blacks are dull and washed out.  Also I didn't account for the marquee holders and they ended up covering up part of the white border.

(http://forum.arcadecontrols.com/index.php?action=dlattach;topic=149895.0;attach=345365;image)

Vigo put together an example earlier in this thread which I really liked.  I couldn't quite mimic Vigo's design but I was able to fumble together a similar version that incorporated the identity discs.  In order to do that I had to give up the Encom logo as it was just way to busy with the new design.
(http://forum.arcadecontrols.com/index.php?action=dlattach;topic=149895.0;attach=345373;image)


I really liked the deep black that rablack97 showed in his awesome Mortal Kombat (http://forum.arcadecontrols.com/index.php/topic,147663.msg1558849.html#msg1558849) marquee and decided to use his same vendor - HollywoodMarquee's.  As he mentioned in his thread they reverse print your image on the back giving it the same effect as the back-lit posters you see at the theater.

The cabinet is in a bad spot to get daylight pictures but here goes.
(http://forum.arcadecontrols.com/index.php?action=dlattach;topic=149895.0;attach=345369;image)

Pictures do not do it justice but it looks pretty spectacular lit up.
(http://forum.arcadecontrols.com/index.php?action=dlattach;topic=149895.0;attach=345367;image)

There was some light leakage on the ends and painting the ends with a black Sharpie seemed to help.
(http://forum.arcadecontrols.com/index.php?action=dlattach;topic=149895.0;attach=345371;image)

Now I'm back to working on the second monitor.  I have Hyperspin working but can't decide if I like it so I've been playing with AttractMode.  Once I get the front end and second monitor working we can call this one finally done.
Title: Re: Tron Legacy - Update 3/15/2016 - Marquee Done
Post by: harveybirdman on March 15, 2016, 02:03:37 pm
FANTASTIC!!!!!!

 :cheers:

 :applaud: :applaud: :applaud:
Title: Re: Tron Legacy - Update 3/15/2016 - Marquee Done
Post by: fablog on March 15, 2016, 06:11:39 pm
I love your marquee!
Title: Re: Tron Legacy - Update 3/15/2016 - Marquee Done
Post by: yotsuya on March 15, 2016, 06:23:37 pm
The deep blacks look great on that marquee.
Title: Re: Tron Legacy - Update 3/15/2016 - Marquee Done
Post by: wp34 on March 15, 2016, 08:52:24 pm
Thanks guys.  Feels nice to finally be in the homestretch.

Title: Re: Tron Legacy - Update 3/2/2015 - Marquee Feedback
Post by: Aceldamor on March 15, 2016, 11:53:34 pm
Vigo, i like where you're going with that, but it just reminds me of the marquee on top of an Atari 720.

(http://i3.photobucket.com/albums/y85/jedidentist/720/IMG_108850.jpg)



I hear Yot's heavy breathing from here....word is he's upped the price from an arm to a leg (and possibly one of his nads) to get his hands on one of these.
Title: Re: Tron Legacy - Update 3/15/2016 - Marquee Done
Post by: yotsuya on March 16, 2016, 01:33:11 am
Vigo, i like where you're going with that, but it just reminds me of the marquee on top of an Atari 720.

(http://i3.photobucket.com/albums/y85/jedidentist/720/IMG_108850.jpg)



I hear Yot's heavy breathing from here....word is he's upped the price from an arm to a leg (and possibly one of his nads) to get his hands on one of these.
I already have spread my seed, so testicles are kinda redundant now...
Title: Re: Tron Legacy - Update 3/15/2016 - Marquee Done
Post by: Vigo on March 17, 2016, 01:35:00 pm
Thanks guys.  Feels nice to finally be in the homestretch.

Nice!! I love how you upped the look on that marquee. Great improvement. Can't wait to see the final product.  :cheers:
Title: Re: Tron Legacy - Update 3/15/2016 - Marquee Done
Post by: wp34 on March 17, 2016, 07:20:55 pm
Thanks guys.  Feels nice to finally be in the homestretch.

Nice!! I love how you upped the look on that marquee. Great improvement. Can't wait to see the final product.  :cheers:

Thanks Vigo.  One of the ideas you threw my way inspired the final version.   :cheers:
Title: Re: Tron Legacy - Update 3/2/2015 - Marquee Feedback
Post by: wp34 on March 22, 2016, 09:29:21 pm
Success!  Sort of.

As part of getting the 2nd monitor to work I was also configuring a faster XP machine to swap out.  I had both Hyperspin and AttractMode working with a newer version of MAME.  Once I installed the GroovyMame video drivers I started having trouble with AttractMode.  Hyperspin started acting up as well but I don't think that is related to the GM.  So long story short after a couple of days fighting this and other software issues I decided to punt and use my original PC.  Mala was working on it just fine and all I needed to do was get the 2nd monitor working. 

I'm using CPWizard to display the controls on the 2nd monitor.  For the most part it is working very well but I'm now having focus issues with Mala and MAME which I was not having previously.  These only seem to occur on bootup. 

(http://forum.arcadecontrols.com/index.php?action=dlattach;topic=149895.0;attach=345753;image)

In the meantime I also cleaned up some wiring in the cabinet and wired the coin doors to take tokens.  At this point I'm debating turning the $.25 button into a pause button so it is more authentic.   ;D





Title: Re: Tron Legacy - Update 3/15/2016 - Marquee Done
Post by: yotsuya on March 22, 2016, 09:55:30 pm
Looking good. Get it done!
Title: Re: Tron Legacy - Update 3/15/2016 - Marquee Done
Post by: wp34 on March 22, 2016, 09:59:44 pm
Looking good. Get it done!

Thanks!  Getting really close. 
Title: Re: Tron Legacy - Update 3/15/2016 - Marquee Done
Post by: yotsuya on March 22, 2016, 10:03:26 pm
Looking good. Get it done!

Thanks!  Getting really close.

Good. Start saving those pennies for ZapCon '17, too!
Title: Re: Tron Legacy - Update 3/15/2016 - Marquee Done
Post by: wp34 on March 22, 2016, 10:10:48 pm
I'm going to be in Denver that Sunday for a conference.  Actually looked into flying in to Phoenix on Friday but my daughter has her senior prom on that Saturday and I want to be around since it is the last one.  Maybe next year.

Looking good. Get it done!

Thanks!  Getting really close.

Good. Start saving those pennies for ZapCon '17, too!
Title: Re: Tron Legacy - Update 3/15/2016 - Marquee Done
Post by: yotsuya on March 22, 2016, 10:12:20 pm
I'm going to be in Denver that Sunday for a conference.  Actually looked into flying in to Phoenix on Friday but my daughter has her senior prom on that Saturday and I want to be around since it is the last one.  Maybe next year.

Looking good. Get it done!

Thanks!  Getting really close.

Good. Start saving those pennies for ZapCon '17, too!
Damn. You were the last one on my personal "bros I would love to hang out with in real life" list.

Let's count on it for '17.
Title: Re: Tron Legacy - Update 3/15/2016 - Marquee Done
Post by: wp34 on March 22, 2016, 10:19:03 pm
I wish it would have worked out.  It looks like you have a nice time planned out.   :cheers: 
Title: Re: Tron Legacy - Update 3/15/2016 - Marquee Done
Post by: thagerty on April 10, 2016, 10:49:10 pm
Beautiful build.

Question about CP Wizard....   

I have a pinball and arcade combination cabinet that I play both pinball and MAME on. I have 4 "screens" (my 3rd screen is split in two via a bezel), with the top portion displaying MAME logo, and the bottom portion is not really used, so I just have a Pinball X logo there. Picture and video demo to illustrate:

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=c11Vhd-136k (https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=c11Vhd-136k)

(http://i92.photobucket.com/albums/l34/thagerty/MAME%20PinKadia.jpg) (http://s92.photobucket.com/user/thagerty/media/MAME%20PinKadia.jpg.html)


I use Pinball X as my front-end which can display whatever I want for pictures or video on the backglass and DMD screens before and after MAME is launched.

Is it easy to get CP Wizard to either:

-display a control panel pic / instructions when a specific MAME game is launched to automatically display to any other screen and at any size you want? (windowed or full screen?)

or

-automatically create pictures of control panel / instructions for each game to be displayed by Pinball X while browsing / playing games.

Any info is helpful...
Title: Re: Tron Legacy - Update 3/15/2016 - Marquee Done
Post by: wp34 on April 11, 2016, 12:04:20 pm
Is it easy to get CP Wizard to either:

-display a control panel pic / instructions when a specific MAME game is launched to automatically display to any other screen and at any size you want? (windowed or full screen?)

or

-automatically create pictures of control panel / instructions for each game to be displayed by Pinball X while browsing / playing games.

Any info is helpful...

I'm not an expert on CPWizard so you may want to post your questions in the Software Forum.  CPWizard will display a Control Panel and/or various information including instructions to the secondary monitor of your choice.  CPWizard talks to MAME and only displays the information after you launch a game.  As far as I know it will does not interact with the FE so you cannot display information while browsing your games.
Title: Re: Tron Legacy - Update 3/15/2016 - Marquee Done
Post by: wemr97dl on April 11, 2016, 11:24:02 pm
You can try CPWIZBIZ

https://cpwizbiz.codeplex.com/

I haven't tried it yet but will be soon it might be what your looking for
Title: Re: Tron Legacy - Update 3/15/2016 - Marquee Done
Post by: thagerty on April 18, 2016, 10:44:55 pm
Thanks for the help guys.... exactly what I needed to know.

CP Wizard allows you to do a batch creation of custom Control Panel pictures for each MAME game automatically (and per type of control, etc) and have them named to match the game rom. This works perfect for my setup as the pictures of the control panels for each game will display on my middle screen and continue to display after the game is launched....   no need for CP Wizard to run at all in the background this way (I don't need its other functions)... Perfect!

Wish I discovered that you can also create marquee pictures automatically this way with CP Wizard as well instead of my awkward method which was manually done. It took days to create 2700 marquee backglass pictures that way!  :(
Title: Re: Tron Legacy - Update 3/15/2016 - Marquee Done
Post by: wp34 on May 03, 2016, 11:09:07 pm
I'm still fighting Mala.  My problem appears to be a little different than others I've seen reported although Mala and "focus" seem to go together like peanut butter and chocolate. 

If I set Mala to start on bootup the first game I play will not gain focus.  You can see Mala in the background and the Mame dos command window in foreground.  If I alt-tab to the Mame window and exit my game everything functions as normal from there on.  This problem only appears to pop-up if I have Mala start on bootup.

Has anybody else run into this?

Title: Re: Tron Legacy - Update 3/15/2016 - Marquee Done
Post by: dmckean on May 03, 2016, 11:23:34 pm
I'm still fighting Mala.  My problem appears to be a little different than others I've seen reported although Mala and "focus" seem to go together like peanut butter and chocolate. 

If I set Mala to start on bootup the first game I play will not gain focus.  You can see Mala in the background and the Mame dos command window in foreground.  If I alt-tab to the Mame window and exit my game everything functions as normal from there on.  This problem only appears to pop-up if I have Mala start on bootup.

Has anybody else run into this?

I know I have seen that too, but it's been long enough now that I don't remember a specific fix. Since MaLa is fairly quick to setup, my strategy for troubleshooting issues was just to make a new instance of MaLa and set it up again making a few changes at a time until it eventually broke so I would know which setting was giving me problems.
Title: Re: Tron Legacy - Update 05/03/2016 - Mala Woes
Post by: wp34 on May 03, 2016, 11:29:09 pm
What's odd is that it was working fine literally for years if I just started it manually.  Once I tried to have it launch on bootup I started having problems.

I guess I could try a fresh install with no modifications and see if the problem occurs on bootup.
Title: Re: Tron Legacy - Update 05/03/2016 - Mala Woes
Post by: dmckean on May 03, 2016, 11:32:32 pm
I find MaLa really finicky. Nothing else is both simple and has all the features I want though.
Title: Re: Tron Legacy - Update 05/03/2016 - Mala Woes
Post by: wp34 on May 04, 2016, 09:16:37 am
I find MaLa really finicky. Nothing else is both simple and has all the features I want though.

I feel the same way and you are dead on about it being finicky.
Title: Re: Tron Legacy - Update 05/03/2016 - Mala Woes
Post by: rablack97 on May 08, 2016, 10:43:55 pm
What program are you using to boot it with or are you just shelling MALA itself.

You might look into some autohotkey scripts that pause the boot until all the background loading of everything else is done and then have it load MALA, there's scripts that will tell it to focus back to MALA.

Try instantsheller as well, i use that on all of my rigs, and when something doesnt act right i create a AHK script the executes the front end and then boot that through instantsheller.

Title: Re: Tron Legacy - Update 05/03/2016 - Mala Woes
Post by: wp34 on May 08, 2016, 10:53:18 pm
What program are you using to boot it with or are you just shelling MALA itself.

You might look into some autohotkey scripts that pause the boot until all the background loading of everything else is done and then have it load MALA, there's scripts that will tell it to focus back to MALA.

Try instantsheller as well, i use that on all of my rigs, and when something doesnt act right i create a AHK script the executes the front end and then boot that through instantsheller.

I tried a 3rd party app (can't recall the name right now) that allowed me to delay each program that runs on startup.   I've tried letting Mala start itself as well as put it in the startup folder.  All gave me the same problem.

Right now I'm fiddling with GameEX.  If I hit a dead-end with it I'll give instantsheller a shot.  Thanks!
Title: Re: Tron Legacy - Update 3/15/2016 - Marquee Done
Post by: Vidiot on May 09, 2016, 12:52:30 pm
I'm still fighting Mala.  My problem appears to be a little different than others I've seen reported although Mala and "focus" seem to go together like peanut butter and chocolate. 

If I set Mala to start on bootup the first game I play will not gain focus.  You can see Mala in the background and the Mame dos command window in foreground.  If I alt-tab to the Mame window and exit my game everything functions as normal from there on.  This problem only appears to pop-up if I have Mala start on bootup.

Has anybody else run into this?

 Under the MAME Basics tab try changing the DOS window state to "minimized".
Title: Re: Tron Legacy - Update 3/15/2016 - Marquee Done
Post by: wp34 on May 09, 2016, 03:39:16 pm
I did try that option but it didn't help.  I also tried the "focuslogger" plug-in but that caused Mala to crash.  Thanks Vidiot.

I'm still fighting Mala.  My problem appears to be a little different than others I've seen reported although Mala and "focus" seem to go together like peanut butter and chocolate. 

If I set Mala to start on bootup the first game I play will not gain focus.  You can see Mala in the background and the Mame dos command window in foreground.  If I alt-tab to the Mame window and exit my game everything functions as normal from there on.  This problem only appears to pop-up if I have Mala start on bootup.

Has anybody else run into this?

 Under the MAME Basics tab try changing the DOS window state to "minimized".