The NEW Build Your Own Arcade Controls

Main => Project Announcements => Topic started by: obizues on May 06, 2018, 01:36:13 am

Title: First Cabinet Build: I have no idea what I'm doing
Post by: obizues on May 06, 2018, 01:36:13 am
So I figure it's fair to announce my project now. 

I don't remember ever making something with my hands besides a birdhouse when I was 10 in school, so this will be interesting.

I spent some time teaching myself 3D modeling basics.. and now I just need to put tools to wood!  I know I'll need a lot of help, so please feel free to offer advice and constructive criticism!

Goals:
4-Player Cabinet
32" LCD
Fully lit Joysticks and Buttons with Trackball
Functioning Coin Slots
Built in Audio
Custom Graphics
Lit Marquee
T-Molding
Control Audio while Playing
Easy access to computer
Single button turn on/off
Idle Display Mode
Make all cabinet plans in a 3D modeling program to share with community.


People whose ideas influenced me:
Arroyo - So many questions about everything, answered them and helped me a ton!
ChanceKJ - The cabinet shape
jarrett - Super large control panel layout concept I "borrowed" (read: stole) a lot of info from.
...more to come
Title: Re: First Cabinet Build: I have no idea what I'm doing
Post by: PL1 on May 06, 2018, 02:31:26 am
*** Cue the obligatory reminder about angled sticks for P3/P4. ***

Green = good.  Red = bad.

(https://web.archive.org/web/20150625124703im_/http://newwiki.arcadecontrols.com/images/thumb/d/da/StraightAndAngledSticks.jpg/800px-StraightAndAngledSticks.jpg)

https://web.archive.org/web/20160809113045/http://newwiki.arcadecontrols.com/index.php?title=FAQ#Orientation (https://web.archive.org/web/20160809113045/http://newwiki.arcadecontrols.com/index.php?title=FAQ#Orientation)


Scott
Title: Re: First Cabinet Build: I have no idea what I'm doing
Post by: obizues on May 06, 2018, 02:47:34 am
*** Cue the obligatory reminder about angled sticks for P3/P4. ***

Green = good.  Red = bad.

(https://web.archive.org/web/20150625124703im_/http://newwiki.arcadecontrols.com/images/thumb/d/da/StraightAndAngledSticks.jpg/800px-StraightAndAngledSticks.jpg)

https://web.archive.org/web/20160809113045/http://newwiki.arcadecontrols.com/index.php?title=FAQ#Orientation (https://web.archive.org/web/20160809113045/http://newwiki.arcadecontrols.com/index.php?title=FAQ#Orientation)


Scott

Thanks for info!  Why are the buttons so low though?  Shouldn’t they be up higher?
Title: Re: First Cabinet Build: I have no idea what I'm doing
Post by: PL1 on May 06, 2018, 04:28:26 am
Why are the buttons so low though?  Shouldn’t they be up higher?
That diagram is only intended to show angled vs. non-angled sticks.

Arrange the buttons however you like -- see slagcoin (http://slagcoin.com/joystick/layout.html) for a variety of layouts.   :cheers:

Test the layout and spacing with a cardboard/hardboard control panel mockup FTW.

Also the distance/angle of the monitor looks a bit close and upright for a 4 player setup.   :dunno

If you haven't read the FAQ yet, check out What type of build meets my needs? (https://web.archive.org/web/20160809113045/http://newwiki.arcadecontrols.com/index.php?title=FAQ#What_type_of_build_meets_my_needs.3F)


Scott
P.S. If you like dual-joystick games like Smash TV or Karate Champ (partial list here (https://web.archive.org/web/20150625045806/http://newwiki.arcadecontrols.com:80/index.php?title=Joysticks#Games_with_Dual_Joysticks)), you might want all four sticks in a horizontal line for two-player dual-joystick fun.
Title: Re: First Cabinet Build: I have no idea what I'm doing
Post by: obizues on May 06, 2018, 09:16:46 am
That diagram is only intended to show angled vs. non-angled sticks.
So I could keep my panel layout, just make sure when I cut the recessed areas for the joysticks the are straight?

Arrange the buttons however you like -- see slagcoin (http://slagcoin.com/joystick/layout.html) for a variety of layouts.   :cheers:
Yeah, I used slag coin for those spacings.

Also the distance/angle of the monitor looks a bit close and upright for a 4 player setup.   :dunno
Is there a usually distance you want your sticks or buttons from the monitor?  Or are you suggesting I bring out the length of the cp support and angle the screen more?

Is there an angle, or best practice for this?

If you haven't read the FAQ yet, check out What type of build meets my needs? (https://web.archive.org/web/20160809113045/http://newwiki.arcadecontrols.com/index.php?title=FAQ#What_type_of_build_meets_my_needs.3F)
Reading right now.

P.S. If you like dual-joystick games like Smash TV or Karate Champ (partial list here (https://web.archive.org/web/20150625045806/http://newwiki.arcadecontrols.com:80/index.php?title=Joysticks#Games_with_Dual_Joysticks)), you might want all four sticks in a horizontal line for two-player dual-joystick fun.

I’ve never heard of this but I’ll look into it. Are those unplayavle at an angle?


What do people add the extra arcade sticks for in the center area by the master buttons?

I’ll add my 2D drawing of my CP so it’s easier to see the measurements as well.

Thanks for all the insight!!
Title: Re: First Cabinet Build: I have no idea what I'm doing
Post by: luizw81 on May 06, 2018, 01:42:22 pm


I’ve never heard of this but I’ll look into it. Are those unplayavle at an angle?

[/quote]

Unplayable no, but it does take a lot of getting use to

[/quote]

What do people add the extra arcade sticks for in the center area by the master buttons?

[/quote]

Most often the are dedicated 4 way sticks for games like Pacman.  You could just as easily by switchable sticks.  I have Magstick plus' on my cab so all I have to do is pull up and turn to switch between 4 and 8 way.

Sent from my SM-J320R4 using Tapatalk
Title: Re: First Cabinet Build: I have no idea what I'm doing
Post by: PL1 on May 06, 2018, 03:05:11 pm
That diagram is only intended to show angled vs. non-angled sticks.
So I could keep my panel layout, just make sure when I cut the recessed areas for the joysticks the are straight?
Yes.  You can shift the joysticks left/right/up/down as desired as long as they are straight like the green sticks and not turned at an angle like the red stick.

Also the distance/angle of the monitor looks a bit close and upright for a 4 player setup.   :dunno
Is there a usually distance you want your sticks or buttons from the monitor?  Or are you suggesting I bring out the length of the cp support and angle the screen more?

Is there an angle, or best practice for this?
I was thinking about the monitor angle/distance on a Gauntlet cab.

(http://www.gamesdatabase.org/Media/SYSTEM/Arcade/Cabinet/big/Gauntlet_-_1985_-_Atari.jpg)

Before you make sawdust, you might want to make a mockup to check the visibility from P3/P4 point-of-view.

Do the sides block the view?

Are the colors badly faded? (viewing angle on the LCD isn't wide enough)

P.S. If you like dual-joystick games like Smash TV or Karate Champ (partial list here (https://web.archive.org/web/20150625045806/http://newwiki.arcadecontrols.com:80/index.php?title=Joysticks#Games_with_Dual_Joysticks)), you might want all four sticks in a horizontal line for two-player dual-joystick fun.
I’ve never heard of this but I’ll look into it. Are those unplayavle at an angle?
For dual joystick games, you want the P1 left and P1 right sticks to be on the same horizontal line like this Smash TV panel
(http://www.gamesdatabase.org/Media/SYSTEM/Arcade/CP/big/Smash_T.V._-_1990_-_Williams,_Inc..jpg)

If the sticks are positioned like P3 and P1 in the angled sticks diagram, your body will want to turn to the right because it's hard to play with one hand farther away than the other.

(https://web.archive.org/web/20150625124703im_/http://newwiki.arcadecontrols.com/images/thumb/d/da/StraightAndAngledSticks.jpg/800px-StraightAndAngledSticks.jpg)

What do people add the extra arcade sticks for in the center area by the master buttons?
Not quite sure what you're asking here.   :dunno

Are you thinking about the panels that have a dedicated 4-way stick for Donkey Kong, Pac Man, etc. ?


Scott
Title: Re: First Cabinet Build: I have no idea what I'm doing
Post by: obizues on May 06, 2018, 03:11:58 pm

I was thinking about the monitor angle/distance on a Gauntlet cab.

(http://www.gamesdatabase.org/Media/SYSTEM/Arcade/Cabinet/big/Gauntlet_-_1985_-_Atari.jpg)

I guess the difference there too is that the arcade CRT is square.. and the play area is very square as well.


Before you make sawdust, you might want to make a mockup to check the visibility from P3/P4 point-of-view.

Do the sides block the view?

Are the colors badly faded? (viewing angle on the LCD isn't wide enough)
I should be able to do this in AutoCAD, good points

Are you thinking about the panels that have a dedicated 4-way stick for Donkey Kong, Pac Man, etc. ?
I think so, what kind of card do people use in order to hook the 4 way stick up?  The same i-Pac type thing?
Title: Re: First Cabinet Build: I have no idea what I'm doing
Post by: javeryh on May 06, 2018, 06:48:39 pm
If you truly have no idea what you are doing I'd rethink the 4P setup.  There are only a handful of games that even support 4 players and they are largely the same game just re-skinned (TMNT, Simpsons, X-men, etc.) or Gauntlet.  If those games are must-haves then go for it (keep in mind they are all playable as 2P games).  Also think about how often you will actually have 4 people playing at the same time.  A couple of times a year when you have friends over?  Every day because you have 4 kids?  Design for you, not for the once a year dream scenario.

The biggest mistake people make is trying to build one cabinet to rule them all when often a focused project will still give you hundreds of great games to play but also be functional and user-friendly.  I can't count the number of questions I get almost every time someone comes over to play and my cabs run about 30-50 games max with one set of controls.

At the end of the day, do what makes you happy - just trying to offer some additional perspective.   :cheers:
Title: Re: First Cabinet Build: I have no idea what I'm doing
Post by: Mike A on May 06, 2018, 07:06:52 pm
Solid advice.
Title: Re: First Cabinet Build: I have no idea what I'm doing
Post by: obizues on May 06, 2018, 07:16:41 pm
If you truly have no idea what you are doing I'd rethink the 4P setup.  There are only a handful of games that even support 4 players and they are largely the same game just re-skinned (TMNT, Simpsons, X-men, etc.) or Gauntlet.

I understand. I do want to be able to play 4 player games though and while it may only be monthly or bi-monthly- that’s when I’ll be getting the most use out of my cab anyways.

Thanks for your input though!
Title: Re: First Cabinet Build: I have no idea what I'm doing
Post by: yotsuya on May 06, 2018, 07:30:39 pm
Good luck with your build! Toodles!
Title: Re: First Cabinet Build: I have no idea what I'm doing
Post by: PL1 on May 07, 2018, 06:23:46 am
Are the colors badly faded? (viewing angle on the LCD isn't wide enough)
I should be able to do this in AutoCAD
AutoCAD won't help with predicting monitor image quality from various points of view.

Depending on the degree of screen incline and how far to the side the outer players are, the display may look washed out.

The only way to tell for sure is to look at a typical game displayed on your monitor from the same height, incline and side-angle that you will be looking at it when it is mounted in the cab.

Are you thinking about the panels that have a dedicated 4-way stick for Donkey Kong, Pac Man, etc. ?
I think so, what kind of card do people use in order to hook the 4 way stick up?  The same i-Pac type thing?
You can use whatever encoder(s) you prefer as long as they have enough of the right kind of inputs.

See part 5 of the FAQ about Encoders (https://web.archive.org/web/20160809113045/http://newwiki.arcadecontrols.com/index.php?title=FAQ#Encoders) for important considerations when selecting the encoder(s) for your build.
(PROTIP: Read the whole FAQ.  It's there to help you.)

You can wire a dedicated 4-way stick in parallel with the P1 8-way stick.

Each row of microswitches is a separate stick.

When lines cross, a dot = connected and no dot = not connected.

(http://forum.arcadecontrols.com/index.php?action=dlattach;topic=129056.0;attach=273345;image)

Your choice on whether you want to "daisy-chain" each directional input as shown or run a separate input wire from each microswitch to the directional input.


Scott
Title: Re: First Cabinet Build: I have no idea what I'm doing
Post by: obizues on May 08, 2018, 08:52:59 pm
Wanted to post out the current draft of my arcade and the current CP look.  Feel free to leave comments/feedback.

Originally I was going to not release my cabinet's CAD design since it was similar to ChangeKG's model, so I didn't want to steal his IP.  I may be reworking the side shapes though to round them out and change it to make it my own in which case I will most likely release the plans.

I will be releasing my CP's CAD since it is 100% mine, just highly influenced by jarrett's mock from some time ago.

Cabinet:
(https://i.imgur.com/WSl7blP.jpg)

Control Panel:
(https://i.imgur.com/GFjE8Rl.jpg)
Title: Re: First Cabinet Build: I have no idea what I'm doing
Post by: obizues on May 08, 2018, 11:43:29 pm
I put in some more time so now I'm even a little closer!!  ;D ;D ;D

(https://i.imgur.com/CMfyyIu.jpg)

Not sure how to fix the area in white... There is a small gap between the area under it (that I would like to swing open like a cabinet) and the area right above it that I want to have a hinge to swing down to access a keyboard and mouse that will be hooked up to my PC.

Any ideas?  I could slant it upwards.. but I'm not sure if I take a miter and cut the angle if it will work.  I guess I could take a hinge and connect it on a slant to the bottom, and then have a latch that connects to hold it up on the upper portion.... but not sure...?

I could also just make it longer to close the gap..

Any input?!  Advice?!


Closer picture...
(https://i.imgur.com/IBpmnGb.jpg)

And one more shot...
(https://i.imgur.com/BgXoeMG.jpg)
Title: Re: First Cabinet Build: I have no idea what I'm doing
Post by: proplayer77 on May 09, 2018, 04:14:48 am
"Not sure how to fix the area in white... There is a small gap between the area under it (that I would like to swing open like a cabinet) and the area right above it that I want to have a hinge to swing down to access a keyboard and mouse that will be hooked up to my PC.

Any ideas?  I could slant it upwards.. but I'm not sure if I take a miter and cut the angle if it will work.  I guess I could take a hinge and connect it on a slant to the bottom, and then have a latch that connects to hold it up on the upper portion.... but not sure...?"

Im not sure how to write my advise, but ill try:

You dont need that much height for mouse + kb. How about if you higher the bottom of that drawer and just close the bottom. So that the bottom sheet of the drawer is higher than the frontpanel of the drawer. Now it shows, then it wouldn show and you can close the slot with woodpiece.

I hope you understand what i mean :).

Title: Re: First Cabinet Build: I have no idea what I'm doing
Post by: Mike A on May 09, 2018, 06:29:53 am
Wireless keyboard with a track pad. It costs like 11 dollars. you don't need to store a keyboard and mouse inside your arcade cab.
Title: Re: First Cabinet Build: I have no idea what I'm doing
Post by: obizues on May 09, 2018, 09:22:42 am
Im not sure how to write my advise, but ill try:

You dont need that much height for mouse + kb. How about if you higher the bottom of that drawer and just close the bottom. So that the bottom sheet of the drawer is higher than the frontpanel of the drawer. Now it shows, then it wouldn show and you can close the slot with woodpiece.

I hope you understand what i mean :).

I think I do, bring up the bottom to be parallel with the extruding “arm” of the cab side?

I guess I could just shorten that arm cutout and make the bottom a 90 angle and make it flush with the cab.

Does that make sense?
Title: Re: First Cabinet Build: I have no idea what I'm doing
Post by: obizues on May 09, 2018, 09:23:50 am
Wireless keyboard with a track pad. It costs like 11 dollars. you don't need to store a keyboard and mouse inside your arcade cab.

While I understand what you mean (I have a wireless keyboard and mouse), it’s more about having it right there for me.
Title: Re: First Cabinet Build: I have no idea what I'm doing
Post by: Mike A on May 09, 2018, 09:27:18 am
How is opening a door and pulling out a tray more "right there" than a wireless keyboard you can put anywhere?
Title: First Cabinet Build: I have no idea what I'm doing
Post by: yotsuya on May 09, 2018, 09:54:09 am
How is opening a door and pulling out a tray more "right there" than a wireless keyboard you can put anywhere?

Mike, my friend, just let it go. This dude obviously has a specific plan in mind.
Title: Re: First Cabinet Build: I have no idea what I'm doing
Post by: wp34 on May 09, 2018, 10:03:39 am
Out of curiosity what do you guys do with your wireless keyboards?  I end up setting mine on top of another game.  It always seems to be in the way.
Title: Re: First Cabinet Build: I have no idea what I'm doing
Post by: Mike A on May 09, 2018, 10:07:04 am
Mine is in my basement because I haven't needed it since the first week my machine was in operation. During that first week of tweaking I just leaned it against the wall behind the cab.
Title: Re: First Cabinet Build: I have no idea what I'm doing
Post by: wp34 on May 09, 2018, 10:10:04 am
I keep a pretty limited list of games on my cabinet.  Seems like every time I want to participate in the BYOAC High Score contest I have to break the keyboard out and add a new game.
Title: Re: First Cabinet Build: I have no idea what I'm doing
Post by: Mike A on May 09, 2018, 10:14:24 am
I set up my previous cab with remote desktop. I just used my laptop with wifi to do any maintenance I needed. I was going to do that with this one, but I don't tinker with it enough to be necessary.
Title: Re: First Cabinet Build: I have no idea what I'm doing
Post by: javeryh on May 09, 2018, 10:20:40 am
Out of curiosity what do you guys do with your wireless keyboards?  I end up setting mine on top of another game.  It always seems to be in the way.

I rarely (never) need to use it after the cab has been up and running for a week or two.  I usually just set up the game list I want and move on.  I have a drawer in my basement that I keep the keyboard in just in case but I haven't used it once.
Title: Re: First Cabinet Build: I have no idea what I'm doing
Post by: obizues on May 09, 2018, 10:22:17 am
Mike, my friend, just let it go. This dude obviously has a specific plan in mind.

 :laugh2: ;)
Title: Re: First Cabinet Build: I have no idea what I'm doing
Post by: Mike A on May 09, 2018, 10:27:22 am
At least it doesn't have cup holders... yet.
Title: Re: First Cabinet Build: I have no idea what I'm doing
Post by: obizues on May 09, 2018, 10:31:27 am
Out of curiosity what do you guys do with your wireless keyboards?  I end up setting mine on top of another game.  It always seems to be in the way.
I’ve seen people that have other single games that may not plug into their front end use it, or if they like to do MAME updates/customize controls. It’s just preference.
Title: Re: First Cabinet Build: I have no idea what I'm doing
Post by: obizues on May 09, 2018, 10:34:53 am
At least it doesn't have cup holders... yet.

Beer fridge in the base.... with cup holders... GREAT IDEA  :cheers:
Title: Re: First Cabinet Build: I have no idea what I'm doing
Post by: Mike A on May 09, 2018, 10:45:43 am
I will find you.

See? This is how it is done. This guy has a sense of humor. Too many people freak out if you don't love their precious ideas. What I think doesn't matter at all if you are happy with the end result.

If you aren't happy, it is because you didn't heed my sage advice. You will have to live with that crushing guilt for the rest of your life.

I look forward to seeing you finish this project. :cheers:
Title: Re: First Cabinet Build: I have no idea what I'm doing
Post by: JDFan on May 09, 2018, 10:46:33 am
Out of curiosity what do you guys do with your wireless keyboards?  I end up setting mine on top of another game.  It always seems to be in the way.

Could use a USB port that you can access ( Could be hidden somewhere underneath/on backside that only you know the location of ) - then just use your Wireless keyboard/mouse from your PC and just move the USB dongle over to the arcade when you need it ( that way the keyboard/mouse is usually connected to your PC but can be moved anytime you need to use it on the arcade ! )
Title: Re: First Cabinet Build: I have no idea what I'm doing
Post by: obizues on May 09, 2018, 10:50:09 am
I look forward to seeing you finish this project. :cheers:

Thanks!
Title: Re: First Cabinet Build: I have no idea what I'm doing
Post by: Mike A on May 09, 2018, 11:00:25 am
This is you gateway cab. When you finish it you will be happy. It will be loads of fun.
After awhile there will be an annoying little voice in your head. "MikeA is right.", "build another cab with a sweet CRT". "Fill you house with arcade machines".



Title: Re: First Cabinet Build: I have no idea what I'm doing
Post by: JudgeRob on May 09, 2018, 11:34:08 pm
If my little palm sized Keyboard doesn't cut it, I have another slightly bigger keyboard stashed behind my bar.  These days it gets more use as a defensive weapon than with my arcade cab.  I just couldn't understand why so many people sacrifice such a big space of real estate front and center in an otherwise beautiful piece of art just for a keyboard.  The only time I struggled with this decision was when I wanted to play computer games like C64 & Amiga.  But there are ways around that if you work hard enough.
Title: Re: First Cabinet Build: I have no idea what I'm doing
Post by: ivwshane on May 09, 2018, 11:51:12 pm
A quick question for the OP. Does the height of the control panel box take into account the height of the joysticks you will be using and where the USB encoders/lighting will go? Have you also thought about how you will access all the button/joystick connections after its built?
Title: Re: First Cabinet Build: I have no idea what I'm doing
Post by: Mauxe on May 09, 2018, 11:56:35 pm
Very sharp.  Is the total height of this cabinet 6'2"?
I've seen a range from maybe 5'10" to 6'2" I think. 

I really appreciate seeing your design with measurements.  Helps me immensely in deciding on my own.

Good luck!
Title: Re: First Cabinet Build: I have no idea what I'm doing
Post by: luizw81 on May 10, 2018, 06:04:32 am


I just couldn't understand why so many people sacrifice such a big space of real estate front and center in an otherwise beautiful piece of art just for a keyboard.

My feelings exactly.  My wireless key board is mounted on the back of my cab.  Since I got everything configured I only pull it out when my 5 year old wants to play Metal Slug.  His little fingers get tired after 5 mins so i have to turn rapid fire on.

Sent from my SM-J320R4 using Tapatalk

Title: Re: First Cabinet Build: I have no idea what I'm doing
Post by: obizues on May 14, 2018, 11:40:18 am
A quick question for the OP. Does the height of the control panel box take into account the height of the joysticks you will be using and where the USB encoders/lighting will go? Have you also thought about how you will access all the button/joystick connections after its built?
Long answer is yes, I will be putting a hinge on the CP so it opens upward like a cabinet to access the wiring if I need to again.  Right now I have a box that is 2 1/2" to fit all my wiring and button portions of my buttons in, which I may expand by another half an inch to make sure I have enough room, especially for the trackball which takes more room up on the bottom.

I should not I am using 3/4" plywood and will be using a CNC much like Chance did, so that's why some parts are so thick.

I'm about 6' and I am altering my design right now to be higher (from 3' 4" to 3' 8") so that it's more natural in how I hold the joystick.  I also added a slope of 10 degrees downward... so truth be told the end of the control panel will be about 3' 5".  Right now my cabinet stands at 6'4"

I haven't updated this thread with my drawings in a while, but this is the current version of the profile pieces.  I am still debating if the curve cut is too thin where the screen will be.. but they ARE thin, so I think I'm okay.  I'll be updating again once I finalize my full 3D render.

(https://i.imgur.com/4n8XWbc.jpg)
Title: Re: First Cabinet Build: I have no idea what I'm doing
Post by: ivwshane on May 15, 2018, 11:49:04 pm
In terms of figuring out if your sides are too thin, don't forget to account for the back panel and its thickness and enough space for wires, glass and the bezel.

The angle of your sides means you will have a bottom marquee that has a lot of dead space in it (unless you plan on putting large speakers in it).
Title: Re: First Cabinet Build: I have no idea what I'm doing
Post by: obizues on May 16, 2018, 05:32:26 pm
The angle of your sides means you will have a bottom marquee that has a lot of dead space in it (unless you plan on putting large speakers in it).

What do you mean by this?
Title: Re: First Cabinet Build: I have no idea what I'm doing
Post by: obizues on May 16, 2018, 10:11:58 pm
New updated 3-D rendering, which I should be able to dissemble and make a 2-D image for CNC machining.

(https://i.imgur.com/1y7rzux.jpg)


Feedback is encouraged and welcomed!
Title: Re: First Cabinet Build: I have no idea what I'm doing
Post by: ivwshane on May 17, 2018, 03:44:27 pm
The angle of your sides means you will have a bottom marquee that has a lot of dead space in it (unless you plan on putting large speakers in it).

What do you mean by this?

Don't worry about it. In your new rendering I can see what you did more clearly. However that brings up another concern. Your marquee box's bottom panel looks as if it might interfere with the top of your speakers on your speaker panel. Have you checked for clearance?
Title: Re: First Cabinet Build: I have no idea what I'm doing
Post by: obizues on May 17, 2018, 03:45:59 pm
Don't worry about it. In your new rendering I can see what you did more clearly. However that brings up another concern. Your marquee box's bottom panel looks as if it might interfere with the top of your speakers on your speaker panel. Have you checked for clearance?
I’m removing the back piece of wood in the marquee altogether based on a recommendation by another person. So I should have plenty of room for the speakers now. ;)
Title: Re: First Cabinet Build: I have no idea what I'm doing
Post by: ivwshane on May 17, 2018, 03:48:34 pm
Can you post a side view of the cab? I'm concerned that the overhang of your cp would create a tipping hazard. On a slim cab I built that was an issue and my cp didn't overhang anywhere near as much as yours appears to be.
Title: Re: First Cabinet Build: I have no idea what I'm doing
Post by: obizues on May 17, 2018, 03:51:01 pm
Can you post a side view of the cab? I'm concerned that the overhang of your cp would create a tipping hazard. On a slim cab I built that was an issue and my cp didn't overhang anywhere near as much as yours appears to be.

(https://i.imgur.com/IX5dZnn.png)
Title: Re: First Cabinet Build: I have no idea what I'm doing
Post by: ivwshane on May 17, 2018, 03:58:32 pm
Its hard to say, it may or may not be an issue.

Worse comes to worst, you can put it on pedestal (essentially just a sheet of mdf that sticks out far enough to not allow tippage when playing hard.
Title: Re: First Cabinet Build: I have no idea what I'm doing
Post by: obizues on May 18, 2018, 11:19:59 am
Updated my CP design to get rid of a bunch of admin buttons down to just 2 (Pause and Exit), and removed dedicated 4-way and flyleaf buttons.  Also removed spinner.  Also removed 1 of my 1p and 2p buttons, and moved one down to fit a more "Neo Geo" style.

Down to 37 buttons, still too many to fit on Ultimate I/O.

I wanted to put all the buttons on a different RGB, but maybe it makes sense to chain the Player/Coin and Exit/Pause buttons together?  Thoughts anyone?

(https://i.imgur.com/iXF7aRx.png)
Title: Re: First Cabinet Build: I have no idea what I'm doing
Post by: obizues on May 18, 2018, 11:29:42 am
Or is this better?  I moved up the 1p-2p and trackball and brought the front end of the control panel up as well (all 44mm.)

(https://i.imgur.com/crdxtGU.png)
Title: Re: First Cabinet Build: I have no idea what I'm doing
Post by: Nephasth on May 18, 2018, 11:35:54 am
Down to 37 buttons, still too many to fit on Ultimate I/O.

(https://i.imgur.com/iXF7aRx.png)

Are you sure you're counting right? There are 37 holes in that CP, but only 32 of the holes are for buttons... Advice you won't take: 6 buttons for players 1 and 2, not 7.
Title: Re: First Cabinet Build: I have no idea what I'm doing
Post by: obizues on May 18, 2018, 11:40:53 am
Are you sure you're counting right? There are 37 holes in that CP, but only 32 of the holes are for buttons... Advice you won't take: 6 buttons for players 1 and 2, not 7.
Sorry, I'm counting the joysticks and the ball that will be illuminated as well.

And yes, I do want to keep the 7 buttons for neo geo.  Those are some of my favorite games.
Title: Re: First Cabinet Build: I have no idea what I'm doing
Post by: Nephasth on May 18, 2018, 11:45:17 am
NeoGeo layout is 4 buttons, not 7. Most NeoGeo games don't even use all 4. Do you really need RGB LEDs for all the controls? No. Coin buttons (even though you shouldn't have any, get a coin door) don't need to be every color of the rainbow, and neither do your admin buttons (hell, hide those under the CP and they don't even need to be lit up).
Title: Re: First Cabinet Build: I have no idea what I'm doing
Post by: javeryh on May 18, 2018, 11:46:53 am
Not sure I understand.  Neo Geo only uses 4 buttons max... Most people use the top row and the left button on the bottom row to get the arc.
Title: Re: First Cabinet Build: I have no idea what I'm doing
Post by: obizues on May 18, 2018, 11:56:20 am
NeoGeo layout is 4 buttons, not 7. Most NeoGeo games don't even use all 4. Do you really need RGB LEDs for all the controls? No.
Of course I don't "NEED" them.

Coin buttons (even though you shouldn't have any, get a coin door) don't need to be every color of the rainbow, and neither do your admin buttons (hell, hide those under the CP and they don't even need to be lit up).
On that topic, where can I find a 4-person coin door?
Title: Re: First Cabinet Build: I have no idea what I'm doing
Post by: obizues on May 18, 2018, 11:58:09 am
Not sure I understand.  Neo Geo only uses 4 buttons max... Most people use the top row and the left button on the bottom row to get the arc.
I did think about that, but it just doesn't feel right.
Title: Re: First Cabinet Build: I have no idea what I'm doing
Post by: Nephasth on May 18, 2018, 12:07:10 pm
I find it mildly humerous how you went from wanting an inexpensive, single color, LED setup to completely off the deep end with this. And as someone who has done almost exactly what you're describing now... Don't do it.
Title: Re: First Cabinet Build: I have no idea what I'm doing
Post by: javeryh on May 18, 2018, 12:07:44 pm
On that topic, where can I find a 4-person coin door?

https://na.suzohapp.com/products/coin_doors/40-0325-00
Title: Re: First Cabinet Build: I have no idea what I'm doing
Post by: PL1 on May 18, 2018, 12:20:56 pm
On that topic, where can I find a 4-person coin door?
https://na.suzohapp.com/products/coin_doors/40-0325-00 (https://na.suzohapp.com/products/coin_doors/40-0325-00)
You'll find better prices on Divemaster's site.

http://www.arcadeemulator.net/cgi-bin/shop/cp-app.cgi?pg=cat&ref=Coin+Doors (http://www.arcadeemulator.net/cgi-bin/shop/cp-app.cgi?pg=cat&ref=Coin+Doors)


Scott
Title: Re: First Cabinet Build: I have no idea what I'm doing
Post by: luizw81 on May 18, 2018, 03:02:16 pm
Or is this better?  I moved up the 1p-2p and trackball and brought the front end of the control panel up as well (all 44mm.)

(https://i.imgur.com/crdxtGU.png)
This 2nd one looks better.  You could probably that the front end off completely, actually.

And I know what you mean about the Neo Geo controls.  My current panel has the Street Fighter 6 button style and it feels unnatural playing Samurai Showdown.  No idea why some of us get up in arms about one extra button...

Sent from my SM-J320R4 using Tapatalk

Title: Re: First Cabinet Build: I have no idea what I'm doing
Post by: obizues on May 18, 2018, 03:05:58 pm
This 2nd one looks better.  You could probably that the front end off completely, actually.
I was thinking about that.. but it would look a little too curvy for me.   :dunno
Title: Re: First Cabinet Build: I have no idea what I'm doing
Post by: obizues on May 18, 2018, 03:13:34 pm
Okay, last draft before I lay all the pieces down and create a .DWG file for it to be CNCed.

Any final input?

1)
(https://i.imgur.com/yKrW0eD.png)

2)
(https://i.imgur.com/yRdWnw1.png)

3)
(https://i.imgur.com/dK5QE1k.png)

4)
(https://i.imgur.com/U6yAOdz.png)
Title: Re: First Cabinet Build: I have no idea what I'm doing
Post by: Mike A on May 18, 2018, 03:33:09 pm
I hope you plan on strapping that thing to a wall. That giant, heavy control panel is hanging out way past the center of mass.
Title: Re: First Cabinet Build: I have no idea what I'm doing
Post by: obizues on May 18, 2018, 03:56:20 pm
I hope you plan on strapping that thing to a wall. That giant, heavy control panel is hanging out way past the center of mass.
How have others solved this problem?  Extend the front?  I just don’t want to make a podium.
Title: Re: First Cabinet Build: I have no idea what I'm doing
Post by: Mike A on May 18, 2018, 03:59:24 pm
Look at how actual arcade machines are designed.

Sent from my Pixel using Tapatalk

Title: Re: First Cabinet Build: I have no idea what I'm doing
Post by: obizues on May 18, 2018, 04:04:34 pm
Look at how actual arcade machines are designed.

Sent from my Pixel using Tapatalk

 It’s obviously a lot different with a much larger control panel. I can move the control panel further into the machine but only so much until it hits the display.
Title: Re: First Cabinet Build: I have no idea what I'm doing
Post by: Mike A on May 18, 2018, 04:05:51 pm
Maybe there is reason they are not built that way.

Sent from my Pixel using Tapatalk
Title: Re: First Cabinet Build: I have no idea what I'm doing
Post by: Nephasth on May 18, 2018, 04:08:09 pm

Any final input?

Before you cut a piece of wood for this project. Start and finish a mini project first. Build a 1 player stand alone CP with the layout you want to use in the bigger project. Play on that for a while before cutting bigger, more expensive pieces. Once you're happy with a layout or control setup you like, then cut the big pieces and transfer your controls over to the big project. You've changed your mind many times this week, and I dont think you're done yet.
Title: Re: First Cabinet Build: I have no idea what I'm doing
Post by: yotsuya on May 18, 2018, 04:08:36 pm
Mike and the others who have painted it out are right - your CP looks like it’s going to fall off. Extend the bottom out some more to cradle the panel.
Title: Re: First Cabinet Build: I have no idea what I'm doing
Post by: obizues on May 18, 2018, 04:12:34 pm
Mike and the others who have painted it out are right - your CP looks like it’s going to fall off. Extend the bottom out some more to cradle the panel.
:cheers:
Title: Re: First Cabinet Build: I have no idea what I'm doing
Post by: Arroyo on May 18, 2018, 04:20:37 pm
Make sure you’ve accounted for the depth requirements of the trackball.  The control panel housing depth may be an issue.
Title: Re: First Cabinet Build: I have no idea what I'm doing
Post by: obizues on May 18, 2018, 04:52:08 pm
Before you cut a piece of wood for this project. Start and finish a mini project first. Build a 1 player stand alone CP with the layout you want to use in the bigger project. Play on that for a while before cutting bigger, more expensive pieces. Once you're happy with a layout or control setup you like, then cut the big pieces and transfer your controls over to the big project. You've changed your mind many times this week, and I dont think you're done yet.
Yeah the crappy part is my buttons are being restocked right now...  :badmood:
Title: Re: First Cabinet Build: I have no idea what I'm doing
Post by: obizues on May 18, 2018, 04:52:37 pm
Make sure you’ve accounted for the depth requirements of the trackball.  The control panel housing depth may be an issue.
This should be fine,  I have 3 1/2 inches and the trackball only needs 2"

(http://www.ultimarc.com/images/tb_diag.jpg)
Title: Re: First Cabinet Build: I have no idea what I'm doing
Post by: Nephasth on May 18, 2018, 05:01:27 pm
Before you cut a piece of wood for this project. Start and finish a mini project first. Build a 1 player stand alone CP with the layout you want to use in the bigger project. Play on that for a while before cutting bigger, more expensive pieces. Once you're happy with a layout or control setup you like, then cut the big pieces and transfer your controls over to the big project. You've changed your mind many times this week, and I dont think you're done yet.
Yeah the crappy part is my buttons are being restocked right now...  :badmood:

Dude, when I built the Beast, I had to buy black buttons and transparent buttons and make my own. There was no off the shelf like that. And if you wait around for Paradise... Well, it'll be a long ---smurfing--- time.

Funny, they have both black and transparent in stock... You're just waiting on them to swap plungers...  :laugh2:
Title: Re: First Cabinet Build: I have no idea what I'm doing
Post by: vwalbridge on May 18, 2018, 05:45:40 pm
Didn't have time to read the whole thread but this looks like a great start to having a nice aircraft carrier.
Title: Re: First Cabinet Build: I have no idea what I'm doing
Post by: barrymossel on May 19, 2018, 04:20:36 am
On that topic, where can I find a 4-person coin door?
FFS http://bfy.tw/ICvW (http://bfy.tw/ICvW)
Title: Re: First Cabinet Build: I have no idea what I'm doing
Post by: obizues on May 19, 2018, 05:23:50 pm
FFS http://bfy.tw/ICvW (http://bfy.tw/ICvW)
:laugh2: Some people have a hard time with newbie questions, especially in a thread titled “I have no idea what I’m doing.” :laugh2:

That being said, I know I can google and find a used one, a new one, etc. I don’t know if there are some with different wiring or changeable options which limit what I should be using for a MAME machine.

IE: you wouldn’t tell a person who wants to create a Pac-Man feeling arcade to just buy any joystick and button after googling it. You would tell them to make sure to buy a 4–way balled shorter stick with a flyleaf gold leaf button.

Get it?
Title: Re: First Cabinet Build: I have no idea what I'm doing
Post by: luizw81 on May 19, 2018, 08:07:18 pm
On that topic, where can I find a 4-person coin door?
FFS http://bfy.tw/ICvW (http://bfy.tw/ICvW)
(https://uploads.tapatalk-cdn.com/20180520/036863f3a5de615e74aba1133148f287.jpg)

Sent from my SM-J320R4 using Tapatalk

Title: Re: First Cabinet Build: I have no idea what I'm doing
Post by: obizues on May 19, 2018, 08:56:58 pm
I went to FedEx to print out my CP drawings to make a test unit.  Sadly Sketchup exported a PDF and PNG both different sizes, and neither of them correct.

I’ll be bothering their forum for answers tonight, since only EPS you can mark to export to 1:1 size, but FedEx does not accept that format.  I find it strange the other exports wouldn’t allow this option.
Title: Re: First Cabinet Build: I have no idea what I'm doing
Post by: Malenko on May 19, 2018, 09:07:37 pm
I hope some little kid doesnt jump up and hang from the center 2 sticks or else you you'll have to use their college fund for funeral expenses.
I was never a fan of the cab you based this design on, and you somehow found a way to make it worse by making it thin profiled.  Have you considered a more NBA Jam shaped control panel? Hope you have great medical insurance too, so you can get carpal tunnel surgery from that CP angle after you're done burying children.
Title: Re: First Cabinet Build: I have no idea what I'm doing
Post by: obizues on May 19, 2018, 09:26:41 pm
I hope some little kid doesnt jump up and hang from the center 2 sticks or else you you'll have to use their college fund for funeral expenses.
I was never a fan of the cab you based this design on, and you somehow found a way to make it worse by making it thin profiled.  Have you considered a more NBA Jam shaped control panel? Hope you have great medical insurance too, so you can get carpal tunnel surgery from that CP angle after you're done burying children.
Besides the much appreciated well-wishes for my health and finances, which part of the NBA Jam CP are you referring to?  That it's rectangular or there is "more" space in your opinion for your hands/arms than mine has to properly rest on?

I can from images the NBA Jam CP is taller so it would only result in forearm surgery or taller kids hanging from the center sticks, so is that what you mean?  Or is there a single shotgun blast that fires when someone does that on the NBA Jam cabinet I have forgotten?
Title: Re: First Cabinet Build: I have no idea what I'm doing
Post by: ivwshane on May 19, 2018, 09:37:41 pm
I'm pretty sure you will need a pedestal for this. I think I covered how to do it already.
Title: Re: First Cabinet Build: I have no idea what I'm doing
Post by: obizues on May 19, 2018, 09:46:41 pm
I'm pretty sure you will need a pasta for this. I think I covered how to do it already.
You suggested a podium, which I’m not interested in. 
Title: Re: First Cabinet Build: I have no idea what I'm doing
Post by: javeryh on May 19, 2018, 10:16:36 pm
Change the angle of the CP to 5 degrees.  Generally the back panel is 1" taller than the front but your CP is so big that you may have to go to 1-1/4" or more.  10 degrees is way too steep, IMO.  You may also have trouble with the trackball not rolling as smooth as it should because of gravity.

For structural support, build a u-shaped column underneath it in the center that sticks out from the bottom front panel - there are lots of ways to make this look nice.  Something like this (not perfect but you get the idea): 

(https://i.pinimg.com/736x/4b/af/e2/4bafe2d310515893fbe367e23fdedece--arcade-machine-arcade-games.jpg)
Title: Re: First Cabinet Build: I have no idea what I'm doing
Post by: obizues on May 19, 2018, 10:23:46 pm
Change the angle of the CP to 5 degrees.  Generally the back panel is 1" taller than the front but your CP is so big that you may have to go to 1-1/4" or more.  10 degrees is way too steep, IMO.  You may also have trouble with the trackball not rolling as smooth as it should because of gravity.

For structural support, build a u-shaped column underneath it in the center that sticks out from the bottom front panel - there are lots of ways to make this look nice.  Something like this (not perfect but you get the idea): 

(https://i.pinimg.com/736x/4b/af/e2/4bafe2d310515893fbe367e23fdedece--arcade-machine-arcade-games.jpg)
Very interesting.

Any idea what angle the display is on this example?
Title: Re: First Cabinet Build: I have no idea what I'm doing
Post by: luizw81 on May 19, 2018, 10:38:39 pm
I hope some little kid doesnt jump up and hang from the center 2 sticks or else you you'll have to use their college fund for funeral expenses.
I was never a fan of the cab you based this design on, and you somehow found a way to make it worse by making it thin profiled.  Have you considered a more NBA Jam shaped control panel? Hope you have great medical insurance too, so you can get carpal tunnel surgery from that CP angle after you're done burying children.
Besides the much appreciated well-wishes for my health and finances, which part of the NBA Jam CP are you referring to?  That it's rectangular or there is "more" space in your opinion for your hands/arms than mine has to properly rest on?

I can from images the NBA Jam CP is taller so it would only result in forearm surgery or taller kids hanging from the center sticks, so is that what you mean?  Or is there a single shotgun blast that fires when someone does that on the NBA Jam cabinet I have forgotten?
I think Malenko is referring to the shape of the CP.  He's not a fan of the aircraft carrier design.

His carpal tunnel comment is due to the extreme downward slant of the CP.  You might want to straighten it up a little.

Sent from my SM-J320R4 using Tapatalk

Title: Re: First Cabinet Build: I have no idea what I'm doing
Post by: Mike A on May 20, 2018, 05:43:24 am
I don't normally suggest this, but I think the OP should consider buying a cab. It doesn't seem like he has the skill set to build a cab. I  don't want to insult you, but there are so many red flags in all of these posts. It seems like you are in over your head.
Title: Re: First Cabinet Build: I have no idea what I'm doing
Post by: Malenko on May 20, 2018, 08:59:51 am
I think Malenko is referring to the shape of the CP.  He's not a fan of the aircraft carrier design.

His carpal tunnel comment is due to the extreme downward slant of the CP.  You might want to straighten it up a little.

You got it! But the kid grabbing the joysticks comment is more about the center mass of the cab. I don't think they'll be much unsprung weight to the cab so it will be very prone to tipping unless hes going to fill the bottom with sandbags or weights. The angle of the CP just adds to the problem. Here's my CP for my old 4 player MAME cab, exact same dimensions as NBA Jam/Open Ice/ NFL Blitz (ya know, actual 4 player games)

(http://forum.arcadecontrols.com/index.php?action=dlattach;topic=136713.0;attach=318244;image)
Changes made:
aligned the sticks so that smash TV, Karate Champ, Robotron, etc could be played on each set of sticks
adjusted the button positions for player 4 a little bit
added more buttons to the center players
had a button UNDER the CP, wired to ESC
Title: Re: First Cabinet Build: I have no idea what I'm doing
Post by: javeryh on May 20, 2018, 09:24:15 am
Any idea what angle the display is on this example?

Well it's a random pic from the internet so I have no idea but if I had to guess I'd say around 5 degrees, like most cabs.
Title: Re: First Cabinet Build: I have no idea what I'm doing
Post by: obizues on May 20, 2018, 11:00:57 am
I don't normally suggest this, but I think the OP should consider buying a cab. It doesn't seem like he has the skill set to build a cab. I  don't want to insult you, but there are so many red flags in all of these posts. It seems like you are in over your head.
May I direct your attention to the title of the thread?
Title: Re: First Cabinet Build: I have no idea what I'm doing
Post by: Mike A on May 20, 2018, 11:29:03 am
The title is the first red flag.
Title: Re: First Cabinet Build: I have no idea what I'm doing
Post by: obizues on May 20, 2018, 12:18:53 pm
The title is the first red flag.
I hereby officially dub this:

Project: Red Flag

(https://i.imgur.com/h38hKLU.jpg)
Title: Re: First Cabinet Build: I have no idea what I'm doing
Post by: obizues on May 20, 2018, 12:34:37 pm
Back to more interesting endeavors... of mocking out my control panel...

Since FedEx had problems.. I printed out the .pdf on my fancy Epson XP-440 and measured the CP length-wise and it appears to be what I expected.  It's just over 53 1/4 freedom units (inches) or roughly the 1358mm that Sketchup is telling me.  So that means I'm in business.

She's a big girl, well suited for her state's love of cheese, beer, and brats.  Maybe I'll use that as my theme.

(https://i.imgur.com/6VpifyJ.jpg)

(https://i.imgur.com/IF5gulp.jpg)
Title: Re: First Cabinet Build: I have no idea what I'm doing
Post by: Mike A on May 20, 2018, 01:02:59 pm
That is 20 inches wider than a Konami 4p control panel. It is way too big. I am the only one giving you the right advice right now. Don't build this. Your design is terrible from top to bottom.
Title: Re: First Cabinet Build: I have no idea what I'm doing
Post by: obizues on May 20, 2018, 01:29:40 pm
That is 20 inches wider than a Konami 4p control panel. It is way too big. I am the only one giving you the right advice right now. Don't build this. Your design is terrible from top to bottom.
Yup it’s a big girl.  It’s actually smaller than a few people wanted me to make it based on the input I’ve recieved believe it or not.

But that’s why we mock it up huh?
Title: Re: First Cabinet Build: I have no idea what I'm doing
Post by: Mike A on May 20, 2018, 01:37:53 pm
Nobody who knows what they are doing would ever suggest a larger control panel than you are proposing. You don't have to mock it up to realize it is way too big. I am not entirely sure you are for real.
Title: Re: First Cabinet Build: I have no idea what I'm doing
Post by: obizues on May 20, 2018, 01:54:56 pm
Well it’s a good thing I’m mocking it out then so I can come to the same conclusion as you, right?
Title: Re: First Cabinet Build: I have no idea what I'm doing
Post by: Mike A on May 20, 2018, 02:09:22 pm
Good luck with your build. You obviously don't want my advice so I will stop providing it.
Title: Re: First Cabinet Build: I have no idea what I'm doing
Post by: jennifer on May 20, 2018, 02:11:45 pm
**Observations... I like the big look of it, but keep in mind moving it and doorways, at best keep the width around 34" after the C/p is removed, The tilt of the c/p is a bit much, not only will it be uncomfortable to play for extended periods but your going to get spilled drinks all over it. 2 players is all you need, lots of elbow room for fighter games....And that 4slot coin door is hands down the dumbest thing Jenn has ever seen put to steel.
Title: Re: First Cabinet Build: I have no idea what I'm doing
Post by: yotsuya on May 20, 2018, 02:50:10 pm
Good luck with your build. You obviously don't want my advice so I will stop providing it.

You BARELY came to that conclusion? :)
Title: Re: First Cabinet Build: I have no idea what I'm doing
Post by: Mike A on May 20, 2018, 03:04:06 pm
I said it was obvious.
Title: Re: First Cabinet Build: I have no idea what I'm doing
Post by: obizues on May 20, 2018, 03:31:42 pm
Good luck with your build. You obviously don't want my advice so I will stop providing it.
That’s a bit dramatic.
Title: Re: First Cabinet Build: I have no idea what I'm doing
Post by: obizues on May 20, 2018, 03:38:50 pm
**Observations... I like the big look of it, but keep in mind moving it and doorways, at best keep the width around 34" after the C/p is removed, The tilt of the c/p is a bit much, not only will it be uncomfortable to play for extended periods but your going to get spilled drinks all over it. 2 players is all you need, lots of elbow room for fighter games....And that 4slot coin door is hands down the dumbest thing Jenn has ever seen put to steel.

I would also agree the tilt will come up. Someone told me 5-10, I started at 10.

I haven’t concluded I don’t want to do 4-players, but without the CP this would be 2’ 7 1/2” wide or 31 1/2”

I’m still middle-ground on a coin door, but it would be 4 or nothing.
Title: Re: First Cabinet Build: I have no idea what I'm doing
Post by: Malenko on May 20, 2018, 04:38:02 pm
I would also agree the tilt will come up. Someone told me 5-10, I started at 10.

So you think this is 10 degrees?As long as this picture is a true orthographic angle, it isn't. Great to see that you'll follow someones advice, even if its terrible.
(http://forum.arcadecontrols.com/index.php?action=dlattach;topic=157247.0;attach=367904;image)


I look forward to you being stubborn and doing it your way, I'll be pop corning it up enjoying the show.  Build what you dig.
Title: Re: First Cabinet Build: I have no idea what I'm doing
Post by: javeryh on May 20, 2018, 05:36:04 pm
That is 20 inches wider than a Konami 4p control panel. It is way too big. I am the only one giving you the right advice right now. Don't build this. Your design is terrible from top to bottom.
Yup it’s a big girl.  It’s actually smaller than a few people wanted me to make it based on the input I’ve recieved believe it or not.

But that’s why we mock it up huh?

You are obviously going to do what you are going to do and I'm actually looking forward to watching how this all turns out but 53-1/4" is absolutely gigantic.  4 and a half feet!!!  It is ridiculously big and there is no scenario where this is the correct solution. 
Title: Re: First Cabinet Build: I have no idea what I'm doing
Post by: obizues on May 20, 2018, 05:49:06 pm
So you think this is 10 degrees?As long as this picture is a true orthographic angle, it isn't.
:laugh2:  Man you guys are a trip.  “Listen to advice!”  “You listen to terrible advice!”

I’ve also already said that the angle is coming down... but just because it’s funny to me...

You can clearly see that the picture is not parallel with an X or Y axis, but that didn’t stop you from drawing an arbitrary line to “measure” my angle and prove me wrong.  :lol

But PLEASE continue to try to make fun me trying to create something that I haven’t done before and act like you are holier than though, because it’s really damn funny when someone overshoots their shot like this and ends up looking like a jerk and a fool.   :afro:
Title: Re: First Cabinet Build: I have no idea what I'm doing
Post by: obizues on May 20, 2018, 05:50:36 pm
You are obviously going to do what you are going to do and I'm actually looking forward to watching how this all turns out but 53-1/4" is absolutely gigantic.  4 and a half feet!!!  It is ridiculously big and there is no scenario where this is the correct solution.
Yeah, it’ll end up shortening like I’ve said, but it’s a start to physically mock and feel where I can start to cut out space.
Title: Re: First Cabinet Build: I have no idea what I'm doing
Post by: ivwshane on May 20, 2018, 07:36:43 pm
I don't normally suggest this, but I think the OP should consider buying a cab. It doesn't seem like he has the skill set to build a cab. I  don't want to insult you, but there are so many red flags in all of these posts. It seems like you are in over your head.

You might be right. When someone doesn't want to address a potentail physical hazard that can severely hurt a child, well, that's when I bow out.

Good luck op.
Title: Re: First Cabinet Build: I have no idea what I'm doing
Post by: yotsuya on May 20, 2018, 07:38:14 pm
I don't normally suggest this, but I think the OP should consider buying a cab. It doesn't seem like he has the skill set to build a cab. I  don't want to insult you, but there are so many red flags in all of these posts. It seems like you are in over your head.

You might be right. When someone doesn't want to address a potentail physical hazard that can severely hurt a child, well, that's when I bow out.

Good luck op.

We really need a rep button. At least a thumbs up.
Title: Re: First Cabinet Build: I have no idea what I'm doing
Post by: obizues on May 20, 2018, 07:39:49 pm
You might be right. When someone doesn't want to address a potentail physical hazard that can severely hurt a child, well, that's when I bow out.

Good luck op.
Pretty sure paper and cardboard won’t hurt a child, but you do you.  :dizzy:

The drama in this forum today is real.  :o
Title: Re: First Cabinet Build: I have no idea what I'm doing
Post by: Malenko on May 20, 2018, 07:52:45 pm
So you think this is 10 degrees?As long as this picture is a true orthographic angle, it isn't.
You can clearly see that the picture is not parallel with an X or Y axis, but that didn’t stop you from drawing an arbitrary line to “measure” my angle and prove me wrong.  :lol

But PLEASE continue to try to make fun me trying to create something that I haven’t done before and act like you are holier than though, because it’s really damn funny when someone overshoots their shot like this and ends up looking like a jerk and a fool.   :afro:

I couldn't really tell, that's why I said if it was an orthographic angle. 
https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Orthographic_projection

That being said, you've ignored gobs of good advice but accepted a 10* angle as something you should do. I'm unaware of how exactly I made fun of you or acted "holier". I said I don't like the cab you based this on. I said it looks worse with a thin profile. I said the CP Angle is too great. I said the center mess is too far off so its a tipping hazard.  I've build a ton of cabs and made a ton of mistakes. If you'd rather remake the same mistakes all over again then who am I to stop you?

Title: First Cabinet Build: I have no idea what I'm doing
Post by: yotsuya on May 20, 2018, 07:55:09 pm
That is 20 inches wider than a Konami 4p control panel. It is way too big. I am the only one giving you the right advice right now. Don't build this. Your design is terrible from top to bottom.
Yup it’s a big girl.  It’s actually smaller than a few people wanted me to make it based on the input I’ve recieved believe it or not.

But that’s why we mock it up huh?

You are obviously going to do what you are going to do and I'm actually looking forward to watching how this all turns out but 53-1/4" is absolutely gigantic.  4 and a half feet!!!  It is ridiculously big and there is no scenario where this is the correct solution.

OP, I’m just going to give you food for thought...

Your control panel is 5 1/4 inches wider than this one...

(https://uploads.tapatalk-cdn.com/20180520/69b5023f8e1417500e234013b42c4a17.jpg)

Reference:

http://forum.arcadecontrols.com/index.php/topic,94966.msg998943.html#msg998943
Title: Re: First Cabinet Build: I have no idea what I'm doing
Post by: javeryh on May 20, 2018, 08:04:36 pm
That is 20 inches wider than a Konami 4p control panel. It is way too big. I am the only one giving you the right advice right now. Don't build this. Your design is terrible from top to bottom.
Yup it’s a big girl.  It’s actually smaller than a few people wanted me to make it based on the input I’ve recieved believe it or not.

But that’s why we mock it up huh?

You are obviously going to do what you are going to do and I'm actually looking forward to watching how this all turns out but 53-1/4" is absolutely gigantic.  4 and a half feet!!!  It is ridiculously big and there is no scenario where this is the correct solution.

OP, I’m just going to give you food for thought...

Your control panel is 5 1/4 inches wider than this one...

(https://uploads.tapatalk-cdn.com/20180520/69b5023f8e1417500e234013b42c4a17.jpg)

Reference:

http://forum.arcadecontrols.com/index.php/topic,94966.msg998943.html#msg998943

Oh. My. God.
Title: Re: First Cabinet Build: I have no idea what I'm doing
Post by: obizues on May 20, 2018, 08:23:25 pm
That being said, you've ignored gobs of good advice but accepted a 10* angle as something you should do. I'm unaware of how exactly I made fun of you or acted "holier". I said I don't like the cab you based this on. I said it looks worse with a thin profile. I said the CP Angle is too great. I said the center mess is too far off so its a tipping hazard.  I've build a ton of cabs and made a ton of mistakes. If you'd rather remake the same mistakes all over again then who am I to stop you?
I don’t have the desire to continue a pissing contest with you or anyone else, especially when it is intertwined with that person saying I’m doing “X” when that simply isn’t true. In fact I’ve said multiple times it isn’t- yet here we are.

I appreciate constructive criticism, I don’t even mind harsh criticism. What befuddles me, and just makes me laugh, is this weird type of projection that you and some others continue to put on my design.

So feel free to tell me doing X is dumb, or better yet suggest I do Y because Z. But please don’t tell me my cabinet has AIDS and farted on your mother’s eyeball unless you have some sort of reason to claim that. Otherwise this all gets very confusing.
Title: Re: First Cabinet Build: I have no idea what I'm doing
Post by: obizues on May 20, 2018, 08:29:13 pm
OP, I’m just going to give you food for thought...

Your control panel is 5 1/4 inches wider than this one...

(https://uploads.tapatalk-cdn.com/20180520/69b5023f8e1417500e234013b42c4a17.jpg)
Yeah that’s pretty messed up, they didn’t even add room for a trackball. Talk about bending the knee...

I’m already cutting out sections on mine now that I have it in front of me and I have sticks in place so I’m able to “feel” what it’s like standing next to someone to figure out how much space I really need between P3 and P1, and p2 and p4.

What I struggle with is how much space I need between P1 > trackball > p2
Title: Re: First Cabinet Build: I have no idea what I'm doing
Post by: obizues on May 20, 2018, 09:46:13 pm
Okay, better update after doing the mock-up:

It looks like after my first test I can cut out 190mm, or 7.48 freedom units.

Checked hand placements and stick movement overlap:
(https://i.imgur.com/SprbvsV.jpg)


Not too shabby for first go, and yes those are some sweet moccasins:
(https://i.imgur.com/vfVxRUt.jpg)


... which by the way makes my new draft model a whopping 2 1/4” (ish) inches less-wide then yotsuya’s dredded Snow Brothers machine. ... that’s enough room for cup holders!  :cheers:
Title: Re: First Cabinet Build: I have no idea what I'm doing
Post by: Nephasth on May 21, 2018, 12:05:35 am
Stop calling them "freedom units". Americans didn't invent the imperial system, and if anything, our lack of adopting the metric system may be a contributing factor to the idiocy of our youth.
Title: Re: First Cabinet Build: I have no idea what I'm doing
Post by: jennifer on May 21, 2018, 12:18:29 am
Stop calling them "freedom units". Americans didn't invent the imperial system, and if anything, our lack of adopting the metric system may be a contributing factor to the idiocy of our youth.
  The metric system?.....Hee,Hee :laugh2:, Ya that totally dumbed down society....(Giggle) From here on out Jennifer will just be her own assistant to human resources ....OMG, (Laugh, and Laugh)
Title: Re: First Cabinet Build: I have no idea what I'm doing
Post by: jennifer on May 21, 2018, 12:20:45 am
**Jennifer still laughing....Lets make freedom units "Great again" :laugh2:
Title: Re: First Cabinet Build: I have no idea what I'm doing
Post by: Nephasth on May 21, 2018, 12:40:58 am
A base 10 system is dumb? 1 foot is cut into 12 inches... 1 inch is broken into half, fourths, eighths, sixteenths, thirtyseconds, sixtyfourths, etc... Clearly imperial is the practical way to go (thick sarcasm for those who never catch it)... And even the OP posted in hundredths of a "freedom unit" while all his measurements on this printout are in millimeters... ::)
Title: Re: First Cabinet Build: I have no idea what I'm doing
Post by: Malenko on May 21, 2018, 08:07:32 am
What befuddles me, and just makes me laugh, is this weird type of projection that you and some others continue to put on my design.

But please don’t tell me my cabinet has AIDS and farted on your mother’s eyeball unless you have some sort of reason to claim that.
I haven't projected anything, you're just being butthurt about what I typed for some reason.

That last line is just utter horseshit.
Title: Re: First Cabinet Build: I have no idea what I'm doing
Post by: Mike A on May 21, 2018, 08:19:31 am
Jumping on Malenko is a mistake. He has been doing this a long time. He has offered you advice based on direct experience. If you don't like his advice just say thank you and then do what you want. Your crazy attacks just discourage people from trying to help you. I am pretty much the only person that has told you that you don't have the skill set to pull this off. You can make all of the silly comments you want to me. These other people are actually trying to help you build this steaming turd.
Title: Re: First Cabinet Build: I have no idea what I'm doing
Post by: obizues on May 21, 2018, 11:56:49 am
I haven't projected anything, you're just being butthurt about what I typed for some reason.

That last line is just utter horseshit.
Ok. Thanks for your input.
Title: Re: First Cabinet Build: I have no idea what I'm doing
Post by: jennifer on May 21, 2018, 12:35:38 pm
Hey MikeA....You may as well just tell him he's got no friends, and then go buy himself a welder.
Title: Re: First Cabinet Build: I have no idea what I'm doing
Post by: obizues on May 21, 2018, 12:53:57 pm
Your crazy attacks just discourage people from trying to help you.
I did what now?
Title: Re: First Cabinet Build: I have no idea what I'm doing
Post by: luizw81 on May 21, 2018, 01:01:36 pm
This thread has turned into something epic! Lol

I'm over here like...(https://uploads.tapatalk-cdn.com/20180521/17b714c1e6955e0a92ef19da4a0249c9.jpg)

Sent from my SM-J320R4 using Tapatalk

Title: Re: First Cabinet Build: I have no idea what I'm doing
Post by: luizw81 on May 21, 2018, 01:03:21 pm
Seriously though, that CP is gonna be way big without bolting that baby to the floor!

Sent from my SM-J320R4 using Tapatalk

Title: Re: First Cabinet Build: I have no idea what I'm doing
Post by: obizues on May 21, 2018, 01:04:55 pm
This thread has turned into something epic! Lol

I'm over here like...(https://uploads.tapatalk-cdn.com/20180521/17b714c1e6955e0a92ef19da4a0249c9.jpg)

Sent from my SM-J320R4 using Tapatalk

(https://media.giphy.com/media/YsWI369DNTpAI/giphy.gif)
Title: Re: First Cabinet Build: I have no idea what I'm doing
Post by: obizues on May 21, 2018, 01:05:45 pm
Seriously though, that CP is gonna be way big without bolting that baby to the floor!

Sent from my SM-J320R4 using Tapatalk
Well I took 190mm out yesterday.  I am going to see what else is realistic.
Title: Re: First Cabinet Build: I have no idea what I'm doing
Post by: yamatetsu on May 21, 2018, 02:45:11 pm
(https://i.imgur.com/yRdWnw1.png)

Don't angle the whole CP box. This kinda looks like the CP has sagged down under it's own weight. The CP box should be mounted at 90 degree angle (like in your first design draft), only the top of the CP should have that extra angle.

You also REALLY should consider building some kind of support under the CP to keep it from tipping over. My second cab has a CP overhang of 15 cm, the cab is 68 cm deep. Originally I had it standing on 4 wheels but I had to add leg levellers because I could tip the cab over if I wanted to. Now imagine a cab with a huge CP overhang like yours and 4 people leaning on it whilst having a heated multiplayer battle...
Title: Re: First Cabinet Build: I have no idea what I'm doing
Post by: obizues on May 21, 2018, 02:51:42 pm
(https://i.imgur.com/yRdWnw1.png)

Don't angle the whole CP box.

Good call.  Thanks!
You also REALLY should consider building some kind of support under the CP to keep it from tipping over.
I will be if I don't come up with another solution that allows me to support it.  I will most likely be extending the cab forward a big to support it either way.
Title: Re: First Cabinet Build: I have no idea what I'm doing
Post by: yamatetsu on May 21, 2018, 03:02:04 pm
Perhaps add a sort of "pillar" that has the CP shape?
Title: Re: First Cabinet Build: I have no idea what I'm doing
Post by: obizues on May 24, 2018, 08:15:42 pm
Haven't had much time with my new job, but here goes with a cut down size of a CP, and moving it further into the machine..

I'll have to see how I need to change the profile cut to have things match up, and I'll probably take the advice I got and trim off those little small wings.

I also changed the CP tilt to only 5 degrees, so everyone can woosa!  :cheers:

(https://i.imgur.com/zZGXuWT.png)

(https://i.imgur.com/CMD5hn3.png)

(https://i.imgur.com/P2w2zT8.png)
Title: Re: First Cabinet Build: I have no idea what I'm doing
Post by: javeryh on May 24, 2018, 08:41:44 pm
Better.
Title: Re: First Cabinet Build: I have no idea what I'm doing
Post by: obizues on May 24, 2018, 10:09:55 pm
I have almost no room for 2p and 4p, and even 3p is a little close.

Does anyone have any suggestions how to expand room without make my CP super wide again?

Pictures:

2p:

(https://i.imgur.com/DYnpqG4.jpg)

3p:

(https://i.imgur.com/4OXfjLr.jpg)


4p:

(https://i.imgur.com/QDC3Ktu.jpg)
Title: Re: First Cabinet Build: I have no idea what I'm doing
Post by: leapinlew on May 24, 2018, 10:21:05 pm
Congrats on surviving the gauntlet obizues. Some of these guys are ...ahem... passionate  ::)
Title: Re: First Cabinet Build: I have no idea what I'm doing
Post by: obizues on May 24, 2018, 10:23:26 pm
Congrats on surviving the gauntlet obizues. Some of these guys are ...ahem... passionate  ::)

Meh, aren’t we all?   :dunno

Any clue how to solve my space problem without turning around and making this thing huge again?
Title: Re: First Cabinet Build: I have no idea what I'm doing
Post by: wp34 on May 24, 2018, 11:01:49 pm
Congrats on surviving the gauntlet obizues. Some of these guys are ...ahem... passionate  ::)

 :cheers:
Title: Re: First Cabinet Build: I have no idea what I'm doing
Post by: leapinlew on May 25, 2018, 12:37:29 am
Any clue how to solve my space problem without turning around and making this thing huge again?

I didn't realize you had an issue. What you said was:

I have almost no room for 2p and 4p, and even 3p is a little close.
To me, it sounded like the control panel was cozy, but do-able.

A lot of us have learned with 4 player arcade games some lessons:

Check out some of the classic 4 player games and the control panels that go with them. NBA Jam, Gauntlet, Simpsons, etc. The only reason I could justify a larger CP is to ensure that the controls are lined up so you can play dual 8 way games like Smash TV and Total Carnage.



Title: Re: First Cabinet Build: I have no idea what I'm doing
Post by: krangbrain on May 25, 2018, 01:23:49 am
Does anyone have any suggestions how to expand room without make my CP super wide again?

Hey obizues, what I did on my panel to save space is reduce the distance between the joystick and buttons. The holes for the joystick and closest corresponding buttons are 3 freedom... er 3”... ehem... about 76mm apart on center.  ;)  (About 20mm shorter in distance than slagcoin.) It doesn’t feel any different to me, and although my cab is new, others haven’t noticed anything either.

Good luck on the build! I like the latest revision!

Title: Re: First Cabinet Build: I have no idea what I'm doing
Post by: jennifer on May 25, 2018, 02:57:34 am
A base 10 system is dumb? 1 foot is cut into 12 inches... 1 inch is broken into half, fourths, eighths, sixteenths, thirtyseconds, sixtyfourths, etc... Clearly imperial is the practical way to go (thick sarcasm for those who never catch it)... And even the OP posted in hundredths of a "freedom unit" while all his measurements on this printout are in millimeters... ::)
You do realize that not only is that all divisible by 2, But that is how America was built, nuts, bolts cars, houses bridges, war planes, ....So Ya that sarcasm flew over my head by the mile, not the kilos.
Title: Re: First Cabinet Build: I have no idea what I'm doing
Post by: Drnick on May 25, 2018, 03:31:45 am
Sure base 10 sucks, but it is simple to understand and does match the amount of fingers we have :)

I'm still cheesed off that English money stopped being base 12 before I was born :)   I want my Beer in a Pint glass although that pint glass will also show (568.3ml) on the side,  I want to buy my baggies by the ounce,  I want to do my measuring by the inch, I want to know my speed in miles not kilometres, I want to know my own weight in st and lb not kg.

But I am very happy to buy my fruit by the Kilogram and my soft drinks by the Litre. 



Title: Re: First Cabinet Build: I have no idea what I'm doing
Post by: javeryh on May 25, 2018, 07:27:31 am
To me, it sounded like the control panel was cozy, but do-able.

A lot of us have learned with 4 player arcade games some lessons:
  • Frequency: How often do you think you'll play 4 player games? For many of us, it's less than we thought and when we did play, being comfortable for the few minutes the game lasts didn't justify a large control panel for the rest of the time
  • Arcade Games: The quality of arcade games leave a lot to be desired for quality multi-player fun. Most of them are quarter sinkers that suffer when credits are free.
  • Space: having comfy space isn't as big of a deal as we though during the planning phase.

Check out some of the classic 4 player games and the control panels that go with them. NBA Jam, Gauntlet, Simpsons, etc. The only reason I could justify a larger CP is to ensure that the controls are lined up so you can play dual 8 way games like Smash TV and Total Carnage.

Cozy is definitely doable.  This is great advice.
Title: Re: First Cabinet Build: I have no idea what I'm doing
Post by: Buick455 on May 25, 2018, 08:59:09 am
I would ditch the trackball to take back some space. A trackball in a 2 player/6 button panel is barely do-able unless its wide. The ball ends up too close to the buttons/sticks/bezel to spin it fast. My 2cents..

Title: Re: First Cabinet Build: I have no idea what I'm doing
Post by: obizues on May 25, 2018, 09:36:54 am
I would ditch the trackball to take back some space. A trackball in a 2 player/6 button panel is barely do-able unless its wide. The ball ends up too close to the buttons/sticks/bezel to spin it fast. My 2cents..
Me and my friends enjoy Golden Tee, so that is something that is considered untouchable for me.

What 4-player games use 4 buttons?  I've been trying to look, and I've seen ninja turtles, simpsons, etc, and I might be able to take back a button on each side and make it only 3 buttons.

I still need to come up with a solution to player 2's button hand "falling off" the side.  I may just go with a rectangular look like these MAME remakes:

(https://cdn7.bigcommerce.com/s-3m2fqnw/images/stencil/1280x1280/products/8645/15976/Blitz_98_Arcade_Game__54437.1515033167.jpg?c=2&imbypass=on&imbypass=on)
Title: Re: First Cabinet Build: I have no idea what I'm doing
Post by: obizues on May 25, 2018, 09:38:59 am
To me, it sounded like the control panel was cozy, but do-able.
My 2p is very uncomfortable so that I do need a solution for it.  3p and 4p are less used and probably doable.

A lot of us have learned with 4 player arcade games some lessons:
  • Frequency: How often do you think you'll play 4 player games? For many of us, it's less than we thought and when we did play, being comfortable for the few minutes the game lasts didn't justify a large control panel for the rest of the time
  • Arcade Games: The quality of arcade games leave a lot to be desired for quality multi-player fun. Most of them are quarter sinkers that suffer when credits are free.
  • Space: having comfy space isn't as big of a deal as we though during the planning phase.
I haven't admitted defeat on 4-player games yet since I love those button mashers and I would love to be able to have them for my family events.
Title: Re: First Cabinet Build: I have no idea what I'm doing
Post by: Malenko on May 25, 2018, 09:45:02 am
I would ditch the trackball to take back some space. A trackball in a 2 player/6 button panel is barely do-able unless its wide. The ball ends up too close to the buttons/sticks/bezel to spin it fast. My 2cents..

I'd have to agree.  The other thing you can do is "angle the player" more; raise the stick up on the left most player and drop the buttons down  and bring them in a little it makes the player stand a little more to the left. Do the opposite for the right most player. I see you posted a pic of a Blitz cab, so that should give you a better understanding of how 4 players can be at a cab at the same time.

As for Lew's "Arcade games" point, you can always limit credits. It doesn't really apply to sports games, which are super fun 4 player.  To be honest I really thought my 4 player cab would get more playtime but the sad truth is, it just didn't.   4 player games with 4 buttons...... I think that's just the 2 D&D CPS2 games but I could be wrong.
Title: Re: First Cabinet Build: I have no idea what I'm doing
Post by: Buick455 on May 25, 2018, 12:32:46 pm
Me and my friends enjoy Golden Tee, so that is something that is considered untouchable for me.

I get it, I really do cause I did it.
My first panel was a monster:
2-8way Joy, 8 buttons each + p1, p2, p1 coin, p2 coin, trackball w/ 2 buttons, dedicated 4way ball-top & admin buttons.
My current:
1-Servostick, 2 buttons + p1, p2, (+ p1 coin, p2 coin, pause and exit are hidden off the panel)

And all the extra crap from the first is in a box somewhere, lol

For Golden Tee you need so much room around the ball to smack it. I would want 9" minimum between the ball and P2 and about the same to the bezel. If you have the space for a second cab build a dedicated machine for trackball games.. Golden Tees are up on craigslist constantly here in FL, sometimes really cheap if they aren't working. I would buy one if they weren't like 6' deep.
Title: Re: First Cabinet Build: I have no idea what I'm doing
Post by: obizues on May 25, 2018, 01:39:51 pm
4 player games with 4 buttons...... I think that's just the 2 D&D CPS2 games but I could be wrong.
Thanks for insight
Title: Re: First Cabinet Build: I have no idea what I'm doing
Post by: obizues on May 25, 2018, 01:42:24 pm
For Golden Tee you need so much room around the ball to smack it. I would want 9" minimum between the ball and P2 and about the same to the bezel. If you have the space for a second cab build a dedicated machine for trackball games.. Golden Tees are up on craigslist constantly here in FL, sometimes really cheap if they aren't working. I would buy one if they weren't like 6' deep.
I'm starting to come to terms with I need to either make a 2p with Golden Tee or 4p without it..  :hissy:
Title: Re: First Cabinet Build: I have no idea what I'm doing
Post by: obizues on May 26, 2018, 06:06:44 pm
Revamped CP without trackball, and made it rectangular.

Does the spacing seem off to anyone else?

(https://i.imgur.com/ls9qdOu.png)
Title: Re: First Cabinet Build: I have no idea what I'm doing
Post by: leapinlew on May 26, 2018, 06:23:23 pm
Pretty safe layout.

I would move all the joysticks so they are inline (see pic). This would allow you to play SmashTV and Total Carnage.
Title: Re: First Cabinet Build: I have no idea what I'm doing
Post by: obizues on May 26, 2018, 06:53:15 pm
Pretty safe layout.

I would move all the joysticks so they are inline (see pic). This would allow you to play SmashTV and Total Carnage.

I was thinking about that, but got stuck with where to put 3p’s buttons.

I understand why you did what you did, but it seems really uncomfortable to play.
Title: Re: First Cabinet Build: I have no idea what I'm doing
Post by: leapinlew on May 26, 2018, 08:23:01 pm
Pretty safe layout.

I would move all the joysticks so they are inline (see pic). This would allow you to play SmashTV and Total Carnage.

I was thinking about that, but got stuck with where to put 3p’s buttons.

I understand why you did what you did, but it seems really uncomfortable to play.

I'd play it. It's how many arcade games were setup.
Title: Re: First Cabinet Build: I have no idea what I'm doing
Post by: obizues on May 26, 2018, 09:33:10 pm
I'd play it. It's how many arcade games were setup.
Do you have an example?

I may just line them all up straight forward...

Here's a mock of my newest cabinet version:

(https://i.imgur.com/ARq9Bwx.png)
Title: Re: First Cabinet Build: I have no idea what I'm doing
Post by: obizues on May 26, 2018, 09:59:40 pm
Has anyone had a similar issue I’m showing where even though it’s spaced “evenly” it looks like the 3p is extra cramped since the joystick is at the end of the CP?

Would it make sense to shift the other players over, or to move 2p, 3p, and 4p a little closer together?  Or will that also screw up the view / spacing for those players? :dunno
Title: Re: First Cabinet Build: I have no idea what I'm doing
Post by: jennifer on May 26, 2018, 10:38:13 pm
I like that rounded C/p better, But possibly with just 2 players and a trackball And some recessed light diffusers. That thing could look pretty cool.....Getting 4 on a machine all at once seems challenging and like it might not happen as much as one might think.
Title: Re: First Cabinet Build: I have no idea what I'm doing
Post by: yotsuya on May 27, 2018, 12:35:10 am
Looking much better (and stable), my friend!
Title: Re: First Cabinet Build: I have no idea what I'm doing
Post by: Malenko on May 27, 2018, 11:31:54 am
Looks much better!  If you can't line up all 4 sticks and least get the middle 2 ; then you can still play single player karate champ,  smash tv , etc
Title: Re: First Cabinet Build: I have no idea what I'm doing
Post by: Mike A on May 27, 2018, 11:40:39 am
Well look at that. The big mean bullies were right about everything. You can apologize and thank us any time. ;)

Your design is much better now. Not everyone can swallow their pride and make major changes to their original idea. Kudos to you.
Title: Re: First Cabinet Build: I have no idea what I'm doing
Post by: obizues on May 27, 2018, 11:43:32 am
Looks much better!  If you can't line up all 4 sticks and least get the middle 2 ; then you can still play single player karate champ,  smash tv , etc
I can’t come up with a good 3p solution to line them all up.
Title: Re: First Cabinet Build: I have no idea what I'm doing
Post by: obizues on May 27, 2018, 11:48:02 am
Well look at that. The big mean bullies were right about everything. You can apologize and thank us any time. ;)

Your design is much better now. Not everyone can swallow their pride and make major changes to their original idea. Kudos to you.

Well the question is what do I do for 3p?  3p and 4p are hanging off the sides.
Title: Re: First Cabinet Build: I have no idea what I'm doing
Post by: wp34 on May 27, 2018, 12:08:28 pm
Well the question is what do I do for 3p?  3p and 4p are hanging off the sides.

To keep the 3rd and 4th players in a slimmer design you are going to have to make some compromises.  Years ago I tried the same thing and mocked up an option with buttons below the joystick.  My priority at the time was being able to play Smash TV and the 3rd and 4th players were just gravy. 

Ultimately I abandoned the 4-player style and just got a dedicated Total Carnage/Smash TV cabinet.

Title: Re: First Cabinet Build: I have no idea what I'm doing
Post by: obizues on May 28, 2018, 02:17:07 pm
Well I have finally gone full circle.  After testing out the spacing on the 1p and 2p with a buddy last night, there wasn't enough room to be comfortable for both of us.  (We are fairly tall / not skinny.

So I present my 2-player draft..

Does anyone have any comments on the current measurements?  I feel like it's a lot of space on the bottom, and the sides are fairly arbitrary because I will just fit it in the 2'8" width of the cabinet anyways, so I might as well use the space.

Comments:

No admin buttons (yes you win)
Got rid of 3p and 4p
Spaced out 1p and 2p

(https://i.imgur.com/lmheNbo.png)
Title: Re: First Cabinet Build: I have no idea what I'm doing
Post by: jennifer on May 28, 2018, 02:26:58 pm
   (Go back to the curved design).... But Im thinking that's considerably more practical, extra space is good, and you could still squeeze in that T/ball.
Title: Re: First Cabinet Build: I have no idea what I'm doing
Post by: obizues on May 28, 2018, 02:30:24 pm
   (Go back to the curved design).... But Im thinking that's considerably more practical, extra space is good, and you could still squeeze in that T/ball.
If I do that though, I would need curved wood to make it flush right?
Title: Re: First Cabinet Build: I have no idea what I'm doing
Post by: proplayer77 on May 28, 2018, 02:51:46 pm
Well I have finally gone full circle.  After testing out the spacing on the 1p and 2p with a buddy last night, there wasn't enough room to be comfortable for both of us.  (We are fairly tall / not skinny.

So I present my 2-player draft..

Does anyone have any comments on the current measurements?  I feel like it's a lot of space on the bottom, and the sides are fairly arbitrary because I will just fit it in the 2'8" width of the cabinet anyways, so I might as well use the space.

Comments:

No admin buttons (yes you win)
Got rid of 3p and 4p
Spaced out 1p and 2p

(https://i.imgur.com/lmheNbo.png)

My CP is 79cm wide, and i have a bit more room between but that should be ok. About those admin buttons, Id put P2 admin buttons to same level as P1 (like im doing) but thats just my opinion. Like to have things in same places. Im also mounting the cupholders to the corners inside the panel. 
Im also going for flipper buttons to the sides.
Title: Re: First Cabinet Build: I have no idea what I'm doing
Post by: obizues on May 28, 2018, 03:11:19 pm
Quote from: proplayer77 link=topic=157247.msg1654184#msg1654184 date=M
About those admin buttons, Id put P2 admin buttons to same level as P1 (like im doing) but thats just my opinion. Like to have things in same places.
What do you mean the same leve?
Title: Re: First Cabinet Build: I have no idea what I'm doing
Post by: jennifer on May 28, 2018, 03:22:03 pm
   (Go back to the curved design).... But Im thinking that's considerably more practical, extra space is good, and you could still squeeze in that T/ball.
If I do that though, I would need curved wood to make it flush right?
No, You would need 2 curved pieces to make the C/p, and then recess it into the square base.....But if you look at that square design, some poor kid going to be lured over there to your shiny new game and bang her/his head on that sharp corner. 
Title: Re: First Cabinet Build: I have no idea what I'm doing
Post by: proplayer77 on May 28, 2018, 03:27:19 pm
[quote author=proplayer77 link=topic=157247.msg1654184#msg1654184 date=M
About those admin buttons, Id put P2 admin buttons to same level as P1 (like im doing) but thats just my opinion. Like to have things in same places.
What do you mean the same leve?
[/quote]

Same measure as P1, same level as P2 joystick.
Title: Re: First Cabinet Build: I have no idea what I'm doing
Post by: obizues on May 28, 2018, 04:27:04 pm
Same measure as P1, same level as P2 joystick.
?? I thought they were the same level.
Title: Re: First Cabinet Build: I have no idea what I'm doing
Post by: obizues on May 28, 2018, 04:28:14 pm
How do people make curved pieces of plastic to combine the control panel and front panel?
Title: Re: First Cabinet Build: I have no idea what I'm doing
Post by: obizues on May 28, 2018, 04:30:07 pm
Some poor kid going to be lured over there to your shiny new game and bang her/his head on that sharp corner.
It will recess into the arcade with the new size. The Panel won’t be outside the 2’ 8” area between the the cabinet’s sides.
Title: Re: First Cabinet Build: I have no idea what I'm doing
Post by: Nephasth on May 28, 2018, 07:59:22 pm
Well I have finally gone full circle.  After testing out the spacing on the 1p and 2p with a buddy last night, there wasn't enough room to be comfortable for both of us.  (We are fairly tall / not skinny.

So I present my 2-player draft..

Does anyone have any comments on the current measurements?  I feel like it's a lot of space on the bottom, and the sides are fairly arbitrary because I will just fit it in the 2'8" width of the cabinet anyways, so I might as well use the space.

Comments:

No admin buttons (yes you win)
Got rid of 3p and 4p
Spaced out 1p and 2p

(https://i.imgur.com/lmheNbo.png)

Solves your LED issue too. Anywho, if you're still using a 32" screen, you might as well throw a trackball in there...
Title: Re: First Cabinet Build: I have no idea what I'm doing
Post by: obizues on May 28, 2018, 08:45:42 pm
Solves your LED issue too. Anywho, if you're still using a 32" screen, you might as well throw a trackball in there...
Won’t that just crowd the area?  What games all use a trackball besides Golden Tee?
Title: Re: First Cabinet Build: I have no idea what I'm doing
Post by: PL1 on May 28, 2018, 09:13:52 pm
What games all use a trackball besides Golden Tee?
Approximately 550 other games. (292 games if you filter the list to show parent ROMs only)

http://www.progettoemma.net/index.php?lista=&control=trackball&romset=&devfilter=yes&biosfilter=no&mechfilter=no&risorsa=all&working=tutti&lett= (http://www.progettoemma.net/index.php?lista=&control=trackball&romset=&devfilter=yes&biosfilter=no&mechfilter=no&risorsa=all&working=tutti&lett=)

This list doesn't include analog joystick/flight yoke games like Star Wars that can also work with the trackball.


Scott
Title: Re: First Cabinet Build: I have no idea what I'm doing
Post by: obizues on May 28, 2018, 10:01:55 pm
Approximately 550 other games. (292 games if you filter the list to show parent ROMs only)

http://www.progettoemma.net/index.php?lista=&control=trackball&romset=&devfilter=yes&biosfilter=no&mechfilter=no&risorsa=all&working=tutti&lett= (http://www.progettoemma.net/index.php?lista=&control=trackball&romset=&devfilter=yes&biosfilter=no&mechfilter=no&risorsa=all&working=tutti&lett=)

This list doesn't include analog joystick/flight yoke games like Star Wars that can also work with the trackball.

So you seem to be in favor of me adding a trackball...
Title: Re: First Cabinet Build: I have no idea what I'm doing
Post by: Nephasth on May 28, 2018, 11:06:16 pm
A trackball won't be in the way of your standard controls. P2 joystick might be annoying while playing trackball games... But hey, you'd be playing trackball and spinner games.  :dunno
Title: Re: First Cabinet Build: I have no idea what I'm doing
Post by: obizues on May 29, 2018, 07:35:00 pm
A trackball won't be in the way of your standard controls. P2 joystick might be annoying while playing trackball games... But hey, you'd be playing trackball and spinner games.  :dunno

Any recommendations on how much space I should leave between the sides and joysticks/buttons and joystick for 2p and trackball?
Title: Re: First Cabinet Build: I have no idea what I'm doing
Post by: obizues on May 29, 2018, 08:10:47 pm
A trackball won't be in the way of your standard controls. P2 joystick might be annoying while playing trackball games... But hey, you'd be playing trackball and spinner games.  :dunno

Any recommendations on how much space I should leave between the sides and joysticks/buttons and joystick for 2p and trackball?

How does this look:
(https://i.imgur.com/JL0OMs8.png)
Title: Re: First Cabinet Build: I have no idea what I'm doing
Post by: obizues on May 29, 2018, 09:14:23 pm
A trackball won't be in the way of your standard controls. P2 joystick might be annoying while playing trackball games... But hey, you'd be playing trackball and spinner games.  :dunno

Any recommendations on how much space I should leave between the sides and joysticks/buttons and joystick for 2p and trackball?

How does this look:
(https://i.imgur.com/JL0OMs8.png)

Here’s how it looks to scale...

1p:
(https://i.imgur.com/7CDpHMN.jpg)

2p:
(https://i.imgur.com/OYnCTCB.jpg)

Trackball:
(https://i.imgur.com/rSBoh29.jpg)


... I think we have a winner!
Title: Re: First Cabinet Build: I have no idea what I'm doing
Post by: Nephasth on May 29, 2018, 09:19:11 pm
Now make that trackball a black one, and have someone 3D print you an upper half of the trackball housing in clear... So you can light up the trackball with the same ring effect as your buttons... >:D
Title: Re: First Cabinet Build: I have no idea what I'm doing
Post by: obizues on May 29, 2018, 09:22:00 pm
Now make that trackball a black one, and have someone 3D print you an upper half of the trackball housing in clear... So you can light up the trackball with the same ring effect as your buttons... >:D

Upper half of the trackball housing?  Has anyone does that you can link me to?

Also, I’m having trouble locating a wiring guide for a switch to a stripped out power supply I can also wire my power supply to?
Title: Re: First Cabinet Build: I have no idea what I'm doing
Post by: obizues on May 29, 2018, 09:29:26 pm
Saving YouTube for wiring source:
https://youtu.be/W4Vhkgq4JEg (https://youtu.be/W4Vhkgq4JEg)
Title: Re: First Cabinet Build: I have no idea what I'm doing
Post by: Nephasth on May 29, 2018, 09:33:44 pm
Now make that trackball a black one, and have someone 3D print you an upper half of the trackball housing in clear... So you can light up the trackball with the same ring effect as your buttons... >:D

Upper half of the trackball housing?  Has anyone does that you can link me to?


Nobody has done it yet, as far as I know. I wanted to do it with 2 1/4" trackballs for the Two-Headed Beast, but 3D printing wasn't nearly as huge of a hit as it is now. Lots of members here have their own printers now. Just a matter of somebody willing enough to model it up and print it out...
Title: Re: First Cabinet Build: I have no idea what I'm doing
Post by: Arroyo on May 29, 2018, 09:48:02 pm
Now make that trackball a black one, and have someone 3D print you an upper half of the trackball housing in clear... So you can light up the trackball with the same ring effect as your buttons... >:D

Upper half of the trackball housing?  Has anyone does that you can link me to?


Nobody has done it yet, as far as I know. I wanted to do it with 2 1/4" trackballs for the Two-Headed Beast, but 3D printing wasn't nearly as huge of a hit as it is now. Lots of members here have their own printers now. Just a matter of somebody willing enough to model it up and print it out...

There’s a Utrak model in the Sketchup warehouse that I am using, looks pretty accurate from what I can tell.....
Title: Re: First Cabinet Build: I have no idea what I'm doing
Post by: obizues on May 29, 2018, 09:56:56 pm
Does anyone know if you actually need the 12v power input for the Ultimarc I/O for RGB LED’s?

On the diagram it says it needs it for a string, but have a 5v input as well with a computer fan connector:

(https://i.imgur.com/HVO3ca0.png)

So I could run an IEC to a power supply that I bought here, or do I not need that?:

(https://i.imgur.com/QmwQ08n.jpg)

Am I missing something?
Title: Re: First Cabinet Build: I have no idea what I'm doing
Post by: obizues on May 29, 2018, 10:07:21 pm
Actually it looks like I need the 12v for this:
(https://i.imgur.com/hEPHwfq.jpg)

Edit:
Never mind, I can just use an easy 12v plug since it
Has a plug at the end of the LED strip.
Title: Re: First Cabinet Build: I have no idea what I'm doing
Post by: obizues on May 29, 2018, 11:26:05 pm
Nobody has done it yet, as far as I know. I wanted to do it with 2 1/4" trackballs for the Two-Headed Beast, but 3D printing wasn't nearly as huge of a hit as it is now. Lots of members here have their own printers now. Just a matter of somebody willing enough to model it up and print it out...
Got it.
Title: Re: First Cabinet Build: I have no idea what I'm doing
Post by: obizues on May 29, 2018, 11:44:05 pm
RGB buttons working on Ultimarc I/O test:

(https://i.imgur.com/Wr1R1lY.jpg)

And

(https://i.imgur.com/aBg4b7K.jpg)
Title: Re: First Cabinet Build: I have no idea what I'm doing
Post by: MacGyver on May 30, 2018, 02:02:15 am
Unless that computer case is plastic, that board is going to have a short life.
Title: Re: First Cabinet Build: I have no idea what I'm doing
Post by: ZoOl007 on May 30, 2018, 08:13:04 am
Unless that computer case is plastic, that board is going to have a short life.

 ;D indeed... indeed...
Title: Re: First Cabinet Build: I have no idea what I'm doing
Post by: Mike A on May 30, 2018, 08:16:46 am
Put the side panels on the freakin computer and clean the dust off of it. I bet the CPU heatsink is totally impacted with dust.
Title: Re: First Cabinet Build: I have no idea what I'm doing
Post by: obizues on May 30, 2018, 03:52:05 pm
Unless that computer case is plastic, that board is going to have a short life.
Yep, plastic.
Title: Re: First Cabinet Build: I have no idea what I'm doing
Post by: obizues on May 30, 2018, 03:52:54 pm
Put the side panels on the freakin computer and clean the dust off of it. I bet the CPU heatsink is totally impacted with dust.
The side panels were off to get into the fan power.  The fan power is only accessible outside the main unit.  And yes, I need to clean it. 

Jesus, rough crowd.
Title: Re: First Cabinet Build: I have no idea what I'm doing
Post by: Mike A on May 30, 2018, 04:15:40 pm
Just trying to help. Make sure you check that CPU heatsink.
Title: Re: First Cabinet Build: I have no idea what I'm doing
Post by: obizues on May 30, 2018, 04:16:27 pm
Are people still using these RGB trackballs?  Or is there a better option available?

(http://www.twistedquarter.com/images/multi%20trackball.JPG)

They also have USB/PS2, but those are even more expensive.



Title: Re: First Cabinet Build: I have no idea what I'm doing
Post by: PL1 on May 30, 2018, 05:38:08 pm
They also have USB/PS2, but those are even more expensive.
Happ makes great trackballs, but you'll probably want to avoid their overpriced USB/PS2 interface.

Some users say it works OK, but a number of users have reported problems with backspin.

Recommended higher quality plug-and-play trackball/encoder combination:

  - Happ trackball (arcade-style w. Molex and Red Boards) with whichever ball and/or lighting option you like

  - GGG  Opti-Wiz™ "No-Solder" (http://groovygamegear.com/webstore/index.php?main_page=product_info&cPath=76_85&products_id=260) USB optical encoder

  - GGG  Trackball Cable for Opti-Wiz™ "No-Solder" (http://groovygamegear.com/webstore/index.php?main_page=product_info&cPath=76_85&products_id=261)

(http://forum.arcadecontrols.com/index.php?action=dlattach;topic=133025.0;attach=354621;image)


Scott
EDIT: Forgot that you have an Ultimate I/O board.   :embarassed:
Skip the Opti-Wiz and use the GGG trackball cable to connect to the trackball pins on the Ultmate I/O board.
Title: Re: First Cabinet Build: I have no idea what I'm doing
Post by: obizues on May 30, 2018, 05:41:46 pm
They also have USB/PS2, but those are even more expensive.
Happ makes great trackballs, but you'll probably want to avoid their overpriced USB/PS2 interface.

Some users say it works OK, but a number of users have reported problems with backspin.

Recommended higher quality plug-and-play trackball/encoder combination:

  - Happ trackball (arcade-style w. Molex and Red Boards) with whichever ball and/or lighting option you like

  - GGG  Opti-Wiz™ "No-Solder" (http://groovygamegear.com/webstore/index.php?main_page=product_info&cPath=76_85&products_id=260) USB optical encoder

  - GGG  Trackball Cable for Opti-Wiz™ "No-Solder" (http://groovygamegear.com/webstore/index.php?main_page=product_info&cPath=76_85&products_id=261)

(http://forum.arcadecontrols.com/index.php?action=dlattach;topic=133025.0;attach=354621;image)


Scott

Does it not have an easy plug and play option with the Ultimar I/O’ designsted controller area for that?
Title: Re: First Cabinet Build: I have no idea what I'm doing
Post by: PL1 on May 30, 2018, 05:49:35 pm
  - GGG  Trackball Cable for Opti-Wiz™ "No-Solder" (http://groovygamegear.com/webstore/index.php?main_page=product_info&cPath=76_85&products_id=261)

(http://forum.arcadecontrols.com/index.php?action=dlattach;topic=133025.0;attach=354621;image)
Does it not have an easy plug and play option with the Ultimar I/O’ designsted controller area for that?
Forgot which encoder you are using.   :embarassed:

The GGG Red-board to Dupont pins cable will work with the Ultimate I/O board if you extract the ground pin from the housing since the 5v and ground pins are not next to each other on that board.


Scott
Title: Re: First Cabinet Build: I have no idea what I'm doing
Post by: obizues on May 30, 2018, 08:37:22 pm
Forgot which encoder you are using.   :embarassed:

The GGG Red-board to Dupont pins cable will work with the Ultimate I/O board if you extract the ground pin from the housing since the 5v and ground pins are not next to each other on that board.
Sorry I’m still a little confused by that statement.

Are you saying the Happ Trackball will pin into the Ultimarc Ultimate, but I will need to remove the ground pin from the quick connect since it won’t fit?
Title: Re: First Cabinet Build: I have no idea what I'm doing
Post by: leapinlew on May 30, 2018, 08:39:44 pm
Put the side panels on the freakin computer and clean the dust off of it. I bet the CPU heatsink is totally impacted with dust.
The side panels were off to get into the fan power.  The fan power is only accessible outside the main unit.  And yes, I need to clean it. 

Jesus, rough crowd.

No worries bro. It's not the crowd, just a couple hecklers. Ignore them and you'll be fine.  :)
Title: Re: First Cabinet Build: I have no idea what I'm doing
Post by: obizues on May 30, 2018, 08:41:30 pm
Arcade switch successfully wired up to the power strip I will run the PC, Monitor, and 12v LED strip. Female connectors are in solid, and so is the cable into the switch from the wall.

Plugged in:
(https://i.imgur.com/EmDH53Z.jpg)


Plugged in and switch on:
(https://i.imgur.com/nlZWW0V.jpg)
Title: Re: First Cabinet Build: I have no idea what I'm doing
Post by: javeryh on May 30, 2018, 09:22:25 pm
Arcade switch successfully wired up to the power strip I will run the PC, Monitor, and 12v LED strip. Female connectors are in solid, and so is the cable into the switch from the wall.

Awesome.  Can you show a close-up of your wiring?

Thanks.   :cheers:
Title: Re: First Cabinet Build: I have no idea what I'm doing
Post by: PL1 on May 30, 2018, 09:37:38 pm
The GGG Red-board to Dupont pins cable will work with the Ultimate I/O board if you extract the ground pin from the housing since the 5v and ground pins are not next to each other on that board.
Sorry I’m still a little confused by that statement.

Are you saying the Happ Trackball will pin into the Ultimarc Ultimate, but I will need to remove the ground pin from the quick connect since it won’t fit?
If you look at the trackball Dupont pins on the Ultimate I/O board (top, just left of center), the ground pins (G) are on the left, the data pins (X1/X2, Y1/Y2) are in the middle, and the 5v pins are on the right.

(http://www.ultimarc.com/images/UIO_top.jpg)

If you look at the picture of the GGG Trackball Cable for Opti-Wiz™ "No-Solder", one of the 1x2 black Dupont pin housings has 5v (red wires) and ground (black wires) next to each other.

(http://forum.arcadecontrols.com/index.php?action=dlattach;topic=133025.0;attach=354621;image)

To make the GGG trackball cable work with the Ultimate I/O board, you'll need to pull one of those two pins (I recommend ground) out of that 1x2 housing using this procedure (http://forum.arcadecontrols.com/index.php/topic,157388.msg1653851.html#msg1653851).

If you have a spare 1x1 or 1x2 Dupont housing, you can put it on the extracted pin or you an just plug the bare pin directly onto the Ultimate I/O board.

Plug the one ground pin on the left, the four data pins in the center, and the one 5v pin on the right.


Scott
Title: Re: First Cabinet Build: I have no idea what I'm doing
Post by: obizues on May 30, 2018, 10:24:50 pm
To make the GGG trackball cable work with the Ultimate I/O board, you'll need to pull one of those two pins (I recommend ground) out of that 1x2 housing using this procedure (http://forum.arcadecontrols.com/index.php/topic,157388.msg1653851.html#msg1653851).

If you have a spare 1x1 or 1x2 Dupont housing, you can put it on the extracted pin or you an just plug the bare pin directly onto the Ultimate I/O board.

Plug the one ground pin on the left, the four data pins in the center, and the one 5v pin on the right.

Thanks!   :applaud:
Title: Re: First Cabinet Build: I have no idea what I'm doing
Post by: obizues on May 30, 2018, 10:44:47 pm
Awesome.  Can you show a close-up of your wiring?

Thanks.   :cheers:

You can follow this guy’s tutorial. Basically it’s +,- Ground, and then chaining the switch down:

https://m.youtube.com/watch?v=W4Vhkgq4JEg (https://m.youtube.com/watch?v=W4Vhkgq4JEg)
Title: Re: First Cabinet Build: I have no idea what I'm doing
Post by: obizues on June 03, 2018, 08:57:16 pm
Re-drew the outside cabinet walls..

Thoughts on the new outline?  The space in front of the buttons/sticks?

The CP is also at 3' 4" or 40" high at the stick (angled down at 5 degrees).  I'm 6' even, and that feels pretty good, but I'm not sure what normal is...

Also, the screen is not angled backwards at all, it is straight up and down, anyone have input on that?

(https://i.imgur.com/ihlZJt8.png)

Title: Re: First Cabinet Build: I have no idea what I'm doing
Post by: obizues on June 03, 2018, 09:14:57 pm
Also, what kind of access do people plan for on the back side of the cabinet?  I assume I need a door into the computer and if I need to ever re-wire areas. 

I don't think I need anything on top since I could re-wire the marquee from the front if I absolutely have to.

(https://i.imgur.com/NNcgVoT.png)
Title: Re: First Cabinet Build: I have no idea what I'm doing
Post by: Drnick on June 04, 2018, 12:10:13 pm
Also, what kind of access do people plan for on the back side of the cabinet?  I assume I need a door into the computer and if I need to ever re-wire areas. 
I don't think I need anything on top since I could re-wire the marquee from the front if I absolutely have to.

Quickest and easiest solution below,  Add a single lock if using hinges, use either rare earth magnets or 2 or 3 locks to hold in place if you are just push fitting into place.
Title: Re: First Cabinet Build: I have no idea what I'm doing
Post by: obizues on June 04, 2018, 12:42:11 pm
Quickest and easiest solution below,  Add a single lock if using hinges, use either rare earth magnets or 2 or 3 locks to hold in place if you are just push fitting into place.
That seems like a very heavy door since I'm cutting mine out of 3/4" plywood.

Does it really need to be that high?
Title: Re: First Cabinet Build: I have no idea what I'm doing
Post by: javeryh on June 04, 2018, 12:45:33 pm
Quickest and easiest solution below,  Add a single lock if using hinges, use either rare earth magnets or 2 or 3 locks to hold in place if you are just push fitting into place.
That seems like a very heavy door since I'm cutting mine out of 3/4" plywood.

Does it really need to be that high?

The weight will be supported by the bottom rear panel.  You can use a cam lock or something up top plus some interior wood strips as stops to keep it in place.  You will almost never go back there once you set everything up.
Title: Re: First Cabinet Build: I have no idea what I'm doing
Post by: obizues on June 18, 2018, 10:17:29 pm
How far do people cut into their control panel for their joysticks?  I have a 3/“ piece of plywood and I’m not sure how far I need to plunge into the wood so the joysticks liner up correctly. I’m using Sanyo joysticks.

Additionally, is there a “normal” size of t-molding cut that most people use for a 3/4” strip.

Finally, I assume a plunge router could also lock in place to cut the T-molding, but I realize that I’ve just been assuming. If anyone can give me clarification on that it would be helpful.  I know there’s changeable base routers, but do I need one of those?
Title: Re: First Cabinet Build: I have no idea what I'm doing
Post by: javeryh on June 19, 2018, 05:32:47 am
A plunge router should work fine with the slot cutter.  Just lock it to the proper depth.

Joystick depth is a personal preference thing.  Some people like longer sticks and others like shorter ones.

3/4” t-molding will work fine for 3/4” plywood.  Some places that sell it will send you test strips in different colors before you order if you ask. 
Title: Re: First Cabinet Build: I have no idea what I'm doing
Post by: obizues on June 19, 2018, 08:38:15 am
A plunge router should work fine with the slot cutter.  Just lock it to the proper depth.
I wasn’t sure if I could lock a plunge at a certain depth or if I needed to keep pressure on it. Although I feel like both should work.


Joystick depth is a personal preference thing.  Some people like longer sticks and others like shorter ones.
I feel like anything less than 1/8” is playing with fire, but then again I haven’t done this before.

3/4” t-molding will work fine for 3/4” plywood.  Some places that sell it will send you test strips in different colors before you order if you ask.
I should have specified, I know 3/4 plywood will work, but I’m unsure on what size rotary but for the actual line I cut into the width of the plywood to push the T-molding into. I have some samples for colors and stuff, but maybe it says on the specs and I just have to look again. 
Title: Re: First Cabinet Build: I have no idea what I'm doing
Post by: luizw81 on June 19, 2018, 09:26:01 am
Concerning the plunge router,  make sure you lock it in tight before you start and after every plunge.  If it gets loose you'll plunge right through the board....thats what happened to me.

As for the slot cutter, the T-molding website should have the specs.  I bought my 3/4 molding from Tmolding.com and it needed a 1/16" slot.

Sent from my SM-J320R4 using Tapatalk
Title: Re: First Cabinet Build: I have no idea what I'm doing
Post by: obizues on June 19, 2018, 09:42:34 am
Concerning the plunge router,  make sure you lock it in tight before you start and after every plunge.  If it gets loose you'll plunge right through the board....thats what happened to me.

As for the slot cutter, the T-molding website should have the specs.  I bought my 3/4 molding from Tmolding.com and it needed a 1/16" slot.

Sent from my SM-J320R4 using Tapatalk

Thanks!
Title: Re: First Cabinet Build: I have no idea what I'm doing
Post by: obizues on June 21, 2018, 09:43:09 pm
I’ve got wood.
(https://i.imgur.com/lgKah6d.jpg)

And tools:
(https://i.imgur.com/jKYq2wW.jpg)
Title: Re: First Cabinet Build: I have no idea what I'm doing
Post by: Richie_jones on June 24, 2018, 11:49:45 am
Looking forward to see how it all turns out..(https://uploads.tapatalk-cdn.com/20180624/b95c52bf7ef61784e589da4687f97880.gif)
Title: Re: First Cabinet Build: I have no idea what I'm doing
Post by: obizues on June 24, 2018, 10:26:10 pm
Printed out, measured, clamped.  Foreman is on the site ready to go.

(https://i.imgur.com/YMIaJdR.jpg)


Turned out okay for first cut, my crappy jigsaw started beveling so I’ll need to get a new one soon. In the meantime it will have to do. Just more sanding in my future.

(https://i.imgur.com/OmQu0i3.jpg)

I’ll cut the other one tomorrow hopefully, then on to routing and pairing up the sides.

Edit: yes I know I didn’t bevel to top corners... see bad jigsaw comment.
Title: Re: First Cabinet Build: I have no idea what I'm doing
Post by: proplayer77 on June 25, 2018, 06:46:00 am
Nice to see you have started your project. Im on final steps with mine, started about 6 weeks ago and used about total of 5 hours  / week for it sofar. :)
Title: Re: First Cabinet Build: I have no idea what I'm doing
Post by: obizues on June 25, 2018, 07:10:59 am
Nice to see you have started your project. Im on final steps with mine, started about 6 weeks ago and used about total of 5 hours  / week for it sofar. :)

That looks great!
Title: Re: First Cabinet Build: I have no idea what I'm doing
Post by: obizues on June 25, 2018, 02:00:15 pm
Nice to see you have started your project. Im on final steps with mine, started about 6 weeks ago and used about total of 5 hours  / week for it sofar. :)

Are you doing any artwork?
Title: Re: First Cabinet Build: I have no idea what I'm doing
Post by: obizues on June 25, 2018, 11:03:08 pm
Cut out the other side and practiced with the router. 

(https://i.imgur.com/Ak77a7k.jpg)

I originally had the bevel issue on one of the pieces that you can see:

(https://i.imgur.com/hxVmS7s.jpg)

But now I guess both are evenly bad.  :-\

(https://i.imgur.com/14ahL9O.jpg)

The goal will be to sand out the bad portions tomorrow on one side and then use the router to make the other side pair to it.
Title: Re: First Cabinet Build: I have no idea what I'm doing
Post by: Drnick on June 26, 2018, 03:26:29 am
I don't envy the sanding job :) Gotta be honest here,  this is one of the reasons for me buying a table saw  :laugh2: for the straight edges I would clamp a straight edge and use the router to clean up. Only using the sander on the curved areas :)
Title: Re: First Cabinet Build: I have no idea what I'm doing
Post by: yamatetsu on June 26, 2018, 04:58:14 am
The goal will be to sand out the bad portions tomorrow on one side and then use the router to make the other side pair to it.

No need for the router. Just clamp the boards together so that the straight lines match and sand away the imperfections. You'll automatically get two identical boards.
Title: Re: First Cabinet Build: I have no idea what I'm doing
Post by: obizues on June 26, 2018, 08:49:15 am
No need for the router. Just clamp the boards together so that the straight lines match and sand away the imperfections. You'll automatically get two identical boards.

I am going to try that, but I didn’t know if it would be perfect. Also one board still has a bevel so I didn’t know if that made sense...
Title: Re: First Cabinet Build: I have no idea what I'm doing
Post by: Mike A on June 26, 2018, 09:01:42 am
Every time you try to shape a hunk of wood to your will, you learn something new.
Title: Re: First Cabinet Build: I have no idea what I'm doing
Post by: javeryh on June 26, 2018, 09:36:45 am
I would use a straight edge, a flush trim bit and a router to clean that up.  Sanding that straight could take all day unless you have a belt sander and some 80 grit but it (probably) won't come out as crisp as you'd like.  Then you can adjust your sketch-up plans accordingly when you lose 1/8" or whatever it ends up being.
Title: Re: First Cabinet Build: I have no idea what I'm doing
Post by: Malenko on June 26, 2018, 11:25:50 am
your first go turned out heaps better than my first go. Have you decided on a theme yet?
Title: Re: First Cabinet Build: I have no idea what I'm doing
Post by: obizues on June 26, 2018, 08:55:07 pm
your first go turned out heaps better than my first go. Have you decided on a theme yet?

Not yet... I’m thinking Marvel vs Capcom, but that may change. Deciding between a lightning “Zeus” theme and going with something like MvC
Title: Re: First Cabinet Build: I have no idea what I'm doing
Post by: obizues on June 26, 2018, 08:58:29 pm
Did some sanding today... this stuff eats up a lot more time than you think... maybe I should’ve done this before I had a kid.  ;)

Excuse the “pic stitch” but it made the uploading a lot easier.

(https://i.imgur.com/KDYOoiw.jpg)

The “arm” still looks off to me. I may have to touch it up tomorrow.

(https://i.imgur.com/oW2mPEu.jpg)
Title: Re: First Cabinet Build: I have no idea what I'm doing
Post by: JudgeRob on June 26, 2018, 11:00:40 pm
You don't have a router?  Getting real familiar with mine was one of the best parts of building a cab.  Learned lots of things it could do.
Title: Re: First Cabinet Build: I have no idea what I'm doing
Post by: obizues on June 26, 2018, 11:04:21 pm
You don't have a router?  Getting real familiar with mine was one of the best parts of building a cab.  Learned lots of things it could do.

I have one, what are you suggesting I do with it?  Create a guide?
Title: Re: First Cabinet Build: I have no idea what I'm doing
Post by: JudgeRob on June 27, 2018, 11:57:08 am
Straight edge as a guide down the straight sides, the router makes really sharp straight lines and gets rid of the bevelling problem.  But I guess maybe you already sanded down the sides?
Title: Re: First Cabinet Build: I have no idea what I'm doing
Post by: obizues on June 27, 2018, 12:04:47 pm
Straight edge as a guide down the straight sides, the router makes really sharp straight lines and gets rid of the bevelling problem.  But I guess maybe you already sanded down the sides?

Yeah that’s what I thought you’d suggest. I will likely take a straight edge and do that and just sand to smooth.
Title: Re: First Cabinet Build: I have no idea what I'm doing
Post by: proplayer77 on June 27, 2018, 12:29:50 pm
Nice to see you have started your project. Im on final steps with mine, started about 6 weeks ago and used about total of 5 hours  / week for it sofar. :)

Are you doing any artwork?

Im waiting for the marque art, but its very simple.
Title: Re: First Cabinet Build: I have no idea what I'm doing
Post by: JudgeRob on June 27, 2018, 02:05:29 pm
Quote
Yeah that’s what I thought you’d suggest. I will likely take a straight edge and do that and just sand to smooth.

It's time consuming until you get a good method down, but the results are so worth it!  At least you're not using MDF so it won't look like Christmas hit your face.   :D
Title: Re: First Cabinet Build: I have no idea what I'm doing
Post by: obizues on June 27, 2018, 10:00:36 pm
Twinsies! 

Fixed wood blemishes with wood filler, sanded over both pieces front, back, and side with 60 grit.

Tomorrow I’ll run over both sides with 120 grit and 220 grit sandpaper and get to painting.

(https://i.imgur.com/fbmDY3o.jpg)

(https://i.imgur.com/vgqRnUh.jpg)
Title: Re: First Cabinet Build: I have no idea what I'm doing
Post by: obizues on June 27, 2018, 10:18:41 pm
Actually I need to take a step back and put on guides for the back, front, top and bottom portions of the cabinet with wood glue/screws.

Right?  Paint after?  Anyone? ???
Title: Re: First Cabinet Build: I have no idea what I'm doing
Post by: Drnick on June 28, 2018, 02:20:47 am
Paint after installation of the guides, especially if you are also going to paint the inside, you want wood-wood connection for gluing and screwing :)
Title: Re: First Cabinet Build: I have no idea what I'm doing
Post by: obizues on June 28, 2018, 07:51:51 am
Paint after installation of the guides, especially if you are also going to paint the inside, you want wood-wood connection for gluing and screwing :)

That’s what I was thinking. Grain to grain is probably best. I probably shouldn’t have even have sanded.

What do people use for guides usually?  4x4?
Title: Re: First Cabinet Build: I have no idea what I'm doing
Post by: Drnick on June 28, 2018, 02:06:28 pm
Whats 4 x 4 when it's at home, It Sounds like a rubix cube I haven't figured out how to solve yet.  I'm going to guess its centimetre measurement so nominal of about 1.5" x 1.5"  In which case yeah that will do it :) I'm a fan of 2" x 1" myself
Title: Re: First Cabinet Build: I have no idea what I'm doing
Post by: obizues on June 28, 2018, 02:27:38 pm
Whats 4 x 4 when it's at home, It Sounds like a rubix cube I haven't figured out how to solve yet.  I'm going to guess its centimetre measurement so nominal of about 1.5" x 1.5"  In which case yeah that will do it :) I'm a fan of 2" x 1" myself

Did you do screws as well?  Or just glue?

If yes on screws what size/type?

My wood for the sides is 3/4” and I got 2x1”s.
Title: Re: First Cabinet Build: I have no idea what I'm doing
Post by: Drnick on June 28, 2018, 03:06:20 pm
Gorilla Glue (or best quality wood glue you can find) and then size 3x30mm screws.   https://www.screwfix.com/p/turbogold-pz-double-self-countersunk-woodscrews-3-x-30mm-200-pack/14801 (https://www.screwfix.com/p/turbogold-pz-double-self-countersunk-woodscrews-3-x-30mm-200-pack/14801) (Counter sunk 3mm into battoning)
Title: Re: First Cabinet Build: I have no idea what I'm doing
Post by: obizues on June 28, 2018, 07:07:51 pm
Gorilla Glue (or best quality wood glue you can find) and then size 3x30mm screws.   https://www.screwfix.com/p/turbogold-pz-double-self-countersunk-woodscrews-3-x-30mm-200-pack/14801 (https://www.screwfix.com/p/turbogold-pz-double-self-countersunk-woodscrews-3-x-30mm-200-pack/14801) (Counter sunk 3mm into battoning)

How far between screws?  If I screw it from the inside, do I even need to countersink them?
Title: Re: First Cabinet Build: I have no idea what I'm doing
Post by: firedance on June 29, 2018, 12:33:35 am
could use these screws for half the price, used them on my bartop No.2

https://www.screwfix.com/p/goldscrew-pz-double-self-countersunk-woodscrews-4-x-30mm-200-pack/18909 (https://www.screwfix.com/p/goldscrew-pz-double-self-countersunk-woodscrews-4-x-30mm-200-pack/18909)

i didnt used batons, screwed thru the side to the base, then filled, spaced my screws roughly 2.5-3" apart.
Title: Re: First Cabinet Build: I have no idea what I'm doing
Post by: proplayer77 on June 29, 2018, 10:21:48 am
Your using ”real wood”, not mdf. Only screws will do the job as long in my opinion, but at least the parts you want to still take loose dont glue :). Always drill a small hole before screwing to avoid cracks 👍😎.
Try to avoid screws from visible side, if you need to, just countersink them and use filler before painting. Inside you dont need to worry how it looks, just paint👍.
Title: Re: First Cabinet Build: I have no idea what I'm doing
Post by: Mike A on June 29, 2018, 10:32:53 am
A good glue joint is stronger than screws and the wood. A screw joint will fail before the glue does, and the wood will fail somewhere else before the glue joint does. That doesn't mean that screws are bad. They just don't hold as well as glue.
Title: Re: First Cabinet Build: I have no idea what I'm doing
Post by: obizues on June 29, 2018, 10:56:08 am
A good glue joint is stronger than screws and the wood. A screw joint will fail before the glue does, and the wood will fail somewhere else before the glue joint does. That doesn't mean that screws are bad. They just don't hold as well as glue.

I've always heard screw and glue, so I'll be doing both.   :cheers:
Title: Re: First Cabinet Build: I have no idea what I'm doing
Post by: luizw81 on June 29, 2018, 10:56:23 am
A good glue joint is stronger than screws and the wood. A screw joint will fail before the glue does, and the wood will fail somewhere else before the glue joint does. That doesn't mean that screws are bad. They just don't hold as well as glue.

+1 to this.  "Glue before your screw" is in the woodworkers ten commandments.  I think it's right behind "Always predrill your holes".
Title: Re: First Cabinet Build: I have no idea what I'm doing
Post by: proplayer77 on June 30, 2018, 06:02:22 am
My point in not using glue is that if you need to take something apart its not easy if you have glued it. So, dont glue those parts 👍🙂
Title: Re: First Cabinet Build: I have no idea what I'm doing
Post by: Mike A on June 30, 2018, 06:16:04 am
That is not what you said before. ;)

Quote
Your using ”real wood”, not mdf. Only screws will do the job.
Title: Re: First Cabinet Build: I have no idea what I'm doing
Post by: proplayer77 on June 30, 2018, 06:56:14 am
That is not what you said before. ;)

Quote
Your using ”real wood”, not mdf. Only screws will do the job.

Thats what i meant to say, edited :) :).
Title: Re: First Cabinet Build: I have no idea what I'm doing
Post by: obizues on June 30, 2018, 08:21:50 am
+1 to this.  "Glue before your screw" is in the woodworkers ten commandments.  I think it's right behind "Always predrill your holes".

When you pre-drill I found this nice chart for size of drill bit to screw so I’ll leave that here for my reference later.

(https://i.imgur.com/cHiQtKV.jpg)
Title: Re: First Cabinet Build: I have no idea what I'm doing
Post by: obizues on July 01, 2018, 08:28:55 pm
I started to put the guides on today, and it was going pretty well.

(https://i.imgur.com/fSh5SWp.jpg)

Then I noticed something... one of them did not leave the 1 1/2” gap between the end and the guide board...  :hissy:

(https://i.imgur.com/LVtF8we.jpg)

If anyone wants to know, wood glue is some quality stuff. That stuff wasn’t coming off.   :angry:

So I went to Home Depot but thy have to follow silly OSHA and can’t cut me a 3/8th inch wide cut of wood almost 5’ long.  :blah: 

So I made due:

(https://i.imgur.com/D17n4bx.jpg)

Anyways, it seemingly worked, and I now have both sides 1 1/4” away from the end. The only damage should be that the back panel, after attaching the 3/4” board, will have a 1/2” instead of 3/4” like the rest of the cabinet.

(https://i.imgur.com/CBI4dEm.jpg)

I guess if I had ton make a rookie mistake, at least it was on the back.  :dunno
Title: Re: First Cabinet Build: I have no idea what I'm doing
Post by: obizues on July 01, 2018, 10:08:48 pm
Got the nerve to finish the guides and drill all the holes, and hit both sides with 120 grit.  :D

Just need to put the screws in, do a 220 grit sanding, and then paint the sides... I think?  ???

(https://i.imgur.com/kEpOlLd.jpg)

I feel like I’m missing a guide or two.. bottom marquee... one for the monitor... and maybe the bottom part of the “arm?”  ???

I’m going to search others projects, but please pipe in if you see anything!  :cheers:
Title: Re: First Cabinet Build: I have no idea what I'm doing
Post by: lcmgadgets on July 04, 2018, 12:33:47 am
Good for you, man! You've made good progress! I've been at it since 2013 & just started mock up cuts last week (okay, yes, I got caught up with other things). Post till the end!
Title: Re: First Cabinet Build: I have no idea what I'm doing
Post by: jennifer on July 04, 2018, 01:57:29 am
   Fixing problems is half the battle, Relax, and  think out every move before you commit, Its hard not to get nervous and second guessing your thoughts now that you see it going together.... A template can be made from those panels in the event of major design  issue, so effectively you cant really mess it up now that all the hard work is done,  It could be considered easier to just start over at this point if your not happy about something. you didn't plan on rather than fight it, I have built some complex builds as many as 5 times to just have it right, no shame in that as long as your learning from your mistake ..... You should really lay some rags over those sawhorses however so you don't scratch up your wood (although that can be fixed too just less work).
Title: Re: First Cabinet Build: I have no idea what I'm doing
Post by: obizues on July 04, 2018, 07:13:26 am
You should really lay some rags over those sawhorses however so you don't scratch up your wood (although that can be fixed too just less work).
:cheers:
Title: Re: First Cabinet Build: I have no idea what I'm doing
Post by: DaOld Man on July 04, 2018, 09:10:40 am
Looking good!
I agree with Jenn, dont let the mistakes bog you down, Ive made so many I cant count that high.
I chalk it up as experience.
But as far as your fix, looks like that will work. I dont think anyone (but you) will notice the small difference in the back panel, just dont tell anyone about it.
Title: Re: First Cabinet Build: I have no idea what I'm doing
Post by: Richie_jones on July 04, 2018, 09:44:31 am
Good job so far.

I`d stick some screws in them rails, just for peace of mind. Theres a lot of force on them when moving a fully loaded cabinet around...,
Title: Re: First Cabinet Build: I have no idea what I'm doing
Post by: obizues on July 04, 2018, 10:08:33 am
Good job so far.

I`d stick some screws in them rails, just for peace of mind. Theres a lot of force on them when moving a fully loaded cabinet around...,

Yep I already drilled the holes for the screws.
Title: Re: First Cabinet Build: I have no idea what I'm doing
Post by: Mike A on July 04, 2018, 10:34:53 am
For the billionth time, glue joints are stronger than screw joints. I just use glue and a brad nailer just to hold stuff in place until the glue dries.
Title: Re: First Cabinet Build: I have no idea what I'm doing
Post by: Richie_jones on July 04, 2018, 10:55:29 am
But glue joints arnt stronger than glue and screw joints...that's my point
For the billionth time, glue joints are stronger than screw joints. I just use glue and a brad nailer just to hold stuff in place until the glue dries.
Title: Re: First Cabinet Build: I have no idea what I'm doing
Post by: JDFan on July 04, 2018, 11:01:43 am
For the billionth time, glue joints are stronger than screw joints. I just use glue and a brad nailer just to hold stuff in place until the glue dries.

^ He speaks the truth -- The screws are only there to hold the wood in place while the glue dries once it dries the 2 pieces of wood will break elsewhere before the glue joint breaks.

But glue joints arnt stronger than glue and screw joints...that's my point

But when the glue joint by itself will hold until after the wood itself breaks elsewhere adding the screws later is just a waste of time and money !
Title: Re: First Cabinet Build: I have no idea what I'm doing
Post by: obizues on July 06, 2018, 11:17:51 pm
Not to start a new fight, but it’s screwed and glued down now....Also took the router on the sides, and the T-molding fits  ;D I don’t know why I was worried but I was.

(https://i.imgur.com/os5LJnW.jpg)

It looks like people usuallly assemble their cabinet before painting, but then do they not sand between paint coats?  Or just hand sand? I may just sand 220 grit on the sides tomorrow, then cut the outside pieces of the cabinet and sand the outside of those  before I start to assemble.

I’m also debating still cutting a small piece on the back for venting the bottom of the cabinet by  the computer, although I’ve been told it’s not needed... some with the back top portion because heat rises... right? I would like to hear someone who did it, their opinion on if it was worth it or not.

I also need a plan on how I’m going to access the back of the cabinet on the top for the marquee if needed ever, and the bottom for the computer and power.
Title: Re: First Cabinet Build: I have no idea what I'm doing
Post by: Mike A on July 07, 2018, 06:11:17 am
I don't think you put enough screws in it.
Title: Re: First Cabinet Build: I have no idea what I'm doing
Post by: obizues on July 07, 2018, 09:48:36 am
I don't think you put enough screws in it.

Okay I’ll ad a few more.
Title: Re: First Cabinet Build: I have no idea what I'm doing
Post by: luizw81 on July 07, 2018, 11:22:40 pm
I don't think you put enough screws in it.

Okay I’ll ad a few more.
(https://uploads.tapatalk-cdn.com/20180708/719b81231cb7c0d539491729444a2442.jpg)

Sent from my SM-J320R4 using Tapatalk

Title: Re: First Cabinet Build: I have no idea what I'm doing
Post by: JudgeRob on July 07, 2018, 11:58:24 pm
LOL, dude, you really did screw the ---steaming pile of meadow muffin--- out of those supports.  There's not exactly a lot of sheer sideways force on those puppies.  ;)

But hey, your cab (and your wrist) is strong!
Title: Re: First Cabinet Build: I have no idea what I'm doing
Post by: proplayer77 on July 13, 2018, 02:14:15 am
Not to start a new fight, but it’s screwed and glued down now....Also took the router on the sides, and the T-molding fits  ;D I don’t know why I was worried but I was.

It looks like people usuallly assemble their cabinet before painting, but then do they not sand between paint coats?  Or just hand sand? I may just sand 220 grit on the sides tomorrow, then cut the outside pieces of the cabinet and sand the outside of those  before I start to assemble.

I’m also debating still cutting a small piece on the back for venting the bottom of the cabinet by  the computer, although I’ve been told it’s not needed... some with the back top portion because heat rises... right? I would like to hear someone who did it, their opinion on if it was worth it or not.

I also need a plan on how I’m going to access the back of the cabinet on the top for the marquee if needed ever, and the bottom for the computer and power.

About the access to top for marque and access to computer i would make a) doors with hinges, or b) 2 pieces with screws that can be removed. On my project i made both, for computer i have a door on front and for marquee, backside of tv and amplifier etc. i can remove a piece from the back by screwing 4 screws.

front door: http://forum.arcadecontrols.com/index.php?action=dlattach;topic=157256.0;attach=368289;image (http://forum.arcadecontrols.com/index.php?action=dlattach;topic=157256.0;attach=368289;image)

Backside:
http://forum.arcadecontrols.com/index.php?action=dlattach;topic=157256.0;attach=368431;image (http://forum.arcadecontrols.com/index.php?action=dlattach;topic=157256.0;attach=368431;image)

Also notice the ventilation holes you asked about.
Title: Re: First Cabinet Build: I have no idea what I'm doing
Post by: obizues on July 17, 2018, 08:03:05 pm
It’s  been a while so I had to do something to keep this project rolling.

(https://imgur.com/a/ngVJThd)

Nothing sexy this time. Sanded everything to 60 grit and 120 grit.

Do I dare do 220 too?
Title: Re: First Cabinet Build: I have no idea what I'm doing
Post by: javeryh on July 18, 2018, 02:55:25 pm
It’s  been a while so I had to do something to keep this project rolling.

(https://imgur.com/a/ngVJThd)

Nothing sexy this time. Sanded everything to 60 grit and 120 grit.

Do I dare do 220 too?

I'm not seeing any pics but if you are talking about the bare wood then yes, definitely go to at least 220.
Title: Re: First Cabinet Build: I have no idea what I'm doing
Post by: obizues on July 18, 2018, 02:57:19 pm
Sanded everything with 220 grit. Glued, screwed, and assembly is started.  Hopefully everything will stay together overnight before I put the two sides together.

(https://i.imgur.com/OwO6je8.jpg)

(https://i.imgur.com/fLsEGNa.jpg)
Title: Re: First Cabinet Build: I have no idea what I'm doing
Post by: obizues on July 19, 2018, 08:33:38 pm
Starting to take shape:

(https://i.imgur.com/79P2ESS.jpg)

I did make a mistake and now keep the clamps on long enough for the glue apparently, so I used wood filler to fill it in.  :hissy:

(https://i.imgur.com/agTOTIj.jpg)

I’ll have to cut the door a little more to fit the new shape, but I’m hoping it won’t be so obvious to the eye once I sand it ... plus it’s on the back...  or I guess I could cut the actual side frame piece as well to make the hole a rectangle again....  :dunno
Title: Re: First Cabinet Build: I have no idea what I'm doing
Post by: obizues on July 21, 2018, 07:03:25 pm
Closer...

(https://i.imgur.com/BoLQBqP.jpg)
Title: Re: First Cabinet Build: I have no idea what I'm doing
Post by: obizues on July 22, 2018, 07:30:42 pm
Holy sh*t this never ends.  :censored:  usually my projects go about 400% over my estimate, this is going to be 4,000%.

Added bottom and upper back slant, which needed a bevel cut, and I’m proud to say I didn’t screw it up... too bad.

Used wood filler in a bunch of the gaps, and did a full 60/120/220 grit sand job.

(https://i.imgur.com/2nB1uY4.jpg)
Title: Re: First Cabinet Build: I have no idea what I'm doing
Post by: obizues on July 23, 2018, 10:08:04 am
I'm getting close to putting the back door on with hinges, cutting a hole for the coin/vault doors, creating the speaker, mount and then the wooden TV bezel.  That being said.. I will need to start to work more on artwork.

I know we have a sticky in the art forum section and various links to vector art, but almost none of the links work and the ones that do are either MAME arcade art or retro arcade art.

Aside from making my own vector art, are there any current links that work or that people are using to help create some of their artwork?
Title: Re: First Cabinet Build: I have no idea what I'm doing
Post by: javeryh on July 23, 2018, 12:15:48 pm
Looks good.  I'm having luck with art on the DeviantArt forums.  There is a place to post commission requests.  Good luck - the art makes or breaks the cab.
Title: Re: First Cabinet Build: I have no idea what I'm doing
Post by: obizues on July 23, 2018, 12:22:47 pm
Looks good.  I'm having luck with art on the DeviantArt forums.  There is a place to post commission requests.  Good luck - the art makes or breaks the cab.

Sounds good!  Any recommendations on who to use for printing/what material to use?

Also, any good instructions you've found to make your own bezel?  I found a couple links but they are all dead now.
Title: Re: First Cabinet Build: I have no idea what I'm doing
Post by: javeryh on July 23, 2018, 02:20:01 pm
I was planning on using GameOnGrafix.

I do not know how to make the art for a bezel.  If you are talking about making an actual bezel like a piece of MDF or plywood with a hole cut out of the middle that's easy.  Draw the rectangle, rough cut with jigsaw (using drill to make pilot holes in the corners so you can get the blade in there).  Use a router and flush trim bit to clean up the edges to the line.  Use a Japanese hand saw or a sharp chisel to clean up the corners.  Easy peasy.
Title: Re: First Cabinet Build: I have no idea what I'm doing
Post by: obizues on July 23, 2018, 03:01:27 pm
I was planning on using GameOnGrafix.

I do not know how to make the art for a bezel.  If you are talking about making an actual bezel like a piece of MDF or plywood with a hole cut out of the middle that's easy.  Draw the rectangle, rough cut with jigsaw (using drill to make pilot holes in the corners so you can get the blade in there).  Use a router and flush trim bit to clean up the edges to the line.  Use a Japanese hand saw or a sharp chisel to clean up the corners.  Easy peasy.

Oh that's not bad at all.

Do most people put plexiglass or something less reflective over the bezel and monitor?
Title: Re: First Cabinet Build: I have no idea what I'm doing
Post by: javeryh on July 23, 2018, 03:28:00 pm
I have only used gray tinted glass for scratch builds.  I do not like plexi.  Also, you may not even need a bezel if you use glass.  You could spray the back of the glass (masking off the monitor area).  You could use matte board between the glass and the monitor.  There are a few different ways you can go.
Title: Re: First Cabinet Build: I have no idea what I'm doing
Post by: obizues on July 23, 2018, 07:36:38 pm
I have only used gray tinted glass for scratch builds.  I do not like plexi.  Also, you may not even need a bezel if you use glass.  You could spray the back of the glass (masking off the monitor area).  You could use matte board between the glass and the monitor.  There are a few different ways you can go.

How do people usually mount the marquee so it fits within the wood if they have T-molding around it?  IE, how do you make the marquee print snug against the T-molding?
Title: Re: First Cabinet Build: I have no idea what I'm doing
Post by: obizues on July 23, 2018, 09:53:01 pm
I'm having a hard time finding artwork that can fit what I need it to do.

For example: I found a 4 MB file on Google and I exported it out of Photoshop at 300 DPI, and it looks like garbage..

Image I used: (https://vignette.wikia.nocookie.net/devilmaycry/images/3/35/Marvelvscapcominfinitecover.png/revision/latest?cb=20180613130241)

I thought for sure that would be large enough to put on my front.. but when I export it at 300 DPI, it looks like this up close at 100% : (https://i.imgur.com/ewumeiO.png)

Do I really need to find vector art or commission some in order to print at any quality large enough for an arcade?  I really thought 4MB would be big enough.
Title: Re: First Cabinet Build: I have no idea what I'm doing
Post by: obizues on July 23, 2018, 10:05:19 pm
Additionally, added bottom of marquee with routed t-molding and speaker piece.

Right now the space for a marquee would be 5 5/8” c 32... which seems small. Or I could use the T-molding portion and get to 7”, but I assume that would be a dead light spot

(https://i.imgur.com/hRkAeSj.jpg)

Control panel fits.

More sanding. Lots and lots of sanding.  🤤
Title: Re: First Cabinet Build: I have no idea what I'm doing
Post by: Mike A on July 24, 2018, 05:25:04 am
Hire an artist. They know what they are doing.
Title: Re: First Cabinet Build: I have no idea what I'm doing
Post by: obizues on July 24, 2018, 07:20:26 am
Hire an artist. They know what they are doing.

My question is whether or not a 4K-ish file really isn’t a high enough resolution for printing, and if I need to only use vector art.
Title: Re: First Cabinet Build: I have no idea what I'm doing
Post by: Mike A on July 24, 2018, 08:09:36 am
Your question means that you don't know enough about computer graphics to do a good job. Save yourself a disaster and hire someone. The artwork is visible all the time. If it sucks, you will be irritated every time you look at it.
Title: Re: First Cabinet Build: I have no idea what I'm doing
Post by: obizues on July 24, 2018, 09:40:09 am
Dots per inch Is relatively straight forward. If my
Marquee is 7x32 and I was 300 DPI I would need a resolution of 2100x9600.I get that.

I was under the impression you could use existing art for a marquee or other smaller parts.

It seems as if you have information but are purposely avoiding giving it- which is what confuses me.
Title: Re: First Cabinet Build: I have no idea what I'm doing
Post by: Mike A on July 24, 2018, 09:53:30 am
You are confused because you are wrong. I don't know jack about digital artwork. Although my pen drawings have been called transcendent.

I have an artist incubating a project for me because I am not an artist.

You should know by now that I don't play games like that. I would just tell you that I am not disclosing my valuable information to you.

If I could help you I would. Hiring an artist is the best way to go.
Title: Re: First Cabinet Build: I have no idea what I'm doing
Post by: obizues on July 24, 2018, 10:02:53 am
Please tell me how I’m wrong...

(https://i.imgur.com/8n50sdL.png)
Title: Re: First Cabinet Build: I have no idea what I'm doing
Post by: Mike A on July 24, 2018, 10:04:57 am
Doofus. You are wrong about me withholding information from you. What part of I don't know jack about digital art did you not understand?
Title: Re: First Cabinet Build: I have no idea what I'm doing
Post by: javeryh on July 24, 2018, 10:05:15 am
I have seen Mike's artistic talent and it really is unbelievable.  I have no idea whether a 4MB file prints big enough for your cab - just print it in black and white and find out for yourself. 

That said, if you don't have experience with creating artwork then look into hiring someone or buying some stock art and cut it to fit your cab.  There are TONS of people around here with the ability to provide something nice or at least share the art they have used previously.  There is a sick SF cab I'll try to dig up with custom art and everything that might work.
Title: Re: First Cabinet Build: I have no idea what I'm doing
Post by: obizues on July 24, 2018, 10:09:17 am
Doofus. You are wrong about me withholding information from you. What part of I don't know jack about digital art did you not understand?

(https://media1.tenor.com/images/b1ea5da3317c11fdf4e6ca1606c76859/tenor.gif?itemid=5462798)
Title: Re: First Cabinet Build: I have no idea what I'm doing
Post by: obizues on July 24, 2018, 10:11:34 am
I have seen Mike's artistic talent and it really is unbelievable.  I have no idea whether a 4MB file prints big enough for your cab - just print it in black and white and find out for yourself. 

That said, if you don't have experience with creating artwork then look into hiring someone or buying some stock art and cut it to fit your cab.  There are TONS of people around here with the ability to provide something nice or at least share the art they have used previously.  There is a sick SF cab I'll try to dig up with custom art and everything that might work.

I'm trying to stick to MvC, preferably Infinite or non-versioned.  The weird part is the artwork I've found for MvC2/3 is lower resolution. 

To be fair it could be the person protecting their IP, but I'm surprised that I can't find scaleable MvC anywhere.
Title: Re: First Cabinet Build: I have no idea what I'm doing
Post by: Mike A on July 24, 2018, 10:12:02 am
Wait until you post your horrible collage of other people's artwork. You will see my laser beam eyes.
Title: Re: First Cabinet Build: I have no idea what I'm doing
Post by: Arroyo on July 24, 2018, 10:25:36 am
Please tell me how I’m wrong...

(https://i.imgur.com/8n50sdL.png)

For reference the control panel image that the artist I hired made (raster image) is roughly 250MB, and it has a lot of black space.  The side art is roughly 750MB.  The number of dots per inch (DPI) can be misleading.  In photoshop  you can take any image and make it become 300DPI that doesn’t mean that each pixel will look good if it wasn’t originally created in 300DPI.  There are ways of using Photoshop to interpret the closest pixels when increasing the pixel density to try to get a clearer image (I think it’s called “nearest neighbor”.  I’ll leave that explanation to someone more experienced.  I think Opt2not gave a quick tip on a previous thread.  I would also suggest hiring someone or using previously created work.  Having a permanent always visible reminder of a smudgy image 6ft tall will probably always annoy you.
Title: Re: First Cabinet Build: I have no idea what I'm doing
Post by: obizues on July 24, 2018, 10:30:46 am
Wait until you post your horrible collage of other people's artwork. You will see my laser beam eyes.

I don't have the strength today.
Title: Re: First Cabinet Build: I have no idea what I'm doing
Post by: obizues on July 24, 2018, 10:33:02 am

For reference the control panel image that the artist I hired made (raster image) is roughly 250MB, and it has a lot of black space.  The side art is roughly 750MB.  The number of dots per inch (DPI) can be misleading.  In photoshop  you can take any image and make it become 300DPI that doesn’t mean that each pixel will look good if it wasn’t originally created in 300DPI.  There are ways of using Photoshop to interpret the closest pixels when increasing the pixel density to try to get a clearer image (I think it’s called “nearest neighbor”.  I’ll leave that explanation to someone more experienced.  I think Opt2not gave a quick tip on a previous thread.  I would also suggest hiring someone or using previously created work.  Having a permanent always visible reminder of a smudgy image 6ft tall will probably always annoy you.

Point taken, I should have stated that I would want art "created at" 300 or greater DPI.

I guess my brain blocker here again is, it's hard for me to believe that this hasn't been done before and is not available somewhere to prevent me from spending $1000+ on artwork.
Title: Re: First Cabinet Build: I have no idea what I'm doing
Post by: javeryh on July 24, 2018, 10:40:28 am

For reference the control panel image that the artist I hired made (raster image) is roughly 250MB, and it has a lot of black space.  The side art is roughly 750MB.  The number of dots per inch (DPI) can be misleading.  In photoshop  you can take any image and make it become 300DPI that doesn’t mean that each pixel will look good if it wasn’t originally created in 300DPI.  There are ways of using Photoshop to interpret the closest pixels when increasing the pixel density to try to get a clearer image (I think it’s called “nearest neighbor”.  I’ll leave that explanation to someone more experienced.  I think Opt2not gave a quick tip on a previous thread.  I would also suggest hiring someone or using previously created work.  Having a permanent always visible reminder of a smudgy image 6ft tall will probably always annoy you.

Point taken, I should have stated that I would want art "created at" 300 or greater DPI.

I guess my brain blocker here again is, it's hard for me to believe that this hasn't been done before and is not available somewhere to prevent me from spending $1000+ on artwork.

Artwork is not $1000+ but it is a significant expense.  You should be able to do it for under $200 though.

Do a search here for "marvel" in the project announcements forum.  There are a few scratch built MvC cabs.  You could PM those guys for the art files.  It's a start at least.
Title: Re: First Cabinet Build: I have no idea what I'm doing
Post by: obizues on July 24, 2018, 10:46:40 am

Artwork is not $1000+ but it is a significant expense.  You should be able to do it for under $200 though.

Do a search here for "marvel" in the project announcements forum.  There are a few scratch built MvC cabs.  You could PM those guys for the art files.  It's a start at least.

Good call, I will start to do that.  I've PMed a few I stumbled across, but nothing so far  :'(

I can start searching though like you suggested.
Title: Re: First Cabinet Build: I have no idea what I'm doing
Post by: Arroyo on July 24, 2018, 10:59:28 am
Point taken, I should have stated that I would want art "created at" 300 or greater DPI.

I guess my brain blocker here again is, it's hard for me to believe that this hasn't been done before and is not available somewhere to prevent me from spending $1000+ on artwork.

Have you tired using the Tools in Google search under Images to filter for content of a certain size?

Doing a search there I see a number of 12+ Megapixel images of Marvel vs Capcom.
Title: Re: First Cabinet Build: I have no idea what I'm doing
Post by: Malenko on July 24, 2018, 11:37:11 am
Dots per inch Is relatively straight forward. If myMarquee is 7x32 and I was 300 DPI I would need a resolution of 2100x9600.I get that.

I was under the impression you could use existing art for a marquee or other smaller parts.
Im going to over simplify, as to not overwhelm.

Raster = dots , vector = lines

When you scale up a raster image in photoshop it polls the pixels. If bi/trilinear filtering is on it "smooths out" the image but makes it blurry. If nearest neighbor is on , it keeps the image blocky. Scaling up a raster rarely results in a good looking image. But if you only adjust the size a little, its not always noticeable.

If you have a vector, it scales up and down without any quality loss. There are no dots to smooth out and lines can scale without loss of quality.

Vectorizing existing art is just drawing lines/shapes overtop of existing art, converting the dots to lines. It is a VERY tedious process to manually, and the results of automated vectoring isn't always good.

Art wont cost you a grand but it can really make a project look protato.
There are tons of high resolution raster art pieces and a ton of vector art for marvel vs Capcom and a ton of marvel stuff in general. There are also tons of artists on deviant that'd love to get hired to do something custom.
Title: Re: First Cabinet Build: I have no idea what I'm doing
Post by: obizues on July 24, 2018, 11:44:55 am

Have you tired using the Tools in Google search under Images to filter for content of a certain size?

Doing a search there I see a number of 12+ Megapixel images of Marvel vs Capcom.

I did, that's one of the images that I reference above, and what I tried to explain that I did.  Mike seems to suggest that it would not be a goo idea to do that since I would create blurry artwork.
Title: Re: First Cabinet Build: I have no idea what I'm doing
Post by: Mike A on July 24, 2018, 11:50:55 am
Quote
Mike seems to suggest that it would not be a goo idea to do that since I would create blurry artwork.

Where did I say that?
Title: Re: First Cabinet Build: I have no idea what I'm doing
Post by: Arroyo on July 24, 2018, 11:57:42 am

Have you tired using the Tools in Google search under Images to filter for content of a certain size?

Doing a search there I see a number of 12+ Megapixel images of Marvel vs Capcom.

I did, that's one of the images that I reference above, and what I tried to explain that I did.  Mike seems to suggest that it would not be a goo idea to do that since I would create blurry artwork.

I think Malenko’s explanation is very good.  In general scaling up raster images is tuff.  You probably can as he/I suggested find stuff that is high enough resolution.  Only way to know for sure is to pull down the image and zoom in to the scale of your print and see how clear it is. 

Also as he suggested, and as I personally prefer, it’s a lot cooler to have unique artwork done for your cab.  I was shocked at how cheap artists are willing to work for, it really is an under appreciated field.  Deviant art is good, I had luck on Fiverr as well.
Title: Re: First Cabinet Build: I have no idea what I'm doing
Post by: obizues on July 24, 2018, 11:59:39 am
Im going to over simplify, as to not overwhelm.

Raster = dots , vector = lines

When you scale up a raster image in photoshop it polls the pixels. If bi/trilinear filtering is on it "smooths out" the image but makes it blurry. If nearest neighbor is on , it keeps the image blocky. Scaling up a raster rarely results in a good looking image. But if you only adjust the size a little, its not always noticeable.

If you have a vector, it scales up and down without any quality loss. There are no dots to smooth out and lines can scale without loss of quality.

Vectorizing existing art is just drawing lines/shapes overtop of existing art, converting the dots to lines. It is a VERY tedious process to manually, and the results of automated vectoring isn't always good.

Art wont cost you a grand but it can really make a project look protato.
There are tons of high resolution raster art pieces and a ton of vector art for marvel vs Capcom and a ton of marvel stuff in general. There are also tons of artists on deviant that'd love to get hired to do something custom.

Maybe I should've started with that I have a functioning digital artwork understanding.  I get the mathematics behind vector art, so if I'm talking about DPI concerns that would only be for rasterized artwork.

My concern was the large rasterized artwork that I found coming out blurry.  (See pictures above)

Do you have a link you can share with me that has good vectorized artwork for MvC stuff?  I can't seem to find any.
Title: Re: First Cabinet Build: I have no idea what I'm doing
Post by: obizues on July 24, 2018, 12:03:48 pm
Where did I say that?

Maybe not blurry.. just that it would be a "disaster."  My heartfelt apologies.

Your question means that you don't know enough about computer graphics to do a good job. Save yourself a disaster and hire someone. The artwork is visible all the time. If it sucks, you will be irritated every time you look at it.
Title: Re: First Cabinet Build: I have no idea what I'm doing
Post by: obizues on July 24, 2018, 12:05:32 pm
I think Malenko’s explanation is very good.  In general scaling up raster images is tuff.  You probably can as he/I suggested find stuff that is high enough resolution.  Only way to know for sure is to pull down the image and zoom in to the scale of your print and see how clear it is. 

Also as he suggested, and as I personally prefer, it’s a lot cooler to have unique artwork done for your cab.  I was shocked at how cheap artists are willing to work for, it really is an under appreciated field.  Deviant art is good, I had luck on Fiverr as well.

Deviant art is pretty expensive based on preliminary estimates.  Anything worth it's weight in salt is going between $800 and $5000 right now based on my req.

I can look at fiver. 

I did find someone on the boards though that looks as though they are willing to help me out.  ;D
Title: Re: First Cabinet Build: I have no idea what I'm doing
Post by: javeryh on July 24, 2018, 12:22:18 pm
I think Malenko’s explanation is very good.  In general scaling up raster images is tuff.  You probably can as he/I suggested find stuff that is high enough resolution.  Only way to know for sure is to pull down the image and zoom in to the scale of your print and see how clear it is. 

Also as he suggested, and as I personally prefer, it’s a lot cooler to have unique artwork done for your cab.  I was shocked at how cheap artists are willing to work for, it really is an under appreciated field.  Deviant art is good, I had luck on Fiverr as well.

Deviant art is pretty expensive based on preliminary estimates.  Anything worth it's weight in salt is going between $800 and $5000 right now based on my req.

I can look at fiver. 

I did find someone on the boards though that looks as though they are willing to help me out.  ;D

LOL $5000. 
Title: Re: First Cabinet Build: I have no idea what I'm doing
Post by: obizues on July 24, 2018, 12:32:37 pm

LOL $5000.

I wish I was joking:

(https://i.imgur.com/Ukd3cT8.png)
Title: Re: First Cabinet Build: I have no idea what I'm doing
Post by: Malenko on July 24, 2018, 01:57:45 pm
Maybe I should've started with that I have a functioning digital artwork understanding.  I get the mathematics behind vector art, so if I'm talking about DPI concerns that would only be for rasterized artwork.

My concern was the large rasterized artwork that I found coming out blurry.  (See pictures above)

Do you have a link you can share with me that has good vectorized artwork for MvC stuff?  I can't seem to find any.
I don't know what you don't know, so I have to answer based on you knowing zilch.
DPI concerns aren't just for rasters, especially when printing, so Im still unsure exactly how much you do know.  I google image search "marvel capcom vector" and found numerous results, in vector format (both AI and PSD).

I wish I was joking:

Someone giving you bad information doesn't make it true. Unless you are a giant pain in the butt that changes his mind all the time and expects infinite revisions; you're looking at probably around $600 or $700 tops for a competent artist to create a one of a kind piece. No I'm not for hire. You could probably get snaaaake to do it for less if you're good with editing existing art and not flat out creating new stuff. He knows what he's doing.

Javeryh just hired a guy from deviant to his latest bartop , so he's got recent insight into exactly what you're asking about.  There is no way $5,000 is an acceptable price point unless you're griff-rich.  All you really need is the 1 side (other side can be mirrored) and the marquee. Control panel is usually pretty simple.
Title: Re: First Cabinet Build: I have no idea what I'm doing
Post by: obizues on July 24, 2018, 02:16:38 pm
  I google image search "marvel capcom vector" and found numerous results, in vector format (both AI and PSD).

What am I doing wrong then: https://www.google.com/search?ei=pWxXW8-_LqqGjwTAz7G4Bg&q=marvel+capcom+vector+filetype%3Aai&oq=marvel+capcom+vector+filetype%3Aai&gs_l=psy-ab.3...18417.18417.0.19166.1.1.0.0.0.0.74.74.1.1.0....0...1.1.64.psy-ab..0.0.0....0.WHXnCwowN-g (https://www.google.com/search?ei=pWxXW8-_LqqGjwTAz7G4Bg&q=marvel+capcom+vector+filetype%3Aai&oq=marvel+capcom+vector+filetype%3Aai&gs_l=psy-ab.3...18417.18417.0.19166.1.1.0.0.0.0.74.74.1.1.0....0...1.1.64.psy-ab..0.0.0....0.WHXnCwowN-g)
Title: Re: First Cabinet Build: I have no idea what I'm doing
Post by: obizues on July 24, 2018, 02:18:50 pm
Maybe this is the real question I have:

Is there a way if I find high res rasterized art.. that there is an easy way to determine if I can use it to print.. other than switching it to 300 DPI (if it isn't already) and viewing a swatch at 100% of the print size?
Title: Re: First Cabinet Build: I have no idea what I'm doing
Post by: Malenko on July 24, 2018, 02:44:23 pm
Don't search by file type. Use the search tools and search by transparent, that should help narrow them down.
Title: Re: First Cabinet Build: I have no idea what I'm doing
Post by: JDFan on July 24, 2018, 03:56:45 pm
  I google image search "marvel capcom vector" and found numerous results, in vector format (both AI and PSD).

What am I doing wrong then: https://www.google.com/search?ei=pWxXW8-_LqqGjwTAz7G4Bg&q=marvel+capcom+vector+filetype%3Aai&oq=marvel+capcom+vector+filetype%3Aai&gs_l=psy-ab.3...18417.18417.0.19166.1.1.0.0.0.0.74.74.1.1.0....0...1.1.64.psy-ab..0.0.0....0.WHXnCwowN-g (https://www.google.com/search?ei=pWxXW8-_LqqGjwTAz7G4Bg&q=marvel+capcom+vector+filetype%3Aai&oq=marvel+capcom+vector+filetype%3Aai&gs_l=psy-ab.3...18417.18417.0.19166.1.1.0.0.0.0.74.74.1.1.0....0...1.1.64.psy-ab..0.0.0....0.WHXnCwowN-g)

Now - click on the Images list instead of All !
Title: Re: First Cabinet Build: I have no idea what I'm doing
Post by: obizues on July 24, 2018, 04:11:01 pm
Don't search by file type. Use the search tools and search by transparent, that should help narrow them down.

I am finding a lot of PNG's that way, but not necessarily any vector files that I can easily scale.. unless you are suggesting to use the expansion tools in PS to allow size increasing.
Title: Re: First Cabinet Build: I have no idea what I'm doing
Post by: obizues on July 24, 2018, 04:12:31 pm
Now - click on the Images list instead of All !

 :-\

Yeah, but then it still doesn't have .ai or other vector file formats.
Title: Re: First Cabinet Build: I have no idea what I'm doing
Post by: obizues on July 26, 2018, 08:30:25 pm
So I cut out squares instead of ovals...   :dunno

(https://i.imgur.com/QCVtNeU.jpg)

(https://i.imgur.com/rmCSF44.jpg)

I’m trying to fill in with wood putty, but the second I take the coin door and vault out I am assuming the putty will crumble.

So I need a plan to be able to take them out so that I can paint/put artwork on cabinet when it’s time.

I just need to remember NOT TO CUT the artwork into SQUARES.
Title: Re: First Cabinet Build: I have no idea what I'm doing
Post by: javeryh on July 26, 2018, 08:47:36 pm
Are you painting or staining this thing?  There are a few ways to cover it up.  For something that size I may glue a triangle block in there and sand the seam.  Putty will not be so great but who knows.

Also, for next time, all of your front facing panels should hang over by 1/8" or 1/4".  It's just cleaner that way.
Title: Re: First Cabinet Build: I have no idea what I'm doing
Post by: obizues on July 26, 2018, 09:16:28 pm
Are you painting or staining this thing?  There are a few ways to cover it up.  For something that size I may glue a triangle block in there and sand the seam.  Putty will not be so great but who knows.

Also, for next time, all of your front facing panels should hang over by 1/8" or 1/4".  It's just cleaner that way.

Hang over?
Title: Re: First Cabinet Build: I have no idea what I'm doing
Post by: javeryh on July 26, 2018, 09:20:52 pm
Are you painting or staining this thing?  There are a few ways to cover it up.  For something that size I may glue a triangle block in there and sand the seam.  Putty will not be so great but who knows.

Also, for next time, all of your front facing panels should hang over by 1/8" or 1/4".  It's just cleaner that way.

Hang over?

It looks like the panel with the coin door exactly meets the bottom panel at 90 degrees.  The coin door panel should be extended by 1/8" to 1/4" to completely hide the bottom panel.  Same thing with the front panel of your CP because your design has everything inset.
Title: Re: First Cabinet Build: I have no idea what I'm doing
Post by: obizues on July 26, 2018, 09:23:19 pm

It looks like the panel with the coin door exactly meets the bottom panel at 90 degrees.  The coin door panel should be extended by 1/8" to 1/4" to completely hide the bottom panel.  Same thing with the front panel of your CP because your design has everything inset.

Sorry I’m missing something. Do you have a picture describing it?
Title: Re: First Cabinet Build: I have no idea what I'm doing
Post by: javeryh on July 26, 2018, 09:40:48 pm
Crappy drawing attached.
Title: Re: First Cabinet Build: I have no idea what I'm doing
Post by: obizues on July 26, 2018, 09:56:41 pm
Crappy drawing attached.

Yeah that was the plan. Then wood happened.

Completely get it, but at least I’m making my mistakes on the back and bottom right?  Right?!  (Hades.gif

Anyways, thank you for the feedback!
Title: Re: First Cabinet Build: I have no idea what I'm doing
Post by: obizues on July 29, 2018, 10:27:45 pm
She’s standing on her new wheels and she’s got a base primer/paint job.

I accidentally painted over my center cut line for the speakers on the right side, but I left the other side.

(https://i.imgur.com/9OeuDdS.jpg)

What do people use for hinges for their exposed back doors?  I looked at getting some hidden hinges but it may be more trouble than it’s worth.

Thoughts anyone?
Title: Re: First Cabinet Build: I have no idea what I'm doing
Post by: javeryh on July 30, 2018, 10:10:50 am
Wait, you are painting this thing?  Why did you buy decent plywood instead of some crappy stuff if you are covering it anyway?  This changes a lot.  Why care about wood putty blending in?  Why are you even using wood putty?  Are you using a sealant for your primer like Zinsser Bullseye 1-2-3?  I hope so or you will never get rid of the grain - the paint will soak in over time.

You want "inset cabinet hinges" - there are tons of different ones to choose from but all do the same thing. 
Title: Re: First Cabinet Build: I have no idea what I'm doing
Post by: obizues on July 30, 2018, 10:38:34 am
Wait, you are painting this thing?  Why did you buy decent plywood instead of some crappy stuff if you are covering it anyway?  This changes a lot.  Why care about wood putty blending in?  Why are you even using wood putty?  Are you using a sealant for your primer like Zinsser Bullseye 1-2-3?  I hope so or you will never get rid of the grain - the paint will soak in over time.

You want "inset cabinet hinges" - there are tons of different ones to choose from but all do the same thing.

 :laugh2:  I will have artwork on it as well.

Parts of the cabinet's wood will still be exposed, other parts will not be because it will have graphics over it.  To also be honest I was still figuring out what I was doing from an art perspective as I was building.

I think the big confusion between me and everyone else in this forum was that this was my first "real" woodworking project, so learning about things and doing things that may be "unnecessary" were things I wanted to do from a learning perspective.

That being said, most of my concern around the wood putty was on the back which won't have art.. but also won't be seen.  Learning experience. :)

That being said I didn't think about using sealant for getting rid of the grain, I'm not sure if I even care if I do to be honest.  We will see how it goes.
Title: Re: First Cabinet Build: I have no idea what I'm doing
Post by: javeryh on July 30, 2018, 11:23:51 am
Wait, you are painting this thing?  Why did you buy decent plywood instead of some crappy stuff if you are covering it anyway?  This changes a lot.  Why care about wood putty blending in?  Why are you even using wood putty?  Are you using a sealant for your primer like Zinsser Bullseye 1-2-3?  I hope so or you will never get rid of the grain - the paint will soak in over time.

You want "inset cabinet hinges" - there are tons of different ones to choose from but all do the same thing.

 :laugh2:  I will have artwork on it as well.

Parts of the cabinet's wood will still be exposed, other parts will not be because it will have graphics over it.  To also be honest I was still figuring out what I was doing from an art perspective as I was building.

I think the big confusion between me and everyone else in this forum was that this was my first "real" woodworking project, so learning about things and doing things that may be "unnecessary" were things I wanted to do from a learning perspective.

That being said, most of my concern around the wood putty was on the back which won't have art.. but also won't be seen.  Learning experience. :)

That being said I didn't think about using sealant for getting rid of the grain, I'm not sure if I even care if I do to be honest.  We will see how it goes.

I would buy the good primer for this project.  It will be the difference between it looking nice and looking very homemade.  It's the same amount of effort so no reason not to.  Unless you like the wood grain showing through - there's no accounting for taste.  Alternatively, you could print full-sized art to cover the entire surface.  Lots of things you can do but painting straight away over grain doesn't seem like one of them.

For future reference, wood putty is to fill in small gaps in hardwood/plywood because you are planning on staining it (or just using some poly or oil or whatever to finish it).  You WANT to see the grain in that instance so you hope the color of the wood putty will blend in enough to not draw your eye.  For projects that you paint you are much better off using something like Bondo.  It dries rock hard and you can fill really large gaps - people around here have rebuilt water damaged bases/corners for restoration projects using a TON of the stuff.  It sands smooth and takes paint so you never see it.
Title: Re: First Cabinet Build: I have no idea what I'm doing
Post by: obizues on July 30, 2018, 11:30:58 am

I would buy the good primer for this project.  It will be the difference between it looking nice and looking very homemade.  It's the same amount of effort so no reason not to.  Unless you like the wood grain showing through - there's no accounting for taste.  Alternatively, you could print full-sized art to cover the entire surface.  Lots of things you can do but painting straight away over grain doesn't seem like one of them.

For future reference, wood putty is to fill in small gaps in hardwood/plywood because you are planning on staining it (or just using some poly or oil or whatever to finish it).  You WANT to see the grain in that instance so you hope the color of the wood putty will blend in enough to not draw your eye.  For projects that you paint you are much better off using something like Bondo.  It dries rock hard and you can fill really large gaps - people around here have rebuilt water damaged bases/corners for restoration projects using a TON of the stuff.  It sands smooth and takes paint so you never see it.

I’ve been using Rustoleum painter and primer, but I’m assuming that isn’t the “good stuff.”
Title: Re: First Cabinet Build: I have no idea what I'm doing
Post by: javeryh on July 30, 2018, 11:36:25 am
Rustoleum is OK.  Is it the paint and primer in one?  You will need to put on a lot of coats (3-4 minimum).
Title: Re: First Cabinet Build: I have no idea what I'm doing
Post by: obizues on July 30, 2018, 12:14:29 pm
Rustoleum is OK.  Is it the paint and primer in one?  You will need to put on a lot of coats (3-4 minimum).

Yeah, I’m two coats in right now.
Title: Re: First Cabinet Build: I have no idea what I'm doing
Post by: obizues on August 01, 2018, 09:41:55 pm
Started on my control panel to switch things up.

(https://i.imgur.com/BEL01w5.jpg)

Then I got my arbor stuck on my hole dozer..  :hissy:

How far do people recess the wood for sanwa arcade sticks and the Happ trackball underneath?

(https://i.imgur.com/caGF79V.jpg)

Bottom of trackball:

(https://i.imgur.com/qapWWu5.jpg)

Has anyone tried printing off a clear housing for the cover of the Happ trackball for LED lights?
Title: Re: First Cabinet Build: I have no idea what I'm doing
Post by: firedance on August 02, 2018, 07:40:30 am
for my joysticks (zippyy and chinese cheapo ones) i've never routed out, used 12mm mdf for the control panel, the shaft, including balltop, protrudes 55mm above the control panel, more than enough for me grab hold of  ;D

cant help with the trackball as i've never installed one, only games i would use one for might be marble madness or missile command. 
Title: Re: First Cabinet Build: I have no idea what I'm doing
Post by: obizues on August 02, 2018, 08:23:55 am
for my joysticks (zippyy and chinese cheapo ones) i've never routed out, used 12mm mdf for the control panel, the shaft, including balltop, protrudes 55mm above the control panel, more than enough for me grab hold of  ;D

cant help with the trackball as i've never installed one, only games i would use one for might be marble madness or missile command.

Yeah I’m using a piece of 3/4” plywood for the control panel since that’s what I used on the rest of the cab.

Is 12mm just a number that worked for you, or is that based on some sort of standardization?  I’ve looked on slagcoin and they have some measurements but I can’t make out what I’m looking at in some of them... most likely because they are older.

I’ve also found a link here for the “diamond” pattern to cutout the Happ trackball, but I’m not sure if that’s what I have (diamond) or if it’s a new shape now.

It looks like it “could” be if I make a rough red outline... but I’m not sure.

(https://i.imgur.com/Zqh8vrU.jpg)
Title: Re: First Cabinet Build: I have no idea what I'm doing
Post by: javeryh on August 02, 2018, 09:39:39 am
Do you have a trackball mounting plate?  If so you:

- mark where the trackball goes
- flip the mounting plate upside down and trace the perimeter making sure it is centered
- route out 1/16" or whatever the thickness of the plate is for the area you just traced
- mark off the 4 screw/post locations in the corners of the recessed area
- drill out the holes in the corners that you just marked
- rough cut the hole for the trackball to fit into but don't go near the holes.
- install mounting plate threading the posts through the corner holes
- using bondo or spackle or whatever, fill in the edges around the mounting plate and sand flush
- attach trackball to mounting plate

This only works if you are covering your CP with artwork.  Otherwise there is a lot more complicated routing to figure out without using the mounting plate.

Like this: http://forum.arcadecontrols.com/index.php/topic,90467.msg1258905.html#msg1258905 (http://forum.arcadecontrols.com/index.php/topic,90467.msg1258905.html#msg1258905) (holes for mounting plate posts aren't drilled yet but you should be able to understand what I'm talking about).
Title: Re: First Cabinet Build: I have no idea what I'm doing
Post by: obizues on August 02, 2018, 01:01:03 pm
Do you have a trackball mounting plate?  If so you:

- mark where the trackball goes
- flip the mounting plate upside down and trace the perimeter making sure it is centered
- route out 1/16" or whatever the thickness of the plate is for the area you just traced
- mark off the 4 screw/post locations in the corners of the recessed area
- drill out the holes in the corners that you just marked
- rough cut the hole for the trackball to fit into but don't go near the holes.
- install mounting plate threading the posts through the corner holes
- using bondo or spackle or whatever, fill in the edges around the mounting plate and sand flush
- attach trackball to mounting plate

This only works if you are covering your CP with artwork.  Otherwise there is a lot more complicated routing to figure out without using the mounting plate.

Like this: http://forum.arcadecontrols.com/index.php/topic,90467.msg1258905.html#msg1258905 (http://forum.arcadecontrols.com/index.php/topic,90467.msg1258905.html#msg1258905) (holes for mounting plate posts aren't drilled yet but you should be able to understand what I'm talking about).

I don’t have a mounting plate... it also looks like my trackball is a different shape... or am I just crazy?
Title: Re: First Cabinet Build: I have no idea what I'm doing
Post by: obizues on August 02, 2018, 01:05:33 pm
This guy?

(https://i.imgur.com/3FUEYXq.png)

I assume I can under mount it, but what are all those screws for?

The Happ only has 4... I’m not sure how his would work with that.

I’d you know any projects that have pictures of mounting the type I have that would be very helpful!

Edit: I guess I just don’t understand the point of the plate.
Title: Re: First Cabinet Build: I have no idea what I'm doing
Post by: Malenko on August 02, 2018, 01:13:23 pm
4 around the circle bolt the TB to the plate. the outside 4 bolt the plate to the panel.  I'll find mine when I get home and snap a pic.
Title: Re: First Cabinet Build: I have no idea what I'm doing
Post by: obizues on August 02, 2018, 01:17:34 pm
4 around the circle bolt the TB to the plate. the outside 4 bolt the plate to the panel.  I'll find mine when I get home and snap a pic.

Thanks!

Did you do 1/16 under-mounting for the joysticks and TB?
Title: Re: First Cabinet Build: I have no idea what I'm doing
Post by: Malenko on August 02, 2018, 01:44:38 pm
It was from reverting an Golden Tee back to an MK3, but I do have a trackball hacked to a mouse mounted to the plate in case I ever decide to make a trackball cab.  I have so.many.parts. Ive been giving and throwing away piles of stuff over the last 2 years.
Title: Re: First Cabinet Build: I have no idea what I'm doing
Post by: obizues on August 02, 2018, 01:46:05 pm
It was from reverting an Golden Tee back to an MK3, but I do have a trackball hacked to a mouse mounted to the plate in case I ever decide to make a trackball cab.  I have so.many.parts. Ive been giving and throwing away piles of stuff over the last 2 years.

Any idea what the standard under mount width is?
Title: Re: First Cabinet Build: I have no idea what I'm doing
Post by: javeryh on August 02, 2018, 02:24:42 pm
It was from reverting an Golden Tee back to an MK3, but I do have a trackball hacked to a mouse mounted to the plate in case I ever decide to make a trackball cab.  I have so.many.parts. Ive been giving and throwing away piles of stuff over the last 2 years.

Any idea what the standard under mount width is?

The lip around the trackball in the pic you posted is exactly flush with the mounting plate.  You are supposed to top mount with the plate, however plenty of people have under-mounted it and then used a chamfer bit on the 3"hole.  Again, it's all personal preference.  To me, the plate is a much easier solution. 
Title: Re: First Cabinet Build: I have no idea what I'm doing
Post by: obizues on August 02, 2018, 02:29:26 pm

The lip around the trackball in the pic you posted is exactly flush with the mounting plate.  You are supposed to top mount with the plate, however plenty of people have under-mounted it and then used a chamfer bit on the 3"hole.  Again, it's all personal preference.  To me, the plate is a much easier solution.

What about the joysticks that I posted?  Shouldn't the metal plates go under?

Edit: Also, if you put the plate on the top of the CP, wouldn't that make the CP "unsmooth" on the top even if you put artwork over it?  Unless you routed the top down the width of the plate itself?
Title: Re: First Cabinet Build: I have no idea what I'm doing
Post by: firedance on August 02, 2018, 02:35:58 pm
 Sorry should have said, the 12mm is the thickness of MDF I used for all my builds, keeps the weight down as they are all Bartops.

If u click the links in my signature there should be a few pictures of the underside of the control panel, had no trouble with mounting the joysticks like this and they have had a lot of use  ;D
Title: Re: First Cabinet Build: I have no idea what I'm doing
Post by: obizues on August 02, 2018, 02:44:02 pm
Sorry should have said, the 12mm is the thickness of MDF I used for all my builds, keeps the weight down as they are all Bartops.

If u click the links in my signature there should be a few pictures of the underside of the control panel, had no trouble with mounting the joysticks like this and they have had a lot of use  ;D

Thanks!  Looks like that's almost half my board I would need to bring down with a router.

Does anyone know what kind of mounting plate I should use with this trackball?  It's a HAPP 3" but it doesn't say on the site if it's a high-ball or what plates I should use with it...?

https://paradisearcadeshop.com/home/controls/trackballs-spinners/1842_3-diameter-happ-trackball-with-harness-black-solid?search_query=3%22+DIAMETER+HAPP+TRACKBALL+WITH+HARNESS%2C+BLACK+SOLID&results=1141& (https://paradisearcadeshop.com/home/controls/trackballs-spinners/1842_3-diameter-happ-trackball-with-harness-black-solid?search_query=3%22+DIAMETER+HAPP+TRACKBALL+WITH+HARNESS%2C+BLACK+SOLID&results=1141&)
Title: Re: First Cabinet Build: I have no idea what I'm doing
Post by: javeryh on August 02, 2018, 02:55:21 pm

The lip around the trackball in the pic you posted is exactly flush with the mounting plate.  You are supposed to top mount with the plate, however plenty of people have under-mounted it and then used a chamfer bit on the 3"hole.  Again, it's all personal preference.  To me, the plate is a much easier solution.

What about the joysticks that I posted?  Shouldn't the metal plates go under?

Edit: Also, if you put the plate on the top of the CP, wouldn't that make the CP "unsmooth" on the top even if you put artwork over it?  Unless you routed the top down the width of the plate itself?

Joysticks are fine to undermount because the shaft sticks through the top.  The length obviously depends on if you recess the plates underneath or not.  If you do, you may end up with an issue holding them in place unless you are OK with the 4 screws showing on top.

If you refer to my post earlier, you would have to route out material the same thickness as the plate and then bondo the perimeter and sand it smooth before applying art.
Title: Re: First Cabinet Build: I have no idea what I'm doing
Post by: obizues on August 02, 2018, 03:01:06 pm
Joysticks are fine to undermount because the shaft sticks through the top.  The length obviously depends on if you recess the plates underneath or not.  If you do, you may end up with an issue holding them in place unless you are OK with the 4 screws showing on top.

If you refer to my post earlier, you would have to route out material the same thickness as the plate and then bondo the perimeter and sand it smooth before applying art.

I guess what I'm asking is how much board is between the plate and the trackball top?  If I make the trackball plate flush with the wood.. how close to the face of the control panel should the top square be?

(https://i.imgur.com/undefined.jpg)

Edit: Nevermind, found your thread here: http://forum.arcadecontrols.com/index.php/topic,119081.msg1261379.html#msg1261379 (http://forum.arcadecontrols.com/index.php/topic,119081.msg1261379.html#msg1261379)

One more note for myself:

As Abomination said, I'd go with getting a mounting kit, routing 1/16 of an inch (the thickness of the mounting plate) under the art.
Title: Re: First Cabinet Build: I have no idea what I'm doing
Post by: obizues on August 02, 2018, 03:51:01 pm
If i do a flush mount for a trackball, will the screws not stick out further than the flush mount?  IE: how do i make sure the heads of the screws don't push up on the artwork?
Title: Re: First Cabinet Build: I have no idea what I'm doing
Post by: Arroyo on August 02, 2018, 05:10:39 pm
If i do a flush mount for a trackball, will the screws not stick out further than the flush mount?  IE: how do i make sure the heads of the screws don't push up on the artwork?

You would want to countersink holes (if they aren’t already) in the mounting plate.  Check out bperkins Lakeside Arcade he just went through the Happ trackball mounting experience and posted pictures and explanations:

 http://forum.arcadecontrols.com/index.php/topic,156272.120.html (http://forum.arcadecontrols.com/index.php/topic,156272.120.html)
Title: Re: First Cabinet Build: I have no idea what I'm doing
Post by: obizues on August 02, 2018, 05:35:10 pm
If i do a flush mount for a trackball, will the screws not stick out further than the flush mount?  IE: how do i make sure the heads of the screws don't push up on the artwork?

You would want to countersink holes (if they aren’t already) in the mounting plate.  Check out bperkins Lakeside Arcade he just went through the Happ trackball mounting experience and posted pictures and explanations:

 [url=http://forum.arcadecontrols.com/index.php/topic,156272.120.html]http://forum.arcadecontrols.com/index.php/topic,156272.120.html (http://forum.arcadecontrols.com/index.php/topic,156272.120.html)[/URL]

 :notworthy:
Title: Re: First Cabinet Build: I have no idea what I'm doing
Post by: obizues on August 02, 2018, 10:16:25 pm
Started the control panel.

(https://i.imgur.com/TIizKC5.jpg)

Does anyone have a good guide for how to mount the joysticks? 

Couple questions I need answers to:

Title: Re: First Cabinet Build: I have no idea what I'm doing
Post by: JudgeRob on August 02, 2018, 11:12:36 pm
You can check out post 80 from my build:
http://forum.arcadecontrols.com/index.php/topic,149265.80.html (http://forum.arcadecontrols.com/index.php/topic,149265.80.html)

I had pics of mockups I did back on page 1.

I think I routed down about half the thickness of the wood.  So I left somewhere between 1/4 and 3/8".  You should mock it up and test for your preference to make sure you have enough stick coming through.  I used threaded inserts for the mounting bars in case they need to be removed.
Title: Re: First Cabinet Build: I have no idea what I'm doing
Post by: obizues on August 02, 2018, 11:50:53 pm
You can check out post 80 from my build:
http://forum.arcadecontrols.com/index.php/topic,149265.80.html (http://forum.arcadecontrols.com/index.php/topic,149265.80.html)

I had pics of mockups I did back on page 1.

I think I routed down about half the thickness of the wood.  So I left somewhere between 1/4 and 3/8".  You should mock it up and test for your preference to make sure you have enough stick coming through.  I used threaded inserts for the mounting bars in case they need to be removed.

It’s hard to see what you did there. Did you use a plunge router?  That seems to be my biggest problem right now.
Title: Re: First Cabinet Build: I have no idea what I'm doing
Post by: Arroyo on August 03, 2018, 01:33:12 am
Noticed you referenced Slag Coin in some previous posts for button layout.  They also have recommendations for mounting height and mounting options. Looks like you have a Sanwa JLW.  According to Slag Coin: “Sanwa joysticks are generally mounted with 23mm-24mm of shaft between the top of the control panel and the bottom of the ball top, in a 24mm hole”.

 http://www.slagcoin.com/joystick/attributes_brands.html#SANWA (http://www.slagcoin.com/joystick/attributes_brands.html#SANWA)

As for how to achieve that, they have listed many examples including using various mounting plates:

 http://www.slagcoin.com/joystick/mounting_layering.html (http://www.slagcoin.com/joystick/mounting_layering.html)
Title: Re: First Cabinet Build: I have no idea what I'm doing
Post by: obizues on August 03, 2018, 07:48:13 am
Noticed you referenced Slag Coin in some previous posts for button layout.  They also have recommendations for mounting height and mounting options. Looks like you have a Sanwa JLW.  According to Slag Coin: “Sanwa joysticks are generally mounted with 23mm-24mm of shaft between the top of the control panel and the bottom of the ball top, in a 24mm hole”.

 [url=http://www.slagcoin.com/joystick/attributes_brands.html#SANWA]http://www.slagcoin.com/joystick/attributes_brands.html#SANWA (http://www.slagcoin.com/joystick/attributes_brands.html#SANWA)[/URL]

As for how to achieve that, they have listed many examples including using various mounting plates:

 [url=http://www.slagcoin.com/joystick/mounting_layering.html]http://www.slagcoin.com/joystick/mounting_layering.html (http://www.slagcoin.com/joystick/mounting_layering.html)[/URL]

For whatever reason I’m just confused.

Are the “mounting plates” different from the metal plates that came with the joysticks in my picture?

I assume I need a plunge router, cut out the rectangle, put in the joystick with 23-24mm from the top of the CP.

Do I need to put a plate in flush on the CP too?

Can I only cut into the wood with a plunge router? (I don’t have one)
Title: Re: First Cabinet Build: I have no idea what I'm doing
Post by: Arroyo on August 03, 2018, 09:04:50 am
Are the “mounting plates” different from the metal plates that came with the joysticks in my picture?

I assume I need a plunge router, cut out the rectangle, put in the joystick with 23-24mm from the top of the CP.

You don’t have to have a plunge router, a standard router will work.

Do I need to put a plate in flush on the CP too?

Can I only cut into the wood with a plunge router? (I don’t have one)

The link I sent shows MANY different options.  First fork on the road is to layer or not to layer panels, (meaning one piece of wood, or more than one).  Next and somewhat in conjunction is to keep the original shaft or buy a longer one.

I’ll assume since you’ve started cutting already that you want to stick with your 3/4” panel.  I’ll also assume you want to stick with your standard shaft. 

If you want to follow slag coins suggestion of 23-24mm of space from the bottom of the ball and the top of the control panel like this:
(https://uploads.tapatalk-cdn.com/20180803/b7d5556e048b2ce66d224e1ef5470001.png)
Then your mounting plate will need to be close to the surface.  Although I don’t know the exact measurements for the JLW, you will probably need to have your mounting plate be close to 1/4” below the top of your control panel.  This can make it awkward.  You can route out your wood in the shape of your  mounting plate from the bottom until you about 1/4” of wood left and screw from the top. Problems with this are you have screws on top and only 1/4” of wood to support the joystick, probably enough but if someone pushed down hard on the joystick perhaps it could break the wood.
Other option might be to buy an “S” plate:
(http://www.slagcoin.com/joystick/mounting_layering/s_bottom_single_routed.png)
This allows you to get the joystick close to the surface but your screws will grab more wood and they won’t be visible from the top. EDIT:  you will still have to route from the bottom the portion of the “S” plate that is buried in the wood.  See pic above.

You could also route out from the top down roughly 1/4”.  This would leave you with more wood for support and get rid of the visible screws, but you would have to cut an additional piece of wood to fill in the hole in the wood.  This would need to match the hole well, or else the wood may move around during play.  It would also make the joystick difficult/impossible (without breaking something) to access if you needed to replace.

EDIT:  you don’t need a plunge router.  Just practice lowering your router bit into wood to the desired depth.  Your router should have the abiltity to lower accurately with maybe a screw down function and measure the depth you are lowering.
Title: Re: First Cabinet Build: I have no idea what I'm doing
Post by: obizues on August 03, 2018, 09:57:07 am

The link I sent shows MANY different options.
I want to do a bottom mount

I’ll assume since you’ve started cutting already that you want to stick with your 3/4” panel.  I’ll also assume you want to stick with your standard shaft. 
Correct

Other option might be to buy an “S” plate:
(http://www.slagcoin.com/joystick/mounting_layering/s_bottom_single_routed.png)
This is exactly what I want to do!  Any recommendations on where to get it?  Or should everyone have it?

EDIT:  you don’t need a plunge router.  Just practice lowering your router bit into wood to the desired depth.  Your router should have the abiltity to lower accurately with maybe a screw down function and measure the depth you are lowering.
This scares the hell out of me but I can try it when I get home tonight.   ;)

Edit: Looks like this:
https://paradisearcadeshop.com/home/hardware/mounting-plates/paradise-universal-plates/1278_universal-s-arcade-joystick-adapter-plate (https://paradisearcadeshop.com/home/hardware/mounting-plates/paradise-universal-plates/1278_universal-s-arcade-joystick-adapter-plate)
should work.
Title: Re: First Cabinet Build: I have no idea what I'm doing
Post by: Arroyo on August 03, 2018, 12:11:12 pm
EDIT:  you don’t need a plunge router.  Just practice lowering your router bit into wood to the desired depth.  Your router should have the abiltity to lower accurately with maybe a screw down function and measure the depth you are lowering.
This scares the hell out of me but I can try it when I get home tonight.   ;)

To be clear, I don’t mean turning on the router with an exposed moving bit and then lowering down the whole router (that can be dangerous, although I’ve done it ).  Rather I mean practice using your bit lowering mechanism, (mines a hand twist screw with measurements) while keeping the router stationary on the wood surface. 

Quote
Edit: Looks like this:
https://paradisearcadeshop.com/home/hardware/mounting-plates/paradise-universal-plates/1278_universal-s-arcade-joystick-adapter-plate (https://paradisearcadeshop.com/home/hardware/mounting-plates/paradise-universal-plates/1278_universal-s-arcade-joystick-adapter-plate)
should work.

Yup that’s the one I was going to recommend.

By the way the simplest thing would be to buy a longer shaft and mount to the bottom.  A lot of people do this and avoid routing all together.
Title: Re: First Cabinet Build: I have no idea what I'm doing
Post by: obizues on August 03, 2018, 12:16:24 pm
Yup that’s the one I was going to recommend.


Well what sucks is that I will need to order the S-mount from paradise arcade and the arcade bat from somewhere else.. they don't have IL EuroJoystick in stock.

Unless you know a place where they have the IL Eurojoystick black bat in stock that also sells universal S plates.. most places I checked though only have it for a couple brands or flight sticks.
Title: Re: First Cabinet Build: I have no idea what I'm doing
Post by: obizues on August 03, 2018, 02:49:54 pm
Yup that’s the one I was going to recommend.

By the way the simplest thing would be to buy a longer shaft and mount to the bottom.  A lot of people do this and avoid routing all together.

Does anyone have the measurements on the S-plate?  I only have this router this weekend. It looks like I would have to route the part 23mm from the top and another for where the part ends since it’s provably not .75”-23mm
Title: Re: First Cabinet Build: I have no idea what I'm doing
Post by: Arroyo on August 03, 2018, 05:00:23 pm
Yup that’s the one I was going to recommend.


Well what sucks is that I will need to order the S-mount from paradise arcade and the arcade bat from somewhere else.. they don't have IL EuroJoystick in stock.

Unless you know a place where they have the IL Eurojoystick black bat in stock that also sells universal S plates.. most places I checked though only have it for a couple brands or flight sticks.

I assume you mean the Sanwa Bat Top screw on that looks like an IL bat top (I can tell you it’s not the same, close but not the same)?

Focus Attack also sells both, however their mounting plates are not universal, they are stick specific.  It looks like they have the Sanwa JLF’s but not JLW’s.

I’d call Paradise to see when they plan on getting things back in stock.  I’d also call them for the dimensions in the “S” plate, you’ll probably get a faster response then someone in the community, although I think I have one at home that I can lookup, but I’ve got a million boxes to go through with my move.
Title: Re: First Cabinet Build: I have no idea what I'm doing
Post by: obizues on August 03, 2018, 05:09:38 pm
I’d call Paradise to see when they plan on getting things back in stock.  I’d also call them for the dimensions in the “S” plate, you’ll probably get a faster response then someone in the community, although I think I have one at home that I can lookup, but I’ve got a million boxes to go through with my move.
Yeah I have a message and phone call out, but there are OOO at the evo conference so I don't think I'll have much luck.

Is it needed for me to use the S plate method?  Or is that just extra security for the controller? 

This is just unfortunate timing  :-\
Title: Re: First Cabinet Build: I have no idea what I'm doing
Post by: obizues on August 03, 2018, 05:22:45 pm

I assume you mean the Sanwa Bat Top screw on that looks like an IL bat top (I can tell you it’s not the same, close but not the same)?


I guess this is kind of an open question.  I currently have two sticks that are Zippy's, but after thinking about it I would like black bats for this build.

I would like a joystick that are used on the current fighting games.. so maybe getting a sanwa JLF is what I should do... Aesthetically I just want all black...
Title: Re: First Cabinet Build: I have no idea what I'm doing
Post by: Arroyo on August 03, 2018, 05:51:32 pm

I assume you mean the Sanwa Bat Top screw on that looks like an IL bat top (I can tell you it’s not the same, close but not the same)?


I guess this is kind of an open question.  I currently have two sticks that are Zippy's, but after thinking about it I would like black bats for this build.

I would like a joystick that are used on the current fighting games.. so maybe getting a sanwa JLF is what I should do... Aesthetically I just want all black...

If your going with an IL joystick then you have a lot more flexibility, as the recommended height is:
“Happ/IL joysticks can be mounted 1/3" to 2/3" below the control panel in a 1-1/8" hole.”
 http://www.slagcoin.com/joystick/attributes_brands.html#HAPP/INDUSTRIAS_LORENZO (http://www.slagcoin.com/joystick/attributes_brands.html#HAPP/INDUSTRIAS_LORENZO)
Then you can route the bottom somewhere between 1/16”-7/16” depending on how long you want your stick to be, and then just screw in from the bottom.

JLF’s are not by default all black, they look like the ones you have.  You can get black shaft covers however, and there are some aftermarket all black shafts you can replace the standard ones with.  I know you are rushed for time, but in my opinion this is a critical decision, I’d take your time to figure it out.
Title: Re: First Cabinet Build: I have no idea what I'm doing
Post by: obizues on August 03, 2018, 05:58:37 pm

If your going with an IL joystick then you have a lot more flexibility, as the recommended height is:
“Happ/IL joysticks can be mounted 1/3" to 2/3" below the control panel in a 1-1/8" hole.”
 [url=http://www.slagcoin.com/joystick/attributes_brands.html#HAPP/INDUSTRIAS_LORENZO]http://www.slagcoin.com/joystick/attributes_brands.html#HAPP/INDUSTRIAS_LORENZO (http://www.slagcoin.com/joystick/attributes_brands.html#HAPP/INDUSTRIAS_LORENZO)[/URL]
Then you can route the bottom somewhere between 1/16”-7/16” depending on how long you want your stick to be, and then just screw in from the bottom.

JLF’s are not by default all black, they look like the ones you have.  You can get black shaft covers however, and there are some aftermarket all black shafts you can replace the standard ones with.  I know you are rushed for time, but in my opinion this is a critical decision, I’d take your time to figure it out.

Well using IL JLF sticks is something I want to do.. so I can say I've "made" that decision and worry about the heights when it is time.. but my issue is still not knowing what the dimensions of the S plate are so I can route out what I need.
Title: Re: First Cabinet Build: I have no idea what I'm doing
Post by: Nephasth on August 03, 2018, 06:07:01 pm
 :laugh2:
Title: Re: First Cabinet Build: I have no idea what I'm doing
Post by: Arroyo on August 03, 2018, 06:40:17 pm
(https://uploads.tapatalk-cdn.com/20180803/f6cb7449ccc3c112ecd5c95a64ec55bb.jpg)(https://uploads.tapatalk-cdn.com/20180803/23c0b269d03e12c6774ebb8fc0a28c7b.jpg)
(https://uploads.tapatalk-cdn.com/20180803/ea32e48345924f1fb302c87d2e9b1624.jpg)

4.5”
2 9/16”
1/4”

Respectively.
Title: Re: First Cabinet Build: I have no idea what I'm doing
Post by: obizues on August 03, 2018, 08:24:06 pm
4.5”
2 9/16”
1/4”

 :notworthy: :notworthy: :notworthy: :cheers:

Thank you so much!
Title: Re: First Cabinet Build: I have no idea what I'm doing
Post by: yotsuya on August 03, 2018, 11:57:12 pm
Have you thought of one of these, my friend?

(https://uploads.tapatalk-cdn.com/20180804/931a94312561cb1127112bcb7b64da09.png)
Title: Re: First Cabinet Build: I have no idea what I'm doing
Post by: yotsuya on August 03, 2018, 11:57:55 pm
In all seriousness, I prefer to carriage bolt mount my joysticks.
Title: Re: First Cabinet Build: I have no idea what I'm doing
Post by: obizues on August 04, 2018, 12:03:07 am
Have you thought of one of these, my friend?

I don’t get it. 
Title: Re: First Cabinet Build: I have no idea what I'm doing
Post by: yotsuya on August 04, 2018, 12:06:02 am
It’s a joke.

Anyhoo, I like to top mount my joys with carriage bolts because it’s authentic and I don’t have to worry about them getting pushed down into the CP.
Title: Re: First Cabinet Build: I have no idea what I'm doing
Post by: obizues on August 04, 2018, 12:08:26 am
It’s a joke.

Anyhoo, I like to top mount my joys with carriage bolts because it’s authentic and I don’t have to worry about them getting pushed down into the CP.

 ::)
Title: Re: First Cabinet Build: I have no idea what I'm doing
Post by: obizues on August 04, 2018, 08:30:22 am
4.5”
2 9/16”
1/4”

Respectively.

So the plate itself I assume is square so it’s 2 9/16” x 2 9/16”?
Title: Re: First Cabinet Build: I have no idea what I'm doing
Post by: obizues on August 04, 2018, 03:48:47 pm
Here's a template for the future
Title: Re: First Cabinet Build: I have no idea what I'm doing
Post by: obizues on August 05, 2018, 03:57:48 pm
Routed 1/16th inch off top for trackball flush mount. 

(https://i.imgur.com/jzJVzpA.jpg)

...looking at it I should probably give myself more room on the (picture-shown) right.

Here's an updated template with instructions for S plate.

Title: Re: First Cabinet Build: I have no idea what I'm doing
Post by: JudgeRob on August 05, 2018, 07:27:36 pm
You're probably overthinking it a bit.  You just outline your plate on the wood, drill out the center hole, then stick your router in the hole and rebate out the square pattern you drew on the wood.    If you looked at my build, I just cut a couple steel strips to length (doesn't need to be exact).  I painted mine bright white.  Under the metal strips are little pieces of wood which press against the stick plate.  Again, it doesn't have to be the exact thickness, because you just have to add thread locker to the threads and then slowly screw down until it feels nice and tight. 
Title: Re: First Cabinet Build: I have no idea what I'm doing
Post by: obizues on August 05, 2018, 08:01:34 pm
Routed:

(https://i.imgur.com/z07ljny.jpg)

And also door...

(https://i.imgur.com/zCt4uMh.jpg)
Title: Re: First Cabinet Build: I have no idea what I'm doing
Post by: Ian on August 05, 2018, 08:24:51 pm
Page 10... Only 20 more to go.
Title: Re: First Cabinet Build: I have no idea what I'm doing
Post by: obizues on August 05, 2018, 08:31:18 pm
Page 10... Only 20 more to go.

You must have a rough life.
Title: Re: First Cabinet Build: I have no idea what I'm doing
Post by: leapinlew on August 05, 2018, 09:05:03 pm
Good job.

No concerns about the cabinet sitting flush to the wall with that cabinet handle out?
Title: Re: First Cabinet Build: I have no idea what I'm doing
Post by: obizues on August 05, 2018, 09:19:23 pm
No concerns about the cabinet sitting flush to the wall with that cabinet handle out?

No, I wouldn’t want it flush against the wall since I have my plug also going on the back frame.
Title: Re: First Cabinet Build: I have no idea what I'm doing
Post by: obizues on August 07, 2018, 12:16:21 pm
Is there an example of what someone has done in order to show the best way to cut out the artwork for a top mounted trackball? 

Since the lip of the trackball housing would come up from the bottom and through the trackball plate that is flush on the control panel, I would need to be a lot more exact on cutting my artwork.

Or is it just "cut slowly?"

I figure i could lay it over the control panel, cross out the hole, and just slowly outline the hole with an exacto knife.
Title: Re: First Cabinet Build: I have no idea what I'm doing
Post by: JudgeRob on August 07, 2018, 09:41:51 pm
yeah, just lay it out and cut that puppy.  Doesn't your trackball have a flange for the top?
Title: Re: First Cabinet Build: I have no idea what I'm doing
Post by: obizues on August 07, 2018, 09:56:45 pm
yeah, just lay it out and cut that puppy.  Doesn't your trackball have a flange for the top?

I’m honestly not sure if this would cover anything up...

(https://i.imgur.com/Kjze3vO.jpg)
Title: Re: First Cabinet Build: I have no idea what I'm doing
Post by: barrymossel on August 09, 2018, 03:51:26 pm
Page 10... Only 20 more to go.
I think he should Google/search a bit more, but still he learns and accepts critics. He does better than most of us newbies.
Title: Re: First Cabinet Build: I have no idea what I'm doing
Post by: yotsuya on August 09, 2018, 03:55:41 pm
Page 10... Only 20 more to go.
I think he should Google/search a bit more, but still he learns and accepts critics. He does better than most of us newbies.

I’m just glad he’s posting everything to one thread now. It’s progress.
Title: Re: First Cabinet Build: I have no idea what I'm doing
Post by: Buick455 on August 09, 2018, 05:17:46 pm
This isn't meant to come off dick'ish, but you can use a key as a handle to open the door  :)
Order an arcade machine lock (7/8" maybe). Take that handle off, putty the screw holes & paint.. Mount the lock so the paddle part catches the door frame.

When I seen the pic all I could think of is the outhouse on the farm I spent the summer at 30+ years ago (just missing the moon cutout). Thanks for the flashback  :cheers: I haven't thought of that place in at least 20 years..
Title: Re: First Cabinet Build: I have no idea what I'm doing
Post by: obizues on August 09, 2018, 05:25:12 pm
This isn't meant to come off dick'ish, but you can use a key as a handle to open the door  :)
Order an arcade machine lock (7/8" maybe). Take that handle off, putty the screw holes & paint.. Mount the lock so the paddle part catches the door frame.

When I seen the pic all I could think of is the outhouse on the farm I spent the summer at 30+ years ago (just missing the moon cutout). Thanks for the flashback  :cheers: I haven't thought of that place in at least 20 years..

So this may sound stupid, so I should put the lock in and the latch on the inside, then twist and pull the door out with the key..?

Do you have a picture of it on an arcade?
Title: Re: First Cabinet Build: I have no idea what I'm doing
Post by: Buick455 on August 09, 2018, 06:15:49 pm
This is all I could find.

https://youtu.be/f-eeUCmjvVE?t=1592
Title: Re: First Cabinet Build: I have no idea what I'm doing
Post by: JudgeRob on August 09, 2018, 10:57:13 pm
yeah, just use a lock like that.  Home Depo has them for a few bucks.

Not sure if this will fit yours, but see the "bezel" here. 
http://www.ultimarc.com/store/section.php?xSec=10 (http://www.ultimarc.com/store/section.php?xSec=10)
Title: Re: First Cabinet Build: I have no idea what I'm doing
Post by: obizues on August 10, 2018, 08:34:13 am
yeah, just use a lock like that.  Home Depo has them for a few bucks.

Not sure if this will fit yours, but see the "bezel" here. 
http://www.ultimarc.com/store/section.php?xSec=10 (http://www.ultimarc.com/store/section.php?xSec=10)

Nice!  I didn’t know they existed until now. Any clue what Home Depot calls it?
Title: Re: First Cabinet Build: I have no idea what I'm doing
Post by: Mike A on August 10, 2018, 08:42:55 am
Dude. Use freakin' Google every once in awhile.
Title: Re: First Cabinet Build: I have no idea what I'm doing
Post by: obizues on August 10, 2018, 08:59:00 am
Dude. Use freakin' Google every once in awhile.

(https://i.imgur.com/iEU99aH.png)

Jeez man... assume positive intent sometimes...

(http://www.electronicbeats.net/app/uploads/2016/03/oldmanyellsatcloud.jpg)
Title: Re: First Cabinet Build: I have no idea what I'm doing
Post by: Malenko on August 10, 2018, 09:25:40 am
its a cam lock, they might call it a barrel lock.
Title: Re: First Cabinet Build: I have no idea what I'm doing
Post by: Mike A on August 10, 2018, 10:07:48 am
yeah, just use a lock like that.  Home Depo has them for a few bucks.

Not sure if this will fit yours, but see the "bezel" here. 
http://www.ultimarc.com/store/section.php?xSec=10 (http://www.ultimarc.com/store/section.php?xSec=10)

Nice!  I didn’t know they existed until now. Any clue what Home Depot calls it?

Ultimarc sells the bezel ring

Home Depot and a million other places sell the barrel locks.

Why did you search Home depot for the bezel ring. A link to Ultimarc was provided to you.

Sorry if I come of too harsh, but this is basic comprehension. I will tone it down some, but take the time to read what is provided to you.
Title: Re: First Cabinet Build: I have no idea what I'm doing
Post by: Nephasth on August 10, 2018, 10:42:08 am
Man, that's just a few words and a question mark shy of how my dad would use Google if he could figure it out...
Title: Re: First Cabinet Build: I have no idea what I'm doing
Post by: obizues on August 10, 2018, 05:50:39 pm
Ultimarc sells the bezel ring

Home Depot and a million other places sell the barrel locks.

Why did you search Home depot for the bezel ring. A link to Ultimarc was provided to you.

Sorry if I come of too harsh, but this is basic comprehension. I will tone it down some, but take the time to read what is provided to you.

Why would I order a bezel ring online if I can get one at Home Depot?  You also never said the words “barrel lock.”  How was I supposed to know what that’s called.

Feel free to ignore this thread if it’s so hard for your eyes to read a question, but it’s literally a project called “I have no idea what I’m doing.”

Either be helpful, chill out, or just stay out of the thread entirely if you are such a fragile flower your ego can’t handle newbie questions.
Title: Re: First Cabinet Build: I have no idea what I'm doing
Post by: obizues on August 10, 2018, 05:52:12 pm
its a cam lock, they might call it a barrel lock.

Thanks!
Title: Re: First Cabinet Build: I have no idea what I'm doing
Post by: Mike A on August 10, 2018, 06:28:38 pm
I guess my fragile flower ego can't handle your questions. Good luck. I hope you finish your cab successfully.
Title: Re: First Cabinet Build: I have no idea what I'm doing
Post by: Buick455 on August 10, 2018, 06:59:58 pm
You can find cheaper I assume, but here -> https://www.amazon.com/s/ref=nb_sb_noss_1?url=search-alias%3Daps&field-KEYWORDS=ARCADE+LOCK (https://www.amazon.com/s/ref=nb_sb_noss_1?url=search-alias%3Daps&field-KEYWORDS=ARCADE+LOCK)

Just get one that is longer then your ply is thick. I prefer a normal key over the tubular ones when being used as a handle.

IDK if you have a coin door or are planing on one, maybe get 2 locks that will work with the same key.. but keep in mind, diff coin doors take diff size cam/barrel locks.
Title: Re: First Cabinet Build: I have no idea what I'm doing
Post by: obizues on August 10, 2018, 07:48:57 pm
Does anyone know if there is a bezel for a 3” Happ trackball?  I’m too-mounting mine with the plate, but I want to see if there’s a way to cover the artwork cut I’ll lay over the Happ plate.

I found one for ultimate as shown above, but that’s only for the u-trak.
Title: Re: First Cabinet Build: I have no idea what I'm doing
Post by: Nephasth on August 10, 2018, 11:42:45 pm
Either be helpful, chill out, or just stay out of the thread entirely if you are such a fragile flower your ego can’t handle newbie questions.

Bold words for someone asking for help... EVERY. STEP. OF. THE. WAY.
Title: Re: First Cabinet Build: I have no idea what I'm doing
Post by: obizues on August 11, 2018, 06:42:36 pm
Either be helpful, chill out, or just stay out of the thread entirely if you are such a fragile flower your ego can’t handle newbie questions.

Bold words for someone asking for help... EVERY. STEP. OF. THE. WAY.

Good point.  I'm sure without the consistently condescending remarks it's going to be a lot harder figuring out what I need to do...  especially with the many kind and helpful people that are giving input instead of just jumping on the ---steaming pile of meadow muffin--- throwing wagon.
Title: Re: First Cabinet Build: I have no idea what I'm doing
Post by: obizues on August 11, 2018, 07:06:23 pm
I put the trackball plate in the recess I routed out, but it seems like I didn't cut out enough at 1/16, it's a little higher than flush.  Do I dare try and make it a little more snug?  I think I should but I don't want to overcorrect. :dunno

(https://i.imgur.com/wQ8mgh2.jpg)

Onto my bigger problem..  :embarassed:

The IL Eurostick top base does not fit on the "square" part of the inside of my universal S plate.  You can see in the picture below it's just too wide. 

(https://i.imgur.com/rgdOQ5T.jpg)

I thought I may be able to unscrew the base and remove it from the black "plate" like you can on the sanwa or zippy's, but the that top plastic plate is part of the mold that goes down towards the switches.

It lines up with part of the recessed rectangle area of the S plate that I could screw the joystick mount into.. but it would seemingly defeat the purpose of an S plate to keep the stick's base close to the top of the CP to begin with.

Title: Re: First Cabinet Build: I have no idea what I'm doing
Post by: Nephasth on August 11, 2018, 07:15:37 pm
Either be helpful, chill out, or just stay out of the thread entirely if you are such a fragile flower your ego can’t handle newbie questions.

Bold words for someone asking for help... EVERY. STEP. OF. THE. WAY.

Good point.  I'm sure without the consistently condescending remarks it's going to be a lot harder figuring out what I need to do...  especially with the many kind and helpful people that are giving input instead of just jumping on the ---steaming pile of meadow muffin--- throwing wagon.

Consistent questions beget consistent remarks...

This forum contains at least 99% of the information you desire... Start reading and quit asking people to google ---steaming pile of meadow muffin--- for you.
Title: Re: First Cabinet Build: I have no idea what I'm doing
Post by: obizues on August 11, 2018, 07:18:38 pm

Consistent questions beget consistent remarks...

So you're saying I asked for it, and therefor no one else can control their dickishness...  :lol
Title: Re: First Cabinet Build: I have no idea what I'm doing
Post by: Nephasth on August 11, 2018, 07:22:29 pm
I'm saying you're too lazy to do your own homework.
Title: Re: First Cabinet Build: I have no idea what I'm doing
Post by: obizues on August 11, 2018, 07:24:32 pm
I'm saying you're too lazy to do your own homework.

Well we can keep having a passing contest or you can help with my questions.

 I’m up for either.
Title: Re: First Cabinet Build: I have no idea what I'm doing
Post by: yotsuya on August 11, 2018, 07:33:00 pm
I'm saying you're too lazy to do your own homework.

Well we can keep having a passing contest or you can help with my questions.

 I’m up for either.

PASS! PASS!

Did I win the contest?

But seriously, I think those S plates were made for Japanese sticks, not IL/Happs.
Title: Re: First Cabinet Build: I have no idea what I'm doing
Post by: yotsuya on August 11, 2018, 07:36:30 pm
Like, doesn’t the “S” stand for Sanwa?
Title: Re: First Cabinet Build: I have no idea what I'm doing
Post by: Nephasth on August 11, 2018, 07:40:38 pm
Like, doesn’t the “S” stand for Sanwa?

A bracket with 2 opposite 90 degree bends is commonly called an s-bracket.
Title: Re: First Cabinet Build: I have no idea what I'm doing
Post by: obizues on August 11, 2018, 07:52:48 pm
Like, doesn’t the “S” stand for Sanwa?

A bracket with 2 opposite 90 degree bends is commonly called an s-bracket.

This is what I thought as well.

Am I SOL with the il eurosticks and and the “not so universal” S plates?
Title: Re: First Cabinet Build: I have no idea what I'm doing
Post by: obizues on August 11, 2018, 07:55:08 pm
PASS! PASS!

Did I win the contest?
  :lol
Title: Re: First Cabinet Build: I have no idea what I'm doing
Post by: javeryh on August 11, 2018, 09:35:59 pm
What does that mounting plate even do for you?  It looks like either way you are going to have bolt heads showing through the top of the CP.  Why didn't you use threaded inserts?  Your CP looks like it is 3/4" thick, which is plenty of room to bottom mount.  Or you can just have the bolt heads show.  It looks fine honestly. 
Title: Re: First Cabinet Build: I have no idea what I'm doing
Post by: obizues on August 11, 2018, 09:56:32 pm
What does that mounting plate even do for you?  It looks like either way you are going to have bolt heads showing through the top of the CP.  Why didn't you use threaded inserts?  Your CP looks like it is 3/4" thick, which is plenty of room to bottom mount.  Or you can just have the bolt heads show.  It looks fine honestly.

I was given advice that bottom mounting with that thing of wood could cause problems and crack the wood. Thus the S plate idea was brought up.

Are you suggesting I route an area large enough all the way close to board to fit the top of the joystick and forget the S plate?

Finally, I assumed I could screw the joystick into the wood shorter than the length to the top of the CP so the screws wouldn’t stick out.

Edit: without the extra 1/4” the S plate gave me.. so I need to be worried the screws won’t hold the joysticks steady?

When you say it looks fine, what are you suggesting I do?
Title: Re: First Cabinet Build: I have no idea what I'm doing
Post by: yotsuya on August 11, 2018, 10:06:34 pm
He’s talking about using carriage bolts, like I mentioned a few posts ago.
Title: Re: First Cabinet Build: I have no idea what I'm doing
Post by: obizues on August 11, 2018, 10:12:41 pm
He’s talking about using carriage bolts, like I mentioned a few posts ago.

Carraige bolts with threaded inserts?  Do you need the threaded inserts, or can you just drill?  I would be scared either way of breaking through the top of the CP. 

From the top or bottom?  It seems to me that going from underneath keeps anything from changing the flatness of the control panel, unless there is a drawback I don’t see?
Title: Re: First Cabinet Build: I have no idea what I'm doing
Post by: javeryh on August 11, 2018, 10:13:40 pm
What does that mounting plate even do for you?  It looks like either way you are going to have bolt heads showing through the top of the CP.  Why didn't you use threaded inserts?  Your CP looks like it is 3/4" thick, which is plenty of room to bottom mount.  Or you can just have the bolt heads show.  It looks fine honestly.

I was given advice that bottom mounting with that thing of wood could cause problems and crack the wood. Thus the S plate idea was brought up.

Are you suggesting I route an area large enough all the way close to board to fit the top of the joystick and forget the S plate?

Finally, I assumed I could screw the joystick into the wood shorter than the length to the top of the CP so the screws wouldn’t stick out.

Edit: without the extra 1/4” the S plate gave me.. so I need to be worried the screws won’t hold the joysticks steady?

When you say it looks fine, what are you suggesting I do?

Well, first of all, you are not supposed to route out material for the wings of that plate - only the middle piece.  The wings are supposed to sit underneath the CP giving you the full depth to screw into.  So you are already losing depth because you buried the entire plate.  At this point you should forget about using that plate and see if there is a way to just recess the joystick plate.  I can think of a couple of options:

1.  Recess the joystick plate only (it looks thicker than the metal plate you tried so I assume you could remove a little more material.  Maybe not.  Then use round head carriage bolts (like on a DK) and bolt from underneath with the heads showing on top.

2.  Recess the joystick plate so it is flush with the bottom.  Use 4 very short screws to hold the joystick in place.  I might add a few drops of super glue inside each screw hole or something just to be safe.  Then use 2 wood strips on either side of the plate overlapping the bottom of the CP as straps so that the joystick cannot move or fall.

Also, since you aren't sure what you are doing I suggest making a mock-up before using the actual pieces.  This problem could have been avoided using scraps of plywood I'm sure you have laying around.  Get it right there and then copy what you did on the real thing.
Title: Re: First Cabinet Build: I have no idea what I'm doing
Post by: javeryh on August 11, 2018, 10:17:13 pm
He’s talking about using carriage bolts, like I mentioned a few posts ago.

Carraige bolts with threaded inserts?  Do you need the threaded inserts, or can you just drill?  I would be scared either way of breaking through the top of the CP. 

From the top or bottom?  It seems to me that going from underneath keeps anything from changing the flatness of the control panel, unless there is a drawback I don’t see?

Carriage blots go all the way through.  Look at this DK control panel.  http://jonjandran.com/pics/jonjandran/reprodkcp3.jpg (http://jonjandran.com/pics/jonjandran/reprodkcp3.jpg)

There are 8 carriage bolts around the edge of the CP and it looks great.

Threaded inserts from underneath do not, but that ship might have sailed because yo already routed out too much material.
Title: Re: First Cabinet Build: I have no idea what I'm doing
Post by: yotsuya on August 11, 2018, 10:26:14 pm
And before people freak out with OMG BOLTS...

(https://uploads.tapatalk-cdn.com/20180812/3e55d88aa12adcc98a077d330bc7e345.jpg)

(https://uploads.tapatalk-cdn.com/20180812/f7c7fe42b030a78d3e1867a93221d720.jpg)

(https://uploads.tapatalk-cdn.com/20180812/c83ea6a237c214ec7c7d2b2493e933ca.jpg)

(https://uploads.tapatalk-cdn.com/20180812/dabb86a9eea25cefd761f61ccaa22040.jpg)

(https://uploads.tapatalk-cdn.com/20180812/e284843c908b0bab9de9cdecb11adb9e.jpg)

(https://uploads.tapatalk-cdn.com/20180812/5f9698f9152bc50e57ca1677cbe0f55f.jpg)
Title: Re: First Cabinet Build: I have no idea what I'm doing
Post by: yotsuya on August 11, 2018, 10:27:07 pm
Those are all on MY GAMES. No issues with them.
Title: Re: First Cabinet Build: I have no idea what I'm doing
Post by: yotsuya on August 11, 2018, 10:29:02 pm
Worries about bolts on top of the CP are so overrated. No bolts might look cleaner if you’re worried about that, but having them show isn’t janky either. It’s my preferred way of mounting.
Title: Re: First Cabinet Build: I have no idea what I'm doing
Post by: obizues on August 11, 2018, 10:37:34 pm
So either way it sounds like I need to route the top shape of the joystick, it’s just if I want to use carraige bolts or secure it with wood undearneath the CP....?

You guys are right, it doesn’t look bad like I thought.  :)

Did you see my question about cutting the artwork around my trackball top mounting plate?  I’m worried there since I don’t have any overlap like on buttons or washers to hide a rough cut out around the trackball.
Title: Re: First Cabinet Build: I have no idea what I'm doing
Post by: yotsuya on August 12, 2018, 12:25:15 am
Just cut with a fresh X-Acto knife blade and you’ll be fine
Title: Re: First Cabinet Build: I have no idea what I'm doing
Post by: obizues on August 12, 2018, 08:01:51 am
Just cut with a fresh X-Acto knife blade and you’ll be fine

Just flip the control panel over and do it from the bottom and follow the cutout?

How do you do the carraige bolts?  Drill holes through the artwork?  I’m scared it will tear.
Title: Re: First Cabinet Build: I have no idea what I'm doing
Post by: javeryh on August 12, 2018, 08:49:43 am
Use the razor to poke a hole in the artwork through screw hole - like an "X".  When you push the bolt through the head will cover the edges and look fine.  Again, practice on scrap first!
Title: Re: First Cabinet Build: I have no idea what I'm doing
Post by: obizues on August 12, 2018, 08:56:10 am
Use the razor to poke a hole in the artwork through screw hole - like an "X".  When you push the bolt through the head will cover the edges and look fine.  Again, practice on scrap first!

I sadly don’t have any scrap artwork.
Title: Re: First Cabinet Build: I have no idea what I'm doing
Post by: javeryh on August 12, 2018, 09:27:17 am
Do you have duct tape or painter's tape or anything that can approximate the artwork?  Drill a hole in some scrap, cover with thick tape and then try to get the bolt through and looking nice.  This is basic stuff though so you should be able to get it right on the first try but I'd hate to see you ruin your artwork by punching holes in it that you didn't even want to do in the first place.
Title: Re: First Cabinet Build: I have no idea what I'm doing
Post by: obizues on August 12, 2018, 09:48:21 am
Do you have duct tape or painter's tape or anything that can approximate the artwork?  Drill a hole in some scrap, cover with thick tape and then try to get the bolt through and looking nice.  This is basic stuff though so you should be able to get it right on the first try but I'd hate to see you ruin your artwork by punching holes in it that you didn't even want to do in the first place.

Yeah good call.
Title: Re: First Cabinet Build: I have no idea what I'm doing
Post by: obizues on August 12, 2018, 05:28:14 pm
Did the marquee today.  There’s small imperfections in the  ottom of the cut, but it’s the best I could do. I hope there’s something I can use to cover it up when I put the plexi in front or I’m just noticing because I did it.

I put in the trackball and filler around it, and sanded it.

(https://i.imgur.com/1HGUCGx.jpg)

Ready for artwork on the CP.

Practiced cutting a whole for the trackball.. it’s. A little rough but I’m hoping it’s just my own eye...  :hissy:

(https://i.imgur.com/opUMtCz.jpg)
Title: Re: First Cabinet Build: I have no idea what I'm doing
Post by: yamatetsu on August 12, 2018, 06:10:49 pm
Take a look at this. http://forum.arcadecontrols.com/index.php/topic,130690.msg1426681.html#msg1426681 (http://forum.arcadecontrols.com/index.php/topic,130690.msg1426681.html#msg1426681)
Title: Re: First Cabinet Build: I have no idea what I'm doing
Post by: obizues on August 12, 2018, 06:14:51 pm
Take a look at this. http://forum.arcadecontrols.com/index.php/topic,130690.msg1426681.html#msg1426681 (http://forum.arcadecontrols.com/index.php/topic,130690.msg1426681.html#msg1426681)

Whoa, he used a router on the buttons and holes... I’m scared that would pull tear the artwork...

I guess I can try with the tape mock-up I did.
Title: Re: First Cabinet Build: I have no idea what I'm doing
Post by: Nephasth on August 12, 2018, 06:26:40 pm
Tape the trackball plate. It's easier to use metal as a guide for a metal blade than sawing the exacto knife into wood...
Title: Re: First Cabinet Build: I have no idea what I'm doing
Post by: obizues on August 12, 2018, 06:31:30 pm
Tape the trackball plate. It's easier to use metal as a guide for a metal blade than sawing the exacto knife into wood...

Fair.
Title: Re: First Cabinet Build: I have no idea what I'm doing
Post by: Nephasth on August 12, 2018, 06:43:10 pm
It's a joystick... But exact same concept. CPO cut with an exacto knife on a metal CP...
Title: Re: First Cabinet Build: I have no idea what I'm doing
Post by: obizues on August 12, 2018, 06:48:07 pm
It's a joystick... But exact same concept. CPO cut with an exacto knife on a metal CP...

Yeah I completely get it. I’ll do that for the trackball.

I’m interested how the guy that was linked above did the button artwork without tearing the art. Looks like he used a flush trim router bit, but I don’t know if I want to risk it.  ;)
Title: Re: First Cabinet Build: I have no idea what I'm doing
Post by: JudgeRob on August 13, 2018, 12:51:21 am
Seriously dude, if you have a 3/4 inch CP, just drill 1/2" in, place threaded inserts in from the bottom and screw in the stick from the bottom with plates.  Mine has not ripped out or anything. 
Title: Re: First Cabinet Build: I have no idea what I'm doing
Post by: obizues on August 13, 2018, 01:04:08 am
Seriously dude, if you have a 3/4 inch CP, just drill 1/2" in, place threaded inserts in from the bottom and screw in the stick from the bottom with plates.  Mine has not ripped out or anything.

 :cheers:
Title: Re: First Cabinet Build: I have no idea what I'm doing
Post by: obizues on August 16, 2018, 10:03:48 pm
After worrying about having to cut this large hole on an angle forever, I cut both holes out successfully... ... I just didn’t focus on my measurement. 😩

So I recut, and put back the part of the hole I cut and patched it with wood filler and wood glue. 😬

I am not confident this will work. 😓😕

(https://i.imgur.com/Eh9dPXL.jpg)
Title: Re: First Cabinet Build: I have no idea what I'm doing
Post by: JudgeRob on August 17, 2018, 05:02:50 pm
Holy... that's a nasty scar but... you could probably sand it smooth, refill pits, sand again and paint.  Or just blast out that board and replace it.
Title: Re: First Cabinet Build: I have no idea what I'm doing
Post by: obizues on August 17, 2018, 05:41:57 pm
Holy... that's a nasty scar but... you could probably sand it smooth, refill pits, sand again and paint.  Or just blast out that board and replace it.

Yeah I’m hoping the fix works. I’ll probably sand and paint tonight. 
Title: Re: First Cabinet Build: I have no idea what I'm doing
Post by: javeryh on August 17, 2018, 05:43:08 pm
Measure once and cut twice?  This is fixable but jeez I wouldn't want to.
Title: Re: First Cabinet Build: I have no idea what I'm doing
Post by: obizues on August 17, 2018, 08:49:02 pm
Measure once and cut twice?  This is fixable but jeez I wouldn't want to.

Yeah, except no one says what to do when you measure twice consistently wrong...  :hissy:
Title: Re: First Cabinet Build: I have no idea what I'm doing
Post by: obizues on August 17, 2018, 08:49:40 pm
Patching looks okay, need to touch up with a little more fill and sand when the paint dries.

Also put the corners in for my coin slot and vault door.  Will have to wood fill, sand, and paint before putting the mechanical stuff in.

(https://i.imgur.com/mss3iH5.jpg)
Title: Re: First Cabinet Build: I have no idea what I'm doing
Post by: javeryh on August 17, 2018, 10:05:39 pm
Just a suggestion but you should hit the entire cabinet with a coat (or 2) of Zin Bissner primer.  Then paint it black.  This will completely eliminate all of the grain that you can still see through your paint job.  It will also completely eliminate the circle patch that is visible.  It's a weekend's worth of work on something you will (presumably) own for many years.
Title: Re: First Cabinet Build: I have no idea what I'm doing
Post by: obizues on August 17, 2018, 10:08:21 pm
Just a suggestion but you should hit the entire cabinet with a coat (or 2) of Zin Bissner primer.  Then paint it black.  This will completely eliminate all of the grain that you can still see through your paint job.  It will also completely eliminate the circle patch that is visible.  It's a weekend's worth of work on something you will (presumably) own for many years.

Any reason you’ve chosen that brand?

Is it thick and that’s why it fills in so much?
Title: Re: First Cabinet Build: I have no idea what I'm doing
Post by: krangbrain on August 18, 2018, 02:24:12 am
I think javeryh meant Zinsser BIN primer. It’s shellac based, dries super fast and sands extremely well. Great stuff. Just make sure you use it in a well ventilated area with a respirator cause the fumes are no joke.
Title: Re: First Cabinet Build: I have no idea what I'm doing
Post by: javeryh on August 18, 2018, 07:38:50 am
I think javeryh meant Zinsser BIN primer. It’s shellac based, dries super fast and sands extremely well. Great stuff. Just make sure you use it in a well ventilated area with a respirator cause the fumes are no joke.

LOL yeah. Brain fart but that's the stuff.  It's like magic.  It's not thick but it is a sealant and it covers just about any surface.
Title: Re: First Cabinet Build: I have no idea what I'm doing
Post by: obizues on August 18, 2018, 08:50:46 am
I think javeryh meant Zinsser BIN primer. It’s shellac based, dries super fast and sands extremely well. Great stuff. Just make sure you use it in a well ventilated area with a respirator cause the fumes are no joke.

Can I do it in my garage or should it be in my driveway?  This is completely new to me, I’ve never used anything I legitimately need a respirator for. 
Title: Re: First Cabinet Build: I have no idea what I'm doing
Post by: obizues on August 18, 2018, 08:54:12 am
LOL yeah. Brain fart but that's the stuff.  It's like magic.  It's not thick but it is a sealant and it covers just about any surface.

Do most people do the inside of the cabinet too? 

I assume if it is a good sealant i wouldn’t want to use it on my routes edges either?

I would also assume it’s not needed on any place I will have artwork?

Finally, for the board for the speakers, I assume I can just “paint” it on with a brush around the speaker “grates,” or is that wrong?
Title: Re: First Cabinet Build: I have no idea what I'm doing
Post by: obizues on August 18, 2018, 09:03:59 am
So I found it at Lowe’s, but they only sell it in white, and I’ll need to go to another place that can put in universal colorant.. unless Lowe’s does that. They just don’t say on their website.

https://m.lowes.com/pd/Zinsser-B-I-N-Interior-Multi-purpose-Shellac-Primer-Actual-Net-Contents-32-fl-oz/3610422?cm_mmc=SCE_PLA-_-Paint-_-Primers-_-3610422:Zinsser&CAWELAID=&kpid=3610422&CAGPSPN=pla&store_code=2309&k_clickID=8a6c8f27-49f6-420e-bbd3-705988308ead&gclid=CjwKCAjwh9_bBRA_EiwApObaOK85LnU4nF97VEisxwGFPIE9IcbDq6bMItkjguGRuMWx9p1lXW9AEhoC6tsQAvD_BwE (https://m.lowes.com/pd/Zinsser-B-I-N-Interior-Multi-purpose-Shellac-Primer-Actual-Net-Contents-32-fl-oz/3610422?cm_mmc=SCE_PLA-_-Paint-_-Primers-_-3610422:Zinsser&CAWELAID=&kpid=3610422&CAGPSPN=pla&store_code=2309&k_clickID=8a6c8f27-49f6-420e-bbd3-705988308ead&gclid=CjwKCAjwh9_bBRA_EiwApObaOK85LnU4nF97VEisxwGFPIE9IcbDq6bMItkjguGRuMWx9p1lXW9AEhoC6tsQAvD_BwE)
Title: Re: First Cabinet Build: I have no idea what I'm doing
Post by: obizues on August 18, 2018, 09:11:05 am
As a side note, I have been looking at barrel locks, and I can’t seem to find any installations on how someone did they for the back of a cabinet to replace the handle no one seems fond of. ;). I can only find them being used for the coin slots and vaults.

The thing that’s tripping me up is where to put it. It seems like it needs to be really close to the edge of the “door” on the back since those arms that you turn to “lock” are not that long.
Title: Re: First Cabinet Build: I have no idea what I'm doing
Post by: rave0035 on August 18, 2018, 11:04:03 pm
Go talk to someone at the paint counter.  They will know what they can tint and what they can't.
Title: Re: First Cabinet Build: I have no idea what I'm doing
Post by: obizues on August 18, 2018, 11:20:34 pm
Go talk to someone at the paint counter.  They will know what they can tint and what they can't.

Did that. Best they can do is light grey.
Title: Re: First Cabinet Build: I have no idea what I'm doing
Post by: krangbrain on August 18, 2018, 11:53:47 pm
Can I do it in my garage or should it be in my driveway?  This is completely new to me, I’ve never used anything I legitimately need a respirator for. 

Yeah, you can use it in your garage with the door open, but like I said, definitely use a respirator. The minute you smell the stuff you'll want one.

Do most people do the inside of the cabinet too? 

Some do, some don't. Just a personal preference, really. I didn't, but kinda wish I had because I think it looks better.

I assume if it is a good sealant i wouldn’t want to use it on my routes edges either?

Why not? I don't think it would matter either way.

I would also assume it’s not needed on any place I will have artwork?

Well, you'll adhere your artwork to a gloss or semi-gloss surface whether it's paint, polyurethane, lacquer, etc. Your topcoat will help determine what primer you go with, but BIN can be covered with virtually anything, which is one reason it's so great.

Finally, for the board for the speakers, I assume I can just “paint” it on with a brush around the speaker “grates,” or is that wrong?

If I'm not spraying it I use a high-density foam roller and throw it away after use. You can use a brush and clean up with ammonia, but that's kinda annoying. Also, if you use a foam roller you'll get a small orange peal effect, but no brush marks (I HATE brush marks).

It might just be the pictures, but it looks like the grain that's showing through on that panel is pretty pronounced. I doubt that 2 coats of primer and sanding will cover it all up/fill it all in. It'll help, for sure, but my guess would be that you'll need more coats to make that grain disappear. What kind of ply did you use? Sorry if you mentioned it in an earlier post... :)

Oh, and why do you need it tinted so dark? Even if you put it on white you'll still be able to cover it fine in 2 or 3 coats.
Title: Re: First Cabinet Build: I have no idea what I'm doing
Post by: obizues on August 21, 2018, 11:11:30 pm
It might just be the pictures, but it looks like the grain that's showing through on that panel is pretty pronounced. I doubt that 2 coats of primer and sanding will cover it all up/fill it all in. It'll help, for sure, but my guess would be that you'll need more coats to make that grain disappear. What kind of ply did you use? Sorry if you mentioned it in an earlier post... :)

You can see the grain in person. I only put two coats of paint over it. I’ll cover in primer and paint again and see what happens.

My kid has been sick so I haven’t done a lot lately, but I did get my control panel started. My buttons aren’t perfectly even.. I guess that’s a reason to go use CNC in the future.

(https://i.imgur.com/BwyGysR.jpg)
Title: Re: First Cabinet Build: I have no idea what I'm doing
Post by: yotsuya on August 22, 2018, 12:04:02 am
Crotchbuttons and joyboobs. Lovely. :cheers:
Title: Re: First Cabinet Build: I have no idea what I'm doing
Post by: Vigo on August 22, 2018, 12:34:29 am
Crotchbuttons and joyboobs. Lovely. :cheers:

Live and learn. Next time, put the joysticks on the crotches and the buttons on the boobs. 
Title: Re: First Cabinet Build: I have no idea what I'm doing
Post by: obizues on August 22, 2018, 08:25:02 am
Crotchbuttons and joyboobs. Lovely. :cheers:

Hah, I wasn’t worried too much about the buttons honestly, and I didn’t even think about a joystick on a boob.

Maybe I’m becoming less perverse?  It’s sad but it may be true.
Title: Re: First Cabinet Build: I have no idea what I'm doing
Post by: Malenko on August 22, 2018, 08:26:49 am
Just curious why you went with MvCi art, its easily the weakest entry in the bunch.
Title: Re: First Cabinet Build: I have no idea what I'm doing
Post by: obizues on August 22, 2018, 08:36:32 am
Just curious why you went with MvCi art, its easily the weakest entry in the bunch.

Just because it was the newest and I was having a hard time finding MvC2 vector without having to have custom artwork done.
Title: Re: First Cabinet Build: I have no idea what I'm doing
Post by: javeryh on August 22, 2018, 12:25:07 pm
Just a suggestion - character art belongs on the side panel.  The CP should not be busy and it should be easy to understand.  I’ve seen nice ones with one or two characters but not something that covers every square inch.  This is not inviting to the player.
Title: Re: First Cabinet Build: I have no idea what I'm doing
Post by: obizues on August 22, 2018, 12:41:51 pm
Just a suggestion - character art belongs on the side panel.  The CP should not be busy and it should be easy to understand.  I’ve seen nice ones with one or two characters but not something that covers every square inch.  This is not inviting to the player.

That's fair.  It's done for this time, but I'll remember that going forward.  Thanks for the feedback.  :cheers:
Title: Re: First Cabinet Build: I have no idea what I'm doing
Post by: yotsuya on August 22, 2018, 12:58:28 pm
Just a suggestion - character art belongs on the side panel.  The CP should not be busy and it should be easy to understand.  I’ve seen nice ones with one or two characters but not something that covers every square inch.  This is not inviting to the player.

This. So much this. #this
Title: Re: First Cabinet Build: I have no idea what I'm doing
Post by: obizues on September 02, 2018, 02:24:27 pm
First progress in a while. Hooked up the switches/LED’s last night. Also wired up the switches.

(https://i.imgur.com/JtB1Pbb.jpg)

Additionally I primed the wood that will be exposed and not under artwork as recommended.

(https://i.imgur.com/baOsmuL.jpg)

I can still see my mis-cut, but I guess I always will. :-[ At least the corner patches for my coin and vault door look decent.  :dunno
Title: Re: First Cabinet Build: I have no idea what I'm doing
Post by: jennifer on September 03, 2018, 02:46:43 am
Not bad, Jenn is amused.  That speaker panel should be cut out and replaced, and the back door could use a rethink, (Look at a original cab and add a lock and cam) IMO... But other than that nice first build. 8)
Title: Re: First Cabinet Build: I have no idea what I'm doing
Post by: obizues on September 03, 2018, 02:59:12 am
Not bad, Jenn is amused.  That speaker panel should be cut out and replaced, and the back door could use a rethink, (Look at a original cab and add a lock and cam) IMO... But other than that nice first build. 8)

Do you have a picture of the back door on an original?  I have nothing to reference and google isn’t helping.
Title: Re: First Cabinet Build: I have no idea what I'm doing
Post by: Drnick on September 03, 2018, 03:32:23 am
The door itself is fine, just lose the handle and replace with a couple of cam locks.

https://www.amazon.co.uk/Easy-Provider-Cabinet-Mailbox-Cupboard/dp/B00M93TUES/ref=sr_1_19?ie=UTF8&qid=1535959790&sr=8-19&keywords=cam+lock (https://www.amazon.co.uk/Easy-Provider-Cabinet-Mailbox-Cupboard/dp/B00M93TUES/ref=sr_1_19?ie=UTF8&qid=1535959790&sr=8-19&keywords=cam+lock)
or
https://www.amazon.co.uk/Tubular-Pinball-Machine-Lockers-Cupboards/dp/B07121326Q/ref=sr_1_6?ie=UTF8&qid=1535959790&sr=8-6&keywords=cam+lock (https://www.amazon.co.uk/Tubular-Pinball-Machine-Lockers-Cupboards/dp/B07121326Q/ref=sr_1_6?ie=UTF8&qid=1535959790&sr=8-6&keywords=cam+lock)

If the little metal attachment at the back isn't long enough just replace with one that is.  You then use the key to open the door.


Title: Re: First Cabinet Build: I have no idea what I'm doing
Post by: jennifer on September 03, 2018, 04:40:20 am
   Well not at the moment I guess, I am down in the welder shop all night.... But basically the bottom slides down into a groove and the top pushes up against a stop board (screwed to the inside of the cab) and that also holds the lockplate. I will try to find you a reference pic when I get some time cause Its hard to explain. But anyway then its more traditional and loses the handle thing....The speaker panel if you can get it out in one piece will make a nice template for your new one. (A sharp chisel works nice to break the glue bond) if you used it but try to leave the glue on the cab and do the damage on the panel, then carefully clean the cab once its out. Or just cut it in half and take it out in 2 pieces, but do it with minimal damage....Although that was a noble attempt at a patch it will never be quite right and for the work invested its just easier to replace it. you will be glad you did.
Title: Re: First Cabinet Build: I have no idea what I'm doing
Post by: obizues on September 03, 2018, 10:32:32 am
Although that was a noble attempt at a patch it will never be quite right and for the work invested its just easier to replace it. you will be glad you did.

I understand what you mean, but I’m struggling with the idea. I did a lot more damage the last time I tried to rip out a wood glued board so I may ride this out.  :dunno
Title: Re: First Cabinet Build: I have no idea what I'm doing
Post by: obizues on September 03, 2018, 10:34:32 am
The door itself is fine, just lose the handle and replace with a couple of cam locks.
Maybe I’m a simpleton, but I’m having a hard time visualizing this and like I told Jennifer, I can’t find pictures anywhere.

You are also the first to mention using TWO.

Do you have any reference of pictures that someone installed on the arcade cabinet?
Title: Re: First Cabinet Build: I have no idea what I'm doing
Post by: Nephasth on September 03, 2018, 10:43:37 am
(http://www.fjmsecurity.com/lipped-overlay.jpg)

(http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-G5EzYSdScEQ/UUJNKfxyu0I/AAAAAAAAAI0/g6J9L2vs84Q/s1600/IMG_2579.jpg)

Google still works... I just tested it out for ya.
Title: Re: First Cabinet Build: I have no idea what I'm doing
Post by: obizues on September 03, 2018, 10:56:19 am
Google still works... I just tested it out for ya.

What string did you google?

Does the whole piece come out?

What kind of material is that black paint/cover?
Title: Re: First Cabinet Build: I have no idea what I'm doing
Post by: JDFan on September 03, 2018, 11:03:36 am
Although that was a noble attempt at a patch it will never be quite right and for the work invested its just easier to replace it. you will be glad you did.

I understand what you mean, but I’m struggling with the idea. I did a lot more damage the last time I tried to rip out a wood glued board so I may ride this out.  :dunno

Could just get a piece of thin MDF/hardboard or laminate cut to the size of the speaker panel and glue it to the patched board and use the existing speaker holes as a template for cutting new holes in it - Once painted it would cover the patch job and no one would even notice the extra 1/8" thickness of the panel.
Title: Re: First Cabinet Build: I have no idea what I'm doing
Post by: obizues on September 13, 2018, 08:28:28 pm
It’s been a while so I decided to do something “easy” and wire up the electrical.  However, when I plug something into the strip or toggle the switch I don’t get a light on the power strip/power at all.

It does illuminate the switch I hooked up which is strange. It also turns off the light to the switch when I flip the switch on the power strip.

I checked my connections and reworded it but I’m having the same issue. 

Any ideas here?  I know it’s putting power into the strip since I knicked part of an exposed wire and got a little shock.  :laugh2:

(https://i.imgur.com/HBoSsBo.jpg)
Title: Re: First Cabinet Build: I have no idea what I'm doing
Post by: obizues on September 13, 2018, 08:36:52 pm
Recording: https://i.imgur.com/di7MjSW.mp4 (https://i.imgur.com/di7MjSW.mp4)
Title: Re: First Cabinet Build: I have no idea what I'm doing
Post by: PL1 on September 13, 2018, 10:20:48 pm
That's odd.  :dizzy:

Is there a hot-neutral or hot-ground short after the power strip switch?

Do you have an outlet tester?

(http://i.walmartimages.com/i/p/00/04/31/80/50/0004318050542_500X500.jpg)

If the tester indicates the connections are correct, unplug from the wall socket (unless you want to fry your meter   >:D) and do a resistance check from the wall outlet plug blades to the power strip socket.

Power connections need to be corrosion-free, mechanically solid, and low resistance. (2 ohms or less is good)


Scott
Title: Re: First Cabinet Build: I have no idea what I'm doing
Post by: barrymossel on September 14, 2018, 05:22:56 am
I really don't think it's wired correctly. The light on the inlet goes off when you switch the strip.

(http://www.decdun.me.uk/gc/psu_mains_wiring.jpg)

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=W4Vhkgq4JEg (https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=W4Vhkgq4JEg)

Or maybe you have some short circuit?
Title: Re: First Cabinet Build: I have no idea what I'm doing
Post by: Mike A on September 14, 2018, 07:34:41 am
How did you cut the hole for the outlet socket? Did you smear peanut butter on the cab and let a rat chew through it?
Title: Re: First Cabinet Build: I have no idea what I'm doing
Post by: barrymossel on September 14, 2018, 09:00:47 am
How did you cut the hole for the outlet socket? Did you smear peanut butter on the cab and let a rat chew through it?
:laugh2: :laugh2: :laugh2: :laugh2: :laugh2:
Title: Re: First Cabinet Build: I have no idea what I'm doing
Post by: Titchgamer on September 14, 2018, 09:25:22 am
How did you cut the hole for the outlet socket? Did you smear peanut butter on the cab and let a rat chew through it?

PMSL!!

Thats quote of the year there!
Title: Re: First Cabinet Build: I have no idea what I'm doing
Post by: obizues on September 14, 2018, 09:33:34 am
How did you cut the hole for the outlet socket? Did you smear peanut butter on the cab and let a rat chew through it?

For a guy that comes in and throws tantrums when people tell you to shove off you really don’t mind coming into a thread, being a jackass over and over again, and then getting butthurt.

I always wondered what happened to alternate timeline Biff, and here we are.

Edit: grammar
Title: Re: First Cabinet Build: I have no idea what I'm doing
Post by: Mike A on September 14, 2018, 09:54:21 am
I don't get hurt when people come after me. Bring it on. You must be confused. Maybe it was the electrical jolt you took.

There is a difference between not knowing what you are doing, and just not caring. This is a total hack job.

You are hacking your way through this project with no regard to how it will look in the end.

You deserve ridicule for gnawing a hole in the cabinet and sticking that receptacle in there. Have some freakin' pride in your work.

Instead of whining about me, freakin' fix it.

You should be embarrassed to show that picture. I made a joke because I didn't want to tell you what I really think.

This is not a matter of being a beginner or not having the right tools. I would totally understand that.

You can try to insult me all you want. It won't make that stupid hole in your cab any straighter.



Title: Re: First Cabinet Build: I have no idea what I'm doing
Post by: javeryh on September 14, 2018, 09:56:21 am
At least no one will see it.

For future reference, you should plan for and cut these holes prior to glue-up.  Makes things much much easier.  But, we don't all think of everything so next time, lay out the hole in pencil.  Using a large drill bit, drill holes in each corner as close as you can get.  Eyeballing it is usually fine.  Then use a jigsaw (or hand saw and connect the holes.  You can clean up the edges with a rasp but since the power socket has a bezel you don't really need to be perfect... 
Title: Re: First Cabinet Build: I have no idea what I'm doing
Post by: obizues on September 14, 2018, 10:53:26 am
At least no one will see it.

For future reference, you should plan for and cut these holes prior to glue-up.  Makes things much much easier.  But, we don't all think of everything so next time, lay out the hole in pencil.  Using a large drill bit, drill holes in each corner as close as you can get.  Eyeballing it is usually fine.  Then use a jigsaw (or hand saw and connect the holes.  You can clean up the edges with a rasp but since the power socket has a bezel you don't really need to be perfect...

Yup, that’s what I did. Definitely should’ve cut the hole before assembly,but I didn’t  so I drilled holes in the corners and cut.

Like you said though, no ones going to see it so I wasn’t too worried.  :dunno
Title: Re: First Cabinet Build: I have no idea what I'm doing
Post by: Titchgamer on September 14, 2018, 11:21:55 am
Regarding your problem:

Firstly and I dont mean to sound patronising here but have you checked the fuse in the IEC socket?

If so Have you checked if there is one in your power strip?

If both ok check the continuity between your IEC socket and your power strip.
Title: Re: First Cabinet Build: I have no idea what I'm doing
Post by: obizues on September 14, 2018, 11:45:05 am
Regarding your problem:

Firstly and I dont mean to sound patronising here but have you checked the fuse in the IEC socket?

If so Have you checked if there is one in your power strip?

If both ok check the continuity between your IEC socket and your power strip.

I haven't checked the one in the strip actually so I can do that  :cheers: 

It just seems so weird a strip I used for a total of 30 seconds would have blown a fuse while I hooked this up..
Title: Re: First Cabinet Build: I have no idea what I'm doing
Post by: Titchgamer on September 14, 2018, 11:46:23 am
Regarding your problem:

Firstly and I dont mean to sound patronising here but have you checked the fuse in the IEC socket?

If so Have you checked if there is one in your power strip?

If both ok check the continuity between your IEC socket and your power strip.

I haven't checked the one in the strip actually so I can do that  :cheers: 

It just seems so weird a strip I used for a total of 30 seconds would have blown a fuse while I hooked this up..

Well if somethings wrong it takes a fraction of a second to blow ;)
Title: Re: First Cabinet Build: I have no idea what I'm doing
Post by: JDFan on September 14, 2018, 11:55:05 am
Regarding your problem:

Firstly and I dont mean to sound patronising here but have you checked the fuse in the IEC socket?

If so Have you checked if there is one in your power strip?

If both ok check the continuity between your IEC socket and your power strip.

I haven't checked the one in the strip actually so I can do that  :cheers: 

It just seems so weird a strip I used for a total of 30 seconds would have blown a fuse while I hooked this up..

Well if somethings wrong it takes a fraction of a second to blow ;)

What is weird is that the power is coming from the Wall to the IEC socket then to the Power Strip -- Yet when the toggle on the Powerstrip is toggled - the light on the IEC switch turns on/off !! -- The Power strip switch should have nothing to do with the incoming AC power to the IEC so should not be turning the IEC light on/off !
Title: Re: First Cabinet Build: I have no idea what I'm doing
Post by: Titchgamer on September 14, 2018, 11:57:59 am
Regarding your problem:

Firstly and I dont mean to sound patronising here but have you checked the fuse in the IEC socket?

If so Have you checked if there is one in your power strip?

If both ok check the continuity between your IEC socket and your power strip.

I haven't checked the one in the strip actually so I can do that  :cheers: 

It just seems so weird a strip I used for a total of 30 seconds would have blown a fuse while I hooked this up..

Well if somethings wrong it takes a fraction of a second to blow ;)

What is weird is that the power is coming from the Wall to the IEC socket then to the Power Strip -- Yet when the toggle on the Powerstrip is toggled - the light on the IEC switch turns on/off !! -- The Power strip switch should have nothing to do with the incoming AC power to the IEC so should not be turning the IEC light on/off !

I missed this bit!

That would suggest a major wiring fault to me, Something dragging the juice down to earth maybe?
Title: Re: First Cabinet Build: I have no idea what I'm doing
Post by: obizues on September 14, 2018, 12:20:09 pm
I don't get hurt when people come after me. Bring it on. You must be confused. Maybe it was the electrical jolt you took.

There is a difference between not knowing what you are doing, and just not caring. This is a total hack job.

You are hacking your way through this project with no regard to how it will look in the end.

You deserve ridicule for gnawing a hole in the cabinet and sticking that receptacle in there. Have some freakin' pride in your work.

Instead of whining about me, freakin' fix it.

You should be embarrassed to show that picture. I made a joke because I didn't want to tell you what I really think.

This is not a matter of being a beginner or not having the right tools. I would totally understand that.

You can try to insult me all you want. It won't make that stupid hole in your cab any straighter.

(https://i.imgur.com/E3Y1XUT.png)
Title: Re: First Cabinet Build: I have no idea what I'm doing
Post by: obizues on September 14, 2018, 12:29:44 pm

I missed this bit!

That would suggest a major wiring fault to me, Something dragging the juice down to earth maybe?

So that would mean that I literally wired it up wrong?  Once again, that is strange since the leads are on snug, and it's wired up the same way it was when it worked before.

It's wired up using the same as this tutorial: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=W4Vhkgq4JEg (https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=W4Vhkgq4JEg)
Title: Re: First Cabinet Build: I have no idea what I'm doing
Post by: Titchgamer on September 14, 2018, 01:05:58 pm
Its hard to say for sure.
Ime a English sparky and dont really deal with American stuff!

However from what I remember of your supply (please correct me if I am wrong!) is its 110v centre tapped to 55v each phase or line or whatever you call it over there.

Now my thinking is (partially assumptions) that if the neon lights up on your IEC socket when the power strip is off then you are probably good up to that point.

But if its going off when you turn the switch of the strip on it would suggest to me its taking 1 or both of your lines down to earth.

It would also suggest its a problem after the strip switch so either the switch itself or something plugged into it.

I could be miles off like but thats my thinking atm :p

With the strip off check your output voltage from the IEC socket is correct.

If that is ok turn the strip on and see what voltage you have then.

If its different check between each line and earth.
Title: Re: First Cabinet Build: I have no idea what I'm doing
Post by: PL1 on September 14, 2018, 05:21:09 pm
However from what I remember of your supply (please correct me if I am wrong!) is its 110v centre tapped to 55v each phase or line or whatever you call it over there.
Standard U.S. household 110 wiring doesn't use phase difference for 110 outlets.

When you measure voltages with the black multimeter lead on Ground (green), you should get:
- 117VAC on Hot (black)
- 0VAC on Neutral (white)

Now my thinking is (partially assumptions) that if the neon lights up on your IEC socket when the power strip is off then you are probably good up to that point.

But if its going off when you turn the switch of the strip on it would suggest to me its taking 1 or both of your lines down to earth.

It would also suggest its a problem after the strip switch so either the switch itself or something plugged into it.
Agreed.   :cheers:


Scott
Title: Re: First Cabinet Build: I have no idea what I'm doing
Post by: Titchgamer on September 14, 2018, 05:29:42 pm
However from what I remember of your supply (please correct me if I am wrong!) is its 110v centre tapped to 55v each phase or line or whatever you call it over there.
Standard U.S. household 110 wiring doesn't use phase difference for 110 outlets.

When you measure voltages with the black multimeter lead on Ground (green), you should get:
- 117VAC on Hot (black)
- 0VAC on Neutral (white)

Now my thinking is (partially assumptions) that if the neon lights up on your IEC socket when the power strip is off then you are probably good up to that point.

But if its going off when you turn the switch of the strip on it would suggest to me its taking 1 or both of your lines down to earth.

It would also suggest its a problem after the strip switch so either the switch itself or something plugged into it.
Agreed.   :cheers:


Scott

Thanks for that Scott :)

But in that case yes prob the either the “hot” or “neutral” going to earth.

More likely the neutral at a guess if its not blowing any fuses etc but a quick voltage check should confirm or deny :)
Title: Re: First Cabinet Build: I have no idea what I'm doing
Post by: Vigo on September 15, 2018, 06:23:45 am
(https://i.imgur.com/baOsmuL.jpg)

Did you just prime over the speaker grills? Dude, it's 3 screws.....


Title: First Cabinet Build: I have no idea what I'm doing
Post by: yotsuya on September 15, 2018, 12:03:10 pm
(https://i.imgur.com/baOsmuL.jpg)

Did you just prime over the speaker grills? Dude, it's 3 screws.....

And the handle too!
(https://uploads.tapatalk-cdn.com/20180915/5ea8b68777bc4b81dbdbf2f6e4e0fe21.gif)
Title: Re: First Cabinet Build: I have no idea what I'm doing
Post by: obizues on September 15, 2018, 05:49:05 pm
Did you just prime over the speaker grills? Dude, it's 3 screws.....
Yeah, the grills are a different black.  Doesn't show up well in pictures but it looks much more gray in person.  Long story short- they needed to be painted if I wanted it to not stick-out from the rest of the color on the panel.

And the handle too!
This one I fought with.. same with the hinges.  Apparently that's something you put a lot more thought into than me.  I'm may end up removing the handle altogether.. we will see.
Title: Re: First Cabinet Build: I have no idea what I'm doing
Post by: Locke141 on September 15, 2018, 10:40:25 pm
Take your time Man.

I know it can be frustrating when you don't make as much progress as quickly as you would like, but it sound like your making lots of mistakes that will bother you ever time you look at this cab. More importantly, it sounds like you are taking real risk with your life. Power  tools and the electricity from the wall can kill you.

Title: Re: First Cabinet Build: I have no idea what I'm doing
Post by: obizues on September 16, 2018, 11:00:13 am
Take your time Man.

I know it can be frustrating when you don't make as much progress as quickly as you would like, but it sound like your making lots of mistakes that will bother you ever time you look at this cab. More importantly, it sounds like you are taking real risk with your life. Power  tools and the electricity from the wall can kill you.

Lol, I’ve been doing this for months. I’ve been taking my time.  And yes I shocked myself.  It wasn’t because I was hurrying, it was because My arm slipped because I was sweating. 

I don’t think I’m “risking my life,” nor do I really know where you are getting that from. Much less what power tools have to do with anything else you mentioned.
Title: Re: First Cabinet Build: I have no idea what I'm doing
Post by: Vigo on September 17, 2018, 01:27:26 am
It really comes across that you are rushing, and that just isn't related to power tools. I'm noticing a lack of research and a lack of care.

Bring it back to my primer comment two posts up. I pointed out how removing 3 screws could have prevented you from getting primer on speaker grills. Your response was more or less that you wanted to paint them anyway. That is fine if you wanted to paint them, but you just slapped some primer on installed grills. Aside from the fact that the primer isn't for plastics, that primer is meant to be thick to cover wood stains that normally can be seen through paint. That thick layer is only partially on those speaker grills, meaning when you paint it black, the edges where the primer stops will be visible through and you will have lines on your speaker grills now.

Second, you have primer filling the edges where the speaker grill meets the wood. That will always now look goopy instead of sharp and crisp. Your screws will be partially filled with paint and if you ever do need to remove the speaker grill, the black layer will likely scrape off, showing only white primer.

What you should have done is taken the speaker grills off, painted them separately if you felt it necessary, and then put them back on after all painting is complete.   

This isn't an isolated item. I am noticing a lot of areas where a little extra care would have made a world of difference, like your patch job on the miscut speaker hole. You put your patch wood there, that is fine, but then you cake on some sort of thick putty, sand off extra and paint the wood. What you should have done is repeated the process until you came away with a smooth product. If you weren't getting the gaps filled like you want, then use a thinner putty, or get something like Durhams water putty where you can control the thickness. Dill, sand, repeat, repeat, repeat until you are feel the surface is glass smooth. Only then should you put your first coat of paint over your job. (While you are at it, you could sand the entire board to remove the wood grain).

Just looking to help, bruv. There is a solution to every problem, you just have to set a bar for yourself and plan to constantly hit above that level before moving on.
Title: Re: First Cabinet Build: I have no idea what I'm doing
Post by: obizues on September 17, 2018, 08:38:35 am
Just looking to help, bruv. There is a solution to every problem, you just have to set a bar for yourself and plan to constantly hit above that level before moving on.
Your comments are fair and you make some good points. This being my first wood-working project I am very much in over my head, and that was something I accepted and called out the beginning.

I was hoping that documenting this could allow others to learn from my mistakes if they were also as green as I was.  Instead I’ve been sent a significant amount of feedback that they won’t be posting their projects at all publicly.

Unfortunately, instead of feedback like you just gave me on applying the primer to the grills that causes streaking, other users like Mike A decide to just come in and blast my project without any substantive feedback.  Ironically  at the beginning of the thread I’m told I’m spending too much time on things that won’t be able to be seen. ;)

While you and others have given helpful information, others are very toxic in this community filled with gate-keeping and elitism.

Long story short, I can see where that may come off as rushing from the outside or not researching.

However, for my next project I’ll likely also stay off of these boards.  The alerts for positive/helpful comments are almost half of the total submitted.

I’m enjoying my project for sure, but I’d be lying if I said this board hasn’t soured the experience.  Based on others that have responded directly in this thread or privately,  I’m not the only person that feels this way.

I don’t take offense easily, and no one here is going to really hurt my “fee fees.”  But if you want a realistic answer as to why I’m not engaging more, spending more time researching, or bouncing ideas off of other users, here’s the true answer.
Title: Re: First Cabinet Build: I have no idea what I'm doing
Post by: Mike A on September 17, 2018, 09:07:56 am
I gave you plenty of good feedback you turd nugget. Read back through all the posts. I was trying to help you from the beginning. Your complete lack of respect for your work soured me. You have been hacking your way through this project like a monkey with a chainsaw. It became evident that any advice was being
 ignored.
Title: Re: First Cabinet Build: I have no idea what I'm doing
Post by: obizues on September 17, 2018, 09:15:04 am
I gave you plenty of good feedback you turd nugget. Read back through all the posts. I was trying to help you from the beginning. Your complete lack of respect for your work soured me. You have been hacking your way through this project like a monkey with a chainsaw. It became evident that any advice was being
 ignored.

You are either completely oblivious to reality four you are just too angry person. Either way, I just feel sorry for you
Title: Re: First Cabinet Build: I have no idea what I'm doing
Post by: Mike A on September 17, 2018, 09:24:36 am
Talk to the people on this board who have met me in person. I am far from angry. Put the chainsaw down for a minute and listen to people.
Title: Re: First Cabinet Build: I have no idea what I'm doing
Post by: obizues on September 17, 2018, 09:26:41 am
Talk to the people on this board who have met me in person. I am far from angry. Put the chainsaw down for a minute and listen to people.

I have enough PMing me. Why you don’t you just do us both a favor and stay out of the thread like you said you would a couple times now?
Title: Re: First Cabinet Build: I have no idea what I'm doing
Post by: javeryh on September 17, 2018, 10:06:21 am
I hate to see people have bad experiences on these boards - I've learned so much over the years (and I'm still learning all the time).  Generally, people on this site are WAY into the hobby (passion!) - but you should know that most of us aren't here because we want a means to play classic arcade games.  There are a ton of ways to do that.  Most of us see the entire cabinet as a piece of art that just so happens to play video games.  The finished product, the process of getting there and recreating the arcade experience at home are all equally important.  Just this weekend I placed a small dish filled with quarters next to my DK because I felt that something was missing by just pressing the hidden coin button.  I spent the next 3 hours playing the cab just because of that one change.  It's a little nuts but that's the point.

I agree with Vigo's point though - the reason people are being a little hard on you (and they are) is because your work product comes across as a lack of care or a lack of effort.  That probably isn't the case because you are here asking questions and you are excited about your first build.  However, things like the handle on the door or the patched speaker panel, to be blunt, do not look good.  With a little more time and a little more effort, these things can be easily avoided.  Even though you freely admit you have no idea what you are doing you should still be able to patch a hole, sand it smooth, patch again, sand it smooth, prime, sand, paint etc. so the finished product looks presentable. 

We were all in your shoes at some point and got through it and we all vowed to make the second cab even better.  Keep at it.   :cheers:

Title: Re: First Cabinet Build: I have no idea what I'm doing
Post by: obizues on September 17, 2018, 10:38:52 am
It's a little nuts but that's the point.
That's good context.

However, things like the handle on the door or the patched speaker panel, to be blunt, do not look good.
I'd agree with this as well, I didn't (and still don't really) understand how to put a camlock on the side of the back panel that swings open, and I haven't been able to find an example on google.  I'd assume it would go just far enough away so when it's locked it the arm goes across the opening, but that is a guess.

Even though you freely admit you have no idea what you are doing you should still be able to patch a hole, sand it smooth, patch again, sand it smooth, prime, sand, paint etc. so the finished product looks presentable. 
This has been the bane of my existence. 

I clearly should have cut before mounting, should've measured correctly, and I did try and patch, smooth, prime, sand, and now it is where it is.  I forget who gave me the advice, but their opinion was that it was as good as it was going to get.  This is the "real" reason I didn't want to take off my speaker grills either and just prime them separately since I didn't want to further screw up the patch job.

Perhaps There is a way to really remove that board even though it's glued, however I haven't had any luck removing wood glued pieces without causing more damage than originally.


Ultimately, I don't mind feedback no matter how rough, as long as there is advice that comes with it.... and I think I've shown that throughout the entirety of the thread.  The question that I will have to answer, and will others, will be "is it worth weeding through the crap to get to the advice" for my next project. 

Furthermore, I would ask people in this forum that make up the community if this is the type of board they would have wanted to join as someone completely new.  If some of these users want to simply only deal with other "professional" level builders, I get it, then it doesn't matter.  If the community ever wants to grow people, expand, or how to bring in new ideas after the initial fumbling, then they community is not doing itself justice.
Title: Re: First Cabinet Build: I have no idea what I'm doing
Post by: javeryh on September 17, 2018, 11:19:04 am
Everything is fixable, including the speaker panel.  I don't think I would try and remove the piece if it has been glued in.  You are correct in that it will cause a lot of damage unless you have a Dremel and are very careful with the cut.  My advice would be to find some thin wood veneer, cut it to size (you can use a razor and a straight edge at that thickness), glue it right on top and repaint.  You can get something 1/16" thick or less and because this is under the marquee, you will not notice it assuming you can fit it in there nicely.  Don't forget to trace the speaker cutouts - those don't have to be perfect because the edges will be covered by the speaker grill bezel.

As for the cam lock, this is something you just buy and figure out as you go.  Drill the hole, pop in the hardware and figure it out.  They all come with different locking mechanisms because the manufacturers know each situation is slightly different.  You may get a perfect fit or you may need to add some material to the back of the lip of the door for a snug fit.  Here's my latest cam lock install:  https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=dIvmi3dg8mU (https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=dIvmi3dg8mU)

Here are some pics that will hopefully help: http://forum.arcadecontrols.com/index.php/topic,157460.msg1655972.html#msg1655972 (http://forum.arcadecontrols.com/index.php/topic,157460.msg1655972.html#msg1655972)
Title: Re: First Cabinet Build: I have no idea what I'm doing
Post by: Zoomie on September 17, 2018, 11:53:38 am
The easiest people to mock are going to be the people who need the most help.
I agree that some of obizues' work looks rough (and this is coming from a rank amateur) but I'm glad most people here are offering solid advice to improve it.

Great posts javeryh.  It's always hard to read sarcasm or attempts at humour on the internet but it's easy to read genuine concern.
Title: Re: First Cabinet Build: I have no idea what I'm doing
Post by: Buick455 on September 17, 2018, 12:02:35 pm
However, things like the handle on the door or the patched speaker panel, to be blunt, do not look good.
I'd agree with this as well, I didn't (and still don't really) understand how to put a camlock on the side of the back panel that swings open, and I haven't been able to find an example on google.  I'd assume it would go just far enough away so when it's locked it the arm goes across the opening, but that is a guess.

I posted this back on the 9th of Aug, you musta missed it.

https://youtu.be/f-eeUCmjvVE?t=1592
Title: Re: First Cabinet Build: I have no idea what I'm doing
Post by: Nephasth on September 17, 2018, 12:03:38 pm
Ask for advice...

Get plenty of advice...

Ignore the advice...

And wonder why the advisers become annoyed...

 :cheers:
Title: Re: First Cabinet Build: I have no idea what I'm doing
Post by: obizues on September 17, 2018, 12:18:41 pm
My advice would be to find some thin wood veneer, cut it to size (you can use a razor and a straight edge at that thickness), glue it right on top and repaint.
Great call.  I didn't think of this.

Here's my latest cam lock install:  https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=dIvmi3dg8mU (https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=dIvmi3dg8mU)

Here are some pics that will hopefully help: http://forum.arcadecontrols.com/index.php/topic,157460.msg1655972.html#msg1655972 (http://forum.arcadecontrols.com/index.php/topic,157460.msg1655972.html#msg1655972)
Thanks!
Title: Re: First Cabinet Build: I have no idea what I'm doing
Post by: obizues on September 17, 2018, 12:19:47 pm
I posted this back on the 9th of Aug, you musta missed it.

https://youtu.be/f-eeUCmjvVE?t=1592
That I did.  Thanks!
Title: Re: First Cabinet Build: I have no idea what I'm doing
Post by: obizues on September 17, 2018, 12:22:19 pm
Ask for advice...

Get plenty of advice...

Ignore the advice...

And wonder why the advisers become annoyed...

 :cheers:
To be fair, a lot of people have been very helpful, as you can see above.  If I'm being honest with myself, I've probably ignored some good advice because I simply stopped going to the board after notifications because I just didn't want to deal with a vocal minority's negativity and silliness.
Title: Re: First Cabinet Build: I have no idea what I'm doing
Post by: obizues on September 17, 2018, 12:25:24 pm
With the cam lock being at the top and the examples I see either folding down on bartops or coming out (I think) on the big one, is that a concern? Obviously I already have hinges on my back panel.

Or does it really not matter that I have hinges on mine since a bar is going to block the door from opening regardless and the key should pull on a swing to the side as easy as a swing down?
Title: Re: First Cabinet Build: I have no idea what I'm doing
Post by: yotsuya on September 17, 2018, 12:31:19 pm
With the cam lock being at the top and the examples I see either folding down on bartops or coming out (I think) on the big one, is that a concern? Obviously I already have hinges on my back panel.

Or does it really not matter that I have hinges on mine since a bar is going to block the door from opening regardless and the key should pull on a swing to the side as easy as a swing down?

Yes. Stop overthinking it. It will work just fine. :cheers:
Title: Re: First Cabinet Build: I have no idea what I'm doing
Post by: Titchgamer on September 17, 2018, 01:05:57 pm
Not sure if I missed it but did you fix your electrical issue? If so what was it?
Title: Re: First Cabinet Build: I have no idea what I'm doing
Post by: obizues on September 17, 2018, 01:51:54 pm
Not sure if I missed it but did you fix your electrical issue? If so what was it?

I didn’t. I rewired everything and no dice. 

I’m going to try and use a new surge protector and see what happens.
Title: Re: First Cabinet Build: I have no idea what I'm doing
Post by: Titchgamer on September 17, 2018, 01:53:01 pm
Not sure if I missed it but did you fix your electrical issue? If so what was it?

I didn’t. I rewired everything and no dice. 

I’m going to try and use a new surge protector and see what happens.

Did you do the tests I suggested?
Title: Re: First Cabinet Build: I have no idea what I'm doing
Post by: jennifer on September 17, 2018, 01:58:17 pm
  Most everyone here strives to build the best machines on the planet and are quite passionate about it, But on a budget and cutting corners at the end of the day it is what it is and even a machine that may a little rough is still a jewel.  Your machine obizues Jennifer would consider a success mostly because you actually built it, not just talked about it but actually grabbed a saw and cut some wood, made a few mistakes and obviously learned a few things along the way weather slapped into you with sharp witted criticism, mined of U/tubes, or actually built by your grandfather.... I get the frustration however, it never ends one thing after another, things need to not only fit and work together but needs to look good too. It is hard... But when the smoke clears and the curtain comes down on this project Jenn would be of the opinion you should not only personally thank Saint and his Mods for even having the passion, foresight and all the hard work that went into building and maintaining the BYOAC for you.  For all the help and information you did get....But pass on what you did learn to the next guy building his first cabinet.
Title: Re: First Cabinet Build: I have no idea what I'm doing
Post by: javeryh on September 17, 2018, 02:38:41 pm
  Most everyone here strives to build the best machines on the planet and are quite passionate about it, But on a budget and cutting corners at the end of the day it is what it is and even a machine that may a little rough is still a jewel.  Your machine obizues Jennifer would consider a success mostly because you actually built it, not just talked about it but actually grabbed a saw and cut some wood, made a few mistakes and obviously learned a few things along the way weather slapped into you with sharp witted criticism, mined of U/tubes, or actually built by your grandfather.... I get the frustration however, it never ends one thing after another, things need to not only fit and work together but needs to look good too. It is hard... But when the smoke clears and the curtain comes down on this project Jenn would be of the opinion you should not only personally thank Saint and his Mods for even having the passion, foresight and all the hard work that went into building and maintaining the BYOAC for you.  For all the help and information you did get....But pass on what you did learn to the next guy building his first cabinet.

 :applaud:
Title: Re: First Cabinet Build: I have no idea what I'm doing
Post by: obizues on September 17, 2018, 02:59:13 pm
Did you do the tests I suggested?

Yes. Everything read on the MM as it should have. So it’s the power strip (or wires.)
Title: Re: First Cabinet Build: I have no idea what I'm doing
Post by: obizues on September 17, 2018, 03:02:39 pm
But when the smoke clears and the curtain comes down on this project Jenn would be of the opinion you should not only personally thank Saint and his Mods for even having the passion, foresight and all the hard work that went into building and maintaining the BYOAC for you.  For all the help and information you did get....But pass on what you did learn to the next guy building his first cabinet.
That’s fair. To be clear I’m not ripping on this community as a whole. That being said the community is also the sum of its parts for better or worse.
Title: Re: First Cabinet Build: I have no idea what I'm doing
Post by: Buick455 on September 17, 2018, 03:17:14 pm
Ask for advice...

Get plenty of advice...

Ignore the advice...

And wonder why the advisers become annoyed...

 :cheers:

That sums it up..

No offence Obiz, I don't want to sound like I am adding to the "hate" or makin you dislike this place, I learned by ---smurfing--- up a lot also. My wife likes to contact our clients and employees via txt and email and tell her "call them, with txt you sound like a ---smurfette---". I only say this bc without a voice things are sometimes misconstrued. 

And for a little gentle ribbing..
I'm still trying to get over your use of paint on what looks to be oak ply, that is a sin even if it is H-Depot lumber :lol If you were going to paint it you should have used that Sande ply crap they sell or MDF.

With the cam lock being at the top and the examples I see either folding down on bartops or coming out (I think) on the big one, is that a concern? Obviously I already have hinges on my back panel.

Or does it really not matter that I have hinges on mine since a bar is going to block the door from opening regardless and the key should pull on a swing to the side as easy as a swing down?

Remove the outhouse handle (fill screw holes and sand smooth) and install the Cam Lock (on the door) edge where you had the handle so it catches the back panel. See Pic
Title: Re: First Cabinet Build: I have no idea what I'm doing
Post by: rave0035 on September 17, 2018, 10:05:29 pm
Did you do the tests I suggested?

Yes. Everything read on the MM as it should have. So it’s the power strip (or wires.)
  Before you take everything apart, detail your test results here.  It's highly unlikely that you've got a defective power strip... there's a fault in the wiring and it's easier to diagnose an issue than to start again from scratch.  Then you'll really be frustrated!  (believe me - been there, done that)

Not to pile on but 120v is no joke - your final product shouldn't give you any opportunity to get shocked unless you're really trying... otherwise you've got some additional lead dress to do.

You'll get it!

Mike