The NEW Build Your Own Arcade Controls

Main => Project Announcements => Topic started by: Malenko on August 26, 2018, 04:23:36 pm

Title: Gingerballs 2.1 the rebuild starts
Post by: Malenko on August 26, 2018, 04:23:36 pm
Skip to the next page for 2.1 stuffs.

The other ball drops ;)

This is just a prototype of the upcoming kit from Haruman. I'm putting it together to see what needs tweaking.

Started by gluing the base together:
(http://forum.arcadecontrols.com/index.php?action=dlattach;topic=149895.0;attach=370184;image)

Put the head together too (and test fitted the Pin2DMD):
(http://forum.arcadecontrols.com/index.php?action=dlattach;topic=149895.0;attach=370182;image)

some base paint:
(http://forum.arcadecontrols.com/index.php?action=dlattach;topic=149895.0;attach=370202;image)
(http://forum.arcadecontrols.com/index.php?action=dlattach;topic=149895.0;attach=370186;image)

Mounted the head frame cross beam:
(http://forum.arcadecontrols.com/index.php?action=dlattach;topic=149895.0;attach=370204;image)

Some more paint, and test mounted the exhaust fan:
(http://forum.arcadecontrols.com/index.php?action=dlattach;topic=149895.0;attach=370188;image)

quick Carbon fiber wrap on the front (I'll trim it off the sides after I whip up some artsies)
(http://forum.arcadecontrols.com/index.php?action=dlattach;topic=149895.0;attach=370190;image)
(http://forum.arcadecontrols.com/index.php?action=dlattach;topic=149895.0;attach=370194;image)


Just trying to figure out the internal layout:
(http://forum.arcadecontrols.com/index.php?action=dlattach;topic=149895.0;attach=370196;image)
(http://forum.arcadecontrols.com/index.php?action=dlattach;topic=149895.0;attach=370198;image)


After I figure out where everything is going to go, I'll drill the holes for the power supply intake, speakers, etc
Title: Re: Gingerballs 2.0 Advanced Prototype
Post by: javeryh on August 26, 2018, 04:54:58 pm
Looks great so far.  Why is the back so tall?  I thought people used one monitor for the back and the DMD (top 1/2 for the back screen and bottom 1/2 for a fake DMD).  I haven't been following pin builds in a while though...
Title: Re: Gingerballs 2.0 Advanced Prototype
Post by: Laythe on August 26, 2018, 05:09:22 pm
Nice!

Given the kits are cut on a machine, would a couple tabs of finger joint for the 90 corners of the lower box be worth doing?
Title: Re: Gingerballs 2.0 Advanced Prototype
Post by: Malenko on August 26, 2018, 05:16:26 pm
Looks great so far.  Why is the back so tall?  I thought people used one monitor for the back and the DMD (top 1/2 for the back screen and bottom 1/2 for a fake DMD).  I haven't been following pin builds in a while though...
Modular kit, you can pick the head you want and the body you want (based on screen sizes). Ginger 1.0 had the DMD's played over top of the backglass image on the same screen.
This head is for a "real" DMD , it goes better with a bigger base. Ideally they'll be a third head with speakers too, but nothing is set in stone.
I didnt want to buy another monitor for a prototype build, so its got a tall DMD head :)

Nice!
Given the kits are cut on a machine, would a couple tabs of finger joint for the 90 corners of the lower box be worth doing?
That's a Haruman question. I'll let him answer.
Title: Re: Gingerballs 2.0 Advanced Prototype
Post by: Laythe on August 26, 2018, 05:43:20 pm
Sure - apologies, I don't mean to sound like I'm trying to tell Haruman how to do his job or anything.  I'm sure he will know the pros and cons.  I thought it might make assembly easier if they had a few tabs, and that the prototype phase might be the time to say so.  If it's already been considered and is hard to mass produce a consistent fit, I totally understand.

That's such a charming form factor.  Gingerballs was awesome, and I'm glad more people will have a chance to try something like it.
Title: Re: Gingerballs 2.0 Advanced Prototype
Post by: yotsuya on August 26, 2018, 05:58:00 pm
I would think the CNC couldn’t cut the finger joints square enough.
Title: Re: Gingerballs 2.0 Advanced Prototype
Post by: Ian on August 26, 2018, 08:39:07 pm
Watching this with much anticipation.
Title: Re: Gingerballs 2.0 Advanced Prototype
Post by: Mike A on August 26, 2018, 09:42:10 pm
I would think the CNC couldn’t cut the finger joints square enough.
If you can mount the board perpendicular to the x axis instead of flat on it you can cut proper finger joints. Most CNC machines don't allow for this because it cuts down on the total work area.
Title: Re: Gingerballs 2.0 Advanced Prototype
Post by: yotsuya on August 26, 2018, 10:07:52 pm
I would think the CNC couldn’t cut the finger joints square enough.
If you can mount the board perpendicular to the x axis instead of flat on it you can cut proper finger joints. Most CNC machines don't allow for this because it cuts down on the total work area.

Hmmm... that makes sense. You’d need a pretty long/deep Z axis though.
Title: Re: Gingerballs 2.0 Advanced Prototype
Post by: Laythe on August 26, 2018, 10:09:59 pm
I think that you can also do fingers if you're using a waterjet or laser.  (I didn't know if he was CNCing the kits that way, or on a mill / router.)
Title: Re: Gingerballs 2.0 Advanced Prototype
Post by: pbj on August 26, 2018, 10:15:59 pm
Hate it.

 
Title: Re: Gingerballs 2.0 Advanced Prototype
Post by: Malenko on August 26, 2018, 10:21:25 pm
Hate it.

I hate your face.   What do you hate about it?  The head height cant be shaved much and keep the DMD :(
Title: Re: Gingerballs 2.0 Advanced Prototype
Post by: jdbailey1206 on August 27, 2018, 07:46:48 am

(http://forum.arcadecontrols.com/index.php?action=dlattach;topic=149895.0;attach=370182;image)


I hate that you have your workstation organized and I don't.   ;D
Title: Re: Gingerballs 2.0 Advanced Prototype
Post by: Malenko on August 27, 2018, 08:44:47 am
its only organized because I had to get it that way to start building the bathroom in the background :p
Title: Re: Gingerballs 2.0 Advanced Prototype
Post by: pbj on August 27, 2018, 02:34:42 pm
I don't get the point of these virtual machines, and if you're going to build one, why would you bother with something that isn't full size or nearly so?

Are you planning on playing 'real' games or stuff specifically developed for the virtual pinball platform?  I've yet to play a video pinball that didn't bore me by the second ball besides Windows Space Cadet 3D Pinball.  Even those hybrid Multimorphic machines are complete garbage.



Title: Re: Gingerballs 2.0 Advanced Prototype
Post by: Malenko on August 27, 2018, 02:40:58 pm
I enjoy emulated pinball, I know its not the same but its still fun.  I play both "virtualized real games" and purpose built software games (Pinball FX)

I don't get the point of these virtual machines, and if you're going to build one, why would you bother with something that isn't full size or nearly so?
I can keep this upstairs in my office , if I want to play the real thing I'll go down to the basement and have at it.
Title: Re: Gingerballs 2.0 Advanced Prototype
Post by: Ond on August 27, 2018, 03:03:18 pm
That's what it gets down to doesn't it?  You either enjoy playing virtual pinball and pinball based software games OR YOU DON'T.  Trying to compare a real pinball machine with a Vpin is a bit pointless they’re obviously not the same experience.  I like real pinball but I also like pinball software games.  Every time I play my favourites on a PC I think how much more fun they'd be with better controls.  That's the point of these.

I was quite inspired by your first one of these Malenko - mini Vpins are good if you have less space for a full size table, real or virtual.
Title: Re: Gingerballs 2.0 Advanced Prototype
Post by: Mike A on August 27, 2018, 03:10:41 pm
I am not a fan of vpins myself. My dad loves playing pinball on his cell phone. One of these would be great for him. He would love it. He moved to Chicago with my mom and no money from North Dakota. He took a job driving a cab, and he worked at Chicago Coin for awhile.
Title: Re: Gingerballs 2.0 Advanced Prototype
Post by: Vigo on August 27, 2018, 06:23:30 pm
I played on the original Ginger balls. Besides the sharp edge that needed a fixin, it was probably one of my favorite vpin experiences. I personally don't ever want to next to a 50" monitor flopped horizontally in my living room. It is just too much screen to be huddled against. Gingerballs 1.0 was just easy to follow, had snappy controls and really captured all I wanted out of a fake pinball experience.
Title: Re: Gingerballs 2.0 Advanced Prototype
Post by: jdbailey1206 on August 28, 2018, 10:21:57 am
Two things have to be formulated from this discussion:
Title: Re: Gingerballs 2.0 Advanced Prototype
Post by: opt2not on August 28, 2018, 02:01:16 pm
Two things have to be formulated from this discussion:
  • PBJ needs to make a Virtual Windows Space Cadet Pin
  • "***Build what you dig, bro. Build what you dig.***"
  • Vigo enjoys playing with Ginger Balls

FTFY
Title: Re: Gingerballs 2.0 Advanced Prototype
Post by: Nephasth on August 28, 2018, 02:53:34 pm
I don't get the point of these virtual machines, and if you're going to build one, why would you bother with something that isn't full size or nearly so?

Price. For what a full size VP would cost, you could buy a few real pins. Virtual pinball blows overall, but a mini VP cab is the best way to play. I played a full size PBFX at Zapcon... ---fudgesicle--- being that close to a screen that big. VP is a novelty, just like MAME.
Title: Re: Gingerballs 2.0 Advanced Prototype
Post by: nexusmtz on August 29, 2018, 02:30:45 am
At that high price, you'd think that those PBFX machines would have had decent frame rates. At least when you build it yourself, full or mini, you have control over that.
Title: Re: Gingerballs 2.0 Advanced Prototype
Post by: keilmillerjr on August 29, 2018, 08:18:06 pm
Cool.
Title: Re: Gingerballs 2.0 Advanced Prototype
Post by: Malenko on September 09, 2018, 06:13:46 pm
Did some mathing and geometrifying  to figure out where the power supply inlet hole was going to go:
(http://forum.arcadecontrols.com/index.php?action=dlattach;topic=149895.0;attach=370853;image)

used a hole saw bit:
(http://forum.arcadecontrols.com/index.php?action=dlattach;topic=149895.0;attach=370855;image)

fits like a glove!
(http://forum.arcadecontrols.com/index.php?action=dlattach;topic=149895.0;attach=370857;image)

figured out where to put the bracing batons in:
(http://forum.arcadecontrols.com/index.php?action=dlattach;topic=149895.0;attach=370859;image)

then clamped them all down
(http://forum.arcadecontrols.com/index.php?action=dlattach;topic=149895.0;attach=370861;image)

To note, another set of larger batons go overtop, locking the PS in place and acting as a platform for the FFB solenoids.
This is  the rough footprint Im going to be using. I will be mounting the FFB control board and the IPAC and doing the wiring much better than GB 1.0
(http://forum.arcadecontrols.com/index.php?action=dlattach;topic=149895.0;attach=370863;image)


Pulled everything out and prepped for paint, getting the side super smooth
(http://forum.arcadecontrols.com/index.php?action=dlattach;topic=149895.0;attach=370865;image)


and the first of many many many coats is on:
(http://forum.arcadecontrols.com/index.php?action=dlattach;topic=149895.0;attach=370867;image)
Title: Re: Gingerballs 2.0 Advanced Prototype
Post by: Ond on September 09, 2018, 08:47:55 pm
Yay ! This is going to be my go to project when I build one of these.  Looking good so far. Subscribed.  :cheers:
Title: Re: Gingerballs 2.0 Advanced Prototype
Post by: Malenko on September 10, 2018, 08:37:56 pm
Now that the paint is dry, I decided to fancy pants it up a bit. Added underbody LEDs (white only, not RGB)

(http://forum.arcadecontrols.com/index.php?action=dlattach;topic=149895.0;attach=370955;image)
(http://forum.arcadecontrols.com/index.php?action=dlattach;topic=149895.0;attach=370957;image)
(http://forum.arcadecontrols.com/index.php?action=dlattach;topic=149895.0;attach=370953;image)

There will be legs on the bottom to elevate it a bit and let the light glow bright underneath. I had a TON of extra from real pin projects so it was a free upgrade :)

The prototype kit only has a slot for 1/4" thick wood for the bottom. While this maximizes inside space for guts it leaves nothing to screw into. Production kits will likely have 1/2" for the base, or 2 pieces of 1/4" , one for putting the kit together and an additional 1/4" piece to sit inside the bottom.

I just cut down 1/2" batons screwed the mobo into them, and then glues them down into place.
(http://forum.arcadecontrols.com/index.php?action=dlattach;topic=149895.0;attach=370951;image)
(http://forum.arcadecontrols.com/index.php?action=dlattach;topic=149895.0;attach=370959;image)

Next I'll be doing wire management and trying to keep everything tidy before I add the top level batons that the FFB solenoids will screw into. Current plan is to bottom mount the solenoids and have the PF monitor sit on top of it. We'll see how well it works in practice over just working in theory ;)
Title: Re: Gingerballs 2.0 Advanced Prototype
Post by: Ond on September 10, 2018, 10:40:11 pm
Sorry if I'm jumping ahead, but what monitor/tv brand/model should go in these? Vpin noob here. :-\
Title: Re: Gingerballs 2.0 Advanced Prototype
Post by: Malenko on September 10, 2018, 10:58:27 pm
Sorry if I'm jumping ahead, but what monitor/tv brand/model should go in these? Vpin noob here. :-\

the backglass doesn't matter that much, Im using an OLD Dell 4:3 LCD with bad viewing angles. for the playfield I have a 60Hz ASUS brand LCD with great response times. If you have the budget it only gets better with a 4K monitor. a 120 Hz or higher also helps.
Title: Re: Gingerballs 2.0 Advanced Prototype
Post by: Malenko on October 17, 2018, 06:42:18 pm
Shoved everything inside....
(http://forum.arcadecontrols.com/index.php?action=dlattach;topic=149895.0;attach=372074;image)
(http://forum.arcadecontrols.com/index.php?action=dlattach;topic=149895.0;attach=372076;image)
(http://forum.arcadecontrols.com/index.php?action=dlattach;topic=149895.0;attach=372078;image)

mobo lost settings, so back display is disabled in BIOS  -_-
(http://forum.arcadecontrols.com/index.php?action=dlattach;topic=149895.0;attach=372080;image)

Got that sorted:
(http://forum.arcadecontrols.com/index.php?action=dlattach;topic=149895.0;attach=372082;image)

underbody LED looks great:
(http://forum.arcadecontrols.com/index.php?action=dlattach;topic=149895.0;attach=372084;image)

I need to go through and change the backglasses to exclude the bezel and DMD, but the external DMD is rawkin
(http://forum.arcadecontrols.com/index.php?action=dlattach;topic=149895.0;attach=372086;image)

Wife tested and approved!
(http://forum.arcadecontrols.com/index.php?action=dlattach;topic=149895.0;attach=372088;image)
Title: Re: Gingerballs 2.0 Advanced Prototype
Post by: Malenko on October 20, 2018, 11:17:47 pm
I started dabbling in ginger's side art......

(http://forum.arcadecontrols.com/index.php?action=dlattach;topic=149895.0;attach=372185;image)
Title: Re: Gingerballs 2.0 Advanced Prototype
Post by: jmike on October 21, 2018, 08:42:57 am
 :applaud:
       Been watching this from the start. Looks great!
Loving those LEDs (might have to add those on mine)

 :cheers:
Title: Re: Gingerballs 2.0 Advanced Prototype
Post by: BadMouth on October 21, 2018, 09:08:45 am
What size screens would I need to have laying around to use this kit?
Title: Re: Gingerballs 2.0 Advanced Prototype
Post by: Malenko on October 21, 2018, 07:45:34 pm
What size screens would I need to have laying around to use this kit?

PF is 24" , Backglass is 19" 4:3
Pin2DMD in the DMD hole.
Title: Re: Gingerballs 2.0 Advanced Prototype
Post by: javeryh on October 23, 2018, 05:23:01 am
Wow this looks really great.  How hard is setting up the software?  I really wish I had room for a pin like this in my house...


Sent from my iPad using Tapatalk
Title: Re: Gingerballs 2.0 Advanced Prototype
Post by: Malenko on October 23, 2018, 10:11:12 am
Really the setup is easier than ever. A ton of tables now run on VPX , so you no longer have to keep 3 or 4 versions of VP9 including physmod5. VPX also unifies the tables so that there is no more "cabinet" version, desktop version, etc  I'll be making the change from PinballX over to PopUp for front ends.


I'm not trying to put words in Haruman's mouth but I believe the kit is still set to be modular.
So in theory there should be 1 or 2 bases to pick from (24" screen or smaller and 27" screen) , and at least 2 heads, maybe 4. Widescreen, Widescreen + DMD, 4:3, and 4:3+DMD.



I just need to set up a buncha tables, figure out the lockdown bar, and maybe build a stand with real pinball legs for it.
Title: Re: Gingerballs 2.0 Advanced Prototype
Post by: Malenko on October 23, 2018, 09:32:22 pm
Got the DMD colorizations working (most of the time)
(http://forum.arcadecontrols.com/index.php?action=dlattach;topic=149895.0;attach=372250;image)
(http://forum.arcadecontrols.com/index.php?action=dlattach;topic=149895.0;attach=372252;image)
(http://forum.arcadecontrols.com/index.php?action=dlattach;topic=149895.0;attach=372248;image)

WWF Royal Rumble colorization by CB3
Title: Re: Gingerballs 2.0 Advanced Prototype
Post by: javeryh on October 24, 2018, 09:57:37 am
Looks great!  Really like how this is coming together.
Title: Re: Gingerballs 2.0 Advanced Prototype
Post by: Malenko on November 12, 2018, 07:09:54 pm
art mock up, not worrying about borderlines and laser beams and ufos ;p

(http://forum.arcadecontrols.com/index.php?action=dlattach;topic=149895.0;attach=372825;image)
Title: Re: Gingerballs 2.0 Advanced Prototype
Post by: opt2not on November 13, 2018, 01:00:49 am
That is definitely not shoddy.  ;)
Title: Re: Gingerballs 2.0 Advanced Prototype
Post by: Laythe on November 17, 2018, 06:45:43 am
Good side art. 

I feel like the ball maybe wants some fake horizon chrome.  Kinda like:

(http://forum.arcadecontrols.com/index.php?action=dlattach;topic=149895.0;attach=372960;image)

Title: Re: Gingerballs 2.0 Advanced Prototype
Post by: Malenko on November 17, 2018, 10:23:30 am
I like that, but it's already at the printers.  I'll get 2 sets and use a sharpie? :p
Title: Re: Gingerballs 2.0 Advanced Prototype
Post by: Laythe on November 17, 2018, 02:41:13 pm
Oops.  Sorry to be That Guy. 

I like the art, either way!
Title: Re: Gingerballs 2.0 Advanced Prototype
Post by: Malenko on November 17, 2018, 08:06:27 pm
Haha no worries!

That's actually the pinball from some stern logo, I thought it was neat so I used it. I'm finally buttoning up this build but I'm still not 100% on how I'm going to do the lockdown bar area
Title: Re: Gingerballs 2.0 Advanced Prototype
Post by: Nephasth on November 18, 2018, 01:06:11 am
Eff Stern. Williams all day, nukka.
Title: Re: Gingerballs 2.0 Advanced Prototype
Post by: Malenko on November 18, 2018, 07:22:04 am
Eff Stern. Williams all day, nukka.

I stole their art work, what more do you want from me?
Title: Re: Gingerballs 2.0 Advanced Prototype
Post by: Ond on November 19, 2018, 02:02:15 pm
Nice juicy arwork! I'm glad you have pics of most of the internals.  I can follow most of what youve done.  Your graphics card looks like a Radeon 280?  Great work!
Title: Re: Gingerballs 2.0 Advanced Prototype
Post by: Malenko on November 22, 2018, 09:57:36 pm
Your graphics card looks like a Radeon 280?  Great work!
Its an ATI chipset  GIGABYTE R9-390 Windforce G1 Gaming (8GB)
Im an Nvidia guy through and through, but I got that card with part of another purchase and decided to put it to work.

Cut the side rails to length:
(http://forum.arcadecontrols.com/index.php?action=dlattach;topic=149895.0;attach=373126;image)

Cut 2 small pieces of the aluminum L channel and JB welded it to 2 pieces of 3D printed lockdown bar parts.
(http://forum.arcadecontrols.com/index.php?action=dlattach;topic=149895.0;attach=373130;image)
(http://forum.arcadecontrols.com/index.php?action=dlattach;topic=149895.0;attach=373132;image)

and made sure it fit perfectly:
(http://forum.arcadecontrols.com/index.php?action=dlattach;topic=149895.0;attach=373128;image)

I'll fill in the gap and smooth it all out with Bondo.
Title: Re: Gingerballs 2.0 Advanced Prototype, now with 100% more table!
Post by: Malenko on December 01, 2018, 12:44:24 pm
so its together, needs more finish work, like a nice bondo glaze and a ---steaming pile of meadow muffin--- ton of sanding and painting.
(http://forum.arcadecontrols.com/index.php?action=dlattach;topic=149895.0;attach=373252;image)

Im aware the gap between pieces is noticable, but this is just the foundation part of the "bar"
(http://forum.arcadecontrols.com/index.php?action=dlattach;topic=149895.0;attach=373254;image)

(http://forum.arcadecontrols.com/index.php?action=dlattach;topic=149895.0;attach=373254;image)



PRESENTING..... The Ginger Table!
I had a bunch of left over 2x4s from my ongoing bathroom build and a set of pinball legs, so I did this:
(http://forum.arcadecontrols.com/index.php?action=dlattach;topic=149895.0;attach=373239;image)

and added more boards to the top to be a table:
(http://forum.arcadecontrols.com/index.php?action=dlattach;topic=149895.0;attach=373241;image)

I basically cut some 2x4s to be slightly bigger than the base of Gingerballs. Added extra boards to the front and back so ginger could sit on top and I left it open on the bottom so the LED lighting on the bottom of ginger could shine through. I "counter sunk" the bolt holes in the inside with a spade bit.

I finally got all the stuff inside and wired as best I could without being sloppy, but there's only so much you can do.
(http://forum.arcadecontrols.com/index.php?action=dlattach;topic=149895.0;attach=373245;image)
PC
USB Hub
USB Wifi adapter (for my boy Rodney Black)
USB receiver for KB/Mouse
LED light strip with USB end
Motherboard
850W Power Supply
ATI video card
IPAC2
Pin2DMD
SainSmart USB Relay
7 Relays for "Force Feed Back"
17" 4:3 back glass monitor
22" Samsung PF monitor
Extra intake fan at mid body
120mm exhaust fan

Just barely enough room and still have pretty good airflow!

So put the displays back in:
(http://forum.arcadecontrols.com/index.php?action=dlattach;topic=149895.0;attach=373247;image)

And buttoned it all up.
(http://forum.arcadecontrols.com/index.php?action=dlattach;topic=149895.0;attach=373249;image)


Net step is making GingerTable® prettier. Probably just a semi gloss paint on the wood and call it a day. I used the same aluminum for the rails this time, but the edges are under the lockdown bar, so the corners arent bitey like on GB1.0.  For ginger itself, the only thing really left to do is add a ---steaming pile of meadow muffin--- ton more tables.
Title: Re: Gingerballs 2.0 Advanced Prototype, now with 100% more table!
Post by: Malenko on December 04, 2018, 08:17:12 pm
pulled the legs, hit it with 2 coats of gloss black. I wanted to use semi gloss but didnt have any on the shelf.

(http://forum.arcadecontrols.com/index.php?action=dlattach;topic=149895.0;attach=373339;image)

2 days to cure and the legs back on. Now to square away software
Title: Re: Gingerballs 2.0 Advanced Prototype, now with 100% more table!
Post by: Laythe on December 04, 2018, 11:47:50 pm
I like your tabletable! 

Title: Re: Gingerballs 2.0 Advanced Prototype, now with 100% more table!
Post by: Slippyblade on December 14, 2018, 03:16:34 pm
Gah - a 3D printed lock down bar!  That's a wonderful idea!  Those front corners were literally the only parts I didn't like about Gingerballs v1, this is a wonderful development.
Title: Re: Gingerballs 2.0 Advanced Prototype, now with 100% more table!
Post by: HaRuMaN on December 14, 2018, 06:16:41 pm
Gah - a 3D printed lock down bar!  That's a wonderful idea!  Those front corners were literally the only parts I didn't like about Gingerballs v1, this is a wonderful development.

You and your sensitive LARPing hands...   :lol
Title: Re: Gingerballs 2.0 Advanced Prototype, now with 100% more table!
Post by: smass on December 14, 2018, 09:35:55 pm
I actually really like the idea of using a 24" monitor for the playfield.  What size will the smaller head units work with?  17" 4:3?
Title: Re: Gingerballs 2.0 Advanced Prototype, now with 100% more table!
Post by: ark_ader on December 15, 2018, 08:08:05 pm
Wow! Just wow.  Some really good work there.  :applaud:

Questions:

Monitors sitting flat like that, any issues?
Heat - with all that PC gear under the monitor - fire issue?  I know there is a fan, but is that for incoming air?
Where did you the LED matrix?  That looks the business.

I bet Adams Family and Funhouse will be fun to play on that coffin.

I want one!  ;D

 
Title: Re: Gingerballs 2.0 Advanced Prototype, now with 100% more table!
Post by: Nephasth on December 15, 2018, 08:49:33 pm
Heat - with all that PC gear under the monitor - fire issue?  I know there is a fan, but is that for incoming air?

It's only caught fire 3 times. And each time the inferno has been successively smaller. It's basically under control at this point.
Title: Re: Gingerballs 2.0 Advanced Prototype, now with 100% more table!
Post by: Malenko on December 15, 2018, 10:18:32 pm
I actually really like the idea of using a 24" monitor for the playfield.  What size will the smaller head units work with?  17" 4:3?

I am using a 17" 4:3 , whatever the retail kits ship with is up to Lee.

Monitors sitting flat like that, any issues?
Heat - with all that PC gear under the monitor - fire issue?  I know there is a fan, but is that for incoming air?
Where did you the LED matrix?  That looks the business.
So the backglass monitor has peg board behind it and even after being on for hours the head isnt hot at all.
The PF monitor isnt flat, the back of the monitor is slightly elevated. Air comes in through the power supply and the bottom fan, air is exhausted out the giant fan in the back. Air can also escape via the hole to the head and vent out the back of that as well.
The bottom doesnt have an LED matrix, its just an always on powered by USB strip.

The biggest change Ive made is that the backglass is no longer rendered by the onboard card.  Having the discreet card running both the backglass and play field has improved frame rates and oddly enough, runs cooler.
I have my game list pretty much done and all the issues sorted, I just need to set up the front end (looking to move from PinballX to PinUpPopper) I'll take more pix and some vids after the side art arrives.

If anyone else DOES make one of these, I'd love to see it.
Title: Re: Gingerballs 2.0 Advanced Prototype, now with 100% more table!
Post by: Malenko on January 05, 2019, 10:09:18 pm
Decided to do 1 last re-wire. The air flow could be better in the body, so I decided to get everything as clean as I could.
(http://forum.arcadecontrols.com/index.php?action=dlattach;topic=149895.0;attach=374160;image)

Replaced the thermaltake intake fan with a ThermalTake RIING fan, so you could say I like it cause i put a riing on it.
(http://forum.arcadecontrols.com/index.php?action=dlattach;topic=149895.0;attach=374162;image)

Wired in the power switch/pass through.
(http://forum.arcadecontrols.com/index.php?action=dlattach;topic=149895.0;attach=374164;image)
Its wired into a 3 port power cord that also has 3 USB ports. The undercab LED lighting is plugged into the USB port, that was the lighting down there tells you when the power is switched to the on position. The PC is hard wired to the passthrough and has power even when the cab is off. This prevents the CMOS battery from draining and also allows me to pick shut down, and kill the monitors and speaker without waiting.

(http://forum.arcadecontrols.com/index.php?action=dlattach;topic=149895.0;attach=374166;image)
I also added a Dell Soundbar to the top of the head, that is plugged into the aforementioned mini power strip. This allows better direct sound and a much easier way to control volume as the sound bar has a volume control on the side. While the Dell soundbar isnt exactly audiophile gear, it sounds much better than the tiny build in laptop speakers.

I also finally got around to adding a lit up plunger button, and gold leaf buttons for the flippers (Thanks JDBailey1206!)
(http://forum.arcadecontrols.com/index.php?action=dlattach;topic=149895.0;attach=374168;image)
Now I need to wire up the LED for the coin button too
Title: Re: Gingerballs 2.0 Advanced Prototype, now with 100% more table!
Post by: Malenko on January 07, 2019, 05:44:38 pm
art mock up, not worrying about borderlines and laser beams and ufos ;p

(http://forum.arcadecontrols.com/index.php?action=dlattach;topic=149895.0;attach=372825;image)
sooooooooon........
(http://forum.arcadecontrols.com/index.php?action=dlattach;topic=149895.0;attach=374247;image)
Title: Re: Gingerballs 2.0 Advanced Prototype, now with 100% more table!
Post by: opt2not on January 07, 2019, 06:22:24 pm
This is going to be purdy...  I was also thinking it *could* use some side art on the top LCD box.  Along the thin sides of the box.  Nothing crazy, just a simplified continuation of the background in the main side-art.   
Title: Re: Gingerballs 2.0 Advanced Prototype, now with 100% more table!
Post by: Malenko on January 07, 2019, 06:47:25 pm
its a ball hair over 2 inches wide so I gave up on it and did the DMD surround instead.
Title: Re: Gingerballs 2.0 Advanced Prototype, now with 100% more table!
Post by: opt2not on January 07, 2019, 07:04:12 pm
its a ball hair over 2 inches wide so I gave up on it and did the DMD surround instead.

Still worth it IMO :D
Title: Re: Gingerballs 2.0 Advanced Prototype, now with 100% more table!
Post by: Mike A on January 07, 2019, 08:23:13 pm
Is that a metric ball hair or SAE?
Title: Re: Gingerballs 2.0 Advanced Prototype, now with 100% more table!
Post by: Malenko on January 08, 2019, 11:03:13 am
A ginger ball hair obviously.

Gonna hafta sell Ginger2.0 to pay for Ginger 3.0
Title: Re: Gingerballs 2.0 Advanced Prototype, now with 200% more art!
Post by: Malenko on January 15, 2019, 09:44:52 pm
Big thanks to Ken for the print jerb. Everything is amazing as always.

Started with the front. Had to move around the buttons cause I forgot I color coded the art to what was already installed.  I also need a replacement bulb for my GGG coin button thingie.
(http://forum.arcadecontrols.com/index.php?action=dlattach;topic=149895.0;attach=374564;image)

Changed the side buttons to both be white:
(http://forum.arcadecontrols.com/index.php?action=dlattach;topic=149895.0;attach=374566;image)

Before cutting out the holes (used a light behind the holes to line up the art)
(http://forum.arcadecontrols.com/index.php?action=dlattach;topic=149895.0;attach=374568;image)

Buttons installed:
(http://forum.arcadecontrols.com/index.php?action=dlattach;topic=149895.0;attach=374570;image)

Everything back in place:
(http://forum.arcadecontrols.com/index.php?action=dlattach;topic=149895.0;attach=374572;image)
(http://forum.arcadecontrols.com/index.php?action=dlattach;topic=149895.0;attach=374574;image)
(http://forum.arcadecontrols.com/index.php?action=dlattach;topic=149895.0;attach=374576;image)

I'm also not so secretly coloring Terminator 3
(http://forum.arcadecontrols.com/index.php?action=dlattach;topic=149895.0;attach=374578;image)

I still need to install the DMD surround art but that involves removing the DMD and cutting the hole out.
I also need to finish the lock down bar.
Title: Re: Gingerballs 2.0 Advanced Prototype, art is now installed.
Post by: Arroyo on January 15, 2019, 11:44:47 pm
Been following this thread since the beginning but don’t think I’ve commented before.  Just wanted to say that this is crazy good work packing all that in.  Seems like the best designs make it look like it would be easy but when you pop the hood are blown away by the complexity.  Nice work.
Title: Re: Gingerballs 2.0 Advanced Prototype, art is now installed.
Post by: opt2not on January 16, 2019, 10:20:43 am
It turned out really great!  :cheers:
Title: Re: Gingerballs 2.0 Advanced Prototype, art is now installed.
Post by: Rockstead on January 16, 2019, 02:16:31 pm
Malenko,

Are you considering one of those soft/hard nudge boards in your next iteration?

I would love to eventually have a full size vpin but was hoping the nudge would be as true to life as possible, any technical limitations that prevented you from using it in 2.0?

Title: Re: Gingerballs 2.0 Advanced Prototype, art is now installed.
Post by: Ond on January 16, 2019, 03:41:07 pm
Very nice result,  I want one!   :cheers:
Title: Re: Gingerballs 2.0 Advanced Prototype, art is now installed.
Post by: Malenko on January 28, 2019, 10:38:14 am
Malenko,

Are you considering one of those soft/hard nudge boards in your next iteration?
I would love to eventually have a full size vpin but was hoping the nudge would be as true to life as possible, any technical limitations that prevented you from using it in 2.0?

I'm considering a pinscape for 3.0 , which will be a hand cut closer to a full sized cab based on a WPC machine. There was no technical limitation preventing me from using one in Ginger 2.0 , but 2.0 wasn't a fresh start just mostly a hardware migration and adding in a pin2DMD.  Honestly the only thing I couldn't shove in there would be a shaker and/or a subwoofer.

Very nice result,  I want one!   :cheers:
Lee will allegedly have one made for Zapcon. If I go to Zapcon, Im not sure how I could get Ginger 2.0 there with me.
Title: Re: Gingerballs 2.0 Advanced Prototype, art is now installed.
Post by: javeryh on January 28, 2019, 12:11:16 pm
Malenko - this thing is really great.  Any chance we could see a vid of it in action?
Title: Re: Gingerballs 2.0 Advanced Prototype, art is now installed.
Post by: Malenko on January 28, 2019, 01:39:05 pm
shur, any particular tables you want to see?

Front end isnt set up, so I have to launch everything manually.
Title: Re: Gingerballs 2.0 Advanced Prototype, art is now installed.
Post by: Malenko on January 28, 2019, 08:35:29 pm
Terminator 3: https://youtu.be/Wj7GzOkUkWM

ACDC Luci: https://youtu.be/or6BgwaRxAI

Lethal Weapon 3: https://youtu.be/aeqR5yuDRCI

TMNT: https://youtu.be/DVc6WryvECY
Title: Re: Gingerballs 2.0 Advanced Prototype, art is now installed.
Post by: rablack97 on January 29, 2019, 09:10:11 am
why is your front end not set up?
Title: Re: Gingerballs 2.0 Advanced Prototype, art is now installed.
Post by: Malenko on January 29, 2019, 09:42:43 am
why is your front end not set up?

Cant decide if I want to make the leap to pinup. Also, making games colored (not racist!): http://vpuniverse.com/forums/topic/3616-tmnt/ (http://vpuniverse.com/forums/topic/3616-tmnt/)
Title: Re: Gingerballs 2.0 Advanced Prototype, art is now installed.
Post by: Gilrock on January 29, 2019, 10:24:00 am
I really like the PinUp system.  When you navigate through the tables it just feels snappier than anything else I've used.  I'm only up to date with what was available back in July.  And using the PupPack content from Mr. Pinkadia is pretty awesome.
Title: Re: Gingerballs 2.0 Advanced Prototype, art is now installed.
Post by: javeryh on January 29, 2019, 02:08:26 pm
Terminator 3: https://youtu.be/Wj7GzOkUkWM

ACDC Luci: https://youtu.be/or6BgwaRxAI

Lethal Weapon 3: https://youtu.be/aeqR5yuDRCI

TMNT: https://youtu.be/DVc6WryvECY

It's so freaking cool.  I'd love to try building one but I don't have anywhere to put it.
Title: Re: Gingerballs 2.0 Advanced Prototype, art is now installed.
Post by: thomas_surles on April 15, 2019, 10:53:41 pm
How the hell did I miss the revenge of gingerballs? Very nice. Lockdown bar was unique. And the table lol I loved it.
Title: Re: Gingerballs 2.0 Advanced Prototype, art is now installed.
Post by: Malenko on August 16, 2021, 07:16:55 pm
Here is ginger as we last saw him:
(http://forum.arcadecontrols.com/index.php?action=dlattach;topic=164992.0;attach=388714;image)

Some goodies in the mail for ginger 2.1
(http://forum.arcadecontrols.com/index.php?action=dlattach;topic=164992.0;attach=388720;image)

Past Malenko did not give a ---fudgesicle--- about future Malenko.  Current Malenko will try to make things better for the next future Malenko:
(http://forum.arcadecontrols.com/index.php?action=dlattach;topic=164992.0;attach=388716;image)
(Past Malenko also loved electrical and duct tape)

Hey Got the back off without breaking anything!
(http://forum.arcadecontrols.com/index.php?action=dlattach;topic=164992.0;attach=388717;image)

Well crap.
(http://forum.arcadecontrols.com/index.php?action=dlattach;topic=164992.0;attach=388718;image)
Jinxed myself.


Work on hold while I fix this crap.
(http://forum.arcadecontrols.com/index.php?action=dlattach;topic=164992.0;attach=388719;image)
Title: Re: Gingerballs 2.0 Advanced Prototype, art is now installed.
Post by: Mike A on August 17, 2021, 01:11:10 pm
Ouch. Been there.
Title: Re: Gingerballs 2.1 the rebuild starts
Post by: thomas_surles on August 18, 2021, 09:13:21 pm
Ouch. That sucks. Good luck with the repairs
Title: Re: Gingerballs 2.1 the rebuild starts
Post by: Malenko on August 29, 2021, 08:40:22 am
So I cleaned up the all the corners and cut a new base. Painted the inside primer white, but left the fan hole piece original black, its an accent wall!
(http://forum.arcadecontrols.com/index.php?action=dlattach;topic=164992.0;attach=388789;image)

Then I moved stuff around loose forever till finally settling on this footprint. Its not quite what I wanted but its the best I could do without having to cut new front, back, and bottom pieces.
Yes, I installed motherboard standoffs.
(http://forum.arcadecontrols.com/index.php?action=dlattach;topic=164992.0;attach=388792;image)

(http://forum.arcadecontrols.com/index.php?action=dlattach;topic=164992.0;attach=388791;image)

I did clone the SATA SSD over to an M.2 SSD so that there are fewer power and data cables. Next step is to route all the power supply cables along the sides, determine if I want to put an intake fan in and if so where. After all that is done, I'll have to mount the "force feedback" solenoids , driver board, etc  Last step will be mounting the last piece of wood to the base that the backbox sits on then figuring out all that cabling. I'm still not sure if I should keep the Dell soundbar or put speakers in the cab body.

(http://forum.arcadecontrols.com/index.php?action=dlattach;topic=164992.0;attach=388790;image)
That GTX1080 GPU isnt staying, the previous GTX 1660Ti goes back in. Its a great card that keeps temps low but can still run VPX like a champ.

As for the hardware upgrade:
Old:   i5-3570K 16GB DDR3 256GB SATA SSD
New: i5-8500   24GB DDR4 256GB M.2 SSD

I will likely put another M.2 in this just to be sure I have plenty of room for expansion. I don't see me adding MAME style controls to the lock-down bar like some people do, but I may add a button in the middle if I get enough tables that need it. You may notice I pulled the IPAC2, I replaced it with a zero delay as the IPAC2 is kind of wasted on this build. Another change is that I wont be running power to the start or coin buttons; I prefer to have as little wiring as possible now. I will also be powering the Pin2DMD with a USB cable (plugged into the power strip not the PC) instead of a molex connector for the sake of wiring as well.
Will also probably get a beefier aftermarket CPU air cooler to exhaust air to the back of the cab.
Title: Re: Gingerballs 2.1 the rebuild starts
Post by: Malenko on September 05, 2021, 10:59:57 am
So when trying to sort the wiring, the layout I chose just wont work. So I pulled it all out, filled in the hole and moved stuff to here:
(http://forum.arcadecontrols.com/index.php?action=dlattach;topic=164992.0;attach=388870;image)
Slapped a 2nd M.2 SSD in there so I have almost 1TB of storage. Plopped in the 1660Ti video card and mounted all the force feed solenoids.... they really make the wiring look like a mess.
I decided to just keep the existing wiring because Im just not up for running all new neater cables; out of sight out of mind?  Either way this is still a step up from before.

(http://forum.arcadecontrols.com/index.php?action=dlattach;topic=164992.0;attach=388871;image)

Only big changes are:
Mounted PSU vertically
Had to add a thunderbolt USB hub because I needed 5 ports and only had 4.
Pin2DMD will get powered over USB, fed from the USB on the outlet, not the PC, instead of tapping the molex connector.


Things still left to do:
install an intake fan or two (might have one blow up vertically, and then stand one up to blow air towards the GPU/PSU)
fabricate and install air flow guides (specifically directing intake to GPU/PS and directing PSU exhaust to big fan in the back)
update the software that's been stale for almost 2 years
play some virtual pinball!
Title: Re: Gingerballs 2.1 the rebuild starts
Post by: thomas_surles on September 05, 2021, 12:15:15 pm
Love that this is happening.  Ball buster was out of commission for almost 2 years when the power supply died. Ended up using that as an opportunity to upgrade the pc inside. And since the old pc had an old hard drive, I had to start from scratch on software which is way more annoying than a mame machine. I'm back to 4 playable tables at the moment.
Looking great. Glad you got it repaired.
Title: Re: Gingerballs 2.1 the rebuild starts
Post by: Malenko on September 05, 2021, 05:25:01 pm
Love that this is happening.  Ball buster was out of commission for almost 2 years when the power supply died......

Well my buddy built a new PC and couldn't get a GPU anywhere, so I pulled the GPU from ginger for him to use. Fast forward 18 months, and I got a 3060ti for my PC, so he gets my 1080 and I get my 1660Ti back.
The PC inside ginger, while better than the ---steaming pile of meadow muffin--- they put in most commercial VPINs, was still a little dated for my tastes. I dont see me replacing this 8th gen i5 for a loooooooong time.

I did get the intake blowhole done, just going to angle it a little bit and tape off the bottom. If temps become a problem, I'll get an aftermarket CPU cooler.
(http://forum.arcadecontrols.com/index.php?action=dlattach;topic=164992.0;attach=388873;image)

I also had to flip the "sling shot" solenoids over to make clearance for the monitor.  Ginger 3.0 is still in the planning stages, but I'm kind of looking forward to a full sized VPIN. Already have the 4K TV and the analog plunger kit thingie.

I will probably clean the wiring up a bit more, and Im going to order shorter power and video cables for the playfield monitor.

EDIT: For those wondering, here are the benchmark scores
https://www.userbenchmark.com/UserRun/46033418

no overclocking, no ram timing adjustments, bone stock. In a really  long time I'll throw a 9th gen K series processor in here but its not likely :)
Title: Re: Gingerballs 2.1 the rebuild starts
Post by: Ond on September 05, 2021, 10:26:54 pm
I'm still a fan of this build.  Nice to see you working at something arcade related again.  :cheers:
Title: Re: Gingerballs 2.1 the rebuild starts
Post by: Malenko on September 09, 2021, 05:19:18 pm
I'm still a fan of this build.  Nice to see you working at something arcade related again.  :cheers:

Im actually working on 2 other things right now, but this is my focus. I'll take pics and post threads for the other things when I get back to them.

I ended up plopping my other 1080 (SC) in:
(http://forum.arcadecontrols.com/index.php?action=dlattach;topic=164992.0;attach=388919;image)

and it clocks pretty great, but I think it might run too hot.
https://www.userbenchmark.com/UserRun/46127837
Title: Re: Gingerballs 2.1 the rebuild starts
Post by: Billy_Goatfeet on January 17, 2022, 11:49:58 pm


  Hey Malenko, this VP looks great!  How do you like the Pin2DMD?  I just picked one up for my Williams Wide Body VP.   


- Steve