Build Your Own Arcade Controls Forum

Main => Main Forum => Topic started by: frotter on August 08, 2011, 09:52:07 pm

Title: Control Panel and latches/magnets
Post by: frotter on August 08, 2011, 09:52:07 pm
Hi,

I am nearing the end of my first ever build of an arcade cabinet (cocktail) and am hoping someone might be able to help me with one last problem.

I have made my CP's on a hinge so that I can access the internals at anytime if I need to (you can see from the photo). I hadn't really given much thought to what method I will use to keep them closed while playing until now and it is starting to be a bit of an issue. I have thought of using a latch of some kind, but figuring where to place it is another problem. I also thought of using magnetic catches and placing them on the inside edges, but will the magnets have an effect on the workings of the CP?

(http://dl.dropbox.com/u/34333197/small_IMG_3378.jpg)
This is a picture of the cabinet with the CP's closed.

(http://dl.dropbox.com/u/34333197/small_IMG_3376.jpg)
This shows the Player 1 CP open (all control panels open the same).


 Has anyone got some good ideas on the best way to be able to keep it shut. I still want access to open them without having to undo screws, etc.

Thanks again for everyone's help.
Title: Re: Control Panel and latches/magnets
Post by: HanoiBoi on August 08, 2011, 10:50:01 pm
Besides magnets, you could consider velcro.  The hard interlocking 3M stuff that they use for EZ Pass and such.
Title: Re: Control Panel and latches/magnets
Post by: DashRendar on August 09, 2011, 09:51:43 am
Besides magnets, you could consider velcro.  The hard interlocking 3M stuff that they use for EZ Pass and such.

+1

This is what I used to anchor my CP in place.  Home Depot sells an industrial velcro which won't detach from the adhesive.  Super easy to put in there.
Title: Re: Control Panel and latches/magnets
Post by: RandyT on August 09, 2011, 11:53:42 am
I didn't see what type of monitor you plan to use.  If using a CRT, you will likely not want to use magnets.  They will screw up the screen if they are too close.  If using an LCD panel, magnets are fine.