Build Your Own Arcade Controls Forum
Main => Main Forum => Topic started by: harri on October 11, 2025, 05:23:47 am
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I'm building a modular arcade cabinet, https://forum.arcadecontrols.com/index.php/topic,167561.0.html
The four player module is in two pieces for easier moving and storing. Because of that I thought that I can't use Ipac4 but have to put separate controllers on both sides. Now I realized that if I put quick connector to wires that go from side to side I can use Ipac4 so now I'm pondering what connector to use for the 20+ wires, two joysticks and 14 buttons. Simplest way is to use female and male DB25 connectors but I'm not keen on idea of soldering 40+ wires to small connectors so I'm asking if someone has a good alternative?
Easiest would probably be a fully connected DB25 cable that I just cut in half but I think that the wires in those cables are too thin for abiko connectors I use in button switches.
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I have the pins and crimper on hand from 3D printing hobby, but my preference would be Molex Microfit.
Real Molex ones can be expensive, but knock offs are available cheap.
If you'd rather splice wires than crimp you could get a 24 pin ATX power supply extension cable and cut it in the middle, leaving you with a male and female connector with wires coming off of them.
Probably the cheaper route if you don't already have the proper crimper.
Edit: I will add that the big downside to the micro-fit is that the pins are almost impossible to remove without special tools so if you need to redo one pin it is a PITA.
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If you'd rather splice wires than crimp you could get a 24 pin ATX power supply extension cable and cut it in the middle, leaving you with a male and female connector with wires coming off of them.
Interesting idea, on plus side that's a solid and compact connection that won't get loose during use, on downside those connectors may be unwilling to detach when it's time to separate the pieces. It costs next to nothing to test so I probably go with this if someone doesn't throw better connector in play.