DrDevo's Bartop -- Planning Stages

[DrDevo]

So!  I've been pondering building a Mame cabinet for sometime.  I used to play Mame back when it was around version .58 or so.  I've been slowly ordering parts, and tools to build a bartop.  The time is nearly here for a project announcement, but I had a few questions first.

The comp that I have laying around as an extra is an old dell, P4 with 512 megs of ram.  I want to play the old school classics, Pacman, galaga, etc, and some of the early fighters, Streetfighter2, Mortal Kombat, and maybe some virtua fighter.  Is there enough horsepower in to play these games or should I set to work on re-purposing a more modern computer?  I've got a core2 duo that doesn't do all that much.

There's a great deal on a Canadian Tire (for those Canucks on here) on a router. http://www.canadiantire.ca/AST/browse/6/Tools/2/CordedPowerTools/Routers/PRD~0546810P/Mastercraft%252BMaximum%252BFixed%25252BPlunge%252BRouter.jsp?locale=en]
 [url]http://www.canadiantire.ca/AST/browse/6/Tools/2/CordedPowerTools/Routers/PRD~0546810P/Mastercraft%252BMaximum%252BFixed%25252BPlunge%252BRouter.jsp?locale=en[/url]  It's either that or borrow a friends, but I do love buying tools...

With that being the only essential tool that I'm missing... it's nearly time to start work. 

A massive thanks already to the folks at the Playdium Store.  Awesome parts, amazing shipping in Canada (parts arrived the next day!) and great customer service.
https://www.theplaydiumstore.com/c-2-parts.aspx?id=3

Random Question time:
How much of a hassle is it to trim (with a chisel or the like) 3/4 t-molding down to 5/8s?

Regarding the Ipac2, does the player2 side of the board need a separate ps2/usb cable or is it all driven off of one connection?

Hole drilling: Use the Router or drill press?  I don't have a large selection of router bits, nor any Forstner bits, just spades, so I'd need to invest either way.

I'm using 5/8s MDF for the cab, and I've cut all straight pieces, just need to do the sides.  Should I use a Jigsaw for the corners or try my hand at the router.

I've also never really worked with MDF.  Is Glue enough to make it secure, or should I use screws as well?  (if yes to the screws what type of screw to not ruin the MDF)

[Donkbaca]

How much of a hassle is it to trim (with a chisel or the like) 3/4 t-molding down to 5/8s?

Not much, by why not just get 5/8ths?

Hole drilling: Use the Router or drill press?  I don't have a large selection of router bits, nor any Forstner bits, just spades, so I'd need to invest either way

Best way, in my opinion is a forstner  bit with a drill press.

I'm using 5/8s MDF for the cab, and I've cut all straight pieces, just need to do the sides.  Should I use a Jigsaw for the corners or try my hand at the router.

Depends on what you want the corners to look like.  You can't really get sharp corners with a router, they will be rounded.  Probably better to use a jigsaw.

I've also never really worked with MDF.  Is Glue enough to make it secure, or should I use screws as well?  (if yes to the screws what type of screw to not ruin the MDF)

Use wood screws and pre-drill the holes.  You can use glue as well, if you want, but I wouldn't trust glue on its own.  Make sure to countersink the screw heads.

Good luck!

[Woodshop Flunky]

I've also never really worked with MDF.  Is Glue enough to make it secure, or should I use screws as well?  (if yes to the screws what type of screw to not ruin the MDF)

Don't use tapered wood screws on MDF.

This kit may seem a little pricey, but it will make your life easier, and your MDF construction MUCH stronger. http://www.mcfeelys.com/product/5040-CSP-A/5-x-40mm-Connecting-Screw-Starter-Kit

[geomartin]

I bought an edge trimmer years ago from a wood working store that worked great on T-Molding.  It was a plastic L shaped fitting that held a standard flat razor on one side.  I can't remember what the tools name was though.

[DrDevo]

I know I love when there are pictures are included... so here's one of all the pieces.  Sides are now cut.  My oh my, I'm not sure how I lived with out a router.  Flush trim bits are my new favorite thing.   

Now it's a little like a 3d puzzle to get everything to fit right.  Unfortunately "life" may make me wait for a day or two before continuing. Need to cut the monitor bezel and the control panel holes.

Already thanks for the replies.  This site is simply amazing.  Love the help... I'm sure I'll need it. 

Any advice on the computer is the p4 with 512 megs of ram enough?

Thanks again

[Donkbaca]

Should be enough for classics, won't be enough for 3D games

[BobA]

Regarding the ipac2 it only requires one connection of your choice.  USB or PS/2