Monitor for Idiots

[JudgeSmails]

I have an original Defender cabinet (that at some point was converted to Double Dragon).  I have been reading this forum for some time and I think I have a good idea how to get the PC and controls set up.  What I really need help on is the monitor.  I believe I need a 19” to fit the original footprint.  I am really interested in getting the easiest/most versatile solution available.  Ideally I would like to simply plug one into an existing VGA card on the PC I am going to use and be done with it.  Could someone suggest a simple solution?

Thanks!  I am really looking forward to getting this system up and running.

[Games001]

The route I have taken on all of my builds is the PC Monitor, be it CRT or LCD.  Sizes have varied but I like to use the 22" LCD on any cabs that I have in the 25" wide range.  Simple, easy to install, even easier to hook up to the PC.. mount, secure, plug n play.

[JudgeSmails]

Great idea.  I was hoping to find a cheaper option but that might be the best option.  I have an old 19' LCD but it looks small in the cabinet (maybe I just need to figure out a better way to center it).  I thought it would be easier to use an old cabinet but I am starting to think I might want to customize one from scratch. 

[SirPeale]

Why don't you use the original monitor?

[Games001]

If you do wish to use a CRT or LCD, the CRT choice can often be found on Craig's List or the like.  I just found a nice 21" CRT for $20.00 in my local area.

[cmoses]

The route I have taken on all of my builds is the PC Monitor, be it CRT or LCD.  Sizes have varied but I like to use the 22" LCD on any cabs that I have in the 25" wide range.  Simple, easy to install, even easier to hook up to the PC.. mount, secure, plug n play.

Are you reffering to to a widescreen 22" monitor or a 4:3 aspect 22" monitor? If 4:3, where are you getting them, seems to me 20" is the largest I ever see.

[Jack Burton]

The absolute simplest way is to go buy a PC monitor between 19-22", be it CRT or LCD and mount it on a shelf inside your cab.

I don't know if if Defenders have any kind of shelf built in, but even if they don't you can go down to Lowes and have them cut a sheet of plywood into a square shape that will fit your cab.  Have them also cut a 2x4 into lengths appropriate to screw into the inside of your cab for your shelf to set on.  After that you just set your monitor of choice on the shelf and you're set.

I reiterate, that is the EASIEST solution, but far from the most authentic or versatile.  the most versatile would be a pc monitor that can do low, medium, and high resolutions.  They are rare, but worth having a look around your local environment for.

Look here;

http://srtv.ca/Boxing_Day_Flyer.htm

somebody was just giving away a mitsubishi diamondscan 20m, which is a 19" PC monitor that can do many resolutions and can connect directly to your pc.  You should look for similar deals in your area.

[JudgeSmails]

Great advice.  I just checked out my local Craigslist and there are a ton of good options. 

Thanks!

[Ummon]

Or by trash cans and such. I found a good HP 19" the other day by the dumpster. A little dirty was all. Great picture.

[Jack Burton]

I can't resist posting this link again.

Look here:

http://cgi.ebay.com/Sony-PVM-20M2MDU-20-Color-Monitor-Trinitron_W0QQitemZ260338383506QQcmdZViewItemQQptZLH_DefaultDomain_0?
hash=item260338383506&_trksid=p3286.c0.m14&_trkparms=72%3A1234%7C66%
3A2%7C65%3A12%7C39%3A1%7C240%3A1318%7C301%3A1%7C293%3A1%7C294%3A50

That is an arcade monitor and tv rolled into one.  It's also extremely high quality, and it comes with a gurantee.  It is the easiest and most versatile solution for a 19" monitor for a MAME cab.  If I had the money right now I would snag it in a second.