Updating from DOS MAME

[gavin.prior]

Hi guys,
Hope everyone had a great Christmas and New Year!
I've had my cab running MS-DOS 7, DOS MAME and ArcadeOS since 2001 and have decided it's time to upgrade as I believe newer versions of MAME don't run in pure DOS mode anymore?
The main reason for sticking with DOS was there was originally a smallish HD installed (I used leftover parts when I originally built it) and I didn't really need Windows running in the background sucking up extra memory/CPU cycles(not to mention all the key combinations that would interrupt the game and drop me back in the GUI!)
My Current setup boots to the ArcadeOS selection screen within 10-15 seconds of switching the machine on, but I'm prepared to wait a little longer for boot time.

Any suggestions for OS/Frontend welcome.
Gav.

[Ummon]

Look through the threads, especially the 'favorite FE' one above. Plenty of info.

[web.geek]

You should also search for nLite and look to pare down the Windows install so it boots faster and uses less memory and hd space. You could also search instant sheller and see about replacing the explorer interface with a front end shell. I am working down this path now, and it's pretty straightforward, yet a little time consuming in the preparation.