Light Gun Setup Suggestions

[Goatz18]

I have my PC set up to a CRT TV via S-Video and I run Mame v1.29 if that matters. I am also looking to get two guns going.

I did search the site and found several suggestions; GunCon 2, Act Labs, etc. I also found that a lot of people just can't get light guns to work well for their cabs. Before I make any decisions, I would appreciate any wisdom on the topic. Thanks.

[swamprat96]

Can of worms!

There are problems with all- some worse than others. Your setup could work well with guncon2 guns as you are using a TV- but you really should have video out on the tv to feed the guns. Also they may have trouble with dark areas in games. I did try and setup guncon2 guns but I just couldnt get them to track very well. However look at chrisnacks posts and he has them working.

I used topgun2 in the end. Yes I have to stand back about 80-90cm from the screen minimum but they work- accurate and reliable. Room needs to be darker. However not the sturdiest build but they do work on any screen.

Act Labs are hit and miss from my experience. The most expensive solution here and from what I've heard not that accurate on all games. IMHO too expensive to take the risk. I've used them and the build not much better than topguns. But you can stand closer.

If the new sonic guns ever happen they would be my choice. Fit any screen and a peferct solution unaffected by light

[Goatz18]

Okay, wow. I have finished the whole software side, Mame and an FE and what roms I want, now I actually have to build the thing. I figured the joysticks and buttons might take a while to layout and construct a control panel and that I might as well just get some light guns so I could at least enjoy some sweet Zombie Raid, Area 51, Jurassic Park action while building the rest. I didn't think even the guns were this difficult.

There should be a sticky of peoples light gun setups and experiences. Perhaps someone should start a Foundation For the Betterment of PC Arcade Guns (FFBPCAG) that would endlessly research a solution to all of this.

[doctorhifi]

I've been using the Act Labs guns and they work just fine for me.  Using CRT with s-video so my setup is similar to yours. 
Area 51 was my main reason for getting guns in the first place and they work great for that game and many others. 
I agree that if you are looking for light guns that work perfectly and with ease for every game you won't find them.
I found enough games work with the Act Labs to keep me satisified.
I was totally green when I got the guns but was able to work my way through set up and would say if you can build a cab and set up mame you can figure out how to config the guns.

Agree that a sticky with light gun setup experience would be great.