The NEW Build Your Own Arcade Controls
Main => Project Announcements => Topic started by: kb84 on January 14, 2012, 06:12:09 pm
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After completing my first project (Bartop Donkey Kong (http://"http://forum.arcadecontrols.com/index.php?topic=116998.0"))- I already have the itch to do another one dedicated to all of the horizontal arcade games I grew up with/love. I have posted in the woodworking forums in regards to 2 player bartop control panel size and after everything I have gathered I am basically stuck with either a scrunched panel (uncomfortable) or a huge bartop...which mine as well be a full upright at that case.
So after mulling it over and figuring that a full upright isn't in the cards for me space wise at the moment- I am going to build 2 bartops (head to head) style that will allow for multilayer games on 2 different machines. The idea will be that both bartops will be 2 complete stand alone units for 1 player games on each- but they will also be able to connect to each other for multilayer games (fighters/etc).
The build will be something like this.
(http://i37.photobucket.com/albums/e74/xao1/dualcabs.jpg)
Lines are 100 percent correct in this image- but provides the idea.
I need to sketch up the plans which I am working on tonight- but anyone have any ideas for a name/theme? I want to try and do something original for these this time around.
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How about a Hero vs Villain theme with all your favorite good guys on one bartop (Mario, Mega Man, Ryu, Batman, etc.) and all your favorite bad guys on the other (Joker, Bowser, Kefka, Darth Vader, etc.)? Adding to that, you could use lighter colors with the hero bartop and darker with the villain.
Good luck with the project!
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I don't see the KB port on the KVM switch being used. The KVM switches that kb port to either KB 1 or KB 2 connectors. All I can see is your IPAC connecting to the 2 kb output connectors. Maybe I don't understand what your overall connections are supposed to accomplish.
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@Bob - I realized after I had uploaded that pic that I didn't really draw the connecting lines very well and make it clear- so hopefully this is a better representation of what I am thinking. Keep in mind these are just stock images.
(http://i37.photobucket.com/albums/e74/xao1/dualcabs2.jpg)
Bartop # 1
-Monitor directly into VGA slot 1
-Player 1 controls connected via USB (ipac or something similar)
-Secondary monitor into VGA slot 2 - routed to KVM switch
-Player 2 controls connected via PS/2 via KVM switch
The second bartop would be similar to the first expect monitor/controls would all be routed through KVM and depending what is selected on the switch it will either show/control the PC inside of bartop 2
or show Bartop #1 display/control Player 2 for bartop #1 - which will be controlled via push button of some kind selecting the scroll lock button.
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Ok looks better now. The KVM moves the ipac ps/2 and monitor 2 from computer 1 to computer 2. Already on computer 1 are a usb connected ipac and monitor 1. Now the only thing in limbo is the exact function of the PB that you want to use to switch the mode of the displays.
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If whatever KVM switch I use is similar to the cheapy I have now in my home server room- I should be able to route a normal arcade button to the ipac that is programmed for "Scroll Lock"- it should switch displays and player controls back and forth between the 2 machines. Allowing bartop 2 to either have controls monitor on its dedicated machine or the display of bartop # 1 and player 2 controls.
The only thing that will be a little bit of a pain is for Bartop #2 I will need to wire all controls for player #2 keys- and switch the control settings on the mame installation on that arcade around so it will recognize player 2 buttons as 1 on the dedicated machine and then player 2 buttons when it switches over for multilayer.
On the design idea... I like the concept of the hero vs. villain- but struggling with an art concept around it- any suggestions or something to trigger creativity? I know I could try and make a character collage but I think that might just seem like a typical fighter/etc and not really buy into the overall concept.
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Think great battles in history and/or hollywood/video games and rather than go with sprites or character renderings try color schemes with a just a few easily recognizable icons in the marquee.
Joe vs Cobra - two great logos
North vs South - a civil war extravaganza
Axis vs Allies - maybe hard to convince the wife the wisdom in having a Nazi themed cab in the house... but can you imagine the conversation starter that would be... "who vants to play as der Fuhrer?"
Team America vs Kim Jong Il - best musical comedy evar
Rebels vs Empire
Cowboys vs Indians
Alien vs Predator - lot of cool possibilities and it's game themed... on second thought I'm keeping that one ;D
Cops vs Robbers
Spartans vs Persians
Superman vs Lex Luthor
Bugs Bunny vs Elmer Fudd
Pacman vs Ghosts
LSU vs Roll Tide - never mind, LSU didn't even show up for that one
Yankees vs Everybody
Shall I continue?
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How about.
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I love the idea of a dual bartop and I have been planning one of my own (inspiration from the Unstupid's Dual Neo-Geos (http://forum.arcadecontrols.com/index.php?topic=114435.0)) except, like the project I referenced, one will be a "dummy" bartop, completely useless unless connected to the first. But now the idea of making the second fully functional by itself intrigues me even further. I figure I could always add that down the road if I find I have people wanting to play a different game.
I'm not big on themes (I prefer generic or just a straight reproduction of famous arcade artwork) but I like the ideas LeChuck threw out there, particularly the "Pac Man vs. Ghosts". Maybe make the design similar to Pac-Man (see here (http://www.arcade-museum.com/images/118/118124214334.jpg)) but rework the second's artwork so that it's from a Ghost perspective (maybe switch the positions and mouths of the characters, change the marquee to read "Ghost-Man", etc.)
Or simply classic clashing color schemes (e.g. red and blue) will work well.
EDIT: I also love Bob's "Spy vs. Spy" idea. That would look cool.
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How about a red themed bartop vs blue themed bartop.
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I'm not big on themes (I prefer generic or just a straight reproduction of famous arcade artwork) but I like the ideas LeChuck threw out there, particularly the "Pac Man vs. Ghosts". Maybe make the design similar to Pac-Man (see here (http://www.arcade-museum.com/images/118/118124214334.jpg)) but rework the second's artwork so that it's from a Ghost perspective (maybe switch the positions and mouths of the characters, change the marquee to read "Ghost-Man", etc.)
I had breifly considered a dual bartop running Pac Man Vs. on two gamecubes (it was a crazy setup, involving a gameboy player and link cable), with a similar Pac (1 player) vs Ghosts (3 players) design.
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I'm not big on themes (I prefer generic or just a straight reproduction of famous arcade artwork) but I like the ideas LeChuck threw out there, particularly the "Pac Man vs. Ghosts". Maybe make the design similar to Pac-Man (see here (http://www.arcade-museum.com/images/118/118124214334.jpg)) but rework the second's artwork so that it's from a Ghost perspective (maybe switch the positions and mouths of the characters, change the marquee to read "Ghost-Man", etc.)
I had breifly considered a dual bartop running Pac Man Vs. on two gamecubes (it was a crazy setup, involving a gameboy player and link cable), with a similar Pac (1 player) vs Ghosts (3 players) design.
Now there's a thought, somebody needs to create a pacman clone where P1 controls pacman and players 2,3, und 4 control the ghosts. Maybe introduce additional power pills that randomly change the ghosts controller directional coding so it's not too easy to team up and catch that little yellow bastard. Somebody smarter than me please make this or link to where it's already done.
Edit: KB84, totally sorry for the off topic thread jack.
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Haha that Pacman clone needs to be created- I'd build a setup exclusively for it :afro:.
So after going over everyone's ideas and trying to figure out what I feel is going to work best- I sketched this up and think it might be a cool overall theme.
It will take the concept of a "VS." match without a specific arcade/movie franchise and take the idea of rockem sockem robots... (red vs. blue perhaps?) I was thinking of maybe calling the machines "The Duel" - unless someone has a better suggestion- I am open to alternatives.
Let me know what you guys think.
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hmm. No love for rockem sockem? maybe something else??
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As i mentioned above, the red vs blue theme is classic and timeless. Not feeling the rock em' sock em' theme though.
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hmm. No love for rockem sockem? maybe something else??
Not initially. Don't let that stop you though. I just don't think that theme has any real depth but I'm not a huge fan of the toy either so...
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Yeah I think I have changed my mind as well- I was feeling nostalgic- when I saw the old game in my closet - but that feelings has gone..
So I am still hunting for something else.
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i used to have a pretty cool picture of a duel setup. lost it over the years though. it was a cab about coctail height with the monitors back to back and you would sit on either side. so lots of talking smack. I cant wait to see how yours turns out.
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Since I am sure a primary game that will be played on these is marvel vs. capcom... how about a theme based on that? I know I originally said I wasn't going to do something game specific... but it would definitely work.
(http://bulk2.destructoid.com/ul/171478-MVC3guesses.jpg)
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Since I am sure a primary game that will be played on these is marvel vs. capcom... how about a theme based on that? I know I originally said I wasn't going to do something game specific... but it would definitely work.
(http://bulk2.destructoid.com/ul/171478-MVC3guesses.jpg)
I'm not a huge marvel vs capcom fan but this already sounds quite interesting to me. ;D
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First thing that popped into my head was the old Simpsons episode where Homer drives off into Spittle County and stops at the Beer-N-Brawl ("Oooo, a redneck bar!") to have a lukewarm bottle of Fudd ("We don't serve Duff here. We serve Fudd!").
Other quotes:
Redneck #1: "Hey you, let's fight!"
Redneck #2: "Them's fightin' words!" (brawl breaks out)
Stage MC: "And our performers tonight, in alphabetical order: Yodelin' Zeke!"
Anyway, I suggest "Beer-N-Brawl."
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Marvel vs Capcom would be an easy theme. Tons of great cab artwork out there already for both sides, you'd probably just need to do some color coding and be done. I think it would be super, but I love that game series.
I'm guessing the Axis and Allies cab theme didn't fly with the missus? Maybe Red Baron and Flying Tigers or something.
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An axis vs. allies theme would be interesting- especially since I have old relatives that fought on both sides of the war. I was almost going to go towards that one being a bit of a history buff myself but figured it just wasn't the best topic starter for when all my current family comes over... as the family history is a bit touchy at times.
I think Marvel vs. Capcom is probably the way I am going to go. I am just going to have to figure out if I am going to be able to do side art for these as my budget will be pressed doing 2 cabs at the same time. Marquees/CPO's shouldn't be a problem- but I may have to get creative with paint for the sides.
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An axis vs. allies theme would be interesting- especially since I have old relatives that fought on both sides of the war. I was almost going to go towards that one being a bit of a history buff myself but figured it just wasn't the best topic starter for when all my current family comes over... as the family history is a bit touchy at times.
What side were you pulling for?
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@Green Giant - Allies for sure!
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Started cutting out all the pieces today and made some pretty good progress. I've got some more cutting to do and routing/sanding but I should be able to finish that up hopefully tomorrow or Thursday.
(http://i37.photobucket.com/albums/e74/xao1/IMG_0304.jpg)
I also stopped by my local electronics/computer thrift store and picked up a couple of monitors $20 each.
(http://i37.photobucket.com/albums/e74/xao1/IMG_0306.jpg)
I need to still figure out what computers I will be throwing in these. I was thinking about ordering some foxconn boards w/ P4 3.2 from here (http://www.ascendtech.us/foxconn-672m01-1-1-8ksh-p4-540-kit-w-fan_i_mbcfx67201p4540.aspx). Anyone have any thoughts on these? I am looking to try and support a large variety of games/fighters at good speed.
I also need to start planning out the visuals more and could really use some help. I did a quick color mockup using the capcom logo colors for one of them. Anyone have any thoughts/suggestions?
Thanks!
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I'd do the cabs as inverts of each other so red T-molding on the blue and blue on the red. Then order red and blue buttons and switch the bezels on them so they are candy fighter stick styled. Ditto the bats or ball tops but mod them so they have a stripe of the opposing color running through the middle to tie it together. This would be a really good project to use some LED under-lighting and back-lighting and maybe synch it to flash when you execute combos in MvsC (I'm thinking an AHK script running only during that game and keyed to certain button combos to a ledwiz could work).
Try and get a beefy enough CP to run Zinc so you can throw down some vs SFEX2Plus or Tekken.
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My source for inexpensive PC's:
http://www.microcenter.com/search/search_results.phtml?sortby=pricelow&N=4294967292%2B519 (http://www.microcenter.com/search/search_results.phtml?sortby=pricelow&N=4294967292%2B519)
I'm local to one of their stores and buy 90% of my computer stuff through them. The cheap out on the hard drives in the refurbished models but unless you're doing a full hyperspin thing with HQ videos and CHD storage... they work quite well. I don't know how bad shipping is though.
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Yeah- shipping makes the deals not so hot in comparison to what I can get locally here or elsewhere. We have a refurb store like that in town but they don't just sell motherboard/cpu combos. I'd like to try and just get those as I have hard drives, power supplies and ram already.
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I got the rest of the pieces cut today for both units- I just have to do some sanding and drill the holes out for speakers/fan vents/etc. I can say as this is my 2nd build (well 2nd and 3rd builds if you count 2 at the same time) I can say from a woodworking newbie stand point that it definitely gets easier with practice. Also building a saw guide/jig can do wonders for how everything fits.
I did a quick mock up of one of them with clamps- its coming together nicely.
(http://i37.photobucket.com/albums/e74/xao1/IMG_0309.jpg)
(http://i37.photobucket.com/albums/e74/xao1/IMG_0308.jpg)
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I think that you don't need 2 VGA cards/interfaces...
How about a VGA splitter: 1 input 2 outputs (same images on 2 screens).
The second (slave or dumb) bartop would have the VGA monitor, the CP, an USB encoder, a sound amplifier. The second bartop would have to be pluged on the 127v mains outlet to provide power to the VGA monitor, sound amplifier and a litte power supply to the USB encoder.
The cable between 2 bartops would have the VGA cable, USB cable and audio cable. This cable could be created using a special cable (I don't remember how many signals the VGA have, but audio is 3 and USB is 4 wires) or you can simply enclose the 3 separated cables into a hose like cable...
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I think that you don't need 2 VGA cards/interfaces...
I think he wants both machines to be stand-alone bartops (i.e. playing completely different games at the same time), but with the option to connect to each other for two-player games with separate screens displaying the same info. In that latter scenario, the switch will bypass the 2nd bartops VGA and grab the signal from the master's card.
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hmm. No love for rockem sockem? maybe something else??
If you would incorporate a victory button which pops a head out of the top of the units, then yes, rockem sockem 4life.
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I think that you don't need 2 VGA cards/interfaces...
I think he wants both machines to be stand-alone bartops (i.e. playing completely different games at the same time), but with the option to connect to each other for two-player games with separate screens displaying the same info. In that latter scenario, the switch will bypass the 2nd bartops VGA and grab the signal from the master's card.
Understood... GREAT IDEA!!! Maybe a custom circuit design using 4066 ICs (quad bilateral switches)...
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It's funny as this is my project but some of this stuff being posted is over my head.... :dunno :applaud:
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Anyone know where I can find 1/2 t-molding in other colors besides white and black??
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Quick update- All pieces cut/routed for t-molding and I have started assembling the 2 cabinets. I also drilled out the back power button/fan holes. There is an extra hole on one of them for the toggle button for the KVM switch.
(http://i37.photobucket.com/albums/e74/xao1/IMG_0311.jpg)
(http://i37.photobucket.com/albums/e74/xao1/IMG_0310.jpg)
I also have mocked up what I think the control panel layout will be. 7 button simple layout with Player/Menu button at the top. The coin button will be below the control panel.
(http://i37.photobucket.com/albums/e74/xao1/Untitled-1.jpg)
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Grats on the woodworking, looks like you made some big progress.
One question though, are these going to be verts? Seems like alot of vertical real estate looking in from the front.
Also, why not space out that joystick an inch or two more from the buttons. Appear to have plenty of room and don't wanna feel cramped.
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Yeah- I designed the cabinets so I could convert them to verticals if I ever decided I needed a switch- better to have options than to not. However with the monitor placed in horizontally there isn't to much wasted space and I don't feel it looks small/awkward. About 3 inches from the top/bottom to the display screen
(http://i37.photobucket.com/albums/e74/xao1/IMG_0312.jpg)
I agree on the CP layout and I spaced it out a bit more- I'll need to test it out on some cardboard and see how it all feels.
(http://i37.photobucket.com/albums/e74/xao1/Untitled-1-1.jpg)
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Since you're still in the planning stages of the CP layout, a suggestion, if I may. Try rotating the button layout counter clockwise to better match the angle your arm rests on the CP while playing. It can be a little uncomfortable with a straight-on button layout like that.
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Yeah- I designed the cabinets so I could convert them to verticals if I ever decided I needed a switch- better to have options than to not. However with the monitor placed in horizontally there isn't to much wasted space and I don't feel it looks small/awkward. About 3 inches from the top/bottom to the display screen
I agree on the CP layout and I spaced it out a bit more- I'll need to test it out on some cardboard and see how it all feels.
Ahhhh, now I see it.
Looks much more reasonable with everything in there.
And yeah, cardboard is your friend.
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Since you're still in the planning stages of the CP layout, a suggestion, if I may. Try rotating the button layout counter clockwise to better match the angle your arm rests on the CP while playing. It can be a little uncomfortable with a straight-on button layout like that.
Definitely a YMMV situation there, I recommend testing it out before committing. Someone like me would hate them being rotated as I am used to playing SF2 and Neo Geo titles with the buttons predominately horizontal (except the A on the latter, obviously).
Since it's only a one-player panel, if you do go with Nephasth's suggestion you won't have to worry about elbowing other people. And some people do like them like that so, again, test it out. Just don't "over-angle" to the point of having them vertical. ;)
That said, I personally like the layout you have. Simple and versatile. And I never had any problems with them being uncomfortable (though my main buttons are the top row.)
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After mocking up the control panels and trying it both angled and the way I had it- I am going to stick with my original plan. I feel the traditional way is more comfortable and will be easier for others that come over and play.
After going over artwork ideas and trying to plan everything out I am going to need to move away from the MVC idea and do something different. Due to the lack of t-molding options at the 1/2" diameter and not really liking how things were coming along on the artwork side I've decided its just not working for me.
I am instead going to go a different route and instead of trying to theme the cabinets together I am going to treat them separately in terms of artwork/design as they are 2 stand a lone units even though they can connect to each other. I know its been done before but I think a Street Fighter 2 cabinet and a Mortal Kombat is where I am going.
I haven't had much luck finding good CPO scans of either and being 1 player cabs I have some customizing to do.... but here is what I have so far. If anyone can help out with MK 1 CPO art that is vector friendly or Player 1 friendly I would appreciate it.
Cabinet 1
(http://i37.photobucket.com/albums/e74/xao1/CPO1.jpg)
Cabinet 2
(http://i37.photobucket.com/albums/e74/xao1/CPO2.jpg)
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I know its been done before but I think a Street Fighter 2 cabinet and a Mortal Kombat is where I am going.
I like it! I still have the art files from my "Mortal Kabinet" if you want it.
http://forum.arcadecontrols.com/index.php?topic=69808.0 (http://forum.arcadecontrols.com/index.php?topic=69808.0)
(http://forum.arcadecontrols.com/index.php?action=dlattach;topic=69808.0;attach=84557;image)
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@ Malenko - Thank you for sharing your artwork as I hadn't seen that before. I used it as a bit of inspiration to jazz up what I had created.
(http://i37.photobucket.com/albums/e74/xao1/mkcpo.jpg)
Quick Update- not a lot to show but took some time doing. I drilled out the CPO holes and got the mounts setup. The speaker holes were also drilled and are resting on top in the pictures. I also got the back pieces to fit nice and did some finishing work. I am close to being ready to start priming- just have to tack in the monitor mount. drill out the back panel, and do a little more finish sanding.
(http://i37.photobucket.com/albums/e74/xao1/IMG_0315.jpg)
(http://i37.photobucket.com/albums/e74/xao1/IMG_0316.jpg)
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Another update- I got everything primed and painted on both cabinets. I have also started putting everything together on one of them. I installed the t-molding, monitor,speakers, and one of the 2 fans/grills.
(http://i37.photobucket.com/albums/e74/xao1/IMG_0317.jpg)
(http://i37.photobucket.com/albums/e74/xao1/IMG_0318.jpg)
Monitor is mounted with a piece of wood screwed into the wall mount plate, some side bolts, and also mounted w/ bolts through the bottom base.
(http://i37.photobucket.com/albums/e74/xao1/IMG_0320.jpg)
Going to need to dust these when I get done... :)
I also received all of my computer components and the system specs for both are:
Motherboard- ASRock 2CORE1333-2.66G Intel 945
CPU - Intel Pentium 4 519K 3.06GHz 533MHz
RAM - 1 GB DDR2 (I may upgrade to 2GB)
Video -ZOTAC GeForce 8400GS 512MB DDR2 PC
HD - 120GB SATA Western Digital
15" LCD Monitor
Logitech S-120 Speakers
I think these specs should be sufficient for pretty much everything I want to run- and with these motherboards I always have the option of throwing in a dual-core CPU down the road if I feel the need.
(http://i37.photobucket.com/albums/e74/xao1/IMG_0324.jpg)
I am hoping to get the other one caught up and install both PC's/plexiglass cut tomorrow. Then I am mostly waiting on artwork and my GGG order to arrive.
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cool project!
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Small update- I got both monitors installed and t-molding installed on the other cabinet. I also cut some angle pieces for t-molding and am currently priming/painting those. I sent my artwork off to basement arcade grafx and am still waiting on my joysticks/buttons to come in.
I have been mostly working on PC stuff today and have got windows xp (lite version), drivers, and most of the emulators I will be using installed and have been configuring the frontend (Mala). I plan on just cloning this drive for the other computer as they are the exact same specs once everything is completely setup. Then I will have to just adjust the 2nd PC's bootscreens and some settings instead of redoing the whole process over.
Here is a look at how my MK Mala theme is going...
(http://i37.photobucket.com/albums/e74/xao1/malaMK.jpg)
I still need to go and pickup some plexiglass and setup the marquees, monitor glass, and also for the CPO. Hoping to get those in the next couple of days.
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Looks cool but get rid of that stuff in the parenthesis for your list (you can do that in Mala with one click). Unless you like it there - then ignore me. But otherwise, great job!
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Looks cool but get rid of that stuff in the parenthesis for your list (you can do that in Mala with one click). Unless you like it there - then ignore me. But otherwise, great job!
Yeah I normally remove all of those as well- I haven't really gone through an sorted anything yet but as soon as I do that will be one of the first things I check. ;)
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Update:
Made some good progress today on one of the cabs. My artwork and joysticks/buttons all came in today which allowed me to really start putting this thing all together.
Here are some update pictures. (Still need to apply some more art) - John at Basement Arcade Grafx did an awesome job- I couldn't be any happier with the prints.
(http://i37.photobucket.com/albums/e74/xao1/IMG_0328.jpg)
(http://i37.photobucket.com/albums/e74/xao1/IMG_0329.jpg)
(http://i37.photobucket.com/albums/e74/xao1/IMG_0332.jpg)
(http://i37.photobucket.com/albums/e74/xao1/IMG_0333.jpg)
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Sorry for the lack of updates- I was able to wrap up the street fighter cab during this week and am almost done with both builds outside of some minor software tweaks.
The KVM switch is working great and 2 player/2 cab mode seems to work flawless. The only difficulty I had came with the toggle button to switch the 2. I wasn't able to use the scroll lock key to switch the second cabinet to 2 player mode- but was able to map an ipac shift function that works great- 3 key strokes in stead of one but in reality probably better that way to avoid any accidental switching.
Here is a quick snap of the 2 cabinets- I will post a video later showing the details/switching/etc.
(http://i37.photobucket.com/albums/e74/xao1/photo-1.jpg)
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they came out nice but the donkey kong in the background really has my attention :notworthy: