The NEW Build Your Own Arcade Controls
Main => Project Announcements => Topic started by: mcseforsale on August 21, 2013, 10:29:53 am
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Jumping on the bandwagon here. Here's my take on a wee-cade clone. I can see what a PITA this is going to be with it's size, but I'm ready. I'm not sure what the end game will be for this. I might set this up as a test machine with my crappy 17" scratched Dell monitor to do things like beaglebone or some other android/linux solution. All of my Dell Optiplex'es have died or otherwise are no good, so I'll be looking into alternatives.
Or, if someone offers, I'll sell it. It's so small (and I don't have a table saw) that I couldn't use any straight edges, etc. I'm also going to do some plexi bending and maybe some other DIY stuff like controller hacks, etc. So, this might just end up with a name and be kept as a pet.
And, away we go!
(http://i128.photobucket.com/albums/p191/mcseforsale/WeeCade/IMAG0489_zpsa69cb27e.jpg) (http://s128.photobucket.com/user/mcseforsale/media/WeeCade/IMAG0489_zpsa69cb27e.jpg.html)
Layout of 1/2" dowel cleats
(http://i128.photobucket.com/albums/p191/mcseforsale/WeeCade/IMAG0490_zps3da24c98.jpg) (http://s128.photobucket.com/user/mcseforsale/media/WeeCade/IMAG0490_zps3da24c98.jpg.html)
pinned with brads and glued. I didn't route out pockets for the cleats, so I hope it's strong enough. I got done and realized I was using Elmer's wood glue, not the Gorilla glue that was sitting right behind it. :blowup: Oh, well..
(http://i128.photobucket.com/albums/p191/mcseforsale/WeeCade/IMAG0491_zpsf4888dae.jpg) (http://s128.photobucket.com/user/mcseforsale/media/WeeCade/IMAG0491_zpsf4888dae.jpg.html)
So, I'll probably have a lot of questions when putting this thing together. Mostly about hardware, such as which joysticks are cheap and low-profile, etc.
AJ
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AJ. I am just going to give you a heads up. HAVE PATIENCE. I wish I would have started with a full cab. When I get home I will show you just how much space you have to work with. I pray you have small girly hands. It helps. :lol Either way. I've been working on mine for over a year due to doing things twice. It's not easy by any means. Make sure you plan ahead because you don't have a lot of rooms for mistakes. Always measure three times and measure again. In the end it will feel like an orgy of parts. You don't know where one piece ends and the next one begins. And be ready to order special parts like micro atx psu's and power cords that have 90 degree angles. It helps to reference other weecade builds.
Okay. Enough of the shock stories. Have fun and don't be afraid to experiment and get creative. It will help with production.
PS Just think of this build as playing level 9 of Tetris.
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I pray you have small girly hands.
Smell like cabbage
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Austin Powers - Carnies (http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=ZXRfnIfFYFI#ws)
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I've built a few of these, so here are a few pointers.
You don't need to route channels for the batons, once you add the monitor brace, the thing is as stout as an ox.
Your headaches will come with the jstiks and buttons in regards to clearance from the CP to the base, whatever components you have underneath them will probably hinder the CP from sitting flush. So make sure you have the lower profiles parts towards the front.
If you plan on securing the CP to with 4 screws to the batons, make sure you've placed the side screws so they don't interfere with the screws that will go through the CP. Mark those so you will have 4 screws (2 on each side) aligned and centered on the CP.
Don't get too far w/o cutting your t-molding slot.
Get you a KADE instead of controller hacks, it works with PC and alot of consoles.
I'll let you ponder on this, and i'll fill you in on more stuff as you go.
FYI, you dont need girly hands to do this...Work smarter not harder...Weecade builders tool of choice..
http://www.tightfittools.net/ (http://www.tightfittools.net/)
(http://lib.store.yahoo.net/lib/tight-fit-tools/test.jpg)
http://www.rockler.com/product.cfm?page=17466&site=ROCKLER (http://www.rockler.com/product.cfm?page=17466&site=ROCKLER)
(http://images.rockler.com/rockler/images/36070-01-200.jpg)
These 2 tools will help you immensely. I recommend them both.
:cheers:
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(http://lib.store.yahoo.net/lib/tight-fit-tools/test.jpg)
The Wedding Singer Brought to my attention yesterday (http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=gqQ99s4Ywnw#ws)
Seriously. I installed my speakers yesterday and needed something like this. I, of course, used this. (http://www.harborfreight.com/media/catalog/product/cache/1/image/9df78eab33525d08d6e5fb8d27136e95/i/m/image_13648.jpg)
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(http://lib.store.yahoo.net/lib/tight-fit-tools/test.jpg)
The Wedding Singer Brought to my attention yesterday (http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=gqQ99s4Ywnw#ws)
Seriously. I installed my speakers yesterday and needed something like this. I, of course, used this. (http://www.harborfreight.com/media/catalog/product/cache/1/image/9df78eab33525d08d6e5fb8d27136e95/i/m/image_13648.jpg)
That works too, this is just a bit less wrist intensive, with all the screws he will have to deal with, this will make things a bit easier.
It even comes with the correct drill bit for pilot holes....very versatile. I used to strip screws all the time, with this thing....i havent stripped any.
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AJ. I am just going to give you a heads up. HAVE PATIENCE. I wish I would have started with a full cab. When I get home I will show you just how much space you have to work with. I pray you have small girly hands. It helps. :lol Either way. I've been working on mine for over a year due to doing things twice. It's not easy by any means. Make sure you plan ahead because you don't have a lot of rooms for mistakes. Always measure three times and measure again. In the end it will feel like an orgy of parts. You don't know where one piece ends and the next one begins. And be ready to order special parts like micro atx psu's and power cords that have 90 degree angles. It helps to reference other weecade builds.
Okay. Enough of the shock stories. Have fun and don't be afraid to experiment and get creative. It will help with production.
PS Just think of this build as playing level 9 of Tetris.
Sadly (or fortunately) I wear a XXL glove, so this ought to be fun. But, there's no child labor laws under my roof and I happen to have a 9 and 6 year old handy (the 14 year old is a facebook ghost).
As for the build itself, I'm trying to not take this one so seriously. I made some templates for the sides, but everything else, I'm free cutting. I'm actually tossing around the idea of doing an entire bartop with no power tools, but that will have to wait.
I must say, I'm really interested in the beaglebone black for this one. They now offer a VGA cape, so that may do. Although, I'd have to hide some bricks in there somewhere so that aggressive play doesn't result in throwing the thing by accident. :P
AJ
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They now offer a VGA cape, so that may do.
VGA cape?
(http://farm4.staticflickr.com/3102/2735945693_468a6629c6_z.jpg?zz=1)
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Little progress today. Still working on sourcing the computer...I might still go with the beaglebone.
Got the thing stood up square using the bottom panel. This will allow me to fine-tune/sand all the other parts into their correct sizes. I'll be cutting the t-molding slots once all of the panels are sized correctly.
(http://i128.photobucket.com/albums/p191/mcseforsale/WeeCade/IMAG0492_zps08ed9cc7.jpg) (http://s128.photobucket.com/user/mcseforsale/media/WeeCade/IMAG0492_zps08ed9cc7.jpg.html)
I'm going to hinge the CP somehow, so I glued the front to the CP top so that I can start profiling the front of the CP and get it ready for bent plexi.
(http://i128.photobucket.com/albums/p191/mcseforsale/WeeCade/IMAG0493_zps225e2f06.jpg) (http://s128.photobucket.com/user/mcseforsale/media/WeeCade/IMAG0493_zps225e2f06.jpg.html)
Test fit the CP. Needs a little work with the sander on one of the edges, but otherwise looks pretty good:
Dr. K can is for scale:
(http://i128.photobucket.com/albums/p191/mcseforsale/WeeCade/IMAG0495_zps56de9f65.jpg) (http://s128.photobucket.com/user/mcseforsale/media/WeeCade/IMAG0495_zps56de9f65.jpg.html)
I'll be pondering all of the advice that I've gotten so far. I knew going into this that it would be an exercise in stuffing 10 lbs of crap in a 5 lb bag.
AJ
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I'll be pondering all of the advice that I've gotten so far. I knew going into this that it would be an exercise in stuffing 10 lbs of crap in a 5 lb bag.
:lol Ten pound bag. Just an idea but I used these (http://www.homedepot.com/p/Liberty-35-mm-105-Degree-1-1-4-in-Overlay-Hinge-840204/203274056#.UhZN15I4uSo) for hinges. Seem to be strudy enough. With the extra weight of the CP I am going to glue mine in.
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Other stuff got in the way this weekend so only some small updates. Rounded the CP, drilled the speaker panel and made the bezel.
(http://i128.photobucket.com/albums/p191/mcseforsale/WeeCade/IMAG0498_zps35f53457.jpg) (http://s128.photobucket.com/user/mcseforsale/media/WeeCade/IMAG0498_zps35f53457.jpg.html)
(http://i128.photobucket.com/albums/p191/mcseforsale/WeeCade/IMAG0497_zps819d2cd7.jpg) (http://s128.photobucket.com/user/mcseforsale/media/WeeCade/IMAG0497_zps819d2cd7.jpg.html)
I'll be working on art this week. Still have no idea what the theme will be.
AJ
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I have to admit I've got a soft spot for the Wee Cade and yours is looking pretty damn cool to be honest mate. Are you considering a front end or game board.
Again its looking sweet. :cheers:
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That *IS* the question of the day. I'm tossing around the idea of a beaglebone running some form of linux, or maybe a crappy old P4. However, both of my stashed Dell Optiplexes were bad, so I'm a little fecked right now. Plus, the monitor I have has a deep gouge in the screen.
Not sure about the xx in 1 boards. I've heard a lot of bad things about them. HOWEVER, this is what it is. I don't want a 17" wee cade with a quad core 8GB RAM monster in it with a lightgun hanging off the side. Donkey Kong and DigDug are perfectly fine for this one.
AJ
I have to admit I've got a soft spot for the Wee Cade and yours is looking pretty damn cool to be honest mate. Are you considering a front end or game board.
Again its looking sweet. :cheers:
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I don't want a 17" wee cade with a quad core 8GB RAM monster in it with a lightgun hanging off the side.
Hmm! That actually sounds pretty awesome to me.
:D
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Slow going on this one, what with kids' school functions and (now) cub scouts. But, I managed an hour or so out there last night.
I decided that the speaker panel will be one of the permanent cross-members of the cab, so that was gorilla glued in:
(http://i128.photobucket.com/albums/p191/mcseforsale/WeeCade/IMAG0504_zps48b453fd.jpg) (http://s128.photobucket.com/user/mcseforsale/media/WeeCade/IMAG0504_zps48b453fd.jpg.html)
Then I decided to make the cab more accessible, I'd glue the top and a small piece of MDF for the back to make a "cap" of sorts that will hinge up to access the speakers and marquee light. Both the small back panel and the top have the angle cut into them, so they glue flush perfectly. Pinned them together temporarily with 6p finish nails that I'll remove tonight now that the glue is dry. Then I'll put a radius on it to soften it to the back.
(http://i128.photobucket.com/albums/p191/mcseforsale/WeeCade/IMAG0505_zps4579f84a.jpg) (http://s128.photobucket.com/user/mcseforsale/media/WeeCade/IMAG0505_zps4579f84a.jpg.html)
Here's a back shot:
(http://i128.photobucket.com/albums/p191/mcseforsale/WeeCade/IMAG0507_zps80a4d6cf.jpg) (http://s128.photobucket.com/user/mcseforsale/media/WeeCade/IMAG0507_zps80a4d6cf.jpg.html)
I also screwed the floor into the sides with finish washers and 1" coarse thread screws. I don't have a pic of this, but the washers look like these:
(http://i128.photobucket.com/albums/p191/mcseforsale/MAME_CAB/IMG_8075.jpg) (http://s128.photobucket.com/user/mcseforsale/media/MAME_CAB/IMG_8075.jpg.html)
Got the speakers sorted, but I don't have any computer gear for this yet. I think it's a seller, so I may do an xx-in-1 card (delivering it separate from the cab) and keep it simple.
AJ
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That *IS* the question of the day. I'm tossing around the idea of a beaglebone running some form of linux, or maybe a crappy old P4. However, both of my stashed Dell Optiplexes were bad, so I'm a little fecked right now. Plus, the monitor I have has a deep gouge in the screen.
Not sure about the xx in 1 boards. I've heard a lot of bad things about them. HOWEVER, this is what it is. I don't want a 17" wee cade with a quad core 8GB RAM monster in it with a lightgun hanging off the side. Donkey Kong and DigDug are perfectly fine for this one.
AJ
I have to admit I've got a soft spot for the Wee Cade and yours is looking pretty damn cool to be honest mate. Are you considering a front end or game board.
Again its looking sweet. :cheers:
Well as I see its a seller then I guess you will be going down the xx in 1 game board. I recommend the 138 in 1 board myself. Although once its together and finished I bet your going to want to keep it. :dizzy:
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Still struggling with the art and theme, but I got some work done tonight. Figured out how I'm going to screw it all together while perusing the isles of HomeDepot. I went with some #6 cap screws and blind nuts to secure the top cap. I'll probably carry this throughout the build since it's solid and these panels won't be structural once the monitor mount is in. So, I broke out the forstner bits and got to work:
(http://i128.photobucket.com/albums/p191/mcseforsale/WeeCade/IMAG0511_zps06b6bd9c.jpg) (http://s128.photobucket.com/user/mcseforsale/media/WeeCade/IMAG0511_zps06b6bd9c.jpg.html)
Blind nuts:
(http://i128.photobucket.com/albums/p191/mcseforsale/WeeCade/IMAG0512_zpsad0b1052.jpg) (http://s128.photobucket.com/user/mcseforsale/media/WeeCade/IMAG0512_zpsad0b1052.jpg.html)
Closeup of bolt head detail. I'm going to press some washers into the counter-sinks once it's painted. I'll be keeping the satin steel of the bolts.
(http://i128.photobucket.com/albums/p191/mcseforsale/WeeCade/IMAG0510_zpse4e5e9c1.jpg) (http://s128.photobucket.com/user/mcseforsale/media/WeeCade/IMAG0510_zpse4e5e9c1.jpg.html)
Still trying to figure out a theme...bouncing between Harley Davidson and some machinery artwork. We'll see. Neighbor's still interested in a cab and just bought a Wide Glide, so perhaps I can tempt him. :cheers:
AJ
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A weecade clone done right :applaud:
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Neighbor's still interested in a cab and just bought a Wide Glide, so perhaps I can tempt him. :cheers:
Get some mad skills going, and see if he's down for a trade!
;)
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Neighbor's still interested in a cab and just bought a Wide Glide, so perhaps I can tempt him. :cheers:
Get some mad skills going, and see if he's down for a trade!
;)
That's funny. I've been staring at this thing for over a week saying "I have no idea what I'm doing".
:laugh:
AJ
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That's funny. I've been staring at this thing for over a week saying "I have no idea what I'm doing".
Dude. I have a Doom themed arcade cabinet that you should meet. Sometimes, I kick myself for not starting out simpler. I could be playing video games right now. (Seriously, it's been three years.)
:)
Your work looks really, really good. You should be pretty proud.
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I like the way you secured the top very neat looking, any reason you just didnt screw it in from the inside?
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I glued the speaker panel in as a structural member so, I needed a way to get to the speakers and stuff. I was going to glue it, but I just want to be able to access as much as possible.
Plus, these damn things are so little.
AJ
I like the way you secured the top very neat looking, any reason you just didnt screw it in from the inside?
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MMMHMMMM
(http://lib.store.yahoo.net/lib/tight-fit-tools/test.jpg)
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Yeah, those are cool. Maybe if I build another one, I'll pick that bad boy up.
I'm a fastener dude, though. I think the right fasteners are actually cool to look at. I'm weird that way. I think one of the awesomest things ever is a large turbofan engine with all them fasteners and safety wires.
AJ
MMMHMMMM
(http://lib.store.yahoo.net/lib/tight-fit-tools/test.jpg)
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Got a little more done last night. Plugged the saw into the extension cord out in the driveway during an electrical storm and did the final cut on the back. Neighbor was laughing at me. :laugh2:
Put the back on:
(http://i128.photobucket.com/albums/p191/mcseforsale/WeeCade/IMAG0515_zpsc88a8774.jpg) (http://s128.photobucket.com/user/mcseforsale/media/WeeCade/IMAG0515_zpsc88a8774.jpg.html)
Back view:
(http://i128.photobucket.com/albums/p191/mcseforsale/WeeCade/IMAG0517_zpsad9d5999.jpg) (http://s128.photobucket.com/user/mcseforsale/media/WeeCade/IMAG0517_zpsad9d5999.jpg.html)
Closeup view. Went a little deep on the first hole, by accident, so I followed through on the rest of the 3 other holes. No biggie since this is the back.
(http://i128.photobucket.com/albums/p191/mcseforsale/WeeCade/IMAG0516_zpsdc7e8c67.jpg) (http://s128.photobucket.com/user/mcseforsale/media/WeeCade/IMAG0516_zpsdc7e8c67.jpg.html)
I was a little pissed when I noticed that there was a bow in one of my 1/2" x 1/2" dowel cleats causing the base to be raised about 1/16" higher on one side. Still deciding if I want to get out the chisels and trim it a little. Meh, I'll probably just leave it.
bottom is 1/16" higher on the right in this pic:
(http://i128.photobucket.com/albums/p191/mcseforsale/WeeCade/IMAG0518_zpsbf778056.jpg) (http://s128.photobucket.com/user/mcseforsale/media/WeeCade/IMAG0518_zpsbf778056.jpg.html)
AJ
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Yea that is a terrible mess up. Burn it and start over >:D
Seriously though, good work so far man. Bartops are such a pain, I made too many of them and found that it was easier to make Half-Size ones (and they get more money).
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Got any pics of your half-sized ones? I sourced a 15" LCD and I'm looking for a cool project for it.
AJ
Yea that is a terrible mess up. Burn it and start over >:D
Seriously though, good work so far man. Bartops are such a pain, I made too many of them and found that it was easier to make Half-Size ones (and they get more money).
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http://forum.arcadecontrols.com/index.php/topic,131467.0.html (http://forum.arcadecontrols.com/index.php/topic,131467.0.html)
http://forum.arcadecontrols.com/index.php/topic,132774.msg1364819.html#msg1364819 (http://forum.arcadecontrols.com/index.php/topic,132774.msg1364819.html#msg1364819)
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Those halfsies are cool!
Got a little work done tonight. Hand routed the bezel backside.
(http://i128.photobucket.com/albums/p191/mcseforsale/WeeCade/IMAG0522_zps9abf051d.jpg) (http://s128.photobucket.com/user/mcseforsale/media/WeeCade/IMAG0522_zps9abf051d.jpg.html)
Had to give it a little hand-shandy to get it to fit. Still needs some hand sanding, but it'll fit snug by tonight. Then, I'll decide if I'm going the route of the VESA mount, or just the bezel mount.
(http://i128.photobucket.com/albums/p191/mcseforsale/WeeCade/IMAG0524_zps818bda80.jpg) (http://s128.photobucket.com/user/mcseforsale/media/WeeCade/IMAG0524_zps818bda80.jpg.html)
Picked up a 17" monitor for $12.91 at the local Goodwill on the way home:
(http://i128.photobucket.com/albums/p191/mcseforsale/WeeCade/IMAG0525_zps9f9c7c46.jpg) (http://s128.photobucket.com/user/mcseforsale/media/WeeCade/IMAG0525_zps9f9c7c46.jpg.html)
$12.91 baby!
(http://i128.photobucket.com/albums/p191/mcseforsale/WeeCade/IMAG0526_zps250362b0.jpg) (http://s128.photobucket.com/user/mcseforsale/media/WeeCade/IMAG0526_zps250362b0.jpg.html)
There's just a couple of small dark spot that shouldn't matter. Color's good, despite the Android wash-out.
(http://i128.photobucket.com/albums/p191/mcseforsale/WeeCade/IMAG0521_zps20ac3a36.jpg) (http://s128.photobucket.com/user/mcseforsale/media/WeeCade/IMAG0521_zps20ac3a36.jpg.html)
AJ
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Got any pics of your half-sized ones? I sourced a 15" LCD and I'm looking for a cool project for it.
AJ
Yea that is a terrible mess up. Burn it and start over >:D
Seriously though, good work so far man. Bartops are such a pain, I made too many of them and found that it was easier to make Half-Size ones (and they get more money).
Yes, this should be your next project....
(http://i.imgur.com/NF0KfP2.jpg)
Much easier to build as you have similar full cab space to work with.....
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First of the monitor mounts sorted. This one is a bezel with the monitor mounted in the back and can be covered with thin smoked plexi. Basically 1/2" dowel rods and 3/4" x 1/2" x 1/16" aluminum L-chanel with 1" wood screws and finish washers throughout.
(http://i128.photobucket.com/albums/p191/mcseforsale/WeeCade/IMAG0527_zps1267c96f.jpg) (http://s128.photobucket.com/user/mcseforsale/media/WeeCade/IMAG0527_zps1267c96f.jpg.html)
Shot of entire mount. If I was to use this, the metal would be removed before paint then re-installed so it retains its finish:
(http://i128.photobucket.com/albums/p191/mcseforsale/WeeCade/IMAG0528_zps9d850d2a.jpg) (http://s128.photobucket.com/user/mcseforsale/media/WeeCade/IMAG0528_zps9d850d2a.jpg.html)
The other mount in the running is a basic MDF board with the VESA holes mounting the monitor, then a painted plexi bezel over the top.
Pluses and minuses to them are:
MDF Bezel:
becomes part of the cabinet structure and becomes a rather large cross-brace for the little guy....strong as hell
1/2" MDF isn't that strong, so there's some buckling that I need to work out with the sander
it's already cut
VESA brace:
Never as accurate as I want them to be
Doesn't need to be as accurate as I want them to be
ease of installation.
Hmmm. decisions decisions.
AJ
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Puttied the holes from the glue-up last night...
(http://i128.photobucket.com/albums/p191/mcseforsale/WeeCade/IMAG0531_zps835273af.jpg) (http://s128.photobucket.com/user/mcseforsale/media/WeeCade/IMAG0531_zps835273af.jpg.html)
Couple of dents filled as well:
(http://i128.photobucket.com/albums/p191/mcseforsale/WeeCade/IMAG0530_zps77fec16d.jpg) (http://s128.photobucket.com/user/mcseforsale/media/WeeCade/IMAG0530_zps77fec16d.jpg.html)
Waiting 'til this AM and final sanded the radii and filler down to where I want it.
Then...MDF armoring. Tools of the trade:
(http://i128.photobucket.com/albums/p191/mcseforsale/WeeCade/IMAG0532_zps43d95f39.jpg) (http://s128.photobucket.com/user/mcseforsale/media/WeeCade/IMAG0532_zps43d95f39.jpg.html)
All cut and/or shaped edges armored. Once this is dry, I think I'll get a coat of primer on it today.
(http://i128.photobucket.com/albums/p191/mcseforsale/WeeCade/IMAG0533_zps96a123e0.jpg) (http://s128.photobucket.com/user/mcseforsale/media/WeeCade/IMAG0533_zps96a123e0.jpg.html)
AJ
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Then...MDF armoring. All cut and/or shaped edges armored. Once this is dry, I think I'll get a coat of primer on it today.
Do you mix your wood glue with water? If so, what's your preferred split? Does this help keep the furring down a bit? I've noticed everywhere that I've shaped the edges on the Turkey Puncher cabinet, I've got this fuzzy crap everywhere.
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Then...MDF armoring. All cut and/or shaped edges armored. Once this is dry, I think I'll get a coat of primer on it today.
Do you mix your wood glue with water? If so, what's your preferred split? Does this help keep the furring down a bit? I've noticed everywhere that I've shaped the edges on the Turkey Puncher cabinet, I've got this fuzzy crap everywhere.
Yes. Very diluted. So, it seeps into the wood. Then the MDF will feel a bit "grainy" or rough. Using some 220 will result in a very tough shell that will sand VERY smooth and hard.
Here's my mixture:
http://forum.arcadecontrols.com/index.php/topic,122362.msg1310052.html#msg1310052 (http://forum.arcadecontrols.com/index.php/topic,122362.msg1310052.html#msg1310052)
AJ
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Yes. Very diluted. So, it seeps into the wood. Then the MDF will feel a bit "grainy" or rough. Using some 220 will result in a very tough shell that will sand VERY smooth and hard. Here's my mixture: http://forum.arcadecontrols.com/index.php/topic,122362.msg1310052.html#msg1310052 (http://forum.arcadecontrols.com/index.php/topic,122362.msg1310052.html#msg1310052)
Awesome, thank you!
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Finish sanding completed on main body of cab. All edges have been armored and sanded. For those who are curious, the glue/water will penetrate any shaped pieces of MDF (in my case, the rounded edges) and then will harden. Once sanded, they will be as smooth as the uncut face of the MDF. So, that shaggy sanded feeling on the shaped edges is replaced with hard and smooth, rather than that felt-y feeling.
Back side:
(http://i128.photobucket.com/albums/p191/mcseforsale/WeeCade/IMAG0535_zps2282d86e.jpg) (http://s128.photobucket.com/user/mcseforsale/media/WeeCade/IMAG0535_zps2282d86e.jpg.html)
Full shot. Just need to sort the monitor mount and then save up my milk money for art and the xx-in-1 card and other electronics.
(http://i128.photobucket.com/albums/p191/mcseforsale/WeeCade/IMAG0536_zps34481c7a.jpg) (http://s128.photobucket.com/user/mcseforsale/media/WeeCade/IMAG0536_zps34481c7a.jpg.html)
AJ
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Nice work... :applaud: :applaud: :applaud:
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Looks great! Can't wait for you to get the monitor mounted and artwork, so then you can sell it to me. :lol
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Monitor is MOUNTED!! The original Dell was scratched on the LCD, so I had to abandon it. I ended up using the Proview (or whatever it was). The new monitor didn't fit in my MDF bezel, so I went the more traditional route of VESA mount (which this monitor didn't have...it was a pre-VESA standard mount) and bolted/glued it to the sides.
First, removed the monitor's bezel and painted it:
(http://i128.photobucket.com/albums/p191/mcseforsale/WeeCade/IMAG0537_zps01ce566d.jpg) (http://s128.photobucket.com/user/mcseforsale/media/WeeCade/IMAG0537_zps01ce566d.jpg.html)
Next, mounted it with 1/2x1/2 hardwood dowels to the side using a 1/2" MDF mounting board.
Here's the back:
(http://i128.photobucket.com/albums/p191/mcseforsale/WeeCade/IMAG0539_zps00676a79.jpg) (http://s128.photobucket.com/user/mcseforsale/media/WeeCade/IMAG0539_zps00676a79.jpg.html)
Here's the front detail:
(http://i128.photobucket.com/albums/p191/mcseforsale/WeeCade/IMAG0540_zps6b2d7222.jpg) (http://s128.photobucket.com/user/mcseforsale/media/WeeCade/IMAG0540_zps6b2d7222.jpg.html)
Here it is mounted:
(http://i128.photobucket.com/albums/p191/mcseforsale/WeeCade/IMAG0538_zps18a90827.jpg) (http://s128.photobucket.com/user/mcseforsale/media/WeeCade/IMAG0538_zps18a90827.jpg.html)
I don't know what it is, but between my phone/camera and the lighting in my garage, everything I build looks effed up and crooked. But, I assure you it is square... :soapbox:
Plugged in the garage laptop and ran the only ROM I had on it....PHOENIX!
(http://i128.photobucket.com/albums/p191/mcseforsale/WeeCade/IMAG0541_zpsd18021f7.jpg) (http://s128.photobucket.com/user/mcseforsale/media/WeeCade/IMAG0541_zpsd18021f7.jpg.html)
Next up is ordering the arcade-y bits tomorrow, routing a channel in the back of the CP for plexi, working on the art (I still need a concept...but I think I'm close) and getting this thing buttoned up with paint, speaker cloth and details.
AJ
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Big issue today. I was going to bend the plexi around the CP, but when I was routing the plexi, I accidentally dropped the CP and it cracked at the joint. :badmood: :banghead: :banghead:
So, thinned down some glue and saturated it with several seeping coats.
(http://i128.photobucket.com/albums/p191/mcseforsale/WeeCade/IMAG0545_zpsaebe5c77.jpg) (http://s128.photobucket.com/user/mcseforsale/media/WeeCade/IMAG0545_zpsaebe5c77.jpg.html)
Re-inforced the back of the joint...
(http://i128.photobucket.com/albums/p191/mcseforsale/WeeCade/IMAG0544_zps244388a4.jpg) (http://s128.photobucket.com/user/mcseforsale/media/WeeCade/IMAG0544_zps244388a4.jpg.html)
So, I decided to do CP plexi only. I also got the plexi cut for the bezel and the marquee...
(http://i128.photobucket.com/albums/p191/mcseforsale/WeeCade/IMAG0547_zps00a5944f.jpg) (http://s128.photobucket.com/user/mcseforsale/media/WeeCade/IMAG0547_zps00a5944f.jpg.html)
Just have to buy the xx-n-1 card, joy and buttons....get the art squared away and then it's done.
AJ
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What this man does with basic wood glue... ...well, I guess... ...it's what everybody should do with wood glue.
:dunno ;D :applaud:
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(http://i128.photobucket.com/albums/p191/mcseforsale/bad_day_glue_zpsdefcc175.jpg) (http://s128.photobucket.com/user/mcseforsale/media/bad_day_glue_zpsdefcc175.jpg.html)
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Small update. I got the plexi for the CP mounted and I was able to mount the CP to the chassis tonight using the cap-screw theme. Drilled holes in the plexi, then anchored the CP to the batons underneath...
detail:
(http://i128.photobucket.com/albums/p191/mcseforsale/WeeCade/IMAG0556_zps7fc1db9e.jpg) (http://s128.photobucket.com/user/mcseforsale/media/WeeCade/IMAG0556_zps7fc1db9e.jpg.html)
(http://i128.photobucket.com/albums/p191/mcseforsale/WeeCade/IMAG0554_zps8ef4d6b5.jpg) (http://s128.photobucket.com/user/mcseforsale/media/WeeCade/IMAG0554_zps8ef4d6b5.jpg.html)
Overall, a good look. Should pop with dark CP art and chrome bolts...
(http://i128.photobucket.com/albums/p191/mcseforsale/WeeCade/IMAG0555_zpse5197477.jpg) (http://s128.photobucket.com/user/mcseforsale/media/WeeCade/IMAG0555_zpse5197477.jpg.html)
(http://i128.photobucket.com/albums/p191/mcseforsale/WeeCade/IMAG0557_zps63fa2309.jpg) (http://s128.photobucket.com/user/mcseforsale/media/WeeCade/IMAG0557_zps63fa2309.jpg.html)
To be honest, I'm a bit stuck on the art, so I've been tinkering around with some themes. It'll definitely be black with some cool mechanical artwork, but I usually start with a name, then work out from there. :dunno
Artwork to come. I'm gonna put my head down and get on it hopefully have it done by Friday since I have to go to maine next weekend, so it's a perfect time to get it printed.
AJ
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Did you ever finish it?
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Nope. Still sitting there with life getting in its way.
AJ
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Nope. Still sitting there with life getting in its way.
Maybe this might help inspire you.
"Subscribed!"
:D
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OK, so all the plexi is cut and the monitor is mounted. But, I'm just sick of this build. Hadn't had the money to finish it and it's just sitting there. :dunno
(http://i128.photobucket.com/albums/p191/mcseforsale/WeeCade/IMAG0601_zps98237b74.jpg) (http://s128.photobucket.com/user/mcseforsale/media/WeeCade/IMAG0601_zps98237b74.jpg.html)
I'll press on, I guess. :laugh2:
AJ
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put it in a box and sell it to me!
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So, a major update to this project over the weekend. The weecade is *SOLD*. I was having a hard time walking by this thing with it's sad face since I couldn't find the time/energy/money to finish it and decided to throw it up on craigslist. I found a great buyer local who's into Japanese Candy arcades and was looking for something to get is beak wet with MAME. Current plans are some sort of Linux distro with MAME and I'll be helping him out as much as I can.
Hoping he'll create a login here and keep us updated with the progress.
AJ
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Nice way to make lemonade, my friend!
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Thanks yots...I've already received a few emails from the buyer with specific questions about fasteners and speakers, etc. It's nice to see the excitement.
AJ
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can you post some pix of how you did the Batons and control panel?
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Batons (1/2" square dowel):
(http://i128.photobucket.com/albums/p191/mcseforsale/WeeCade/IMAG0489_zpsa69cb27e.jpg) (http://s128.photobucket.com/user/mcseforsale/media/WeeCade/IMAG0489_zpsa69cb27e.jpg.html)
CP:
(http://i128.photobucket.com/albums/p191/mcseforsale/WeeCade/IMAG0493_zps225e2f06.jpg) (http://s128.photobucket.com/user/mcseforsale/media/WeeCade/IMAG0493_zps225e2f06.jpg.html)
Fasteners used throughout:
(http://i128.photobucket.com/albums/p191/mcseforsale/WeeCade/IMAG0692_zps569737ce.jpg) (http://s128.photobucket.com/user/mcseforsale/media/WeeCade/IMAG0692_zps569737ce.jpg.html)
(http://i128.photobucket.com/albums/p191/mcseforsale/WeeCade/IMAG0512_zpsad0b1052.jpg) (http://s128.photobucket.com/user/mcseforsale/media/WeeCade/IMAG0512_zpsad0b1052.jpg.html)
Back of CP angle:
(http://i128.photobucket.com/albums/p191/mcseforsale/WeeCade/IMAG0544_zps244388a4.jpg) (http://s128.photobucket.com/user/mcseforsale/media/WeeCade/IMAG0544_zps244388a4.jpg.html)
CP Mounting:
(http://i128.photobucket.com/albums/p191/mcseforsale/WeeCade/IMAG0554_zps8ef4d6b5.jpg) (http://s128.photobucket.com/user/mcseforsale/media/WeeCade/IMAG0554_zps8ef4d6b5.jpg.html)
Thanks,
AJ
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exactly what I needed, I think Im going to try this method. guessing you dont have part numbers for Lowes or Home Depot do ya?
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Sure. Home Depot in the specialty fastener drawers:
http://www.homedepot.com/p/Everbilt-8-32-x-1-in-Stainless-Steel-Button-Head-Socket-Cap-Screws-2-Pieces-69698/202209925 (http://www.homedepot.com/p/Everbilt-8-32-x-1-in-Stainless-Steel-Button-Head-Socket-Cap-Screws-2-Pieces-69698/202209925)
http://www.homedepot.com/p/Everbilt-8-32-Coarse-Zinc-Plated-Steel-Tee-Nuts-4-Pack-18861/202704505#specifications (http://www.homedepot.com/p/Everbilt-8-32-Coarse-Zinc-Plated-Steel-Tee-Nuts-4-Pack-18861/202704505#specifications)
AJ
exactly what I needed, I think Im going to try this method. guessing you dont have part numbers for Lowes or Home Depot do ya?
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Looks like he used Tee Nuts and socket cap screws. Both are made by Everbilt and can be found in abundance with a quick search on homedepot.com
Oops. Too slow.... :lol
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:cheers:
AJ
Looks like he used Tee Nuts and socket cap screws. Both are made by Everbilt and can be found in abundance with a quick search on homedepot.com
Oops. Too slow.... :lol
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So, a major update to this project over the weekend. The weecade is *SOLD*. I was having a hard time walking by this thing with it's sad face since I couldn't find the time/energy/money to finish it and decided to throw it up on craigslist. I found a great buyer local who's into Japanese Candy arcades and was looking for something to get is beak wet with MAME. Current plans are some sort of Linux distro with MAME and I'll be helping him out as much as I can.
Hoping he'll create a login here and keep us updated with the progress.
AJ
Insert sad animal commercial
You could have donated this to the savethe404 foundation. Just one donation could have put mame entertainment into the hands of an adult with the mind of a child
in the aaaaaaarms of an angeeeellll
:laugh2:
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So, a major update to this project over the weekend. The weecade is *SOLD*. I was having a hard time walking by this thing with it's sad face since I couldn't find the time/energy/money to finish it and decided to throw it up on craigslist. I found a great buyer local who's into Japanese Candy arcades and was looking for something to get is beak wet with MAME. Current plans are some sort of Linux distro with MAME and I'll be helping him out as much as I can.
Hoping he'll create a login here and keep us updated with the progress.
AJ
Insert sad animal commercial
You could have donated this to the savethe404 foundation. Just one donation could have put mame entertainment into the hands of an adult with the mind of a child
in the aaaaaaarms of an angeeeellll
:laugh2:
(http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-snkX05bHXy8/UIWja61frLI/AAAAAAAABeE/YBX2CJ5X1e4/s1600/cup_cake_dog.gif)
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(http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-snkX05bHXy8/UIWja61frLI/AAAAAAAABeE/YBX2CJ5X1e4/s1600/cup_cake_dog.gif)
that dog hasn't been trained. His soul was taken! Someone needs to put that poor dog down asap. :'(
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Poor Stains (that was his name).
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Hoping he'll create a login here and keep us updated with the progress.
AJ
Hi Everyone. The name's Rich in RL, and I bought the Weecade from AJ. I wasn't looking for another project (I moved not too long ago, and still have far too many projects to do around the house) but when I saw the CL ad it drew me in. In my opinion, AJ did all the hard stuff, now I get to do the fun stuff-- making it all work. Well, except the painting bit. I don't think anyone loves that.
With that said, I see this as passing the baton on, and I'm more than happy to take it and run with it.
After getting the cabinet home, I put it in the office and started rummaging through my shelves for my box of arcade stuff. I decided to test fit with some HAPP buttons I had sitting around. These won't be the buttons I use, but it helped me get a feel for the space constraints.
I do have 2 Japanese candy cabinets (a New Astro City and a Super Neo 29) running X in 1 PC boards with JAMMA interfaces, but I've wanted to do a custom MAME build without touching them. Whatever I replace them with, I want to just be able to pop in, connect up and work. In other words-- I don't want to lose the use of them while I fiddle. This was another great reason (excuse) to pick up the weecade!
(http://204.16.8.40/other/weecade/IMG_0254.jpg)
Later that evening, I raided the shelves again, looking for a small system to use as the heart of the weecade. Since I really just want to do older MAME based arcade games (prior to 1992), I don't need a tremendous amount of power and I don't have the room for it. I want to keep it as quiet as possible. What I had in my stash was my old mini-itx server that I used in the house before virtualizing it. This is an intel D525MW board with dual core atom CPU (1.8ghz) and 4Gb of RAM. I also had an SSD to use with this, which will make it fast and quiet. I went ahead and mounted everything down on the back panel, making sure to pay attention to the tight space at the top of the cabinet.
(http://204.16.8.40/other/weecade/IMG_0255.jpg)
I needed a power button, and I found a nice black button in my arcade parts box that will do nicely. It's an old 24mm Sanwa button from one of the candy cabs.
(http://204.16.8.40/other/weecade/IMG_0257.jpg)
At the end of the evening, I decided to figure out what to do about sound. The sound in my candy cabinets leave a lot to be desired, so I thought it would be cool to have a decent sound come out of something so small. Again, going through my parts shelf I found a set of Bose computer speakers that my wife used previously. I didn't think they would fit, but I was shocked to find that they fit nearly perfectly! The only problem is the grill of the speaker is slightly over the edge of the marquee, and the volume dial sticks out a good bit further. Of course, doing this will mean that I forgo the marquee and cover the area with black speaker cloth.
I tested the sound out, and indeed, they sound surprisingly good, especially coming out of the cabinet.
(http://204.16.8.40/other/weecade/IMG_0259.jpg)
More to come!
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sniff, sniff....like a proud father. It's nice to see that thing getting some love. It sat around for WAY too long.
Progress is excellent. Looks like all that stuff's gonna fit really nicely.
AJ
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OK, I changed the title of the thread because it deserved to be changed. It's in better hands. :cheers:
AJ
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sniff, sniff....like a proud father.
She has your eyes. :lol
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And disconnected GAZE. HAHAHA.
AJ
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Sorry for not posting sooner, but with the crazy weather, work and personal/family stuff I haven't been able to. BUT, I have been able to work on the Weecade! So, I'll hopefully get it all up to date with several posts now.
When I left off, I was just test fitting the cabinet and thinking through the speakers while waiting for different parts to come in. I decided to use the GP WIZ Max for the arcade controls to the PC via USB. I went ahead and mounted the power strip that I'll use to power everything up internally (monitor, Atom-based PC and Speakers).
(http://204.16.8.40/other/weecade/weecade01.jpg)
Next, I installed the actual buttons and joystick I'll be using. I'll be using all black controls. The buttons are Happs and the Joystick is a Seimitsu LS-32 that I had in my parts bin. I originally had a ball top, but went with a bat top to give it a little more handle space, since the stick itself is short, along with mounting under the 1/2" MDF. I also built the frame that is going to be covered in speaker cloth and goes over the speakers in the marquee area.
(http://204.16.8.40/other/weecade/weecade02.jpg)
I drilled an inset button hole for the PC's power on/off button. I used a larger sized forstner bit for the inset hole, then a smaller one to drill through for the actual button. Since this button is a smaller japanese size (24mm), I used a closer standard size then sanded it out with a dremel tool and sanding drum attachment.
(http://204.16.8.40/other/weecade/weecade03.jpg)
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This series of pictures shows that the unit was primed and painted and the T-molding installed. Over the snow days, I set everything up in the unfinished area of my basement and was able to paint it a little at a time until I finished it. I think everything got 5 coats of black paint in total. I also finished the speaker cover frame, painted it black and covered it with black speaker cloth.
Wiring up the controls is always fun... In this case, you have the added excitement of the tight fit. The only 2 trouble spots is the center front button getting close the the top 6 button cluster when the microswitches are installed. Rotating things around a bit allows for enough clearance. The REALLY tight spot was the front panel button immediately behind the joystick. Fortunately, there was barely enough room to fit it all together!
(http://204.16.8.40/other/weecade/weecade04.jpg)
Here is the Weecade with the control panel installed and the plexiglass cover on it. Looking pretty slick with the new black skin and controls.
(http://204.16.8.40/other/weecade/weecade05.jpg)
I framed up the speaker area with some extra wood around the marquee area to completely surround the Bose speakers themselves. I drilled 5 holes with forstner bits and glued in some very powerful magnets. On the speaker cover frame, I have 5 short screws in the same areas that hold the speaker cover grill to the Weecade. It works great and allows you to remove it to adjust the volume if needed.
(http://204.16.8.40/other/weecade/weecade06.jpg)
Here it is with the speaker grill back on. Note, that I don't have the plexiglass cover to go over the monitor yet...
(http://204.16.8.40/other/weecade/weecade07.jpg)
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And now we see the finished physical product. Everything painted, and I've painted and installed the plexiglass over the monitor. It's attached with velcro directly to the LCD display. I also covered, with black electric tape, any light source inside the cabinet from any components (power strip, PC, lcd panel led). I wanted to make sure that there was no bleeding of light through the edges of the plexiglass screen. It was a great opportunity to bring up galaga for a quick game!
(http://204.16.8.40/other/weecade/weecade08.jpg)
Here's a rear pic showing the single, black power on/off button. Recessed in so that it would be harder to accidentally hit since this would power off the machine...
(http://204.16.8.40/other/weecade/weecade09.jpg)
Here's a view front on of the Weecade. The monitor angle and speaker placement work perfectly for playing stand up while it's on a standard sized desk or table. The front 3 buttons, left to right, are used for Player 1 coin, Pause in MAME, and Player 2 coin. The Player 1 and Player 2 start buttons are on the top with white icons on them. For games that allow for simultaneous multiplayer play, I have a Logitech wireless controller that can be used on the system for player 2.
(http://204.16.8.40/other/weecade/weecade10.jpg)
I decided to use MameWah for the fronted. While toying around with a custom layout, I finally came up with the name for the cabinet-- Weecade: Black Edition
The black on black motif came out really nice, and since my other 2 machines are white candy cabinets with lots of color, it was a nice contrast and looks slick. I came up with a custom layout that includes a picture of the actual cabinet to display screen shots and marquees of the game selected in the list. When my 11 year old daughter saw an actual picture of the Weecade ON the Weecade, it kinda blew her mind for a second. :)
I knew I had a keeper layout!
(http://204.16.8.40/other/weecade/weecade12.jpg)
Here's a little closer image of the MameWah layout I built for Weecade: Black Edition
(http://204.16.8.40/other/weecade/weecade13.jpg)
It's pretty much complete at this moment. I do have some work to do on the OS to make Mamewah the shell for a seamless boot up. I do have background music that plays when it boots up into Mamewah. I've selected 4 different songs that kind of fit the motif--
Beat Box by The Art of Noise
Halcyon & on & on by Orbital
Days Go by by Dirty Vegas
Riot NRRRD by 2 Skinnee J's
I'd like to eventually set up a Jukebox in Mamewah as a later project.
Performance-wise, this little Intel-based Atom unit works perfectly for what I wanted. The only MAME based game that it struggles with that I have installed is Mortal Kombat II. Visually, it works perfectly, but there is some minor sound stuttering. Not enough to make it annoying to play, but it's definitely noticeable. The original Mortal Kombat runs Flawlessly. The other game that it choked on was Golden Axe II (not the original). I decided to not keep that one installed. It plays all the popular Capcom CPS/CPS2 games I've installed just fine. I think anything in the 1992/1993 era and below runs great, which is what I really wanted it to focus on. It runs silently (no CPU fan) and stays cool enough even after a couple of hours of play (and several hours of tinkering with things).
I can't wait to get the software done so I can start taking it over to my friends houses and different events (kids birthday parties, get togethers, etc). I didn't realize the additional fun and utility of having a portable Weecade until the end of the project, when it really dawned on me.
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Dude, *THAT* turned out awesome. Exactly what I wanted to see. Excellent creativity (that I lacked :D ) and it just looks mean.
you should be very proud of that build.
:cheers:
AJ
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Ok, here's a "family portrait" of the Weecade along with the 2 candy cabinets I have in the basement:
(http://204.16.8.40/other/weecade/weecade14.jpg)
;)
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1) That is one of the sharpest weecades I've seen :cheers: slickx3
b) Kudos for family pic being the pac family :lol
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.