BYOAC OLD Wiki - User contributions [en]

File:Countersink bits.jpg

2006-03-01T04:01:27Z

Nostrebor:

countersink bit set

Plastics

2006-03-01T03:59:45Z

Nostrebor: added text to polycarbonate paragraph

Plastics are used in three areas, the marquee, the "screen" laid over a monitor, and as a protective covering on your control panel. "Brand" names are often used instead of the actual "type" of plastic. The "types" of plastic commonly used are:

* '''Acrylic'''

: The most common type of plastic is acrylic. It's commonly referred to by its trade name, plexiglass. Acrylic does not have very good impact resistance, so if that is a concern, you may wish to choose polycarbonate for applications that you require more protection for.

* '''Polycarbonate'''

: Polycarbonate is known by many different trade names, but one of the more popular is Lexan. It's tougher than acrylic, so again, if that is a concern, you may wish to choose polycarbonate for such applications. The biggest benefit to Polycarbonate is that it is almost impossible to crack with cutting tools, making it much more forgiving when drilling and shaping. The down side is that it is typically more expensive, and it is less scratch resistant than Acrylic.

There are some techniques recommended to achieve good results with less effort. The woodworking tools you already have or are going to purchase will work fine. When drilling, the material has a tendency to grab the bit and pull it in, possibly cracking it. If using a spade bit or hole saw, one solution is to drill the material in reverse. A forstner bit is preferable when cutting plastic, as the cutting edge is normally flat and creates more of a scraping action less prone to digging in. Whichever bit you choose, use a slow speed. If you're drilling more than one hole at a time, a few drops of detergent in water will act as a lubricant and coolant to help achieve good results.

When cutting acrylic, ideal results are attained using a router. Slower speed is not necessary, since the router moves fast enough that the digging in common with hole cutting bits are not an issue. It is recommended to keep the protective coating on your plastic until you are done machining it to protect the surface.

Fasteners

2006-03-01T03:51:58Z

Nostrebor: /* Screws */

==Glue==

* '''Wood glue''' - essentially the same as Elmer's white glue but with coloring and additives to make it set up faster than white glue 

* '''White glue''' - the regular stuff commonly found at your local "-mart" store. 

* '''Polyurethane glue''' - unlike yellow or white glue that requires air to cure, polyurethane glue requires moisture to cure. Polyurethane is excellent at joining dissimilar materials such as wood and plastic. When curing, it "foams", so clamps are a must with this type of glue. 

::* ''When working with MDF, remember this trick to get better results. You'll find the edges rougher and more porous than the face. Gluing as you normally would can "starve" the joint of glue. To avoid this, "double glue" the joint. Apply a coat of glue to the edges of the boards but do not assemble! Allow this first layer to soak in. Then apply a second layer of glue and assemble the panels. The first layer helps seal the surface, while the second application works to create a solid bond.'' 

==Nails==
: Self-explanatory, except to say for building a cabinet, screws are the preferred method, but nails can be used if you wish, however, plywood or solid wood panels are recommended if using nails

==Screws==
[[image:countersink_tip.jpg|right|thumb|tip for a better joint|60px]]
: Screws will require special methods when used with MDF. Screws installed into the edges of MDF can cause it to split, resulting in a weak or failed joint. You'll need to drill a pilot hole for your screws. Use a drill bit the same diameter as the shank of your screw, and drill your hole slightly deeper than the length of your screw. Secondly, use sraight-shanked screws to avoid splitting the material and also to get a better grip in the material. "Sheet Metal" screws are a decent inexpensive choice for MDF. Special screws, called Confirmat screws, are available but somewhat costly.

: MDF fibers will "pull up" when driving screws into the pilot hole causing a "bump" around the shank of the screw. This can make it more difficult to get a tight joint between panels. If you countersink the pilot holes at both faces of each panel, it creates a cavity that gives the "bump" somewhere to go. This allows for a stronger, better looking joint.Here is a link with more tips on joining MDF. [http://rowecraft.com/blog/2006/01/assembling-mdf.html MDF assembly]

==Dowels==

==Biscuits==

Fasteners

2006-03-01T03:47:14Z

Nostrebor: /* Screws */

File:Countersink tip.jpg

2006-03-01T03:45:53Z

Nostrebor:

Fasteners

2006-03-01T03:45:40Z

Nostrebor: /* Screws */

==Glue==

* '''Wood glue''' - essentially the same as Elmer's white glue but with coloring and additives to make it set up faster than white glue 

* '''White glue''' - the regular stuff commonly found at your local "-mart" store. 

* '''Polyurethane glue''' - unlike yellow or white glue that requires air to cure, polyurethane glue requires moisture to cure. Polyurethane is excellent at joining dissimilar materials such as wood and plastic. When curing, it "foams", so clamps are a must with this type of glue. 

::* ''When working with MDF, remember this trick to get better results. You'll find the edges rougher and more porous than the face. Gluing as you normally would can "starve" the joint of glue. To avoid this, "double glue" the joint. Apply a coat of glue to the edges of the boards but do not assemble! Allow this first layer to soak in. Then apply a second layer of glue and assemble the panels. The first layer helps seal the surface, while the second application works to create a solid bond.'' 

==Nails==
: Self-explanatory, except to say for building a cabinet, screws are the preferred method, but nails can be used if you wish, however, plywood or solid wood panels are recommended if using nails

==Screws==
[[image:countersink_tip.jpg|right|thumb|Get tight joints|60px]]
: Screws will require special methods when used with MDF. Screws installed into the edges of MDF can cause it to split, resulting in a weak or failed joint. You'll need to drill a pilot hole for your screws. Use a drill bit the same diameter as the shank of your screw, and drill your hole slightly deeper than the length of your screw. Secondly, use sraight-shanked screws to avoid splitting the material and also to get a better grip in the material. "Sheet Metal" screws are a decent inexpensive choice for MDF. Special screws, called Confirmat screws, are available but somewhat costly.

: MDF fibers will "pull up" when driving screws into the pilot hole causing a "bump" around the shank of the screw. This can make it more difficult to get a tight joint between panels. If you countersink the pilot holes at both faces of each panel, it creates a cavity that gives the "bump" somewhere to go. This allows for a stronger, better looking joint.

==Dowels==

==Biscuits==

Power Tools

2006-03-01T03:41:00Z

Nostrebor: /* Drill */ added countersink pic

Power tools speed up the job of cutting the materials you need to build your cabinet. Depending on skill level, some people find it almost impossible to do things correctly without them, but they certainly can be done with hand tools. The list of power tools that are commonly used can be quite long, but a cabinet can certainly be built with a few important ones.

** '''Remember, when using ANY power tool, read the instruction manual and use safety protection (safety glasses, hearing protection, face masks) before plugging in any tool.'''

==Circular Saw==

A circular saw cuts straight lines faster and easier than almost any other saw. It allows you to take the tool over to the wood, rather than maneuvering the wood around the tool.

==Jigsaw==

Also called a Saber Saw, a jigsaw is quite useful for making curved cuts. A jigsaw can be used to make straight cuts as well, but will take more time and due to the narrower base and propensity for the blades to bend, allows more chances for mistakes to creep in.

==Router==

** '''Because of the high speed that ANY type of router spins at, routers can be VERY dangerous. ALWAYS make sure the bit is seated properly into the unit (see the manual for your particular unit), and DO NOT try to "cheat" to get more depth out of the cut than the bit allows. Go back to the store and buy the proper length bit.'''

For our purposes, a router can be considered the jack-of-all-trades. With the proper guides and setup, a router can do straight cuts like a circular saw, can handle curved cuts like a jigsaw, and can do several other things with a high degree of competency. The router's capabilities are determined by the bit that is used. If you wish to install t-molding on your cabinet, it is practically impossible to do so without using a t-molding bit in your router. If you wish to ensure both sides of your cabinet are identical, cutting one side and using a pattern bit or flush-trim bit to trace around the first side will cut a second piece of wood to the exact same shape. Cutting plexiglass with your router is also easier with your router and tends to encounter less problems.

Smaller routers, called trim or laminate routers, can also be used, and are perfectly acceptable for our purposes. Larger-shanked bits usually cannot be used, so be sure to check that the bits you wish to use come in the smaller-shanked versions.

==Drill==
[[image:countersink_bits.jpg|right|thumb|countersink bits|65px]]

Drills, drill bits, and screwdriver bits work to speed up fastening panels together. Some materials, such as MDF, should be pre-drilled, meaning a drill bit should be used to drill a hole before a screw is placed in that spot. Failure to do so can result in splitting the material. Many other materials require this step as well. Test yours to make sure.

When done with the predrilling step, using a screwdriver bit in your drill will speed up the insertion of screws as well. If your drill comes with several speeds, the lowest setting (usually #1) is designed to be used when driving screws. Higher speeds can set your screw too deep, potentially ruining the work you just did.

One of the most helpful drill bits needed for MDF cabinet construction is a "countersink" bit. This is a special drill bit assembly that has a regular drill bit with a secondary countersink cutter attached. This bit creates a dome shaped recess at the start of the hole to allow the head of the screw to rest flush with the face of the wood. By using a countersink bit you can prevent the dreaded "hump" of displaced MDF around your screw heads and in your glued and screwed joints.

==Random-orbit Sander==

** '''Many types of wood dust are fine powders and are easily inhaled, causing short-term effects. Some, such as MDF, are TOXIC and can cause long-term health effects. Face masks to filter these dusts and irritants SHOULD ALWAYS BE WORN.'''

Hand sanding quickly becomes tedious and more often than not, will be ignored or given minimal attention because of this. A smooth paint/stain job is easier to obtain with a smooth surface, so a random-orbit sander speeds up this chore and makes it easier to complete.

Random-orbit sanders use random movements so as not to leave directional marks in what you are sanding. While this is not important in materials such as MDF where there is no direction, or "grain", materials such as plywood will show such marks, and may be difficult if not impossible to remove. If you are staining your project, this may show up through your finish, and can be an eyesore.

Another reason for a random-orbit sander is when mistakes happen. It is easier to sand off the layer of finish you just applied if something goes wrong, such as dust in the paint. A power sander will make this an easy repair.

==Blades/Bits/Etc==
* Hole-creation bits
** Hole Saw
** Spade Bit
** Forstner Bit
* Router bits
** T-molding bit
** Flush-trim Bit
** Pattern Bit
* Saw blades
** Standard blade (HSS)
** Carbide blade
** Hollow ground blade

File:Countersink bits.jpg

2006-03-01T03:38:35Z

Nostrebor: Pic of countersink bit set

Pic of countersink bit set

Power Tools

2006-03-01T03:36:49Z

Nostrebor: /* Drill */ added countersink info

Power tools speed up the job of cutting the materials you need to build your cabinet. Depending on skill level, some people find it almost impossible to do things correctly without them, but they certainly can be done with hand tools. The list of power tools that are commonly used can be quite long, but a cabinet can certainly be built with a few important ones.

** '''Remember, when using ANY power tool, read the instruction manual and use safety protection (safety glasses, hearing protection, face masks) before plugging in any tool.'''

==Circular Saw==

A circular saw cuts straight lines faster and easier than almost any other saw. It allows you to take the tool over to the wood, rather than maneuvering the wood around the tool.

==Jigsaw==

Also called a Saber Saw, a jigsaw is quite useful for making curved cuts. A jigsaw can be used to make straight cuts as well, but will take more time and due to the narrower base and propensity for the blades to bend, allows more chances for mistakes to creep in.

==Router==

** '''Because of the high speed that ANY type of router spins at, routers can be VERY dangerous. ALWAYS make sure the bit is seated properly into the unit (see the manual for your particular unit), and DO NOT try to "cheat" to get more depth out of the cut than the bit allows. Go back to the store and buy the proper length bit.'''

For our purposes, a router can be considered the jack-of-all-trades. With the proper guides and setup, a router can do straight cuts like a circular saw, can handle curved cuts like a jigsaw, and can do several other things with a high degree of competency. The router's capabilities are determined by the bit that is used. If you wish to install t-molding on your cabinet, it is practically impossible to do so without using a t-molding bit in your router. If you wish to ensure both sides of your cabinet are identical, cutting one side and using a pattern bit or flush-trim bit to trace around the first side will cut a second piece of wood to the exact same shape. Cutting plexiglass with your router is also easier with your router and tends to encounter less problems.

Smaller routers, called trim or laminate routers, can also be used, and are perfectly acceptable for our purposes. Larger-shanked bits usually cannot be used, so be sure to check that the bits you wish to use come in the smaller-shanked versions.

==Drill==

Drills, drill bits, and screwdriver bits work to speed up fastening panels together. Some materials, such as MDF, should be pre-drilled, meaning a drill bit should be used to drill a hole before a screw is placed in that spot. Failure to do so can result in splitting the material. Many other materials require this step as well. Test yours to make sure.

When done with the predrilling step, using a screwdriver bit in your drill will speed up the insertion of screws as well. If your drill comes with several speeds, the lowest setting (usually #1) is designed to be used when driving screws. Higher speeds can set your screw too deep, potentially ruining the work you just did.

One of the most helpful drill bits needed for MDF cabinet construction is a "countersink" bit. This is a special drill bit assembly that has a regular drill bit with a secondary countersink cutter attached. This bit creates a dome shaped recess at the start of the hole to allow the head of the screw to rest flush with the face of the wood. By using a countersink bit you can prevent the dreaded "hump" of displaced MDF around your screw heads and in your glued and screwed joints.

==Random-orbit Sander==

** '''Many types of wood dust are fine powders and are easily inhaled, causing short-term effects. Some, such as MDF, are TOXIC and can cause long-term health effects. Face masks to filter these dusts and irritants SHOULD ALWAYS BE WORN.'''

Hand sanding quickly becomes tedious and more often than not, will be ignored or given minimal attention because of this. A smooth paint/stain job is easier to obtain with a smooth surface, so a random-orbit sander speeds up this chore and makes it easier to complete.

Random-orbit sanders use random movements so as not to leave directional marks in what you are sanding. While this is not important in materials such as MDF where there is no direction, or "grain", materials such as plywood will show such marks, and may be difficult if not impossible to remove. If you are staining your project, this may show up through your finish, and can be an eyesore.

Another reason for a random-orbit sander is when mistakes happen. It is easier to sand off the layer of finish you just applied if something goes wrong, such as dust in the paint. A power sander will make this an easy repair.

==Blades/Bits/Etc==
* Hole-creation bits
** Hole Saw
** Spade Bit
** Forstner Bit
* Router bits
** T-molding bit
** Flush-trim Bit
** Pattern Bit
* Saw blades
** Standard blade (HSS)
** Carbide blade
** Hollow ground blade

Fasteners

2006-03-01T03:29:45Z

Nostrebor: /* Screws */ added countersink info

==Glue==

* '''Wood glue''' - essentially the same as Elmer's white glue but with coloring and additives to make it set up faster than white glue 

* '''White glue''' - the regular stuff commonly found at your local "-mart" store. 

* '''Polyurethane glue''' - unlike yellow or white glue that requires air to cure, polyurethane glue requires moisture to cure. Polyurethane is excellent at joining dissimilar materials such as wood and plastic. When curing, it "foams", so clamps are a must with this type of glue. 

::* ''When working with MDF, remember this trick to get better results. You'll find the edges rougher and more porous than the face. Gluing as you normally would can "starve" the joint of glue. To avoid this, "double glue" the joint. Apply a coat of glue to the edges of the boards but do not assemble! Allow this first layer to soak in. Then apply a second layer of glue and assemble the panels. The first layer helps seal the surface, while the second application works to create a solid bond.'' 

==Nails==
: Self-explanatory, except to say for building a cabinet, screws are the preferred method, but nails can be used if you wish, however, plywood or solid wood panels are recommended if using nails

==Screws==
: Screws will require special methods when used with MDF. Screws installed into the edges of MDF can cause it to split, resulting in a weak or failed joint. You'll need to drill a pilot hole for your screws. Use a drill bit the same diameter as the shank of your screw, and drill your hole slightly deeper than the length of your screw. Secondly, use sraight-shanked screws to avoid splitting the material and also to get a better grip in the material. "Drywall" screws are a decent inexpensive choice, with a coarse thread for MDF. Special screws, called Confirmat screws, are available but somewhat costly.

: MDF fibers will "pull up" when driving screws into the pilot hole causing a "bump" around the shank of the screw. This can make it more difficult to get a tight joint between panels. If you countersink the pilot holes at both faces of each panel, it creates a cavity that gives the "bump" somewhere to go. This allows for a stronger, better looking joint.

==Dowels==

==Biscuits==

Fasteners

2006-03-01T03:22:01Z

Nostrebor: /* Glue */ slight clarification

==Glue==

* '''Wood glue''' - essentially the same as Elmer's white glue but with coloring and additives to make it set up faster than white glue 

* '''White glue''' - the regular stuff commonly found at your local "-mart" store. 

* '''Polyurethane glue''' - unlike yellow or white glue that requires air to cure, polyurethane glue requires moisture to cure. Polyurethane is excellent at joining dissimilar materials such as wood and plastic. When curing, it "foams", so clamps are a must with this type of glue. 

::* ''When working with MDF, remember this trick to get better results. You'll find the edges rougher and more porous than the face. Gluing as you normally would can "starve" the joint of glue. To avoid this, "double glue" the joint. Apply a coat of glue to the edges of the boards but do not assemble! Allow this first layer to soak in. Then apply a second layer of glue and assemble the panels. The first layer helps seal the surface, while the second application works to create a solid bond.'' 

==Nails==
: Self-explanatory, except to say for building a cabinet, screws are the preferred method, but nails can be used if you wish, however, plywood or solid wood panels are recommended if using nails

==Screws==
: Screws will require special methods when used with MDF. Screws installed into the edges of MDF can cause it to split, resulting in a weak or failed joint. You'll need to drill a pilot hole for your screws. Use a drill bit the same diameter as the shank of your screw, and drill your hole slightly deeper than the length of your screw. Secondly, use sraight-shanked screws to avoid splitting the material and also to get a better grip in the material. Special screws, called Confirmat screws, are available but somewhat costly.

==Dowels==

==Biscuits==

2006-03-01T03:16:13Z

Nostrebor: /* '''Building Materials''' */

{| cellpadding="10" width="100%"
| style="width:50%" |
=='''The Basics'''==
A lot of people will look at an arcade cabinet and say "Hey, that looks easy- it's just a screen, some wood and some buttons.", but arcade cabinets aren't quite as simple as many people think. Here's a good place to start learning about the various ins and outs of arcade machines in general.
* [[Arcade Cabinet 101]]
* [[Connecting a PC to an Arcade Cabinet|Connecting a PC to an Arcade Cabinet (an overview)]]
* [[JAMMA]]
* [[Restoration]]
* [[Glossary]]
* [[Vendors|Vendors (Where to get parts)]]

=='''Building Materials'''==
If you're planing on building an arcade cabinet from scratch, these are some of the materials you might end up using for various elements of the cabinet.
* [[Wood products]]
** [[Wood products#Plywood|Plywood]]
** [[Wood products#MDF|MDF]]
** [[Wood products#MDO|MDO]]
** [[Wood products#OSB|OSB]]
** [[Wood products#Particle Board|Particle Board]]
* [[Plastics]]
** [[Plastics#Acrylic|Acrylic]]
** [[Plastics#Polycarbonate|Polycarbonate]]
* [[Finishes]]
** [[Finishes#Water-based Paint|Water-based Paint]]
** [[Finishes#Oil-based Paint|Oil-based Paint]]
** [[Finishes#Stain|Stain]]
** [[Finishes#Polyurethane|Polyurethane]]
** [[Finishes#Shellac|Shellac]]
** [[Finishes#Varnish|Varnish]]
** [[Finishes#Laminate|Laminate]]

=='''Tools'''==
Building your own arcade machine is no simple task and requires the correct tools as well as the knowledge of how to use each one correctly and safely. Hopefully you already own some of these tools and are well versed in their operation. If not, here's a few things you might want to add to your shopping list.
* [[Project Arcade|Project Arcade - The Book]]

* [[Hand Tools]]
** [[Safety Equipment|Safety Equipment]]
*** [[Safety Equipment#Eye Protection|Eye Protection]]
*** [[Safety Equipment#Hearing Protection|Hearing Protection]]
*** [[Safety Equipment#Breathing Protection|Breathing Protection]]
** [[Marking Tools|Marking Tools]]
** [[Measuring Devices|Measuring Devices]]
** [[Sandpaper/Sanding Blocks|Sandpaper/Sanding Blocks]]
** [[Clamps|Clamps]]
*** [[Clamps#Spring Clamps|Spring Clamps]]
*** [[Clamps#Screw Clamps|Screw Clamps]]
*** [[Clamps#Bar Clamps|Bar Clamps]]
*** [[Clamps#Pipe Clamps|Pipe Clamps]]
** [[Sawhorses/Stands|Sawhorses/Stands ]]
** [[Wire Strippers/Crimpers|Wire Strippers/Crimpers]]
** [[Hammer/Screwdriver|Hammer/Screwdriver]]
** [[Fasteners|Fasteners]]
*** [[Fasteners#Glue|Glue]]
*** [[Fasteners#Nails|Nails]]
*** [[Fasteners#Screws|Screws]]
*** [[Fasteners#Dowels|Dowels]]
*** [[Fasteners#Biscuits|Biscuits]]

* [[Power Tools]]
** [[Power Tools#Circular Saw|Circular Saw]]
** [[Power Tools#Jigsaw|Jigsaw]]
** [[Power Tools#Router|Router]]
** [[Power Tools#Drill|Drill]]
** [[Power Tools#Random-orbit Sander|Random-orbit Sander]]
** [[Power Tools#Blades/Bits/Etc|Blades/Bits/Etc]]

=='''Arcade Art'''==
*[[Overview & Options to Consider]]
*[[Creating Your Own Art From Scratch]]
*[[Restoring & Recreating Artwork]]
*[[Marble Contact Paper is your Enemy]]
*[[Applying CPOs]]
|

=='''Arcade Control Hardware'''==
Here's the reason most people enter this hobby; to play the games you love with actual arcade hardware, just as they were intended. There's a vast array of different controls out there...
* [[Joysticks]]
** [[Joysticks#Conventional Digital Joysticks|Conventional Digital Joysticks]]
** [[Joysticks#Non-Conventional Digital Joysticks|Non-Conventional Digital Joysticks]]
** [[Joysticks#49-Way Joysticks|49-Way Joysticks]]
** [[Joysticks#Analog Joysicks|Analog Joysicks]]
** [[Joysticks#Rotary Joysticks|Rotary Joysticks]]
* [[Pushbuttons]]
** [[Pushbuttons#Microswitch_Pushbuttons|Microswitch Pushbuttons]]
** [[Pushbuttons#Leafswitch_Pushbuttons|Leafswitch Pushbuttons]]
** [[Pushbuttons#Atari_Volcano_Buttons|Atari Volcano Buttons]]
* [[Trackballs]]
* [[Spinners]]
* [[Lightguns]]
* [[Steering Wheels/Yokes/Pedals/Shifters]]

=='''Interfacing Controls With Your PC'''==
* [[Keyboard Hacks]]
* [[Encoders|Encoders]]
** [[Keyboard Encoders|Keyboard Encoders]]
*** [[Keyboard Encoders#I-PAC2|I-PAC2]]
*** [[Keyboard Encoders#I-PAC4|I-PAC4]]
*** [[Keyboard Encoders#I-PAC VE|I-PAC VE]]
*** [[Keyboard Encoders#J-PAC|J-PAC]]
*** [[Keyboard Encoders#KeyWiz Eco 2|KeyWiz Eco 2]]
*** [[Keyboard Encoders#KeyWiz MAX|KeyWiz MAX]]
*** [[Keyboard Encoders#KE72|KE72]]
*** [[Keyboard Encoders#KE24|KE24]]
*** [[Keyboard Encoders#KE18|KE18]]
*** [[Keyboard Encoders#LP24|LP24]]
*** [[Keyboard Encoders#KE-USB36|KE-USB36]]
** [[Gamepad Encoders|Gamepad Encoders]]
*** [[Gamepad Encoders#A-PAC|A-PAC]]
*** [[Gamepad Encoders#GP Wiz|GP Wiz]]
*** [[Gamepad Encoders#GP Wiz49 Eco|GP Wiz49]]
** [[Rotary Encoders|Rotary Encoders]]
*** [[Rotary Encoders#Rotary-5|Rotary-5]]
** [[Optical Encoders|Optical (Mouse) Encoders]]
*** [[Optical Encoders#Opti-PAC|Opti-PAC]]
*** [[Optical Encoders#Opti-Wiz|Opti-Wiz]]
*** [[Optical Encoders#ME4|ME4]]

=='''Video'''==
* [[Video Cards]]
** [[Monitors]]
*** [[ArcadeVGA|ArcadeVGA Video Card ]]
** [[Televisions]]
*** [[Video Output|Composite Video (RCA)]]
*** [[Video Output|S-Video]]
*** [[Video Output|Component Video]]

=='''Software'''==
* [[Emulators]]
* [[Front-Ends]]
* [[Collections and PC Games]]

=='''Miscellaneous (for now?)'''==
* [[Hiding Windows]]
* [[DOS vs Windows]]
* [[LED-Wiz|LED & Light Control]]
* [[Electrical Supplies]]
* [[Coin Doors]]
* [[Light Gun Setup]]

Wood products

2006-03-01T03:15:43Z

Nostrebor: Edit - addded MDO

In building an arcade cabinet, several types of materials are available to you. Each has its strengths and weaknesses.

==Plywood==
Plywood is a manufactured board composed of an odd number of thin sheets of wood glued together under pressure with grains of the successive layers at right angles. Plywood is strong, light, rigid, and resistant to splitting and warping. It can be molded into curved or irregular forms as well.

The two types commonly in use today are those made of softwood (such as pine) or hardwood (oak and birch are common types). Other material such as MDF may be substituted for the usual wood core.

==MDF==

MDF is basically a mixture of fine wood fibers and a binder that's pressed into plywood-like sheets. Since MDF has no "grain", it's very stable. The sheets are flat and will stay that way. And with carbide-tipped bits and blades, it machines smoothly and easily. Topping it all off, MDF is relatively inexpensive. Some drawbacks to MDF are its weight (a 4'x8' sheet will weigh ~90 lbs) and water resistance. MDF is more moisture tolerant than particleboard, but WILL swell upon contact with water.

::'''''MDF DUST IS TOXIC! CARE SHOULD BE TAKEN TO AVOID INHALING IT. BREATHING PROTECTION IS A MUST WHEN WORKING WITH THIS MATERIAL. EFFECTS OF INHALATION ARE EXTREMELY HARMFUL TO YOUR HEALTH'''''

==MDO==

MDO is a hybrid material made for outdoor applications such as sign painting. It has a core of 5 or 7-ply plywood that is manufactured using moisture resistant resins and bonding agents between the plys. Either one or both sides (faces) are coated with a thin layer of water resistant "paper" that is similar in smoothness to MDF. This product is typically more expensive than MDF, but provides all the advantages of plywood (lighter weight, more durable, better water resistance) with the same smooth, paint-ready face surface as MDF. MDO can typically be purchased at the "big box" stores at the order desk, or usually can be found in stock in a woodworkers supply store or through a local lumberyard.

::'''''MDO DUST IS TOXIC! CARE SHOULD BE TAKEN TO AVOID INHALING IT. BREATHING PROTECTION IS A MUST WHEN WORKING WITH THIS MATERIAL. EFFECTS OF INHALATION ARE EXTREMELY HARMFUL TO YOUR HEALTH'''''

==OSB==

OSB is an engineered structural wood panel made up of three layers of oriented wood flakes. It is a sheet material in which strands of wood are bonded together with a synthetic resin adhesive. The alignment of the wood strands contributes to the boards strength and structural performance.

==Particle Board==

Particle board (sometimes called chipboard) is a composite material manufactured from wood particles (wood chips, shavings, or even saw dust) and a synthetic resin or binder, which is pressed and extruded. Particle board is an engineered-wood product and is very dense, heavy, and flat. It is used as a cheaper and less durable substitute for solid wood or plywood. It is very prone to expansion due to moisture.

2006-03-01T02:58:16Z

Nostrebor: /* '''Building Materials''' */

{| cellpadding="10" width="100%"
| style="width:50%" |
=='''The Basics'''==
A lot of people will look at an arcade cabinet and say "Hey, that looks easy- it's just a screen, some wood and some buttons.", but arcade cabinets aren't quite as simple as many people think. Here's a good place to start learning about the various ins and outs of arcade machines in general.
* [[Arcade Cabinet 101]]
* [[Connecting a PC to an Arcade Cabinet|Connecting a PC to an Arcade Cabinet (an overview)]]
* [[JAMMA]]
* [[Restoration]]
* [[Glossary]]
* [[Vendors|Vendors (Where to get parts)]]

=='''Building Materials'''==
If you're planing on building an arcade cabinet from scratch, these are some of the materials you might end up using for various elements of the cabinet.
* [[Wood products]]
** [[Wood products#Plywood|Plywood]]
** [[Wood products#MDF|MDF]]
** [[Wood products#OSB|OSB]]
** [[Wood products#Particle Board|Particle Board]]
* [[Plastics]]
** [[Plastics#Acrylic|Acrylic]]
** [[Plastics#Polycarbonate|Polycarbonate]]
* [[Finishes]]
** [[Finishes#Water-based Paint|Water-based Paint]]
** [[Finishes#Oil-based Paint|Oil-based Paint]]
** [[Finishes#Stain|Stain]]
** [[Finishes#Polyurethane|Polyurethane]]
** [[Finishes#Shellac|Shellac]]
** [[Finishes#Varnish|Varnish]]
** [[Finishes#Laminate|Laminate]]

=='''Tools'''==
Building your own arcade machine is no simple task and requires the correct tools as well as the knowledge of how to use each one correctly and safely. Hopefully you already own some of these tools and are well versed in their operation. If not, here's a few things you might want to add to your shopping list.
* [[Project Arcade|Project Arcade - The Book]]

* [[Hand Tools]]
** [[Safety Equipment|Safety Equipment]]
*** [[Safety Equipment#Eye Protection|Eye Protection]]
*** [[Safety Equipment#Hearing Protection|Hearing Protection]]
*** [[Safety Equipment#Breathing Protection|Breathing Protection]]
** [[Marking Tools|Marking Tools]]
** [[Measuring Devices|Measuring Devices]]
** [[Sandpaper/Sanding Blocks|Sandpaper/Sanding Blocks]]
** [[Clamps|Clamps]]
*** [[Clamps#Spring Clamps|Spring Clamps]]
*** [[Clamps#Screw Clamps|Screw Clamps]]
*** [[Clamps#Bar Clamps|Bar Clamps]]
*** [[Clamps#Pipe Clamps|Pipe Clamps]]
** [[Sawhorses/Stands|Sawhorses/Stands ]]
** [[Wire Strippers/Crimpers|Wire Strippers/Crimpers]]
** [[Hammer/Screwdriver|Hammer/Screwdriver]]
** [[Fasteners|Fasteners]]
*** [[Fasteners#Glue|Glue]]
*** [[Fasteners#Nails|Nails]]
*** [[Fasteners#Screws|Screws]]
*** [[Fasteners#Dowels|Dowels]]
*** [[Fasteners#Biscuits|Biscuits]]

* [[Power Tools]]
** [[Power Tools#Circular Saw|Circular Saw]]
** [[Power Tools#Jigsaw|Jigsaw]]
** [[Power Tools#Router|Router]]
** [[Power Tools#Drill|Drill]]
** [[Power Tools#Random-orbit Sander|Random-orbit Sander]]
** [[Power Tools#Blades/Bits/Etc|Blades/Bits/Etc]]

=='''Arcade Art'''==
*[[Overview & Options to Consider]]
*[[Creating Your Own Art From Scratch]]
*[[Restoring & Recreating Artwork]]
*[[Marble Contact Paper is your Enemy]]
*[[Applying CPOs]]
|

=='''Arcade Control Hardware'''==
Here's the reason most people enter this hobby; to play the games you love with actual arcade hardware, just as they were intended. There's a vast array of different controls out there...
* [[Joysticks]]
** [[Joysticks#Conventional Digital Joysticks|Conventional Digital Joysticks]]
** [[Joysticks#Non-Conventional Digital Joysticks|Non-Conventional Digital Joysticks]]
** [[Joysticks#49-Way Joysticks|49-Way Joysticks]]
** [[Joysticks#Analog Joysicks|Analog Joysicks]]
** [[Joysticks#Rotary Joysticks|Rotary Joysticks]]
* [[Pushbuttons]]
** [[Pushbuttons#Microswitch_Pushbuttons|Microswitch Pushbuttons]]
** [[Pushbuttons#Leafswitch_Pushbuttons|Leafswitch Pushbuttons]]
** [[Pushbuttons#Atari_Volcano_Buttons|Atari Volcano Buttons]]
* [[Trackballs]]
* [[Spinners]]
* [[Lightguns]]
* [[Steering Wheels/Yokes/Pedals/Shifters]]

=='''Interfacing Controls With Your PC'''==
* [[Keyboard Hacks]]
* [[Encoders|Encoders]]
** [[Keyboard Encoders|Keyboard Encoders]]
*** [[Keyboard Encoders#I-PAC2|I-PAC2]]
*** [[Keyboard Encoders#I-PAC4|I-PAC4]]
*** [[Keyboard Encoders#I-PAC VE|I-PAC VE]]
*** [[Keyboard Encoders#J-PAC|J-PAC]]
*** [[Keyboard Encoders#KeyWiz Eco 2|KeyWiz Eco 2]]
*** [[Keyboard Encoders#KeyWiz MAX|KeyWiz MAX]]
*** [[Keyboard Encoders#KE72|KE72]]
*** [[Keyboard Encoders#KE24|KE24]]
*** [[Keyboard Encoders#KE18|KE18]]
*** [[Keyboard Encoders#LP24|LP24]]
*** [[Keyboard Encoders#KE-USB36|KE-USB36]]
** [[Gamepad Encoders|Gamepad Encoders]]
*** [[Gamepad Encoders#A-PAC|A-PAC]]
*** [[Gamepad Encoders#GP Wiz|GP Wiz]]
*** [[Gamepad Encoders#GP Wiz49 Eco|GP Wiz49]]
** [[Rotary Encoders|Rotary Encoders]]
*** [[Rotary Encoders#Rotary-5|Rotary-5]]
** [[Optical Encoders|Optical (Mouse) Encoders]]
*** [[Optical Encoders#Opti-PAC|Opti-PAC]]
*** [[Optical Encoders#Opti-Wiz|Opti-Wiz]]
*** [[Optical Encoders#ME4|ME4]]

=='''Video'''==
* [[Video Cards]]
** [[Monitors]]
*** [[ArcadeVGA|ArcadeVGA Video Card ]]
** [[Televisions]]
*** [[Video Output|Composite Video (RCA)]]
*** [[Video Output|S-Video]]
*** [[Video Output|Component Video]]

=='''Software'''==
* [[Emulators]]
* [[Front-Ends]]
* [[Collections and PC Games]]

=='''Miscellaneous (for now?)'''==
* [[Hiding Windows]]
* [[DOS vs Windows]]
* [[LED-Wiz|LED & Light Control]]
* [[Electrical Supplies]]
* [[Coin Doors]]
* [[Light Gun Setup]]

2006-03-01T02:54:13Z

Nostrebor: /* '''Building Materials''' */

BYOAC OLD Wiki - User contributions [en]

File:Countersink bits.jpg

Plastics

Fasteners

Fasteners

File:Countersink tip.jpg

Fasteners

Power Tools

File:Countersink bits.jpg

Power Tools

Fasteners

Fasteners

Contents

Wood products

Contents

Contents