BYOAC OLD Wiki - User contributions [en]

Technical design software

2010-01-07T03:16:07Z

Painterinfo: /* Commonly used software */

'''Technical design software''' is used to create accurate building plans for arcade cabinets.

==Commonly used software==

* '''[http://www.sketchup.com SketchUp (Windows XP, Vista, OSX 10.4, 10.5)]'''
:For developing the conceptual stages of design through to making final plans, SketchUp is powerful yet easy-to-learn 3D software. SketchUp has some very simple online [http://sketchup.google.com/training/videos.html video tutorials] to get you designing within an hour. Many people are now using Google's fully featured free Sketchup software to design their arcade cabinets. This wiki has a dedicated [[SketchUp Tips]] page with examples of several people's work to help get you started.

* '''[http://www.autodesk.com Autodesk AutoCAD (Windows XP, Vista)]'''
:AutoCAD is a highend CAD ("Computer Aided Design"[http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Computer-aided_design]) software package. Some BYOACers have access to AutoCAD, it has a steep learning curve - if you are not familiar with the software don't try to use this as your design software.

* '''[http://usa.autodesk.com/adsk/servlet/index?id=5659302&siteID=123112 3D Studio Max (Windows XP, Vista)]'''
:3D Studio is software to create 3D models and render photorealistic images. The software is easier to work with that AutoCAD but the full package is still quite expensive. Graphic designers might have access to the software. Besides the ability to create cabinet plans, the photorealistic render engine enbles the builder to create a lifelike image of the cabinet way before any physical material is touched. [http://forum.arcadecontrols.com/index.php?topic=13118.0 Pixelhugger's Mission Control arcade] features many renderings of his design before he started to build.

* '''[http://www.visio.com Microsoft Visio (Windows XP, Vista)]'''
:Microsoft Visio is part of the Microsoft Office suite of products. Visio is a 2D diagram software package that can be used to create accurate diagrams and building plans. Some BYOACers also use Visio to create [[Contents#Arcade_Art|artwork]][http://forum.arcadecontrols.com/index.php?topic=24442.msg202240#msg202240].

==Arcade specific software==
* '''[http://www.tahnokgames.com/Applications/CPSketcher/applications_cpsketcher.htm CP Sketcher (Windows 98 SE, 2000, ME, XP)]'''
:CP Sketcher is a program created to design arcade control panels. It allows you to sketch up a design using real parts and then build it using the plans it creates.

* '''[http://www.versiontracker.com/dyn/moreinfo/macosx/22834 Joystick And Gamepad Tester (OS X 10.3-10.5)]'''
:Joystick And Gamepad Tester is a very useful freeware program to test your control panel before sealing your cabinet. It can be used to determine the orientation of analogue joysticks and trackballs and to check if everything is connected correctly. It works with gamepads, keyboards, joysticks, mice, keyboard-encoders, mouse-encoders, trackball interfaces, spinners.

==See also==
* [[Building]]
* [[Graphics software]]
* [[SketchUp Tips]]

[[Category:Building]]

Technical design software

2010-01-07T03:15:33Z

Painterinfo: /* See also */

'''Technical design software''' is used to create accurate building plans for arcade cabinets.

==Commonly used software==

* '''[http://www.sketchup.com SketchUp (Windows XP, Vista, OSX 10.4, 10.5)]'''
:For developing the conceptual stages of design through to making final plans, SketchUp is powerful yet easy-to-learn 3D software. SketchUp has some very simple online [http://sketchup.google.com/training/videos.html video tutorials] to get you designing within an hour. Many people are now using Google's fully featured free Sketchup software to design their arcade cabinets. This wiki has a dedicated [http://wiki.arcadecontrols.com/wiki/SketchUp_Tips tips] page with examples of several people's work to help get you started.

* '''[http://www.autodesk.com Autodesk AutoCAD (Windows XP, Vista)]'''
:AutoCAD is a highend CAD ("Computer Aided Design"[http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Computer-aided_design]) software package. Some BYOACers have access to AutoCAD, it has a steep learning curve - if you are not familiar with the software don't try to use this as your design software.

* '''[http://usa.autodesk.com/adsk/servlet/index?id=5659302&siteID=123112 3D Studio Max (Windows XP, Vista)]'''
:3D Studio is software to create 3D models and render photorealistic images. The software is easier to work with that AutoCAD but the full package is still quite expensive. Graphic designers might have access to the software. Besides the ability to create cabinet plans, the photorealistic render engine enbles the builder to create a lifelike image of the cabinet way before any physical material is touched. [http://forum.arcadecontrols.com/index.php?topic=13118.0 Pixelhugger's Mission Control arcade] features many renderings of his design before he started to build.

* '''[http://www.visio.com Microsoft Visio (Windows XP, Vista)]'''
:Microsoft Visio is part of the Microsoft Office suite of products. Visio is a 2D diagram software package that can be used to create accurate diagrams and building plans. Some BYOACers also use Visio to create [[Contents#Arcade_Art|artwork]][http://forum.arcadecontrols.com/index.php?topic=24442.msg202240#msg202240].

==Arcade specific software==
* '''[http://www.tahnokgames.com/Applications/CPSketcher/applications_cpsketcher.htm CP Sketcher (Windows 98 SE, 2000, ME, XP)]'''
:CP Sketcher is a program created to design arcade control panels. It allows you to sketch up a design using real parts and then build it using the plans it creates.

* '''[http://www.versiontracker.com/dyn/moreinfo/macosx/22834 Joystick And Gamepad Tester (OS X 10.3-10.5)]'''
:Joystick And Gamepad Tester is a very useful freeware program to test your control panel before sealing your cabinet. It can be used to determine the orientation of analogue joysticks and trackballs and to check if everything is connected correctly. It works with gamepads, keyboards, joysticks, mice, keyboard-encoders, mouse-encoders, trackball interfaces, spinners.

==See also==
* [[Building]]
* [[Graphics software]]
* [[SketchUp Tips]]

[[Category:Building]]

Technical design software

2010-01-07T03:13:12Z

Painterinfo: /* Commonly used software */

'''Technical design software''' is used to create accurate building plans for arcade cabinets.

==Commonly used software==

* '''[http://www.sketchup.com SketchUp (Windows XP, Vista, OSX 10.4, 10.5)]'''
:For developing the conceptual stages of design through to making final plans, SketchUp is powerful yet easy-to-learn 3D software. SketchUp has some very simple online [http://sketchup.google.com/training/videos.html video tutorials] to get you designing within an hour. Many people are now using Google's fully featured free Sketchup software to design their arcade cabinets. This wiki has a dedicated [http://wiki.arcadecontrols.com/wiki/SketchUp_Tips tips] page with examples of several people's work to help get you started.

* '''[http://www.autodesk.com Autodesk AutoCAD (Windows XP, Vista)]'''
:AutoCAD is a highend CAD ("Computer Aided Design"[http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Computer-aided_design]) software package. Some BYOACers have access to AutoCAD, it has a steep learning curve - if you are not familiar with the software don't try to use this as your design software.

* '''[http://usa.autodesk.com/adsk/servlet/index?id=5659302&siteID=123112 3D Studio Max (Windows XP, Vista)]'''
:3D Studio is software to create 3D models and render photorealistic images. The software is easier to work with that AutoCAD but the full package is still quite expensive. Graphic designers might have access to the software. Besides the ability to create cabinet plans, the photorealistic render engine enbles the builder to create a lifelike image of the cabinet way before any physical material is touched. [http://forum.arcadecontrols.com/index.php?topic=13118.0 Pixelhugger's Mission Control arcade] features many renderings of his design before he started to build.

* '''[http://www.visio.com Microsoft Visio (Windows XP, Vista)]'''
:Microsoft Visio is part of the Microsoft Office suite of products. Visio is a 2D diagram software package that can be used to create accurate diagrams and building plans. Some BYOACers also use Visio to create [[Contents#Arcade_Art|artwork]][http://forum.arcadecontrols.com/index.php?topic=24442.msg202240#msg202240].

==Arcade specific software==
* '''[http://www.tahnokgames.com/Applications/CPSketcher/applications_cpsketcher.htm CP Sketcher (Windows 98 SE, 2000, ME, XP)]'''
:CP Sketcher is a program created to design arcade control panels. It allows you to sketch up a design using real parts and then build it using the plans it creates.

* '''[http://www.versiontracker.com/dyn/moreinfo/macosx/22834 Joystick And Gamepad Tester (OS X 10.3-10.5)]'''
:Joystick And Gamepad Tester is a very useful freeware program to test your control panel before sealing your cabinet. It can be used to determine the orientation of analogue joysticks and trackballs and to check if everything is connected correctly. It works with gamepads, keyboards, joysticks, mice, keyboard-encoders, mouse-encoders, trackball interfaces, spinners.

==See also==
* [[Building]]
* [[Graphics software]]
* [[SketchUp_Tips]]

[[Category:Building]]

SketchUp Tips

2010-01-07T02:54:53Z

Painterinfo:

== Overview ==
Sketchup is a free, yet very powerful CAD (Computer Aided Design) tool. The main advantage of SketchUp over traditional CAD software is its focus on using sketching / drawing as the primary way to design 3D models. A tagline seen a few years back was ''"3D For The Rest of Us!"''. You do not need to have any prior knowledge of 3D modeling to start learning SketchUp.

=== Learning Sketchup ===
The time it takes to get up to speed with this program is surprisingly fast.

1. Download and install the [http://sketchup.google.com/index.html application] (10mins)

2. Watch the first couple of [http://sketchup.google.com/training/videos.html Video tutorials] (23mins)

3. Start Drawing something or [http://sketchup.google.com/3dwarehouse/search?q=arcade download] someone else's pre made model. (addicted for life)

It is worth while taking the time to continue on and watch all the videos in order to get the most out of the program. If you like it and are going to use it, you will discover many cool tricks that will enable you to draw any 3D object and save you from many frustrations.

=== Free Version vs Commercial Version ===
Google has recently purchased SketchUp and has released the unlimited FREE version, perfect for your arcade design needs. A PRO (= not free) version also exists, but it is '''not''' needed if you are not planning to export your 3D models to another CAD/3D application, or import 3D models into SketchUp. Why would google acquire a 3D modeling tool company? Their Google Earth project allows you to place 3D buildings on the planet earth, virtually. Offering SketchUp to the mainstream Google audience lowers the entry bar of contributing models. They added a ''"Place on Google Earth"'' feature to make this as easy as 123. Additionally, an online gallery (warehouse) is available to save your models to if you want to share them with other SketchUp users.

== Purpose of This Page ==
There is plenty of existing SketchUp tutorial material available on the internet. Why this page then? Us arcade cabinet and Control Panel designers/builders have special needs! We are not designing houses/buildings for Google Earth :) ... This page is not intended as a complete reference. Instead, it is a collection of the '''must-know'''' tips, specifically for people designing Arcade Control Panels and Arcade Cabinets.

== Camera ==
The camera is a key element of your experience using SketchUp. It is essential to make yourself familiar with its two main display modes

=== Modes ===
You should know about the Parralel Projection and Perspective camera modes. They are both useful to successfully designing your arcade cabinet or control panel using SketchUp. To switch modes, click on the Camera menu.

'''Parallel Projection example:'''

[[Image:Sketchup_parralel.jpg]]

Notice how flat things look. You can quickly spot if things line up correctly. Another interesting fact about this mode is that snapping ("inference") seems to work more predictably in this camera mode. This is the best mode to use when you draw rectangles, lines, etc.

'''Perspective example'''

[[Image:Sketchup_perspective.jpg]]

This is how you ''see'' in real life. Use this to check how your design looks, but be careful as you may think elements are lined up even when they are not. Although SketchUp allows you to draw (rectangles, lines, etc) in Perspective, results are more predictable if you switch to Parallel Projection camera mode to draw.

=== Navigating While Modelling ===

Navigating has three main modes and they are covered early in the Google Sketchup training videos.

1. [[Image:cam-ToolPanLarge.png]]Pan (Move side to side and up and down)

2. [[Image:Cam-ToolZoomLarge.png]]Zoom (Move in and out)

3. [[Image:cam-ToolOrbitLarge.png]]Orbit (Rotate your point of view around your model)

A tip and trick for navigating is to only use the orbit [[Image:cam-ToolOrbitLarge.png]] mode and by adding the combination of scrolling the mouse wheel (activates zoom [[Image:Cam-ToolZoomLarge.png]] mode) or pressing the shift key (activates pan [[Image:cam-ToolPanLarge.png]] mode) gets you around with the least hassle.

Navigating many arcade games are harder than this. Don't worry if you get lost in your model press the zoom extents button. [[Image:cam-ToolZoomExtentsLarge.png]]

== Groups and Components ==
Always group your shapes. Without grouping, you will eventually destroy your shapes by mistake. Even 1 shape should be grouped to "solidify" it. To group, double click on a shape to select all of its faces and edges, right-click (or click on Edit Menu) > Make Group. This allows you to select with one click, move, scale (etc) your shape a lot more easily than if you leave your faces and edges ungrouped.

Use Components. Built something you want to reuse (button, cabinet side panel, etc)? Right click (or click on Edit Menu) > Make Component. Give your component a name, and you will then be able to reuse it again many times in your model via the Components Panel.

=== Entering Exact Measurements ===
'''Type measurements into SketchUp every time you draw or extrude something'''. You drew a plywood base rectangle? Type '''"8'; 4'"''' and press ENTER immediately after, and it will resize the rectangle to that '''exact''' measurement... Extruded the width of the plywood base? Type ''"3/4"'' and press ENTER immediately after, and it will be exactly 3/4" extruded. This is the single most powerful feature in this program. It works throughout SketchUp's editing actions (Scale, Move, etc). Remember to do this each time you commit to an edit. The number you type is displayed in the bottom right corner (this is not a true edit box, it just displays as you type). You can type and press enter again if you've made a mistake. Do not click anywhere else until you are sure of the measurements you entered as it would disable the ability to do so.

=== Tape Measure Tool ===
[[Image:Tape_measure_sketchup.png]]

As you enter exact measurements every time you create or edit, your model/scene can be measured using the Tape Measure tool. Simply click twice to see the distance between the two points you clicked. The number is displayed in the bottom right corner. This is a '''key''' tool to master and use. You will use this a lot prior to cutting your boards and while building to guide you. [http://download.sketchup.com/OnlineDoc/gsu_win/I-Construction_Tools/ConTool-Measure.htm Follow this written tutorial to learn how to use the Tape Measure Tool].

=== Get Models ===
[[Image:ge-GetModels.png]]

As your cabinet design takes shape you will want to visualise the control panel layout with real controller parts. I.e. you may ask yourself. "If I make the control panel this wide can I fit a track ball in the middle." or "Can I place the buttons that close to the edge."

The simple solution here is to use the "Get Models" button. This will bring up the “3D Warehouse” window where you can browse for pre made components. Search specifically for "Arcade trackball" or widen search with something like "arcade controls".

Most arcade parts available are to scale and can be placed directly into your arcade cabinet plans. The ones to try first are ones that named after real parts, i.e. "SUZO 2 1/4 inch track ball" , "Happ 3" Trackball" or ones that state that they are to scale in their description.

=== Move Components Around ===
[[Image:Sketchup_move_button.png]]

When you download an arcade button or a joy stick into your model it will be a component and there are some tricks you need to know about moving components.

In fact if you make every wood panel an individual component you will make your life that much easier if you want to move a side panel to see inside your model or change anything. After your model is finished you will also have the option of making an exploded view version that you can apply dimensions and print out.

The best trick with moving components around an arcade machine model is to select it, move it slightly on the desired axis and then type the actual distance you want it moved. i.e. 600 will move it right out the way, move the same component slightly on the same axis back towards the model and type 600 and it will snap straight back into it's original place.

A picture is worth a thousand words and the official Google video tutorial on moving objects is a must see.
[http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=2e095bSztLs Official Move Tutorial Video]

== Arcade Cabinet Projects Designed With SketchUp ==
* [http://forum.arcadecontrols.com/index.php?topic=68794.0 ARTIFACT Game Museum (upright cabinet from scratch)] by BYOAC member ARTIFACT
* [http://forum.arcadecontrols.com/index.php?topic=70093.0 JIMBO's cabinet] by BYOAC member JIMBO
* [http://forum.arcadecontrols.com/index.php?topic=98894.0 Arcade10 (upright cabinet from scratch)] by BYOAC member PAINTERINFO

== More Tips and Tutorials ==
* [http://groups.google.com/group/sketchup Sketchup Help Group]
* [http://sketchup.google.com/sptutorials.html Self-Paced Basic Video Tutorials]

[[Category:Building]]

SketchUp Tips

2010-01-07T02:53:23Z

Painterinfo: /* Arcade Cabinet Projects Designed With SketchUp */

'''(this is a recently created page, allow some time for me to put the main content in place - ARTIFACT)'''

== Overview ==
Sketchup is a free, yet very powerful CAD (Computer Aided Design) tool. The main advantage of SketchUp over traditional CAD software is its focus on using sketching / drawing as the primary way to design 3D models. A tagline seen a few years back was ''"3D For The Rest of Us!"''. You do not need to have any prior knowledge of 3D modeling to start learning SketchUp.

=== Learning Sketchup ===
The time it takes to get up to speed with this program is surprisingly fast.

1. Download and install the [http://sketchup.google.com/index.html application] (10mins)

2. Watch the first couple of [http://sketchup.google.com/training/videos.html Video tutorials] (23mins)

3. Start Drawing something or [http://sketchup.google.com/3dwarehouse/search?q=arcade download] someone else's pre made model. (addicted for life)

It is worth while taking the time to continue on and watch all the videos in order to get the most out of the program. If you like it and are going to use it, you will discover many cool tricks that will enable you to draw any 3D object and save you from many frustrations.

=== Free Version vs Commercial Version ===
Google has recently purchased SketchUp and has released the unlimited FREE version, perfect for your arcade design needs. A PRO (= not free) version also exists, but it is '''not''' needed if you are not planning to export your 3D models to another CAD/3D application, or import 3D models into SketchUp. Why would google acquire a 3D modeling tool company? Their Google Earth project allows you to place 3D buildings on the planet earth, virtually. Offering SketchUp to the mainstream Google audience lowers the entry bar of contributing models. They added a ''"Place on Google Earth"'' feature to make this as easy as 123. Additionally, an online gallery (warehouse) is available to save your models to if you want to share them with other SketchUp users.

== Purpose of This Page ==
There is plenty of existing SketchUp tutorial material available on the internet. Why this page then? Us arcade cabinet and Control Panel designers/builders have special needs! We are not designing houses/buildings for Google Earth :) ... This page is not intended as a complete reference. Instead, it is a collection of the '''must-know'''' tips, specifically for people designing Arcade Control Panels and Arcade Cabinets.

== Camera ==
The camera is a key element of your experience using SketchUp. It is essential to make yourself familiar with its two main display modes

=== Modes ===
You should know about the Parralel Projection and Perspective camera modes. They are both useful to successfully designing your arcade cabinet or control panel using SketchUp. To switch modes, click on the Camera menu.

'''Parallel Projection example:'''

[[Image:Sketchup_parralel.jpg]]

Notice how flat things look. You can quickly spot if things line up correctly. Another interesting fact about this mode is that snapping ("inference") seems to work more predictably in this camera mode. This is the best mode to use when you draw rectangles, lines, etc.

'''Perspective example'''

[[Image:Sketchup_perspective.jpg]]

This is how you ''see'' in real life. Use this to check how your design looks, but be careful as you may think elements are lined up even when they are not. Although SketchUp allows you to draw (rectangles, lines, etc) in Perspective, results are more predictable if you switch to Parallel Projection camera mode to draw.

=== Navigating While Modelling ===

Navigating has three main modes and they are covered early in the Google Sketchup training videos.

1. [[Image:cam-ToolPanLarge.png]]Pan (Move side to side and up and down)

2. [[Image:Cam-ToolZoomLarge.png]]Zoom (Move in and out)

3. [[Image:cam-ToolOrbitLarge.png]]Orbit (Rotate your point of view around your model)

A tip and trick for navigating is to only use the orbit [[Image:cam-ToolOrbitLarge.png]] mode and by adding the combination of scrolling the mouse wheel (activates zoom [[Image:Cam-ToolZoomLarge.png]] mode) or pressing the shift key (activates pan [[Image:cam-ToolPanLarge.png]] mode) gets you around with the least hassle.

Navigating many arcade games are harder than this. Don't worry if you get lost in your model press the zoom extents button. [[Image:cam-ToolZoomExtentsLarge.png]]

== Groups and Components ==
Always group your shapes. Without grouping, you will eventually destroy your shapes by mistake. Even 1 shape should be grouped to "solidify" it. To group, double click on a shape to select all of its faces and edges, right-click (or click on Edit Menu) > Make Group. This allows you to select with one click, move, scale (etc) your shape a lot more easily than if you leave your faces and edges ungrouped.

Use Components. Built something you want to reuse (button, cabinet side panel, etc)? Right click (or click on Edit Menu) > Make Component. Give your component a name, and you will then be able to reuse it again many times in your model via the Components Panel.

=== Entering Exact Measurements ===
'''Type measurements into SketchUp every time you draw or extrude something'''. You drew a plywood base rectangle? Type '''"8'; 4'"''' and press ENTER immediately after, and it will resize the rectangle to that '''exact''' measurement... Extruded the width of the plywood base? Type ''"3/4"'' and press ENTER immediately after, and it will be exactly 3/4" extruded. This is the single most powerful feature in this program. It works throughout SketchUp's editing actions (Scale, Move, etc). Remember to do this each time you commit to an edit. The number you type is displayed in the bottom right corner (this is not a true edit box, it just displays as you type). You can type and press enter again if you've made a mistake. Do not click anywhere else until you are sure of the measurements you entered as it would disable the ability to do so.

=== Tape Measure Tool ===
[[Image:Tape_measure_sketchup.png]]

As you enter exact measurements every time you create or edit, your model/scene can be measured using the Tape Measure tool. Simply click twice to see the distance between the two points you clicked. The number is displayed in the bottom right corner. This is a '''key''' tool to master and use. You will use this a lot prior to cutting your boards and while building to guide you. [http://download.sketchup.com/OnlineDoc/gsu_win/I-Construction_Tools/ConTool-Measure.htm Follow this written tutorial to learn how to use the Tape Measure Tool].

=== Get Models ===
[[Image:ge-GetModels.png]]

As your cabinet design takes shape you will want to visualise the control panel layout with real controller parts. I.e. you may ask yourself. "If I make the control panel this wide can I fit a track ball in the middle." or "Can I place the buttons that close to the edge."

The simple solution here is to use the "Get Models" button. This will bring up the “3D Warehouse” window where you can browse for pre made components. Search specifically for "Arcade trackball" or widen search with something like "arcade controls".

Most arcade parts available are to scale and can be placed directly into your arcade cabinet plans. The ones to try first are ones that named after real parts, i.e. "SUZO 2 1/4 inch track ball" , "Happ 3" Trackball" or ones that state that they are to scale in their description.

=== Move Components Around ===
[[Image:Sketchup_move_button.png]]

When you download an arcade button or a joy stick into your model it will be a component and there are some tricks you need to know about moving components.

In fact if you make every wood panel an individual component you will make your life that much easier if you want to move a side panel to see inside your model or change anything. After your model is finished you will also have the option of making an exploded view version that you can apply dimensions and print out.

The best trick with moving components around an arcade machine model is to select it, move it slightly on the desired axis and then type the actual distance you want it moved. i.e. 600 will move it right out the way, move the same component slightly on the same axis back towards the model and type 600 and it will snap straight back into it's original place.

A picture is worth a thousand words and the official Google video tutorial on moving objects is a must see.
[http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=2e095bSztLs Official Move Tutorial Video]

== Arcade Cabinet Projects Designed With SketchUp ==
* [http://forum.arcadecontrols.com/index.php?topic=68794.0 ARTIFACT Game Museum (upright cabinet from scratch)] by BYOAC member ARTIFACT
* [http://forum.arcadecontrols.com/index.php?topic=70093.0 JIMBO's cabinet] by BYOAC member JIMBO
* [http://forum.arcadecontrols.com/index.php?topic=98894.0 Arcade10 (upright cabinet from scratch)] by BYOAC member PAINTERINFO

== More Tips and Tutorials ==
* [http://groups.google.com/group/sketchup Sketchup Help Group]
* [http://sketchup.google.com/sptutorials.html Self-Paced Basic Video Tutorials]

[[Category:Building]]

SketchUp Tips

2009-11-26T09:52:19Z

Painterinfo: /* Navigating While Modeling */

'''(this is a recently created page, allow some time for me to put the main content in place - ARTIFACT)'''

== Overview ==
Sketchup is a free, yet very powerful CAD (Computer Aided Design) tool. The main advantage of SketchUp over traditional CAD software is its focus on using sketching / drawing as the primary way to design 3D models. A tagline seen a few years back was ''"3D For The Rest of Us!"''. You do not need to have any prior knowledge of 3D modeling to start learning SketchUp.

=== Learning Sketchup ===
The time it takes to get up to speed with this program is surprisingly fast.

1. Download and install the [http://sketchup.google.com/index.html application] (10mins)

2. Watch the first couple of [http://sketchup.google.com/training/videos.html Video tutorials] (23mins)

3. Start Drawing something or [http://sketchup.google.com/3dwarehouse/search?q=arcade download] someone else's pre made model. (addicted for life)

It is worth while taking the time to continue on and watch all the videos in order to get the most out of the program. If you like it and are going to use it, you will discover many cool tricks that will enable you to draw any 3D object and save you from many frustrations.

=== Free Version vs Commercial Version ===
Google has recently purchased SketchUp and has released the unlimited FREE version, perfect for your arcade design needs. A PRO (= not free) version also exists, but it is '''not''' needed if you are not planning to export your 3D models to another CAD/3D application, or import 3D models into SketchUp. Why would google acquire a 3D modeling tool company? Their Google Earth project allows you to place 3D buildings on the planet earth, virtually. Offering SketchUp to the mainstream Google audience lowers the entry bar of contributing models. They added a ''"Place on Google Earth"'' feature to make this as easy as 123. Additionally, an online gallery (warehouse) is available to save your models to if you want to share them with other SketchUp users.

== Purpose of This Page ==
There is plenty of existing SketchUp tutorial material available on the internet. Why this page then? Us arcade cabinet and Control Panel designers/builders have special needs! We are not designing houses/buildings for Google Earth :) ... This page is not intended as a complete reference. Instead, it is a collection of the '''must-know'''' tips, specifically for people designing Arcade Control Panels and Arcade Cabinets.

== Camera ==
The camera is a key element of your experience using SketchUp. It is essential to make yourself familiar with its two main display modes

=== Modes ===
You should know about the Parralel Projection and Perspective camera modes. They are both useful to successfully designing your arcade cabinet or control panel using SketchUp. To switch modes, click on the Camera menu.

'''Parallel Projection example:'''

[[Image:Sketchup_parralel.jpg]]

Notice how flat things look. You can quickly spot if things line up correctly. Another interesting fact about this mode is that snapping ("inference") seems to work more predictably in this camera mode. This is the best mode to use when you draw rectangles, lines, etc.

'''Perspective example'''

[[Image:Sketchup_perspective.jpg]]

This is how you ''see'' in real life. Use this to check how your design looks, but be careful as you may think elements are lined up even when they are not. Although SketchUp allows you to draw (rectangles, lines, etc) in Perspective, results are more predictable if you switch to Parallel Projection camera mode to draw.

=== Navigating While Modelling ===

Navigating has three main modes and they are covered early in the Google Sketchup training videos.

1. [[Image:cam-ToolPanLarge.png]]Pan (Move side to side and up and down)

2. [[Image:Cam-ToolZoomLarge.png]]Zoom (Move in and out)

3. [[Image:cam-ToolOrbitLarge.png]]Orbit (Rotate your point of view around your model)

A tip and trick for navigating is to only use the orbit [[Image:cam-ToolOrbitLarge.png]] mode and by adding the combination of scrolling the mouse wheel (activates zoom [[Image:Cam-ToolZoomLarge.png]] mode) or pressing the shift key (activates pan [[Image:cam-ToolPanLarge.png]] mode) gets you around with the least hassle.

Navigating many arcade games are harder than this. Don't worry if you get lost in your model press the zoom extents button. [[Image:cam-ToolZoomExtentsLarge.png]]

== Groups and Components ==
Always group your shapes. Without grouping, you will eventually destroy your shapes by mistake. Even 1 shape should be grouped to "solidify" it. To group, double click on a shape to select all of its faces and edges, right-click (or click on Edit Menu) > Make Group. This allows you to select with one click, move, scale (etc) your shape a lot more easily than if you leave your faces and edges ungrouped.

Use Components. Built something you want to reuse (button, cabinet side panel, etc)? Right click (or click on Edit Menu) > Make Component. Give your component a name, and you will then be able to reuse it again many times in your model via the Components Panel.

=== Entering Exact Measurements ===
'''Type measurements into SketchUp every time you draw or extrude something'''. You drew a plywood base rectangle? Type '''"8'; 4'"''' and press ENTER immediately after, and it will resize the rectangle to that '''exact''' measurement... Extruded the width of the plywood base? Type ''"3/4"'' and press ENTER immediately after, and it will be exactly 3/4" extruded. This is the single most powerful feature in this program. It works throughout SketchUp's editing actions (Scale, Move, etc). Remember to do this each time you commit to an edit. The number you type is displayed in the bottom right corner (this is not a true edit box, it just displays as you type). You can type and press enter again if you've made a mistake. Do not click anywhere else until you are sure of the measurements you entered as it would disable the ability to do so.

=== Tape Measure Tool ===
[[Image:Tape_measure_sketchup.png]]

As you enter exact measurements every time you create or edit, your model/scene can be measured using the Tape Measure tool. Simply click twice to see the distance between the two points you clicked. The number is displayed in the bottom right corner. This is a '''key''' tool to master and use. You will use this a lot prior to cutting your boards and while building to guide you. [http://download.sketchup.com/OnlineDoc/gsu_win/I-Construction_Tools/ConTool-Measure.htm Follow this written tutorial to learn how to use the Tape Measure Tool].

=== Get Models ===
[[Image:ge-GetModels.png]]

As your cabinet design takes shape you will want to visualise the control panel layout with real controller parts. I.e. you may ask yourself. "If I make the control panel this wide can I fit a track ball in the middle." or "Can I place the buttons that close to the edge."

The simple solution here is to use the "Get Models" button. This will bring up the “3D Warehouse” window where you can browse for pre made components. Search specifically for "Arcade trackball" or widen search with something like "arcade controls".

Most arcade parts available are to scale and can be placed directly into your arcade cabinet plans. The ones to try first are ones that named after real parts, i.e. "SUZO 2 1/4 inch track ball" , "Happ 3" Trackball" or ones that state that they are to scale in their description.

=== Move Components Around ===
[[Image:Sketchup_move_button.png]]

When you download an arcade button or a joy stick into your model it will be a component and there are some tricks you need to know about moving components.

In fact if you make every wood panel an individual component you will make your life that much easier if you want to move a side panel to see inside your model or change anything. After your model is finished you will also have the option of making an exploded view version that you can apply dimensions and print out.

The best trick with moving components around an arcade machine model is to select it, move it slightly on the desired axis and then type the actual distance you want it moved. i.e. 600 will move it right out the way, move the same component slightly on the same axis back towards the model and type 600 and it will snap straight back into it's original place.

A picture is worth a thousand words and the official Google video tutorial on moving objects is a must see.
[http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=2e095bSztLs Official Move Tutorial Video]

== Arcade Cabinet Projects Designed With SketchUp ==
* [http://forum.arcadecontrols.com/index.php?topic=68794.0 ARTIFACT Game Museum (upright cabinet from scratch)] by BYOAC member ARTIFACT
* [http://forum.arcadecontrols.com/index.php?topic=70093.0 JIMBO's cabinet] by BYOAC member JIMBO

== More Tips and Tutorials ==
* [http://groups.google.com/group/sketchup Sketchup Help Group]
* [http://sketchup.google.com/sptutorials.html Self-Paced Basic Video Tutorials]

[[Category:Building]]

File:Cam-ToolZoomLarge.png

2009-11-26T09:46:36Z

Painterinfo:

File:Cam-ToolZoomExtentsLarge.png

2009-11-26T09:46:22Z

Painterinfo:

File:Cam-ToolPanLarge.png

2009-11-26T09:46:00Z

Painterinfo:

File:Cam-ToolOrbitLarge.png

2009-11-26T09:45:37Z

Painterinfo:

SketchUp Tips

2009-11-26T09:30:28Z

Painterinfo: Added Learning Sketchup Section

'''(this is a recently created page, allow some time for me to put the main content in place - ARTIFACT)'''

== Overview ==
Sketchup is a free, yet very powerful CAD (Computer Aided Design) tool. The main advantage of SketchUp over traditional CAD software is its focus on using sketching / drawing as the primary way to design 3D models. A tagline seen a few years back was ''"3D For The Rest of Us!"''. You do not need to have any prior knowledge of 3D modeling to start learning SketchUp.

=== Learning Sketchup ===
The time it takes to get up to speed with this program is surprisingly fast.

1. Download and install the [http://sketchup.google.com/index.html application] (10mins)

2. Watch the first couple of [http://sketchup.google.com/training/videos.html Video tutorials] (23mins)

3. Start Drawing something or [http://sketchup.google.com/3dwarehouse/search?q=arcade download] someone else's pre made model. (addicted for life)

It is worth while taking the time to continue on and watch all the videos in order to get the most out of the program. If you like it and are going to use it, you will discover many cool tricks that will enable you to draw any 3D object and save you from many frustrations.

=== Free Version vs Commercial Version ===
Google has recently purchased SketchUp and has released the unlimited FREE version, perfect for your arcade design needs. A PRO (= not free) version also exists, but it is '''not''' needed if you are not planning to export your 3D models to another CAD/3D application, or import 3D models into SketchUp. Why would google acquire a 3D modeling tool company? Their Google Earth project allows you to place 3D buildings on the planet earth, virtually. Offering SketchUp to the mainstream Google audience lowers the entry bar of contributing models. They added a ''"Place on Google Earth"'' feature to make this as easy as 123. Additionally, an online gallery (warehouse) is available to save your models to if you want to share them with other SketchUp users.

== Purpose of This Page ==
There is plenty of existing SketchUp tutorial material available on the internet. Why this page then? Us arcade cabinet and Control Panel designers/builders have special needs! We are not designing houses/buildings for Google Earth :) ... This page is not intended as a complete reference. Instead, it is a collection of the '''must-know'''' tips, specifically for people designing Arcade Control Panels and Arcade Cabinets.

== Camera ==
The camera is a key element of your experience using SketchUp. It is essential to make yourself familiar with its two main display modes

=== Modes ===
You should know about the Parralel Projection and Perspective camera modes. They are both useful to successfully designing your arcade cabinet or control panel using SketchUp. To switch modes, click on the Camera menu.

'''Parallel Projection example:'''

[[Image:Sketchup_parralel.jpg]]

Notice how flat things look. You can quickly spot if things line up correctly. Another interesting fact about this mode is that snapping ("inference") seems to work more predictably in this camera mode. This is the best mode to use when you draw rectangles, lines, etc.

'''Perspective example'''

[[Image:Sketchup_perspective.jpg]]

This is how you ''see'' in real life. Use this to check how your design looks, but be careful as you may think elements are lined up even when they are not. Although SketchUp allows you to draw (rectangles, lines, etc) in Perspective, results are more predictable if you switch to Parallel Projection camera mode to draw.

=== Navigating While Modeling ===

== Groups and Components ==
Always group your shapes. Without grouping, you will eventually destroy your shapes by mistake. Even 1 shape should be grouped to "solidify" it. To group, double click on a shape to select all of its faces and edges, right-click (or click on Edit Menu) > Make Group. This allows you to select with one click, move, scale (etc) your shape a lot more easily than if you leave your faces and edges ungrouped.

Use Components. Built something you want to reuse (button, cabinet side panel, etc)? Right click (or click on Edit Menu) > Make Component. Give your component a name, and you will then be able to reuse it again many times in your model via the Components Panel.

=== Entering Exact Measurements ===
'''Type measurements into SketchUp every time you draw or extrude something'''. You drew a plywood base rectangle? Type '''"8'; 4'"''' and press ENTER immediately after, and it will resize the rectangle to that '''exact''' measurement... Extruded the width of the plywood base? Type ''"3/4"'' and press ENTER immediately after, and it will be exactly 3/4" extruded. This is the single most powerful feature in this program. It works throughout SketchUp's editing actions (Scale, Move, etc). Remember to do this each time you commit to an edit. The number you type is displayed in the bottom right corner (this is not a true edit box, it just displays as you type). You can type and press enter again if you've made a mistake. Do not click anywhere else until you are sure of the measurements you entered as it would disable the ability to do so.

=== Tape Measure Tool ===
[[Image:Tape_measure_sketchup.png]]

As you enter exact measurements every time you create or edit, your model/scene can be measured using the Tape Measure tool. Simply click twice to see the distance between the two points you clicked. The number is displayed in the bottom right corner. This is a '''key''' tool to master and use. You will use this a lot prior to cutting your boards and while building to guide you. [http://download.sketchup.com/OnlineDoc/gsu_win/I-Construction_Tools/ConTool-Measure.htm Follow this written tutorial to learn how to use the Tape Measure Tool].

=== Get Models ===
[[Image:ge-GetModels.png]]

As your cabinet design takes shape you will want to visualise the control panel layout with real controller parts. I.e. you may ask yourself. "If I make the control panel this wide can I fit a track ball in the middle." or "Can I place the buttons that close to the edge."

The simple solution here is to use the "Get Models" button. This will bring up the “3D Warehouse” window where you can browse for pre made components. Search specifically for "Arcade trackball" or widen search with something like "arcade controls".

Most arcade parts available are to scale and can be placed directly into your arcade cabinet plans. The ones to try first are ones that named after real parts, i.e. "SUZO 2 1/4 inch track ball" , "Happ 3" Trackball" or ones that state that they are to scale in their description.

=== Move Components Around ===
[[Image:Sketchup_move_button.png]]

When you download an arcade button or a joy stick into your model it will be a component and there are some tricks you need to know about moving components.

In fact if you make every wood panel an individual component you will make your life that much easier if you want to move a side panel to see inside your model or change anything. After your model is finished you will also have the option of making an exploded view version that you can apply dimensions and print out.

The best trick with moving components around an arcade machine model is to select it, move it slightly on the desired axis and then type the actual distance you want it moved. i.e. 600 will move it right out the way, move the same component slightly on the same axis back towards the model and type 600 and it will snap straight back into it's original place.

A picture is worth a thousand words and the official Google video tutorial on moving objects is a must see.
[http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=2e095bSztLs Official Move Tutorial Video]

== Arcade Cabinet Projects Designed With SketchUp ==
* [http://forum.arcadecontrols.com/index.php?topic=68794.0 ARTIFACT Game Museum (upright cabinet from scratch)] by BYOAC member ARTIFACT
* [http://forum.arcadecontrols.com/index.php?topic=70093.0 JIMBO's cabinet] by BYOAC member JIMBO

== More Tips and Tutorials ==
* [http://groups.google.com/group/sketchup Sketchup Help Group]
* [http://sketchup.google.com/sptutorials.html Self-Paced Basic Video Tutorials]

[[Category:Building]]

SketchUp Tips

2009-11-26T02:27:18Z

Painterinfo: Added a couple of sections - feel free to edit or remove.

'''(this is a recently created page, allow some time for me to put the main content in place - ARTIFACT)'''

== Overview ==
Sketchup is a free, yet very powerful CAD (Computer Aided Design) tool. The main advantage of SketchUp over traditional CAD software is its focus on using sketching / drawing as the primary way to design 3D models. A tagline seen a few years back was ''"3D For The Rest of Us!"''. You do not need to have any prior knowledge of 3D modeling to start learning SketchUp.

=== Free Version vs Commercial Version ===
Google has recently purchased SketchUp and has released the unlimited FREE version, perfect for your arcade design needs. A PRO (= not free) version also exists, but it is '''not''' needed if you are not planning to export your 3D models to another CAD/3D application, or import 3D models into SketchUp. Why would google acquire a 3D modeling tool company? Their Google Earth project allows you to place 3D buildings on the planet earth, virtually. Offering SketchUp to the mainstream Google audience lowers the entry bar of contributing models. They added a ''"Place on Google Earth"'' feature to make this as easy as 123. Additionally, an online gallery (warehouse) is available to save your models to if you want to share them with other SketchUp users.

== Purpose of This Page ==
There is plenty of existing SketchUp tutorial material available on the internet. Why this page then? Us arcade cabinet and Control Panel designers/builders have special needs! We are not designing houses/buildings for Google Earth :) ... This page is not intended as a complete reference. Instead, it is a collection of the '''must-know'''' tips, specifically for people designing Arcade Control Panels and Arcade Cabinets.

== Camera ==
The camera is a key element of your experience using SketchUp. It is essential to make yourself familiar with its two main display modes

=== Modes ===
You should know about the Parralel Projection and Perspective camera modes. They are both useful to successfully designing your arcade cabinet or control panel using SketchUp. To switch modes, click on the Camera menu.

'''Parallel Projection example:'''

[[Image:Sketchup_parralel.jpg]]

Notice how flat things look. You can quickly spot if things line up correctly. Another interesting fact about this mode is that snapping ("inference") seems to work more predictably in this camera mode. This is the best mode to use when you draw rectangles, lines, etc.

'''Perspective example'''

[[Image:Sketchup_perspective.jpg]]

This is how you ''see'' in real life. Use this to check how your design looks, but be careful as you may think elements are lined up even when they are not. Although SketchUp allows you to draw (rectangles, lines, etc) in Perspective, results are more predictable if you switch to Parallel Projection camera mode to draw.

=== Navigating While Modeling ===

== Groups and Components ==
Always group your shapes. Without grouping, you will eventually destroy your shapes by mistake. Even 1 shape should be grouped to "solidify" it. To group, double click on a shape to select all of its faces and edges, right-click (or click on Edit Menu) > Make Group. This allows you to select with one click, move, scale (etc) your shape a lot more easily than if you leave your faces and edges ungrouped.

Use Components. Built something you want to reuse (button, cabinet side panel, etc)? Right click (or click on Edit Menu) > Make Component. Give your component a name, and you will then be able to reuse it again many times in your model via the Components Panel.

=== Entering Exact Measurements ===
'''Type measurements into SketchUp every time you draw or extrude something'''. You drew a plywood base rectangle? Type '''"8'; 4'"''' and press ENTER immediately after, and it will resize the rectangle to that '''exact''' measurement... Extruded the width of the plywood base? Type ''"3/4"'' and press ENTER immediately after, and it will be exactly 3/4" extruded. This is the single most powerful feature in this program. It works throughout SketchUp's editing actions (Scale, Move, etc). Remember to do this each time you commit to an edit. The number you type is displayed in the bottom right corner (this is not a true edit box, it just displays as you type). You can type and press enter again if you've made a mistake. Do not click anywhere else until you are sure of the measurements you entered as it would disable the ability to do so.

=== Tape Measure Tool ===
[[Image:Tape_measure_sketchup.png]]

As you enter exact measurements every time you create or edit, your model/scene can be measured using the Tape Measure tool. Simply click twice to see the distance between the two points you clicked. The number is displayed in the bottom right corner. This is a '''key''' tool to master and use. You will use this a lot prior to cutting your boards and while building to guide you. [http://download.sketchup.com/OnlineDoc/gsu_win/I-Construction_Tools/ConTool-Measure.htm Follow this written tutorial to learn how to use the Tape Measure Tool].

=== Get Models ===
[[Image:ge-GetModels.png]]

As your cabinet design takes shape you will want to visualise the control panel layout with real controller parts. I.e. you may ask yourself. "If I make the control panel this wide can I fit a track ball in the middle." or "Can I place the buttons that close to the edge."

The simple solution here is to use the "Get Models" button. This will bring up the “3D Warehouse” window where you can browse for pre made components. Search specifically for "Arcade trackball" or widen search with something like "arcade controls".

Most arcade parts available are to scale and can be placed directly into your arcade cabinet plans. The ones to try first are ones that named after real parts, i.e. "SUZO 2 1/4 inch track ball" , "Happ 3" Trackball" or ones that state that they are to scale in their description.

=== Move Components Around ===
[[Image:Sketchup_move_button.png]]

When you download an arcade button or a joy stick into your model it will be a component and there are some tricks you need to know about moving components.

In fact if you make every wood panel an individual component you will make your life that much easier if you want to move a side panel to see inside your model or change anything. After your model is finished you will also have the option of making an exploded view version that you can apply dimensions and print out.

The best trick with moving components around an arcade machine model is to select it, move it slightly on the desired axis and then type the actual distance you want it moved. i.e. 600 will move it right out the way, move the same component slightly on the same axis back towards the model and type 600 and it will snap straight back into it's original place.

A picture is worth a thousand words and the official Google video tutorial on moving objects is a must see.
[http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=2e095bSztLs Official Move Tutorial Video]

== Arcade Cabinet Projects Designed With SketchUp ==
* [http://forum.arcadecontrols.com/index.php?topic=68794.0 ARTIFACT Game Museum (upright cabinet from scratch)] by BYOAC member ARTIFACT
* [http://forum.arcadecontrols.com/index.php?topic=70093.0 JIMBO's cabinet] by BYOAC member JIMBO

== More Tips and Tutorials ==
* [http://groups.google.com/group/sketchup Sketchup Help Group]
* [http://sketchup.google.com/sptutorials.html Self-Paced Basic Video Tutorials]

[[Category:Building]]

File:Sketchup move button.png

2009-11-26T02:20:14Z

Painterinfo:

SketchUp Tips

2009-11-26T01:52:01Z

Painterinfo:

File:Ge-GetModels.png

2009-11-26T01:48:55Z

Painterinfo: