Here is my 4 player games controller. It took me a couple of weeks to build, which was slowed down a bit by uni work, but came together in the end. Being in Australia it was kind of tricky to find places around (well, on the net anyway) that sold parts, so I ended up ordering the main arcade parts from Bob Roberts, and the keyboard encoder (I-Pac) from Ultimarc.
| Component | Cost ($AUD) | Where from |
|---|---|---|
| Phase 1 - June 02 (4 Player Control) | ||
| Craft Wood (MDF) | $15 | Revolve (2nd hand place) |
| I-Pac4 | $160 | Ultimarc |
| Arcade Controls | $235 | Bob Roberts |
| Quick Connects | $24 | Dick Smiths |
| Paint, Sandpaper, small tools etc | $70 | Magnet Mart |
| Total: | $504 | |
| Phase 2 - April 03 (Stand) | ||
| Coin Slot + Buttons | $79 | OzStick |
| Drink Holders | $60 | Whitworths |
| MDF | $60 | Magnet Mart |
| Paint, Hinges, small tools etc | $30 | Magnet Mart |
| Total: | $229 | |
| Phase 3 - August 03 (Trackball) | ||
| 3" Trackball + Mounting Plate | $170 | Happ Controls |
| Opti-PAC | $90 | Ultimarc |
| Total: | $260 |
So looking back on it, it did cost a fair bit of money, but comparing it to this commercial version from Slikstick which they are selling for $US645 (which would then have to be delivered), it doesn't seem so bad after all!
06/09/2003
I got got the trackball, optipac etc for my birthday, and have installed it. It is fantastic to be able to play games like Marble Madness the way they are meant to be played! Golf games such as Links 2003 are also fantastic with the trackball. The trackball was quite expensive to import from the US, but definately worthwhile...the 3" ball has some nice momentum!
29/04/2003
I've now added a few pictures to the front of the control and stand to make it look a bit more attractive. I printed the pictures onto photo quality sticker paper I found in K-Mart, however I discovered that this isnt' all that sticky, so I have since had to put many coats of lacquer over the top to keep them in place.
20/04/2003
Built a base for the controller during the week to accomodate a coin slot, and tidy up the computer. Also built a small controller box to control the selection of games on the screen, so a keyboard is no longer required. I also added drink holders that I ordered online from www.whitworths.com.au There is a hinged door with magnetic latch on the back for access to the coin tray and computer.
6/3/2003
Received a new (old) TV from a friend, so now have upgraded the 14" monitor to a 48cm TV :) This adds the nice "blurry" effect through the RF converter, and makes the games look nice and authentic :)
Original pictures July 2002
I can be contacted at jamestodd@iprimus.com.au