BYOAC New Wiki - User contributions [en]

Working with Wire

2014-06-16T12:46:15Z

Megaweapon: Fixed "Keyboard Encoder" link

==Generally==
Wire is rated by its thickness – lower numbers mean thicker wire. A quick search of the web reveals that for BYOAC, people seem to prefer 18 gauge wire for the [[G| Ground Wire]] and 22 gauge wire for all others. You should buy your wire in at least 2 colors – black for the Ground Wire and red for everything else. This will just help you keep everything clear in your head as you are wiring things together. Of course, you could use other colors as well – e.g., black and red for Microswitches, black and yellow for analog joysticks, black and green for your trackball, etc. Please note, this type of wire is good when using an [[Keyboard Encoders| Encoder]] that relies on “Screw” inputs (e.g., the Ultimarc PAC line or GGG’s KeyWiz MAX). Although the basic concepts will remain the same other Encoders may use pin headers or some other type of input and will require a slightly different wiring approach.

The wire comes in rolls or bunches anywhere from 10 feet to 50 feet long or longer, so you are going to have to cut it into several pieces. The length of the pieces will depend on the layout of your control panel. It is coated in insulation and you are going to have to “strip” off some of that insulation at both ends in order to use the wire.

This brings us to our first tip for working with wire: You really, really, really, should purchase a proper pair of [[Wire Strippers/Crimpers]] at the local hardware store. These pliers will help you cut wire, strip off the insulation, and crimping quick disconnects and you are going to be doing a whole lot of cutting, stripping, and crimping. This will make life a whole lot easier than using a knife, a razor blade, your teeth, etc.

The second tip for working with wire is that the average first timer who is reading this Wiki should avoid soldering. Of course, if you are an experienced BYOACer and have a steady hand, by all means feel free to solder away. However, soldering cleanly is a skill and its results are somewhat permanent; those of you building a Control Panel for the first time already have enough to worry about.

If you are not going to solder your wires and you are going to work with Microswitches you should also get some [[Q| .187 Quick Female Disconnects]]. These little gems are sold in bags of 100 and allow you easily attach and detach wire from your Microswitches should something go wrong. Essentially, you stick the stripped end of a wire into a Disconnect and crimp it using your handy-dandy wire pliers (you did buy a pair, didn’t you?). By the way, crimp is just a fancy word for crush. You stick the wire in and crush the casing around it, thereby securing it to the Disconnect. Then you can just slip the Disconnect on and off of the Microswitch whenever you want.

Finally, if you are using an Encoder with Screw inputs, you will want a set of electronics screwdrivers. They are just little screwdrivers made for use on little screws (also good for working on glasses). The screws you will be working on probably will be too small for the everyday screwdrivers you have in your toolbox.

Wiring Push Buttons and Conventional Digital Joysticks

2014-06-16T12:45:44Z

Megaweapon: Fixed "Keyboard Encoder" link

==Generally==
The most numerous controls on your Control Panel will most likely be [[Pushbuttons| Push Buttons]]. They are comprised of two parts: the plastic button and the Microswitch. Since the plastic button is, well, just a plastic button we are going to focus our discussion on the Microswitch. However, understand that whenever we refer to pressing a Microswitch, we are also referring to pressing the button.

The second most numerous controls on your Control Panel are likely to be Joysticks. However, you need to understand that there are [[Joysticks| different kinds of joysticks]]. One type, referred to as Conventional Digital Joysticks, utilize the same Microswitches used by Push Buttons. Unlike Push Buttons, which utilize only 1 Microswitch, each Conventional Joystick will utilize 4 Microswitches – 1 each for up, down, left, and right. This 4 Microswitch layout is the same for both 4-way and 8-way joysticks – the diagonals (e.g., upper right) in 8-way joysticks are activated when 2 of the 4 Microswitches (e.g., up and right) are activated at the same time.

Wiring Microswitches for Push Buttons and Joysticks is done exactly the same. There are no significant differences. Since we are going to be talking so much about Microswitches, you should go learn [[Working with Microswitches| generally about Microswitches]].

==Installing the Ground Wire==
The Ground Wire will carry electricity from the [[Keyboard Encoders| Encoder]] to each Microswitch. People usually use black wire for the Ground Wire.

For start you need to attach the [[G| Ground Wire]] to the Encoder. Now, how exactly you do so will depend on your particular encoder. Read the documentation for your particular model. However, it will probably involve you stripping the end of a piece of wire, twisting it if it is loose, folding it over, sticking it into a hole marked “G” or “GND” and then tightening the screw to secure the wire.

Next you need to attach the Ground Wire to your first Microswitch (and no, it does not matter which Microswitch you decide to consider your first, second, third, etc). Here is the trick, so listen carefully. You will be working with TWO pieces of wire at once:
* The first is the other end of the wire that is currently attached to the Encoder. Go ahead and strip that end.
* The second is a brand new piece of black wire that will, eventually, run from your first Microswitch to the second Microswitch. Go ahead and strip one end of that wire.

So now you should have two wires, both with stripped ends. Take those two wires, twist them together, fold them over, and insert both of them together into a [[Q| Female Quick Disconnect]]. Once they are both snugly inserted, go ahead and crimp them with your pliers.

You can now attach the Disconnect to the [http://arcadecontrols.com/images/microswitch_closeup_labelled2.JPG Common] prong on your first Microswitch. Just stick it on there, it should slide on and hold tight all by itself. Congratulations, one down, a bunch more to go.

To attach the Ground Wire to the second Microswitch, you just repeat the procedure. However, rather than starting with a wire with one end attached to the Encoder, you are starting with the wire with one end attached to your first Microswitch. You strip it, strip a new wire, twist them together, fold them over, stick both into a Disconnect, crimp, and attach to the Common prong on your second Microswitch. Guess what - for the third you start with a wire with one end attached to the Common prong on your second Microswitch. Rinse, lather, repeat until you get to your last Microswitch.

By the time you get to your last Microswitch, you should have a black wire that you can follow from your Encoder to the Common prong on every Microswitch on your Control Panel except one. Here is the trick to this last Microswitch – it just ends here. It does not loop back to the Encoder. It does not attach to the computer. It does not plug into a wall socket. It just ends with the last Microswitch. So simply strip the wire, twist it, fold it over, stick it all by itself into a Disconnect, crimp it, and slide the Disconnect over the Common prong on your last Microswitch. You are done with the Ground Wire.

==Installing the Hot Wire==
Installing the [[H| Hot Wire]] is much simpler than installing the Ground Wire, simply because you are only running one wire from each Microswitch to the Encoder. Start by taking your piece of wire, stripping one end, twisting it, folding it over, inserting it into a Disconnect, and attaching it to the [http://arcadecontrols.com/images/microswitch_closeup_labelled2.JPG Normally Open] prong on your Microswitch. Now take the other end of the wire, strip it, twist it, fold it over, and attach it to your Encoder.

Here is the only tricky part – you need to determine where on your particular Encoder to attach it. That will depend first on which control you want to attach and second the design of your particular Encoder. I know what you are thinking – how hard can it be to determine which control I am working on at any particular time? Well, sometimes it is a little harder than you think. Remember, your control panel will probably be upside down when you are working on it, so on a standard 2 player layout Player 1 will be on the right and Player 2 on the left. Plus you will have been hooking up bunches and bunches of these wires, so they all start to look pretty similar after a while. So just take your time and check your work. Of course, if you do mess up, that is why we are using Disconnects which can be easily removed.

On your Encoder you will need to find the correct hole to which you will attach your wire. This is only a little challenging. While an Ultimarc encoder may have a slot for “Player 1 Start” labeled “1Start” the KeyWiz Max might have one labeled “I” – but do not worry. Either way, your Encoder will have a diagram to let you know which slot to use.

Once you figure out where to attach the wire, you basically just strip the end, insert it into the appropriate hole, and tighten the screw (no Disconnect this time). If you did everything correctly, that Microswitch should be ready to go. Again, take your time and check your work. If you do mess up just unscrew the wire and move it into the correct hole.

Once you are done connecting the Hot Wire, pat yourself on the back. You have just installed your Push Buttons and Conventional Digital Joysticks. They are ready to go.

Keyboard Encoders

2014-06-10T19:44:04Z

Megaweapon: /* JammASD */

Keyboard Encoders offer the functionality of a keyboard hack in an easy-to-use form. They offer several benefits including reduction of ghosting, ease in connecting controls and time savings.

==I-PAC2==
[[image:Ipac2 diag.jpg|right|thumb|I-PAC2 (PS/2 version) Photo © Ultimarc.com, Used with permission.]]
Ultimarc's IPac2 was the first full-featured affordable keyboard encoder to hit the BYOAC community and quickly became the hook-up of choice. Up until it's release most people were still hacking keyboards, since most keyboard encoders came with a high price tag or were difficult to find.

It's still a very popular choice and comes in PS/2 and USB flavours.

Both versions have 28 inputs. They are all programmable and are designated as 2 joysticks, 8 buttons each, plus coin1, coin2, start1, start2. One of the inputs is assigned as a shift key to access an alternate code set (usefull if you want to keep administrative buttons to a minimum on your control panel). Both models also have connectors for NumLock, CapsLock and ScrollLock keyboard LEDs.The PS/2 model includes a very usefull keyboard passthrough.

'''Relevant Link: [http://www.ultimarc.com/ipac1.html Ultimarc's I-PAC2 Page]'''

==I-PAC2 FS32==
Ultimarc's IPac2 FS32 is a new model of the IPac2. I has the same features as the IPac2 but with more inputs (32 vs. 28)

'''Relevant Link: [http://www.ultimarc.com/ipac1.html Ultimarc's I-PAC2 Page]'''

==I-PAC4==
[[image:ipac4.jpg|right|thumb|I-PAC4 (PS/2 version) Photo © Ultimarc.com, Used with permission.]]
The I-PAC4 is designed for 4-player panels or where large numbers of inputs are needed. It also comes in PS/2 and USB versions.

Both versions have 56 inputs and are all programmable and designated 4 joysticks, 8 buttons each plus coin 1,2,3,4 and start 1,2,3,4. Two of the inputs are assigned as shift keys to access two separate codes sets covering the player 1,2 and the player 3,4 inputs, usefull if you want to keep administrative buttons to a minimum on your control panel

'''Relevant Link: [http://www.ultimarc.com/ipac1.html Ultimarc's I-PAC4 Page]'''

==I-PAC VE==
[[image:ipac_ve.jpg|right|thumb|I-PAC VE Photo © Ultimarc.com, Used with permission.]]
This "value edition" of the I-PAC only comes in USB form. It is suitable for all Windows versions, Linux, and Mac, but not DOS. You may require a standard A-B USB cable (check the Ultimarc website for details regarding this).

One important difference with this model is that when a custom codeset is used, it is stored in RAM instead of EEPROM, meaning that storage needs refreshing after power-down (this does not apply if you always use the built-in default MAME code set of course, the settings revert to MAME on power-down)

This model has 32 inputs. They are all programmable and are designated as 2 joysticks, 8 buttons each, plus coin1, coin2, start1, start2. One of the inputs is assigned as a shift key to access an alternate code set (usefull if you want to keep administrative buttons to a minimum on your control panel). This model also has connectors for NumLock, CapsLock and ScrollLock keyboard LEDs.

'''Relevant Link: [http://www.ultimarc.com/ipacve.html Ultimarc's I-PAC VE Page]'''

==J-PAC==
[[image:jpac.jpg|right|thumb|J-PAC Photo © Ultimarc.com, Used with permission.]]
The J-PAC is an encoder which allows plug-in connection of a [http://wiki.arcadecontrols.com/wiki/JAMMA JAMMA] arcade cabinet to a VGA card and keyboard port or USB port on a PC motherboard, and incorporates all the functions of the standard I-PAC's and has a dual interface for PS/2 and USB.

'''Relevant Link: [http://www.ultimarc.com/jpac.html Ultimarc's J-PAC Page]'''

==JammASD==

Functionally similar in most respects to the J-PAC, this encoder includes an audio amplifier supporting both mono and stereo sound (vs. the J-PAC's unamplified mono only) as well as an RCA jack for use with a lightgun. The JammASD is PS/2 only and limited to 7 buttons per player (with no support for Tilt, Service SW or Test buttons). The JammASD draws power from the JAMMA harness itself or (alternatively) from a PC power supply by wiring a standard 4-pin Molex receptacle to screw terminals on the JammASD.

'''Relevant Link: [http://www.arcadeitalia.net/jammasd.html ArcadeItalia's JammASD Page]'''

==KeyWiz MAX==
[[image:kwmax.jpg|right|thumb|KeyWiz MAX Photo © IDVT Inc. / GroovyGameGear.com, Used with permission.]]

A high-performance keyboard encoder produced by Groovy Game Gear. It features screw terminal headers on the PCB for easy hookup and a switch to allow the "pass-thru" use of a connected keyboard.

The KeyWiz line of keyboard encoders feature 32 inputs and connect to a PC via the keyboard PS2 port. The Keywiz has the default MAME codeset hard-coded by default. Custom codesets can easily be created and loaded into RAM on the Keywiz via its included software. This software can be placed in the Windows Startup folder to automatically load a custom keyset each time the computer is booted.

The Keywiz uses a SHAZAAM key to allow most of the inputs to have alternate keycodes. For example, pushing the SHAZAAM key and the Player 1 button #2 is the same as hitting the TAB key. This function allows many "administrative" keys to be accessed without dedicated pushbuttons to clutter the control panel.

'''Relevant Link: [http://groovygamegear.com/webstore/index.php?main_page=product_info&cPath=76_80&products_id=199 GroovyGameGear's KeyWiz MAX Page]'''

==KeyWiz Eco 2==
[[image:kweco2.jpg|right|thumb|KeyWiz Eco 2 Photo © IDVT Inc. / GroovyGameGear.com, Used with permission.]]

A high-performance keyboard encoder produced by Groovy Game Gear. This encoder boasts the same performance as the KeyWiz Max, but without keyboard pass-thru or screw terminal headers on the PCB. The KeyWiz Eco is available in a "solder" and "no solder" version.

The KeyWiz line of keyboard encoders feature 32 inputs and connect to a PC via the keyboard PS2 port. The Keywiz has the default MAME codeset hard-coded by default. Custom codesets can easily be created and loaded into RAM on the Keywiz via its included software. This software can be placed in the Windows Startup folder to automatically load a custom keyset each time the computer is booted.

The Keywiz uses a SHAZAAM key to allow most of the inputs to have alternate keycodes. For example, pushing the SHAZAAM key and the Player 1 button #2 is the same as hitting the TAB key. This function allows many "administrative" keys to be accessed without dedicated pushbuttons to clutter the control panel.

'''Relevant Link: [http://groovygamegear.com/webstore/index.php?main_page=product_info&cPath=76_80&products_id=200 GroovyGameGear's KeyWiz Eco 2 Page]'''

==KE18==
[[image:ke18.jpg|right|thumb|KE18]]

The KE18 is sold with MiniDIN 6-pin (PS/2) connectors however the manual mentions the board is sold with 5-pin DIN (AT-Style) connectors.

The control board is fairly basic, including no shift keys and a fixed key table (however alternate key codes and a different scanning arrangement can be specified upon ordering). The KE18's most notable feature is compatibility with older PC interfaces, a feature that might be desirable when maintaining older computer hardware. Another desirable feature for some is a keyboard pass-through port which allows a keyboard to remain connected to the PC.

Three jumpers allow some configuration options:

No Rep|Rep: Disables or Enables the repeat function of the keyboard interface.

1x18|9x9: Changes from a 18 key direct input to a 9x9 (for a total of 81 inputs) matrix mode.

XT|AT: Alternates between XT or AT PC mode.

Note: It is unclear from the documentation whether ghosting in matrix mode is addressed.

'''Relevant Link: [http://www.hagstromelectronics.com/products/ke18.html Hagstrom's KE18 Page]'''

==KE24==
[[image:ke24.jpg|right|thumb|KE24]]

The KE24 is a PS/2 (MiniDIN) or AT (DIN) programmable interface board with a keyboard pass-through port. The KE24 manual makes no mention of native USB support.

Each of the 24 inputs can be individually programmed in matrix or direct input mode. eg, 7 pins can be programmed as a 4x3 matrix (such as a standard 0-9,#,* keypad) while the remaining 17 inputs can be programmed as direct input. Thus the inputs can be programmed as 24 individual inputs, a matrix of 12x12 allowing for 144 inputs or any combination in between. In addition, any input can be assigned a macro consisting of up to 16 keystrokes.

An RS-232 I/O port is included and is used as a programming port to configure the board, allow simulated key strokes to be feed to the control board and to obtain key strokes from the control board. Programming is done with an included software (Unspecified OS) application.

'''Relevant Link: [http://www.hagstromelectronics.com/products/ke24.html Hagstrom's KE24 Page]'''

==KE-USB36==
[[image:keusb36.jpg|right|thumb|KE-USB36]]
The KE-USB36 emulates a standard USB Keyboard and Mouse device. Any keystroke may also be modified with a Ctrl, Alt, or Shift function, or any combination of the three modifiers. In addition to keystrokes, inputs may be programmed to emulate mouse Left, Middle, and Right buttons.

The KE-USB36 features a Trackball input for conversion of this device to mouse movement. (A Spinner may be used instead of a Trackball)

The KE-USB36 is programmed through the USB port of the PC using the programming application included with the unit. Once programmed, the configuration is stored on the KE-USB36 in non-volatile memory.

All power for the KE-USB36 is taken from the PC USB port, so no other voltage supply is required.

'''Relevant Link: [http://www.hagstromelectronics.com/products/ke_usb36.html Hagstrom's KE-USB36 Page]'''

==KE72==
[[image:ke72.jpg|right|thumb|KE72]]
The KE72 features 72 individual inputs. Each input may be programmed to output a single keystroke, or a sequence (macro) of keystrokes. For macros, each input may generate up to 32 keystrokes when activated, and up to 16 keystrokes when the input is released. The KE72 is able to emulate any keystroke found on a standard 101 or 104 key keyboard.

'''Relevant Link: [http://www.hagstromelectronics.com/products/ke72.html Hagstrom's KE72 Page]'''

==LP24==
[[image:lp24.jpg|right|thumb|LP24]]

PS/2 or USB or both?

Number of Inputs

Designated for anything?

Shift keys?

Additional features?

'''Relevant Link: [http://www.hagstromelectronics.com/products/lp24.html Hagstrom's LP24 Page]'''

==Mini-PAC==
A very versatile keyboard/trackball/spinner encoder. The Mini-PAC interfaces either over USB or over PS2 (PS2 only works for buttons). The interface does not suffer from ghosting and matrix side-effects common to regular USB keyboards. The board is actually a small-size I-PAC2 with 3 optical interfaces added.

It interfaces 28 buttons and 3 analogue inputs for a trackball and a spinner.

It has default MAME style input mapping and a second programmable mapping. Utilities for programming under DOS, Windows, OSX and Linux are delivered with the Mini-PAC

It has a shift function for adding secondary functions to connected buttons.

An optional harness is available to easy connect the Mini-PAC to 28 buttons/joyctick switches and to 3 analogue controls.

'''Relevant Link: [http://ultimarc.com/minipac.html Ultimarc's Mini-PAC Page]'''

==X-Arcade BYO Kit==
X-Arcade™ Build Your Own Arcade Features

<li>Supports 28 Inputs In Any Combination (2 Joysticks + 20 Buttons) See Default Config Here</li>
<li>Speedstep™ Design Supports 28 Simultaneous Input Presses With Absolutely No Delay
<li>Award Winning Electronics Featured In Video Game/Technology Publications Worldwide
<li>Fully Programmable Input Assignments In Hardware (PC Only) For Re-Assigning Buttons/Joysticks To Any Input On Keyboard.
<li>Programmed Modes Include Memory Storage To Maintain Settings When Unit Is Off
<li>4 Different Memory Mode Settings In Hardware For Saving Button/Joystick Layouts For Various Emulators Or Settings
<li>Direct Plug-In For Connectors: No Screwdriver Required
<li>Included LED Display Shows On/Off Test Function And Assists In Programming Modes
<li>Includes PS/2 Keyboard Pass-Thru Input
<li>No Separate Power Required, No Ghosting, No Scanning, No Delays
<li>External Connection Via PS/2 Port or USB Port
<li>No Limit On USB Simultaneously-Pressed Switches: Full Native On-Board USB Support
<li>Compatible With Any Game System (Game Adapters Sold Separately)
<li>No Software Or Drivers Needed
<li>No Soldering Requied (Easy Installation For Anyone!)
<li>Can Be Used With Any Third Party USB or PS/2 Trackball/Spinner
<li>Fully Compatible With Any OS, (Mac, Linux, Unix, PC, etc)
<li>Fully Seamless Operation And Configuration With MAME/Emulation Software
<li>Default Support Provided Both By MAME and Gametap (X-Arcade PCB Support In Both Applications)

'''Relevant Link: [http://www.xgaming.com/byoarcade.shtml X-Arcade PCB]'''

==PC Arcade Controller 2 Player Version(With USB/PS2 ADAPTER) For MAME Cabinet==

Supports 2 x Joysticks,12 x fire buttons(each 6 buttons for 2 player),P1 Start,P2 Start,Insert Coin.
Extra inputs for Pause[P],MAME Menu[Tab],Quit Game[Esc].
Connects to the PS2 port of your PC with a supplied 1.5m cable.
Simple plug & play.No drivers or software required.
Easily mountable compact control box
Long 55 cm harness insulated steel cable.All cables are paired together and labelled for easy connection.

6.3mm female crimp terminals for connection to standard micro-switches.
Supports all Happ/Suzo type joysticks and buttons.
No programming and no key-mapping software needed.
No key ghosting or blocking.
Compatible with all versions of M$ Windows and M$-DOS.
It is simply the easiest way to interface a PC with arcade controls.
The ideal solution if you want to run MAME in an arcade cabinet.
Includes an easy to follow installation manual.

'''Relevant Link: [http://www.arcademvs.com/ARCADE_ACESSERIOR.htm Y-Plus ADAPTER]'''

==See Also==
* [[Controls]]

[[Category:Controls]]

Keyboard Encoders

2014-06-10T19:33:44Z

Megaweapon: /* JammASD */

Keyboard Encoders offer the functionality of a keyboard hack in an easy-to-use form. They offer several benefits including reduction of ghosting, ease in connecting controls and time savings.

==I-PAC2==
[[image:Ipac2 diag.jpg|right|thumb|I-PAC2 (PS/2 version) Photo © Ultimarc.com, Used with permission.]]
Ultimarc's IPac2 was the first full-featured affordable keyboard encoder to hit the BYOAC community and quickly became the hook-up of choice. Up until it's release most people were still hacking keyboards, since most keyboard encoders came with a high price tag or were difficult to find.

It's still a very popular choice and comes in PS/2 and USB flavours.

Both versions have 28 inputs. They are all programmable and are designated as 2 joysticks, 8 buttons each, plus coin1, coin2, start1, start2. One of the inputs is assigned as a shift key to access an alternate code set (usefull if you want to keep administrative buttons to a minimum on your control panel). Both models also have connectors for NumLock, CapsLock and ScrollLock keyboard LEDs.The PS/2 model includes a very usefull keyboard passthrough.

'''Relevant Link: [http://www.ultimarc.com/ipac1.html Ultimarc's I-PAC2 Page]'''

==I-PAC2 FS32==
Ultimarc's IPac2 FS32 is a new model of the IPac2. I has the same features as the IPac2 but with more inputs (32 vs. 28)

'''Relevant Link: [http://www.ultimarc.com/ipac1.html Ultimarc's I-PAC2 Page]'''

==I-PAC4==
[[image:ipac4.jpg|right|thumb|I-PAC4 (PS/2 version) Photo © Ultimarc.com, Used with permission.]]
The I-PAC4 is designed for 4-player panels or where large numbers of inputs are needed. It also comes in PS/2 and USB versions.

Both versions have 56 inputs and are all programmable and designated 4 joysticks, 8 buttons each plus coin 1,2,3,4 and start 1,2,3,4. Two of the inputs are assigned as shift keys to access two separate codes sets covering the player 1,2 and the player 3,4 inputs, usefull if you want to keep administrative buttons to a minimum on your control panel

'''Relevant Link: [http://www.ultimarc.com/ipac1.html Ultimarc's I-PAC4 Page]'''

==I-PAC VE==
[[image:ipac_ve.jpg|right|thumb|I-PAC VE Photo © Ultimarc.com, Used with permission.]]
This "value edition" of the I-PAC only comes in USB form. It is suitable for all Windows versions, Linux, and Mac, but not DOS. You may require a standard A-B USB cable (check the Ultimarc website for details regarding this).

One important difference with this model is that when a custom codeset is used, it is stored in RAM instead of EEPROM, meaning that storage needs refreshing after power-down (this does not apply if you always use the built-in default MAME code set of course, the settings revert to MAME on power-down)

This model has 32 inputs. They are all programmable and are designated as 2 joysticks, 8 buttons each, plus coin1, coin2, start1, start2. One of the inputs is assigned as a shift key to access an alternate code set (usefull if you want to keep administrative buttons to a minimum on your control panel). This model also has connectors for NumLock, CapsLock and ScrollLock keyboard LEDs.

'''Relevant Link: [http://www.ultimarc.com/ipacve.html Ultimarc's I-PAC VE Page]'''

==J-PAC==
[[image:jpac.jpg|right|thumb|J-PAC Photo © Ultimarc.com, Used with permission.]]
The J-PAC is an encoder which allows plug-in connection of a [http://wiki.arcadecontrols.com/wiki/JAMMA JAMMA] arcade cabinet to a VGA card and keyboard port or USB port on a PC motherboard, and incorporates all the functions of the standard I-PAC's and has a dual interface for PS/2 and USB.

'''Relevant Link: [http://www.ultimarc.com/jpac.html Ultimarc's J-PAC Page]'''

==JammASD==

Functionally similar in most respects to the J-PAC, this encoder includes an audio amplifier supporting both mono and stereo sound (vs. the J-PAC's unamplified mono only) as well as an RCA jack for use with a lightgun. The JammASD is PS/2 only and limited to 7 buttons per player (with no support for Tilt, Service SW or Test buttons). The JammASD draws power from the JAMMA harness itself or (alternatively) from a PC power supply by wiring a standard 5-pin Molex receptacle to screw terminals on the JammASD.

'''Relevant Link: [http://www.arcadeitalia.net/jammasd.html ArcadeItalia's JammASD Page]'''

==KeyWiz MAX==
[[image:kwmax.jpg|right|thumb|KeyWiz MAX Photo © IDVT Inc. / GroovyGameGear.com, Used with permission.]]

A high-performance keyboard encoder produced by Groovy Game Gear. It features screw terminal headers on the PCB for easy hookup and a switch to allow the "pass-thru" use of a connected keyboard.

The KeyWiz line of keyboard encoders feature 32 inputs and connect to a PC via the keyboard PS2 port. The Keywiz has the default MAME codeset hard-coded by default. Custom codesets can easily be created and loaded into RAM on the Keywiz via its included software. This software can be placed in the Windows Startup folder to automatically load a custom keyset each time the computer is booted.

The Keywiz uses a SHAZAAM key to allow most of the inputs to have alternate keycodes. For example, pushing the SHAZAAM key and the Player 1 button #2 is the same as hitting the TAB key. This function allows many "administrative" keys to be accessed without dedicated pushbuttons to clutter the control panel.

'''Relevant Link: [http://groovygamegear.com/webstore/index.php?main_page=product_info&cPath=76_80&products_id=199 GroovyGameGear's KeyWiz MAX Page]'''

==KeyWiz Eco 2==
[[image:kweco2.jpg|right|thumb|KeyWiz Eco 2 Photo © IDVT Inc. / GroovyGameGear.com, Used with permission.]]

A high-performance keyboard encoder produced by Groovy Game Gear. This encoder boasts the same performance as the KeyWiz Max, but without keyboard pass-thru or screw terminal headers on the PCB. The KeyWiz Eco is available in a "solder" and "no solder" version.

The KeyWiz line of keyboard encoders feature 32 inputs and connect to a PC via the keyboard PS2 port. The Keywiz has the default MAME codeset hard-coded by default. Custom codesets can easily be created and loaded into RAM on the Keywiz via its included software. This software can be placed in the Windows Startup folder to automatically load a custom keyset each time the computer is booted.

The Keywiz uses a SHAZAAM key to allow most of the inputs to have alternate keycodes. For example, pushing the SHAZAAM key and the Player 1 button #2 is the same as hitting the TAB key. This function allows many "administrative" keys to be accessed without dedicated pushbuttons to clutter the control panel.

'''Relevant Link: [http://groovygamegear.com/webstore/index.php?main_page=product_info&cPath=76_80&products_id=200 GroovyGameGear's KeyWiz Eco 2 Page]'''

==KE18==
[[image:ke18.jpg|right|thumb|KE18]]

The KE18 is sold with MiniDIN 6-pin (PS/2) connectors however the manual mentions the board is sold with 5-pin DIN (AT-Style) connectors.

The control board is fairly basic, including no shift keys and a fixed key table (however alternate key codes and a different scanning arrangement can be specified upon ordering). The KE18's most notable feature is compatibility with older PC interfaces, a feature that might be desirable when maintaining older computer hardware. Another desirable feature for some is a keyboard pass-through port which allows a keyboard to remain connected to the PC.

Three jumpers allow some configuration options:

No Rep|Rep: Disables or Enables the repeat function of the keyboard interface.

1x18|9x9: Changes from a 18 key direct input to a 9x9 (for a total of 81 inputs) matrix mode.

XT|AT: Alternates between XT or AT PC mode.

Note: It is unclear from the documentation whether ghosting in matrix mode is addressed.

'''Relevant Link: [http://www.hagstromelectronics.com/products/ke18.html Hagstrom's KE18 Page]'''

==KE24==
[[image:ke24.jpg|right|thumb|KE24]]

The KE24 is a PS/2 (MiniDIN) or AT (DIN) programmable interface board with a keyboard pass-through port. The KE24 manual makes no mention of native USB support.

Each of the 24 inputs can be individually programmed in matrix or direct input mode. eg, 7 pins can be programmed as a 4x3 matrix (such as a standard 0-9,#,* keypad) while the remaining 17 inputs can be programmed as direct input. Thus the inputs can be programmed as 24 individual inputs, a matrix of 12x12 allowing for 144 inputs or any combination in between. In addition, any input can be assigned a macro consisting of up to 16 keystrokes.

An RS-232 I/O port is included and is used as a programming port to configure the board, allow simulated key strokes to be feed to the control board and to obtain key strokes from the control board. Programming is done with an included software (Unspecified OS) application.

'''Relevant Link: [http://www.hagstromelectronics.com/products/ke24.html Hagstrom's KE24 Page]'''

==KE-USB36==
[[image:keusb36.jpg|right|thumb|KE-USB36]]
The KE-USB36 emulates a standard USB Keyboard and Mouse device. Any keystroke may also be modified with a Ctrl, Alt, or Shift function, or any combination of the three modifiers. In addition to keystrokes, inputs may be programmed to emulate mouse Left, Middle, and Right buttons.

The KE-USB36 features a Trackball input for conversion of this device to mouse movement. (A Spinner may be used instead of a Trackball)

The KE-USB36 is programmed through the USB port of the PC using the programming application included with the unit. Once programmed, the configuration is stored on the KE-USB36 in non-volatile memory.

All power for the KE-USB36 is taken from the PC USB port, so no other voltage supply is required.

'''Relevant Link: [http://www.hagstromelectronics.com/products/ke_usb36.html Hagstrom's KE-USB36 Page]'''

==KE72==
[[image:ke72.jpg|right|thumb|KE72]]
The KE72 features 72 individual inputs. Each input may be programmed to output a single keystroke, or a sequence (macro) of keystrokes. For macros, each input may generate up to 32 keystrokes when activated, and up to 16 keystrokes when the input is released. The KE72 is able to emulate any keystroke found on a standard 101 or 104 key keyboard.

'''Relevant Link: [http://www.hagstromelectronics.com/products/ke72.html Hagstrom's KE72 Page]'''

==LP24==
[[image:lp24.jpg|right|thumb|LP24]]

PS/2 or USB or both?

Number of Inputs

Designated for anything?

Shift keys?

Additional features?

'''Relevant Link: [http://www.hagstromelectronics.com/products/lp24.html Hagstrom's LP24 Page]'''

==Mini-PAC==
A very versatile keyboard/trackball/spinner encoder. The Mini-PAC interfaces either over USB or over PS2 (PS2 only works for buttons). The interface does not suffer from ghosting and matrix side-effects common to regular USB keyboards. The board is actually a small-size I-PAC2 with 3 optical interfaces added.

It interfaces 28 buttons and 3 analogue inputs for a trackball and a spinner.

It has default MAME style input mapping and a second programmable mapping. Utilities for programming under DOS, Windows, OSX and Linux are delivered with the Mini-PAC

It has a shift function for adding secondary functions to connected buttons.

An optional harness is available to easy connect the Mini-PAC to 28 buttons/joyctick switches and to 3 analogue controls.

'''Relevant Link: [http://ultimarc.com/minipac.html Ultimarc's Mini-PAC Page]'''

==X-Arcade BYO Kit==
X-Arcade™ Build Your Own Arcade Features

<li>Supports 28 Inputs In Any Combination (2 Joysticks + 20 Buttons) See Default Config Here</li>
<li>Speedstep™ Design Supports 28 Simultaneous Input Presses With Absolutely No Delay
<li>Award Winning Electronics Featured In Video Game/Technology Publications Worldwide
<li>Fully Programmable Input Assignments In Hardware (PC Only) For Re-Assigning Buttons/Joysticks To Any Input On Keyboard.
<li>Programmed Modes Include Memory Storage To Maintain Settings When Unit Is Off
<li>4 Different Memory Mode Settings In Hardware For Saving Button/Joystick Layouts For Various Emulators Or Settings
<li>Direct Plug-In For Connectors: No Screwdriver Required
<li>Included LED Display Shows On/Off Test Function And Assists In Programming Modes
<li>Includes PS/2 Keyboard Pass-Thru Input
<li>No Separate Power Required, No Ghosting, No Scanning, No Delays
<li>External Connection Via PS/2 Port or USB Port
<li>No Limit On USB Simultaneously-Pressed Switches: Full Native On-Board USB Support
<li>Compatible With Any Game System (Game Adapters Sold Separately)
<li>No Software Or Drivers Needed
<li>No Soldering Requied (Easy Installation For Anyone!)
<li>Can Be Used With Any Third Party USB or PS/2 Trackball/Spinner
<li>Fully Compatible With Any OS, (Mac, Linux, Unix, PC, etc)
<li>Fully Seamless Operation And Configuration With MAME/Emulation Software
<li>Default Support Provided Both By MAME and Gametap (X-Arcade PCB Support In Both Applications)

'''Relevant Link: [http://www.xgaming.com/byoarcade.shtml X-Arcade PCB]'''

==PC Arcade Controller 2 Player Version(With USB/PS2 ADAPTER) For MAME Cabinet==

Supports 2 x Joysticks,12 x fire buttons(each 6 buttons for 2 player),P1 Start,P2 Start,Insert Coin.
Extra inputs for Pause[P],MAME Menu[Tab],Quit Game[Esc].
Connects to the PS2 port of your PC with a supplied 1.5m cable.
Simple plug & play.No drivers or software required.
Easily mountable compact control box
Long 55 cm harness insulated steel cable.All cables are paired together and labelled for easy connection.

6.3mm female crimp terminals for connection to standard micro-switches.
Supports all Happ/Suzo type joysticks and buttons.
No programming and no key-mapping software needed.
No key ghosting or blocking.
Compatible with all versions of M$ Windows and M$-DOS.
It is simply the easiest way to interface a PC with arcade controls.
The ideal solution if you want to run MAME in an arcade cabinet.
Includes an easy to follow installation manual.

'''Relevant Link: [http://www.arcademvs.com/ARCADE_ACESSERIOR.htm Y-Plus ADAPTER]'''

==See Also==
* [[Controls]]

[[Category:Controls]]

Keyboard Encoders

2014-06-10T18:55:42Z

Megaweapon: Added JammASD

Keyboard Encoders offer the functionality of a keyboard hack in an easy-to-use form. They offer several benefits including reduction of ghosting, ease in connecting controls and time savings.

==I-PAC2==
[[image:Ipac2 diag.jpg|right|thumb|I-PAC2 (PS/2 version) Photo © Ultimarc.com, Used with permission.]]
Ultimarc's IPac2 was the first full-featured affordable keyboard encoder to hit the BYOAC community and quickly became the hook-up of choice. Up until it's release most people were still hacking keyboards, since most keyboard encoders came with a high price tag or were difficult to find.

It's still a very popular choice and comes in PS/2 and USB flavours.

Both versions have 28 inputs. They are all programmable and are designated as 2 joysticks, 8 buttons each, plus coin1, coin2, start1, start2. One of the inputs is assigned as a shift key to access an alternate code set (usefull if you want to keep administrative buttons to a minimum on your control panel). Both models also have connectors for NumLock, CapsLock and ScrollLock keyboard LEDs.The PS/2 model includes a very usefull keyboard passthrough.

'''Relevant Link: [http://www.ultimarc.com/ipac1.html Ultimarc's I-PAC2 Page]'''

==I-PAC2 FS32==
Ultimarc's IPac2 FS32 is a new model of the IPac2. I has the same features as the IPac2 but with more inputs (32 vs. 28)

'''Relevant Link: [http://www.ultimarc.com/ipac1.html Ultimarc's I-PAC2 Page]'''

==I-PAC4==
[[image:ipac4.jpg|right|thumb|I-PAC4 (PS/2 version) Photo © Ultimarc.com, Used with permission.]]
The I-PAC4 is designed for 4-player panels or where large numbers of inputs are needed. It also comes in PS/2 and USB versions.

Both versions have 56 inputs and are all programmable and designated 4 joysticks, 8 buttons each plus coin 1,2,3,4 and start 1,2,3,4. Two of the inputs are assigned as shift keys to access two separate codes sets covering the player 1,2 and the player 3,4 inputs, usefull if you want to keep administrative buttons to a minimum on your control panel

'''Relevant Link: [http://www.ultimarc.com/ipac1.html Ultimarc's I-PAC4 Page]'''

==I-PAC VE==
[[image:ipac_ve.jpg|right|thumb|I-PAC VE Photo © Ultimarc.com, Used with permission.]]
This "value edition" of the I-PAC only comes in USB form. It is suitable for all Windows versions, Linux, and Mac, but not DOS. You may require a standard A-B USB cable (check the Ultimarc website for details regarding this).

One important difference with this model is that when a custom codeset is used, it is stored in RAM instead of EEPROM, meaning that storage needs refreshing after power-down (this does not apply if you always use the built-in default MAME code set of course, the settings revert to MAME on power-down)

This model has 32 inputs. They are all programmable and are designated as 2 joysticks, 8 buttons each, plus coin1, coin2, start1, start2. One of the inputs is assigned as a shift key to access an alternate code set (usefull if you want to keep administrative buttons to a minimum on your control panel). This model also has connectors for NumLock, CapsLock and ScrollLock keyboard LEDs.

'''Relevant Link: [http://www.ultimarc.com/ipacve.html Ultimarc's I-PAC VE Page]'''

==J-PAC==
[[image:jpac.jpg|right|thumb|J-PAC Photo © Ultimarc.com, Used with permission.]]
The J-PAC is an encoder which allows plug-in connection of a [http://wiki.arcadecontrols.com/wiki/JAMMA JAMMA] arcade cabinet to a VGA card and keyboard port or USB port on a PC motherboard, and incorporates all the functions of the standard I-PAC's and has a dual interface for PS/2 and USB.

'''Relevant Link: [http://www.ultimarc.com/jpac.html Ultimarc's J-PAC Page]'''

==JammASD==

Similar in most respects to the J-PAC, this encoder includes an audio amplifier supporting both mono and stereo sound (vs. the J-PAC's unamplified mono only) as well as an RCA jack for use with a lightgun. The JammaASD is PS/2 only and limited to 7 buttons per player (with no support for Tilt, Service SW or Test buttons).

'''Relevant Link: [http://www.arcadeitalia.net/jammasd.html ArcadeItalia's JammASD Page]'''

==KeyWiz MAX==
[[image:kwmax.jpg|right|thumb|KeyWiz MAX Photo © IDVT Inc. / GroovyGameGear.com, Used with permission.]]

A high-performance keyboard encoder produced by Groovy Game Gear. It features screw terminal headers on the PCB for easy hookup and a switch to allow the "pass-thru" use of a connected keyboard.

The KeyWiz line of keyboard encoders feature 32 inputs and connect to a PC via the keyboard PS2 port. The Keywiz has the default MAME codeset hard-coded by default. Custom codesets can easily be created and loaded into RAM on the Keywiz via its included software. This software can be placed in the Windows Startup folder to automatically load a custom keyset each time the computer is booted.

The Keywiz uses a SHAZAAM key to allow most of the inputs to have alternate keycodes. For example, pushing the SHAZAAM key and the Player 1 button #2 is the same as hitting the TAB key. This function allows many "administrative" keys to be accessed without dedicated pushbuttons to clutter the control panel.

'''Relevant Link: [http://groovygamegear.com/webstore/index.php?main_page=product_info&cPath=76_80&products_id=199 GroovyGameGear's KeyWiz MAX Page]'''

==KeyWiz Eco 2==
[[image:kweco2.jpg|right|thumb|KeyWiz Eco 2 Photo © IDVT Inc. / GroovyGameGear.com, Used with permission.]]

A high-performance keyboard encoder produced by Groovy Game Gear. This encoder boasts the same performance as the KeyWiz Max, but without keyboard pass-thru or screw terminal headers on the PCB. The KeyWiz Eco is available in a "solder" and "no solder" version.

The KeyWiz line of keyboard encoders feature 32 inputs and connect to a PC via the keyboard PS2 port. The Keywiz has the default MAME codeset hard-coded by default. Custom codesets can easily be created and loaded into RAM on the Keywiz via its included software. This software can be placed in the Windows Startup folder to automatically load a custom keyset each time the computer is booted.

The Keywiz uses a SHAZAAM key to allow most of the inputs to have alternate keycodes. For example, pushing the SHAZAAM key and the Player 1 button #2 is the same as hitting the TAB key. This function allows many "administrative" keys to be accessed without dedicated pushbuttons to clutter the control panel.

'''Relevant Link: [http://groovygamegear.com/webstore/index.php?main_page=product_info&cPath=76_80&products_id=200 GroovyGameGear's KeyWiz Eco 2 Page]'''

==KE18==
[[image:ke18.jpg|right|thumb|KE18]]

The KE18 is sold with MiniDIN 6-pin (PS/2) connectors however the manual mentions the board is sold with 5-pin DIN (AT-Style) connectors.

The control board is fairly basic, including no shift keys and a fixed key table (however alternate key codes and a different scanning arrangement can be specified upon ordering). The KE18's most notable feature is compatibility with older PC interfaces, a feature that might be desirable when maintaining older computer hardware. Another desirable feature for some is a keyboard pass-through port which allows a keyboard to remain connected to the PC.

Three jumpers allow some configuration options:

No Rep|Rep: Disables or Enables the repeat function of the keyboard interface.

1x18|9x9: Changes from a 18 key direct input to a 9x9 (for a total of 81 inputs) matrix mode.

XT|AT: Alternates between XT or AT PC mode.

Note: It is unclear from the documentation whether ghosting in matrix mode is addressed.

'''Relevant Link: [http://www.hagstromelectronics.com/products/ke18.html Hagstrom's KE18 Page]'''

==KE24==
[[image:ke24.jpg|right|thumb|KE24]]

The KE24 is a PS/2 (MiniDIN) or AT (DIN) programmable interface board with a keyboard pass-through port. The KE24 manual makes no mention of native USB support.

Each of the 24 inputs can be individually programmed in matrix or direct input mode. eg, 7 pins can be programmed as a 4x3 matrix (such as a standard 0-9,#,* keypad) while the remaining 17 inputs can be programmed as direct input. Thus the inputs can be programmed as 24 individual inputs, a matrix of 12x12 allowing for 144 inputs or any combination in between. In addition, any input can be assigned a macro consisting of up to 16 keystrokes.

An RS-232 I/O port is included and is used as a programming port to configure the board, allow simulated key strokes to be feed to the control board and to obtain key strokes from the control board. Programming is done with an included software (Unspecified OS) application.

'''Relevant Link: [http://www.hagstromelectronics.com/products/ke24.html Hagstrom's KE24 Page]'''

==KE-USB36==
[[image:keusb36.jpg|right|thumb|KE-USB36]]
The KE-USB36 emulates a standard USB Keyboard and Mouse device. Any keystroke may also be modified with a Ctrl, Alt, or Shift function, or any combination of the three modifiers. In addition to keystrokes, inputs may be programmed to emulate mouse Left, Middle, and Right buttons.

The KE-USB36 features a Trackball input for conversion of this device to mouse movement. (A Spinner may be used instead of a Trackball)

The KE-USB36 is programmed through the USB port of the PC using the programming application included with the unit. Once programmed, the configuration is stored on the KE-USB36 in non-volatile memory.

All power for the KE-USB36 is taken from the PC USB port, so no other voltage supply is required.

'''Relevant Link: [http://www.hagstromelectronics.com/products/ke_usb36.html Hagstrom's KE-USB36 Page]'''

==KE72==
[[image:ke72.jpg|right|thumb|KE72]]
The KE72 features 72 individual inputs. Each input may be programmed to output a single keystroke, or a sequence (macro) of keystrokes. For macros, each input may generate up to 32 keystrokes when activated, and up to 16 keystrokes when the input is released. The KE72 is able to emulate any keystroke found on a standard 101 or 104 key keyboard.

'''Relevant Link: [http://www.hagstromelectronics.com/products/ke72.html Hagstrom's KE72 Page]'''

==LP24==
[[image:lp24.jpg|right|thumb|LP24]]

PS/2 or USB or both?

Number of Inputs

Designated for anything?

Shift keys?

Additional features?

'''Relevant Link: [http://www.hagstromelectronics.com/products/lp24.html Hagstrom's LP24 Page]'''

==Mini-PAC==
A very versatile keyboard/trackball/spinner encoder. The Mini-PAC interfaces either over USB or over PS2 (PS2 only works for buttons). The interface does not suffer from ghosting and matrix side-effects common to regular USB keyboards. The board is actually a small-size I-PAC2 with 3 optical interfaces added.

It interfaces 28 buttons and 3 analogue inputs for a trackball and a spinner.

It has default MAME style input mapping and a second programmable mapping. Utilities for programming under DOS, Windows, OSX and Linux are delivered with the Mini-PAC

It has a shift function for adding secondary functions to connected buttons.

An optional harness is available to easy connect the Mini-PAC to 28 buttons/joyctick switches and to 3 analogue controls.

'''Relevant Link: [http://ultimarc.com/minipac.html Ultimarc's Mini-PAC Page]'''

==X-Arcade BYO Kit==
X-Arcade™ Build Your Own Arcade Features

<li>Supports 28 Inputs In Any Combination (2 Joysticks + 20 Buttons) See Default Config Here</li>
<li>Speedstep™ Design Supports 28 Simultaneous Input Presses With Absolutely No Delay
<li>Award Winning Electronics Featured In Video Game/Technology Publications Worldwide
<li>Fully Programmable Input Assignments In Hardware (PC Only) For Re-Assigning Buttons/Joysticks To Any Input On Keyboard.
<li>Programmed Modes Include Memory Storage To Maintain Settings When Unit Is Off
<li>4 Different Memory Mode Settings In Hardware For Saving Button/Joystick Layouts For Various Emulators Or Settings
<li>Direct Plug-In For Connectors: No Screwdriver Required
<li>Included LED Display Shows On/Off Test Function And Assists In Programming Modes
<li>Includes PS/2 Keyboard Pass-Thru Input
<li>No Separate Power Required, No Ghosting, No Scanning, No Delays
<li>External Connection Via PS/2 Port or USB Port
<li>No Limit On USB Simultaneously-Pressed Switches: Full Native On-Board USB Support
<li>Compatible With Any Game System (Game Adapters Sold Separately)
<li>No Software Or Drivers Needed
<li>No Soldering Requied (Easy Installation For Anyone!)
<li>Can Be Used With Any Third Party USB or PS/2 Trackball/Spinner
<li>Fully Compatible With Any OS, (Mac, Linux, Unix, PC, etc)
<li>Fully Seamless Operation And Configuration With MAME/Emulation Software
<li>Default Support Provided Both By MAME and Gametap (X-Arcade PCB Support In Both Applications)

'''Relevant Link: [http://www.xgaming.com/byoarcade.shtml X-Arcade PCB]'''

==PC Arcade Controller 2 Player Version(With USB/PS2 ADAPTER) For MAME Cabinet==

Supports 2 x Joysticks,12 x fire buttons(each 6 buttons for 2 player),P1 Start,P2 Start,Insert Coin.
Extra inputs for Pause[P],MAME Menu[Tab],Quit Game[Esc].
Connects to the PS2 port of your PC with a supplied 1.5m cable.
Simple plug & play.No drivers or software required.
Easily mountable compact control box
Long 55 cm harness insulated steel cable.All cables are paired together and labelled for easy connection.

6.3mm female crimp terminals for connection to standard micro-switches.
Supports all Happ/Suzo type joysticks and buttons.
No programming and no key-mapping software needed.
No key ghosting or blocking.
Compatible with all versions of M$ Windows and M$-DOS.
It is simply the easiest way to interface a PC with arcade controls.
The ideal solution if you want to run MAME in an arcade cabinet.
Includes an easy to follow installation manual.

'''Relevant Link: [http://www.arcademvs.com/ARCADE_ACESSERIOR.htm Y-Plus ADAPTER]'''

==See Also==
* [[Controls]]

[[Category:Controls]]

Mala Forum

2014-06-01T23:22:27Z

Megaweapon: Spam removed

MAME

2014-04-29T01:39:02Z

Megaweapon: fixed link to ROMs article

{{WorkInProgress|talk:Arcade Emulators}}

<gallery>
Image:MAME_Logo.jpg|MAME Logo
Image:MAME32.jpg|MAME32 Frontend
</gallery>

* '''OS: ''' Windows, Linux and others
* '''Cost: ''' Open Source
* '''Re-mappable keys: ''' Yes
* '''Monitor orientation(s): ''' Depend of game
* '''Emulated System(s):''' [http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/MAME MAMETM]
* '''Unique games emulated:''' 3000+
* '''Homepage: [http://mamedev.org''' MameDEV]
* '''Additional Requirements:''' [[ROMs|Game Roms]]
 

== What is MAME? ==
('''M'''ultiple '''A'''rcade '''M'''achine '''E'''mulator) is one of (if not the) most widely used videogame emulators. Currently, it supports over six thousand different arcade games. Standard versions of MAME can be found at [http://www.mame.net MAME.net], intermediate versions and development notes are at [http://www.mamedev.org MAMEDev.org].

Since MAME is an open source project, many people have created modified versions with various extra tweaks and features. You can find some versions on it's own page ([[Mame Modified Versions]]).

== Dedicated cabinet info ==
MAME is the main reason, you create your own arcade controls and put MAME into your cabinet.

The default MAME keys to wire your controls to can be found at: http://easyemu.mameworld.info/mameguidenew/mameguide-controls.html

== How do I set it up? ==
[[Mame_Lightgun_Setup|Setting up Lightguns/Multiple Analog devices]]

== Support Files ==
MAME or its modified versions support extra files form of cheats, high score saving, and more.

=== Cheat ===
Cheating is useful for both players and developers. Cheating allows players to get past difficult situations and it let's developers test games without having to be good at all the games.

Before MAME version 0.127, cheating could be enabled using a .DAT file. Since version 0.127, cheating is enabled used a zipped .XML file. The cheat.dat file is not compatible with the latest versions of MAME.

'''Pre-0.127 Homepage:''' http://cheat.retrogames.com/

'''Post-0.127 Homepage:''' http://cheat.retrogames.com/forums/viewtopic.php?t=3110
 

=== High Score ===
Hiscore.dat is a complimentary file to help MAME in saving high scores in version 0.32 to 0.107u1. Most MAME games save their high scores by default, but over 2500 games do not save their high scores.

The Hiscore.dat file tells Mame some additional information and how to read and store the high scores using the /hi directory instead of /nvram.

As of MAME version 0.107u1, however, Hiscore.dat is no longer supported. Hiscore.dat has been replaced by the use of save states due to issues that the file caused with proper emulation.

Hiscore support can be added back into Mame using MKChamp's Hiscore diff patches. For more information visit: http://forum.arcadecontrols.com/index.php?topic=64298.0

'''Homepage:''' http://highscore.mameworld.info/
 

=== Command.dat ===
[[Image:command.png|right|thumb|Command.dat screenshot]]
Commands can be shown either in game or in a front end. Commands allow users to view, among other things, the individual command lists for games. This is especially usefull for Fighting Games, but can also show users what individual buttons (and combinations) do without having to press them all. The screenshot is from within MAME Plus!

'''Homepage:''' http://home.comcast.net/~plotor/command.html

''Note: Command.dat isn't supported by the official MAME build - a [[Mame_Modified_Versions | Modified Version of MAME]] is required. Alternatively [[Other Software|Johnny 5]] and [[Other Software|CPWizard]] can read command.dat files''
 

=== Artwork ===
[[Image:frogs.png|right|thumb|Frogs with artwork enabled]]
In game artwork is supported in MAME in versions 0.61 and later. Some arcade machines had images inside them onto which the screen was projected, had artwork overlaid on the monitor or had LED lights on the cabinet that were illuminated during game play. This can't be emulated but is instead simulated with a digital picture of the artwork. Some games, like Frogs, Video Pinball, Drag Race, Armor Attack and Warrior are nearly impossible to play without the original artwork. Other games have elaborate decorative monitor bezels that are not functional but many fans feel they add to the arcade experience.

Starting with version 0.107, MAME began to supports hi-resolution artwork and changed the file format for the layout (from .art to .lay). Pre-0.107 artwork with .art layout files will not work with MAME version 0.107 and later.

To use these files, save them to the /artwork directory.

'''Post-MAME 0.107 Homepage:''' http://mrdo.mameworld.info/mame_artwork.html
 

=== Controls ===
Controls.dat holds a more detailed input list of control types and button labels for many games in mame. ''Like commands.dat, controls.dat isn't supported by the official MAME build, and [[Other Software|Johnny 5]] and [[Other Software|CPWizard]] can read controls.dat files.''

'''Homepage:''' http://fe.donkeyfly.com/controls/controls.php

== I upgraded MAME/MAME32/MameUI and now I get errors that files/roms are missing. Why? ==
As MAME progresses, romsets are sometimes changed to more accurately reflect the original hardware. There are several reasons the romsets 'change'. Here are some of them (courtesy of u_rebelscum): 
Case 1: bad dump now replaced by good dump 
Case 2: incomplete dump (X chip now emulated now needs Y ROM not needed before) 
Case 3: new dump from confirmed source, old dump from unreliable/unknown source 
Case 4: new dump is real release, old dump is hacked board 
Case 5: new dump is real release, old dump is prototype 
Case 6: new dump is wider release, old dump is local release 

The first three add/replace to a ROM, the last three usually involve renaming. The short answer is that you need to find a correct romset for the version of MAME you are using, as old romsets may not work with a newer version of MAME.

See also: [http://mamedev.org/devwiki/index.php/FAQ:ROMs#Why_does_MAME_report_.22missing_files.22_even_if_I_have_the_ROMs.3F http://mamedev.org/devwiki/index.php/FAQ:ROMs#Why_does_MAME_report_.22missing_files.22_even_if_I_have_the_ROMs.3F]

== See Also ==
* [http://maws.mameworld.info/maws/ MAWS] - presents a searchable index of the over 3000 original games (not including clones) that MAME emulates.
* [http://nonmame.retrogames.com/ NonMAME] - maintains a list of games not emulated in MAME that are emulated by other projects.
* [http://unmamed.mameworld.info/ unMAMEd] - maintains a list of games that have not been emulated in MAME, including many games that are actively being sought out so that their ROMs can be dumped.

[[Category:Software]]

BYOAC tokens

2014-04-29T01:35:12Z

Megaweapon: fixed link to coin doors article

'''BYOAC tokens''' are a [[community project]] started in 2004 and have since become an annual tradition.
Dave Santoro ('Santoro' in the forums) created these tokens after several previous discussions on the idea didn't get off the ground. The first thread is here: http://forum.arcadecontrols.com/index.php?topic=19172.0 .

The BYOAC tokens are accepted by coin mechanisms found in many arcade machines. Many BYOAC members also include a [[Coin Doors|coin door]] in their scratchbuilt arcade cabinets and a set of original tokens is a nice addition.

So far they are all .984" (25MM) in diameter, the most common size in the industry. If you have a Bally or Midway coin door you may need to modify your coin slots (see http://forum.arcadecontrols.com/index.php?topic=52277) or get smaller .90" tokens elsewhere. Many, but not all, US Quarter mechanisms can be modified or adjusted to accept .984" tokens. (See http://forum.arcadecontrols.com/index.php?board=1;action=display;threadid=22251)

BYOAC Tokens are avaialble at http://www.arcadetokens.com.

==2004 tokens==
[[Image:Scannedbrasssmall.png]]

==2005 tokens==
[[Image:05BY.jpg]]

==2006 tokens==
The 2006 coins are currently being designed. The thread can be found in the artwork forum [http://forum.arcadecontrols.com/index.php?topic=52117.0 here].

ArcadeTokens.com

2014-04-29T01:19:12Z

Megaweapon: fixed link to coin doors article

__NOTOC__
'''Homepage:''' http://www.arcadetokens.com

'''BYOAC Thread:''' http://forum.arcadecontrols.com/index.php?topic=19172.0

ArcadeTokens.com is run by David Santoro, who is a regular on the BYOAC forums under the name "Santoro". Each year, the BYOAC community votes on a front and back design submitted by the members. Santoro then arranges the minting of the tokens.

The BYOAC tokens are accepted by coin mechanisms found in many arcade machines. Many BYOAC members also include a [[Coin Doors|coin door]] in their scratchbuilt arcade cabinets and a set of original tokens is a nice addition.

So far they are all .984" (25MM) in diameter, the most common size in the industry.

==2004 tokens==
[[Image:Scannedbrasssmall.png]]

==2005 tokens==
[[Image:05BY.jpg]]

==2006 tokens==
The 2006 coins are currently being designed. The thread can be found in the [http://forum.arcadecontrols.com/index.php?topic=52117.0 artwork forum].

'''Current Design:'''

[[Image:2006TOKENS-4 UPsmall.png]]

==See Aslo==
* [http://forum.arcadecontrols.com/index.php?board=1;action=display;threadid=52277 Modify Bally or Midway] - You may need to modify or get smaller .90" tokens elseware.
* [http://forum.arcadecontrols.com/index.php?board=1;action=display;threadid=22251 Modify US Quarter] - These can being modified or adjusted to accept .984" tokens.

* [[Vendors]]

[[Category:Vendors]]

Front-Ends

2014-04-28T03:09:39Z

Megaweapon: Added icons for front-end features

== Front-end Software ==
Below is the front-end software comparison table. Click on the software's name for detailed information about that software. Please be aware that this may be incomplete! The individual pages will have the software's homepage for you to verify any information or questions you may have!

''Note: Any unknown information in the table is filled with placeholders (placeholders are shown in italics).''
''Note: To be listed as Cabinet friendly, it needs to be able to be used with joysticks and buttons only ([[image:Fe-ico-cab.png|alt=CAB]]).'''

{| Width="100%" valign="top" border="1" cellspacing="0" cellpadding="3" style="background:white; color:black; border:1px solid silver;"
|- style="background:navy; color:white"
| '''Software'''
| '''BYOAC User'''
| '''OS'''
| '''Type1'''
| '''Monitor Orientation 2'''
| '''Emulators3'''
| '''Other Features4'''

|- style="background:gray; color:white"
|colspan="7"|'''<center>Typical recommended frontends by BYOAC users:</center>'''

|-
| [[AtomicFE]]
| Youki
| [[Image:OS windows icon.gif]]
| Freeware
| [[Image:Monitor horizontal icon.gif]][[Image:Monitor vertical icon.gif]]
| CMD PC
| [[image:Fe-ico-cab.png|alt=CAB]] [[image:Fe-ico-jb.png|alt=JB]] [[image:Fe-ico-led.png|alt=LED]] [[image:Fe-ico-lr.png|alt=LR]] [[image:Fe-ico-mr.png|alt=MR]] [[image:Fe-ico-st.png|alt=ST]] [[image:Fe-ico-tou.png|alt=TOU]] [[image:Fe-ico-vid.gif|alt=VID]] [[image:Fe-ico-dev.png|alt=DEV]]

|-
| [[GameEx]]
| TSpeirs
| [[Image:OS windows icon.gif]]
| Shareware ($25)
| [[Image:Monitor horizontal icon.gif]][[Image:Monitor vertical icon.gif]]
| CMD PC
| [[image:Fe-ico-cab.png|alt=CAB]] [[image:Fe-ico-jb.png|alt=JB]] [[image:Fe-ico-lcd.png|alt=LCD]] [[image:Fe-ico-led.png|alt=LED]] [[image:Fe-ico-lr.png|alt=LR]] [[image:Fe-ico-mr.png|alt=MR]] [[image:Fe-ico-st.png|alt=ST]] [[image:Fe-ico-sw.png|alt=SW]] [[image:Fe-ico-tou.png|alt=TOU]] [[image:Fe-ico-vid.gif|alt=VID]] [[image:Fe-ico-dev.png|alt=DEV]]

|-
| [[HyperSpin]]
| BadBoyBill
| [[Image:OS windows icon.gif]]
| Freeware
| [[Image:Monitor horizontal icon.gif]]
| CMD PC
| [[image:Fe-ico-cab.png|alt=CAB]] [[image:Fe-ico-dev.png|alt=DEV]] [[image:Fe-ico-lr.png|alt=LR]] [[image:Fe-ico-mr.png|alt=MR]] [[image:Fe-ico-st.png|alt=ST]] [[image:Fe-ico-sw.png|alt=SW]] [[image:Fe-ico-vid.gif|alt=VID]] [[image:Fe-ico-led.png|alt=LED]]

|-
| [[MaLa]]
| Loadman (previously Swindus)
| [[Image:OS windows icon.gif]]
| Freeware
| [[Image:Monitor horizontal icon.gif]][[Image:Monitor vertical icon.gif]]
| CMD PC
| [[image:Fe-ico-cab.png|alt=CAB]] [[image:Fe-ico-jb.png|alt=JB]] [[image:Fe-ico-lcd.png|alt=LCD]] [[image:Fe-ico-led.png|alt=LED]] [[image:Fe-ico-lr.png|alt=LR]] [[image:Fe-ico-mr.png|alt=MR]] [[image:Fe-ico-st.png|alt=ST]] [[image:Fe-ico-sw.png|alt=SW]] [[image:Fe-ico-vid.gif|alt=VID]]

|-
| [[Mamewah]]
| Minwah
| [[Image:OS windows icon.gif]]
| Freeware
| [[Image:Monitor horizontal icon.gif]][[Image:Monitor vertical icon.gif]]
| CMD PC
| [[image:Fe-ico-cab.png|alt=CAB]] [[image:Fe-ico-dev.png|alt=DEV]] [[image:Fe-ico-lcd.png|alt=LCD]] [[image:Fe-ico-led.png|alt=LED]] [[image:Fe-ico-lr.png|alt=LR]] [[image:Fe-ico-mr.png|alt=MR]] [[image:Fe-ico-st.png|alt=ST]] [[image:Fe-ico-vid.gif|alt=VID]]

|-
| [[Maximus Arcade]]
| %
| [[Image:OS windows icon.gif]]
| Shareware ($25)
| [[Image:Monitor horizontal icon.gif]][[Image:Monitor vertical icon.gif]]
| 39+ arcade and console emulators
| [[image:Fe-ico-cab.png|alt=CAB]] [[image:Fe-ico-jb.png|alt=JB]] [[image:Fe-ico-led.png|alt=LED]] [[image:Fe-ico-mr.png|alt=MR]] [[image:Fe-ico-st.png|alt=ST]] [[image:Fe-ico-vid.gif|alt=VID]]

|- style="background:gray; color:white"
|colspan="7"|'''<center>Recommended for Linux (both active and discounted):</center>'''

|-
| [[AdvanceMenu]]
| %
| [[Image:OS linux icon.gif]][[Image:OS windows icon.gif]][[Image:OS DOS icon.gif]]
| Open Source
| [[Image:Monitor horizontal icon.gif]][[Image:Monitor vertical icon.gif]]
| CMD
| [[image:Fe-ico-am.png|alt=AM]] [[image:Fe-ico-cab.png|alt=CAB]] [[image:Fe-ico-lr.png|alt=LR]] [[image:Fe-ico-mr.png|alt=MR]] [[image:Fe-ico-vid.gif|alt=VID]]

|-
| [[Wah!Cade]]
| Balki
| [[Image:OS linux icon.gif]]
| Open Source
| [[Image:Monitor horizontal icon.gif]][[Image:Monitor vertical icon.gif]]
| CMD
| [[image:Fe-ico-dev.png|alt=DEV]] [[image:Fe-ico-cab.png|alt=CAB]] [[image:Fe-ico-lr.png|alt=LR]] [[image:Fe-ico-mr.png|alt=MR]] [[image:Fe-ico-st.png|alt=ST]] [[image:Fe-ico-vid.gif|alt=VID]]

|- style="background:gray; color:white"
|colspan="7"|'''<center>Other cabinet friendly frontends:</center>'''

|-
| [[Attract-Mode]]
| Raygun
| [[Image:OS linux icon.gif]][[Image:OS windows icon.gif]][[Image:OS_apple_icon.gif]]
| Open Source
| [[Image:Monitor horizontal icon.gif]][[Image:Monitor vertical icon.gif]]
| CMD PC
| [[image:Fe-ico-cab.png|alt=CAB]] [[image:Fe-ico-dev.png|alt=DEV]] [[image:Fe-ico-lr.png|alt=LR]] [[image:Fe-ico-mr.png|alt=MR]] [[image:Fe-ico-sw.png|alt=SW]] [[image:Fe-ico-vid.gif|alt=VID]]

|-
| [[Cabrio]]
| Cosam
| [[Image:OS linux icon.gif]]
| Open Source
| [[Image:Monitor horizontal icon.gif]][[Image:Monitor vertical icon.gif]]
| CMD
| [[image:Fe-ico-cab.png|alt=CAB]] [[image:Fe-ico-dev.png|alt=DEV]] [[image:Fe-ico-lr.png|alt=LR]] [[image:Fe-ico-mr.png|alt=MR]] [[image:Fe-ico-sw.png|alt=SW]] [[image:Fe-ico-vid.gif|alt=VID]]

|-
| [[Emulaxian/3D Arcade]]
| )p(
| [[Image:OS windows icon.gif]]
| Freeware
| [[Image:Monitor horizontal icon.gif]][[Image:Monitor vertical icon.gif]]
| CMD
| [[image:Fe-ico-cab.png|alt=CAB]] [[image:Fe-ico-mr.png|alt=MR]] [[image:Fe-ico-sw.png|alt=SW]]

|-
| [[Fronty]]
| FrontyDev
| [[Image:OS windows icon.gif]]
| Freeware
| [[Image:Monitor horizontal icon.gif]][[Image:Monitor vertical icon.gif]]
| CMD PC
| [[image:Fe-ico-cab.png|alt=CAB]] [[image:Fe-ico-dev.png|alt=DEV]] [[image:Fe-ico-lcd.png|alt=LCD]] [[image:Fe-ico-mr.png|alt=MR]] [[image:Fe-ico-st.png|alt=ST]]

|-
| [[Khameleon]]
| Cakemeister
| [[Image:OS windows icon.gif]]
| Open Source
| [[Image:Monitor horizontal icon.gif]]
| CMD
| [[image:Fe-ico-cab.png|alt=CAB]] [[image:Fe-ico-dev.png|alt=DEV]] [[image:Fe-ico-lr.png|alt=LR]] [[image:Fe-ico-mr.png|alt=MR]] [[image:Fe-ico-sw.png|alt=SW]] [[image:Fe-ico-vid.gif|alt=VID]]

|-
| [[MAMELOAD TNG]]
| Tafoid
| [[Image:OS windows icon.gif]]
| Freeware
| [[Image:Monitor horizontal icon.gif]][[Image:Monitor vertical icon.gif]]
| CMD (MAME-BASED, Including MESS), M1, Final Burn Alpha
| [[image:Fe-ico-cab.png|alt=CAB]] [[image:Fe-ico-dev.png|alt=DEV]] [[image:Fe-ico-mr.png|alt=MR]] [[image:Fe-ico-sw.png|alt=SW]]

|-
| [[MultiFE]]
| Space Fractal
| [[Image:OS windows icon.gif]]
| Freeware
| [[Image:Monitor horizontal icon.gif]][[Image:Monitor vertical icon.gif]]
| Mame, CMD (Includning MESS) & PC Games
| [[image:Fe-ico-cab.png|alt=CAB]] [[image:Fe-ico-dev.png|alt=DEV]] [[image:Fe-ico-jb.png|alt=JB]] [[image:Fe-ico-mr.png|alt=MR]] [[image:Fe-ico-tou.png|alt=TOU]]

|-
| [[UltraMame]]
| r.cade
| [[Image:OS windows icon.gif]]
| Open Source
| [[Image:Monitor horizontal icon.gif]]
| MAME only
| [[image:Fe-ico-cab.png|alt=CAB]] [[image:Fe-ico-dev.png|alt=DEV]] [[image:Fe-ico-mr.png|alt=MR]] [[image:Fe-ico-vid.gif|alt=VID]]

|- style="background:gray; color:white"
|colspan="7"|'''<center>Mouse based frontends:</center>'''

|-
| [[EmuLaunch]]
| %
| [[Image:OS_apple_icon.gif]]
| Freeware for personal use
| Emulator dependent
| Uses Finder to open ROMS in 15 arcade and console emulators
| [[image:Fe-ico-cab.png|alt=CAB]] [[image:Fe-ico-sw.png|alt=SW]]

|-
| [[MAME32]]
| %
| [[Image:OS windows icon.gif]]
| Freeware
| [[Image:Monitor horizontal icon.gif]]
| MAME only
| [[image:Fe-ico-dev.png|alt=DEV]] [[image:Fe-ico-mr.png|alt=MR]]

|- style="background:gray; color:white"
|colspan="7"|'''<center>Touch screen based frontends:</center>'''

|-
| [[SimpleTouch FE]]
| Lave Laar
| [[Image:OS windows icon.gif]]
| Freeware
| Application dependent
| CMD
| [[image:Fe-ico-dev.png|alt=DEV]] [[image:Fe-ico-st.png|alt=ST]] [[image:Fe-ico-tou.png|alt=TOU]] [[image:Fe-ico-vid.gif|alt=VID]]

|- style="background:gray; color:white"
|colspan="7"|'''<center>Discontinued and/or unsupported frontends5:</center>'''

|-
| [[ArcadeOS]]
| %
| [[Image:OS DOS icon.gif]]
| Open Source
| [[Image:Monitor horizontal icon.gif]][[Image:Monitor vertical icon.gif]]
| CMD
| [[image:Fe-ico-am.png|alt=AM]] [[image:Fe-ico-cab.png|alt=CAB]] [[image:Fe-ico-lcd.png|alt=LCD]] [[image:Fe-ico-lr.png|alt=LR]] [[image:Fe-ico-mr.png|alt=MR]]

|-
| [[ArcadEpic]]
| chowny
| [[Image:OS windows icon.gif]]
| Freeware
| [[Image:Monitor horizontal icon.gif]]
| CMD
| [[image:Fe-ico-cab.png|alt=CAB]] [[image:Fe-ico-jb.png|alt=JB]] [[image:Fe-ico-mr.png|alt=MR]] [[image:Fe-ico-vid.gif|alt=VID]]

|-
| [[Dragon King]]
| Howard_Casto
| [[Image:OS windows icon.gif]]
| Freeware
| [[Image:Monitor horizontal icon.gif]]
| CMD
| [[image:Fe-ico-cab.png|alt=CAB]] [[image:Fe-ico-lr.png|alt=LR]] [[image:Fe-ico-mr.png|alt=MR]] [[image:Fe-ico-sw.png|alt=SW]] [[image:Fe-ico-vid.gif|alt=VID]]

|-
| [[GameLauncher]]
| Dave Dribin
| [[Image:OS windows icon.gif]][[Image:OS DOS icon.gif]]
| Open Source
| [[Image:Monitor horizontal icon.gif]][[Image:Monitor vertical icon.gif]]
| CMD
| [[image:Fe-ico-cab.png|alt=CAB]] [[image:Fe-ico-lr.png|alt=LR]] [[image:Fe-ico-mr.png|alt=MR]]

|-
| [[Kymaera]]
| PacManFan
| [[Image:OS windows icon.gif]][[Image:OS DOS icon.gif]]
| Open Source
| [[Image:Monitor horizontal icon.gif]][[Image:Monitor vertical icon.gif]]
| CMD
| [[image:Fe-ico-am.png|alt=AM]] [[image:Fe-ico-cab.png|alt=CAB]] [[image:Fe-ico-lr.png|alt=LR]] [[image:Fe-ico-mr.png|alt=MR]] [[image:Fe-ico-st.png|alt=ST]] [[image:Fe-ico-sw.png|alt=SW]] [[image:Fe-ico-vid.gif|alt=VID]]

|-
| [[Ultrastyle]]
| ultrastyle
| [[Image:OS windows icon.gif]]
| Open Source
| [[Image:Monitor horizontal icon.gif]]
| MAME only
| [[image:Fe-ico-cab.png|alt=CAB]] [[image:Fe-ico-mr.png|alt=MR]] [[image:Fe-ico-sw.png|alt=SW]] [[image:Fe-ico-vid.gif|alt=VID]]

|- style="background:gray; color:white"
|colspan="7"|'''<center>Frontends with missing "other features" tab:</center>'''

|-
| [[CabFE]]
| %
| [[Image:OS linux icon.gif]]
| Open Source
| [[Image:Monitor horizontal icon.gif]]
| CMD
| ''Placeholder''

|-
| [[PyreCade]]
| flemming
| [[Image:OS linux icon.gif]][[Image:OS windows icon.gif]][[Image:OS_apple_icon.gif]]
| OpenSource
| [[Image:Monitor horizontal icon.gif]]
| Mame <.106uq2
| ''Placeholder''

|-
| [[XMAME-GUI]]
| %
| [[Image:Java.gif]]
| Open Source
| [[Image:Monitor horizontal icon.gif]]
| SDL-MAME Only
| ''Placeholder''

|}

''Homepages for these FEs are gone, and are (might?) not active anymore:''

* ''[[Arcade.EXE]] - Windows-only MAME front-end''
* ''[[ArcadeFE]] - Windows-only MAME front-end''
* ''[[ArcadeFX]] - Windows-only MAME front-end''

'''1)''' Type:
* '''Open Source:''' is fully functional software with source code included.
* '''Freeware:''' is fully functional without payment and without nag screens and ads.
* '''Shareware:''' has limited functionality (or has nags) until payment is made.
* '''Commercial:''' software is fully functional for a limited time, after which payment must be made.

'''2)''' About software and hardware rotation:

Most Frontends with vertical support typical require Windows to been rotated as well. Some frontends, such like Mamewah, MultiFE and others support software rotation as well.

'''3)''' Emulators:
* If '''CMD''' is shown, this front-end can run all command line based emulators.
* If '''PC''' is shown, it can run PC games as well (using bat and/or shortcuts files).

'''4)''' Other Features:
*'''[[image:Fe-ico-dev.png|alt=DEV]]''' - Still in developing for fixing bugs or/and supported.
*'''[[image:Fe-ico-am.png|alt=AM]]''' - Native arcade monitor support without ArcadeVGA card
*'''[[image:Fe-ico-cab.png|alt=CAB]]''' - Mouse and keyboard-free operation (for cabinets)
*'''[[image:Fe-ico-jb.png|alt=JB]]''' - Integrated jukebox
*'''[[image:Fe-ico-lcd.png|alt=LCD]]''' - LCD screen, such as those found at http://www.seetron.com/
*'''[[image:Fe-ico-led.png|alt=LED]]''' - Front-end can control a LED controller
*'''[[image:Fe-ico-lr.png|alt=LR]]''' - Low Resolutions (below 640 pixels wide)
*'''[[image:Fe-ico-mr.png|alt=MR]]''' - Multiple Resolutions
*'''[[image:Fe-ico-st.png|alt=ST]]''' - Skin tool included
*'''[[image:Fe-ico-sw.png|alt=SW]]''' - Skinnable without tool
*'''[[image:Fe-ico-tou.png|alt=TOU]]''' - Touchscreen Support
*'''[[image:Fe-ico-vid.gif|alt=VID]]''' - Video snapshots (movies)

Howover Mamewah and MultiFE (in realtime) have software rotation as well.

Just because a frontend is discontinued does not mean that it is a bad frontend.
Either there is no more need to update it, or the author just left the project.
Discontinued frontends are still used in cabinets today, and most run on both older and newer machines, though some may have some issues with newer versions of MAME.
So check these out as well.

File:Fe-ico-vid.gif

2014-04-28T02:47:50Z

Megaweapon: Front-end feature icons: "VID - Video snapshots (movies)"

Front-end feature icons: "VID - Video snapshots (movies)"

File:Fe-ico-tou.png

2014-04-28T02:47:01Z

Megaweapon: Front-end feature icons: "TOU - Touchscreen Support"

Front-end feature icons: "TOU - Touchscreen Support"

File:Fe-ico-sw.png

2014-04-28T02:46:18Z

Megaweapon: Front-end feature icons: "SW - Skinnable without tool"

Front-end feature icons: "SW - Skinnable without tool"

File:Fe-ico-st.png

2014-04-28T02:45:23Z

Megaweapon: Front-end feature icons: "ST - Skin tool included"

Front-end feature icons: "ST - Skin tool included"

File:Fe-ico-mr.png

2014-04-28T02:44:40Z

Megaweapon: Front-end feature icons: "MR - Multiple Resolutions"

Front-end feature icons: "MR - Multiple Resolutions"

File:Fe-ico-lr.png

2014-04-28T02:44:02Z

Megaweapon: Front-end feature icons: "LR - Low Resolutions (below 640 pixels wide)"

Front-end feature icons: "LR - Low Resolutions (below 640 pixels wide)"

File:Fe-ico-led.png

2014-04-28T02:43:23Z

Megaweapon: Front-end feature icons: "LED - Front-end can control a LED controller"

Front-end feature icons: "LED - Front-end can control a LED controller"

File:Fe-ico-lcd.png

2014-04-28T02:42:09Z

Megaweapon: Front-end feature icons: "LCD - LCD screen"

Front-end feature icons: "LCD - LCD screen"

File:Fe-ico-jb.png

2014-04-28T02:41:09Z

Megaweapon: Front-end feature icons: "JB - Integrated jukebox"

Front-end feature icons: "JB - Integrated jukebox"

File:Fe-ico-dev.png

2014-04-28T02:40:20Z

Megaweapon: Front-end feature icons: "DEV - Still in developing for fixing bugs or/and supported."

Front-end feature icons: "DEV - Still in developing for fixing bugs or/and supported."

File:Fe-ico-cab.png

2014-04-28T02:38:06Z

Megaweapon: Front-end feature icons: "CAB - Mouse and keyboard-free operation (for cabinets)"

Front-end feature icons: "CAB - Mouse and keyboard-free operation (for cabinets)"

File:Fe-ico-am.png

2014-04-28T02:37:19Z

Megaweapon: Front-end feature icons: "AM - Native arcade monitor support without ArcadeVGA card"

Front-end feature icons: "AM - Native arcade monitor support without ArcadeVGA card"