Preparing Your Arcade1Up Cabinet for Raspberry Pi
Arcade1Up cabinets are a great way to enjoy classic arcade games without having to invest a fortune in a full-sized arcade machine. With the Raspberry Pi, it’s even possible to turn your Arcade1Up cabinet into a multi-game machine with thousands of games to choose from. However, before you can install a Raspberry Pi in your Arcade1Up cabinet, you need to prepare the cabinet for it. Here are the steps you need to follow to prepare your Arcade1Up cabinet for Raspberry Pi.
Contents
- 1 Step 1: Choose the Right Cabinet Model and Size
- 2 Step 2: Remove the Control Panel and Monitor
- 3 Step 3: Clean the Cabinet and Remove Any Obstructions
- 4 Step 4: Drill Holes for the Raspberry Pi and Other Components
- 5 Step 5: Install the Raspberry Pi and Other Components
- 6 Step 6: Reassemble the Cabinet and Enjoy Your Multi-Game Machine
Step 1: Choose the Right Cabinet Model and Size
Before you start preparing your Arcade1Up cabinet for Raspberry Pi, it’s important to make sure that you have the right model and size of the cabinet. Not all Arcade1Up cabinets are suitable for a Raspberry Pi installation, especially the ones that have a curved screen or a unique control panel layout. Also, you’ll need to make sure that the cabinet is large enough to accommodate the Raspberry Pi board and any additional components, such as a power supply, HDMI cable, and USB controller. The Arcade1Up cabinets that are most compatible with Raspberry Pi are the standard ones that have a 17-inch screen and a two-player control panel with a joystick and six buttons for each player.
Step 2: Remove the Control Panel and Monitor
The next step is to remove the control panel and monitor from your Arcade1Up cabinet. This will give you access to the inside of the cabinet where you’ll be installing the Raspberry Pi and other components. First, unplug the power cord from the cabinet and disconnect all the cables and wires from the control panel and monitor. Then, use a screwdriver to unscrew the bolts and screws that secure the control panel and monitor in place. Place the control panel and monitor aside in a safe place.
Step 3: Clean the Cabinet and Remove Any Obstructions
With the control panel and monitor removed, you’ll be able to see the inside of the cabinet more clearly. Take the opportunity to clean the inside of the cabinet and remove any obstructions that may interfere with the Raspberry Pi installation. For example, if there are wires or brackets that are blocking the space where you want to place the Raspberry Pi, remove them carefully and set them aside. Also, make sure that the interior of the cabinet is free from dust, debris, or any other foreign objects that may damage the Raspberry Pi or your other components.
Step 4: Drill Holes for the Raspberry Pi and Other Components
Once the inside of the cabinet is clean and clear, you can start drilling holes for the Raspberry Pi and other components. The Raspberry Pi board should be mounted on the side or back of the cabinet, depending on the available space and your personal preference. You’ll need to drill holes for the HDMI cable, power cable, and Ethernet cable, as well as for the USB controllers, audio output, and any other accessories you want to connect to your Raspberry Pi. Make sure that the holes are at the right size and in the right location, so that the cables and components fit snugly and securely.
Step 5: Install the Raspberry Pi and Other Components
With the holes drilled, you can now proceed to install the Raspberry Pi and other components in your Arcade1Up cabinet. Start by mounting the Raspberry Pi board on the designated spot using screws or adhesive tape. Then, connect the HDMI, power, and Ethernet cables to the board and thread them through the corresponding holes. Next, connect the USB controllers, audio output, and any other accessories you want to connect to your Raspberry Pi. Test each component to make sure that they are functioning properly and that the cables are connected securely.
Step 6: Reassemble the Cabinet and Enjoy Your Multi-Game Machine
Finally, it’s time to reassemble your Arcade1Up cabinet and enjoy your new multi-game machine. First, reattach the monitor and control panel to the cabinet and connect all the wires and cables. Then, plug the power cord back into the cabinet and turn it on. You should see the Raspberry Pi booting up and loading your favorite games automatically. Use the USB controllers to navigate through the games and select the ones you want to play. Have fun!