@Tempest -
I've just gotten into converting a 19" vertical cab into a MAME machine. This is my first project, but I'd be willing to give (and take) any advice.
For starters, here is a great site: http://www.arcadecontrols.com/arcade.htm with over 600 examples, how-to and a friendly message board.
Here is what I'm working with so far:
- 1.1 GHz PC, 500 Meg RAM, 4 Gig HD (www.pricewatch.com) ~$175
- KeyWiz advanced encoder ~$40
- Happ buttons, 2x J-Sticks (www.happcontrols.com) ~$50
- Andy's VGA card -- PC->VGA (www.ultimarc.com) ~100
- Trackball hack
- MAME 32
This and a fair amount of time and luck should give me a working box I've been told.
@Cassidy -
It looks like you have some experience with monitors (SpaceWar didn't rebuild itself, I'm guessing ). If I've left mine unplugged for 2-plus weeks, should I try to get under the suction cup and discharge it, or is it fairly safe to tool around back there? How about immediately after testing it?