This article is about 2098 words, recommended reading time 5 minutes.This article introduces how someone recently built a 1:1 replica arcade machine using a Raspberry Pi!
When it comes to electronic devices that are a great investment, the Raspberry Pi definitely ranks high. Not to mention the common uses of Raspberry Pi to build license plate recognition systems, train game AI, and now it can even be used to create a Boston Dynamics robot dog. Recently, someone built a 1:1 replica arcade machine using a Raspberry Pi!
About eight or nine months ago, data scientist Max Fischer from Combient Mix started a project to build a full-size arcade machine from scratch, with the Raspberry Pi as the core computing device.Yesterday, Max documented the entire process of creating the arcade machine and published it on GitHub.Project link: https://github.com/maxvfischer/DIY-arcade
The project details all the steps to build a full-size arcade machine, including pre-designed CAD files (available for free download), methods for assembling the machine body, and how to set up the Raspberry Pi to run arcade programs.Each step of the tutorial includes specific photos for reference. Of course, besides the Raspberry Pi, you will also need a fully equipped workshop.The project consists of two main parts: building the arcade machine body and setting up and connecting the internal electronic components.Building the BodyDownload CAD FilesThis is the author’s first time using CAD software, and he has opened up all original file download links.
Download link: https://github.com/maxvfischer/DIY-arcade/tree/master/cad_filesParts CuttingTo create perfectly matching arcade buttons, joysticks, screens, power buttons, and speakers, both the “button panel” and the “screen panel” used CNC cutting. This is much more expensive than manual cutting but offers a better finish. The side panels were also made using CNC cutting because they needed to punch through two sets of identical round holes.
It is important to cut the CAD files using a 1:1 scale.The remaining parts can be cut manually. The author used a table saw to cut MDF boards into smaller pieces and then cut them into the final required wooden pieces.The only part that requires extra effort is the hatch panel. First, outline the hatch’s profile on the board, then use a circular saw to cut out the actual hatch. A handheld jigsaw is used at the corners for better control during cutting.
Drawing Part ProfilesTo ensure that the assembled body remains symmetrical, it is important to accurately position all parts during installation. The simplest way is to draw the outlines on each panel. This may take some time, but it is crucial.
Start AssemblingNext, it’s time to assemble all the panels together, using woodworking joinery to strengthen the fixation. The screen panel is the only place where woodworking joinery is not used, as it may need to be replaced later. Before gluing, test fit all the panels together to ensure they are correctly positioned.
After adjustments, apply glue quickly.Once glued, use a nail gun for reinforcement.
Finish the Screen PanelFirst, use two thin wooden strips as support brackets:
To achieve a smooth appearance, a handheld router was used to create a groove here.
Additionally, holes need to be drilled in the wood according to the positions of the screen buttons to enable clicking functionality.
Painting and CompletionBefore painting, the surface of the machine body should be treated with an electric sander. The difficulty of painting can be quite high, so it’s advisable to hire a professional to handle it. The author chose black for the body color and white for the inside of the lightbox for better reflection.
For design purposes, the author also printed many stickers for the machine body:
Button Instructions:
So far, the machine body is complete, and now the electronic components can be installed.Installing Electronic ComponentsConnecting PowerPass the circular plastic cable loop through the hole at the bottom of the back panel to connect the power.
Installing the ScreenUse electroplated bundling tape to secure the screen:
LightboxTo maintain consistency with the overall design, the author reused some graphic components from the side panels:
Print a large sticker, and hollow out the “ARCADE MACHINE” part of the sticker to allow light to pass through. The sticker will later be attached to frosted glass.
The light source uses LED light tubes, and the wires of the light tubes can connect to the power strip at the bottom of the machine. Use double-sided tape to attach the LED light tubes to the back panel.
To prevent light from leaking from the glass, Max cut some long foam strips and used double-sided tape to stick them behind the corners of the glass.
Use double-sided tape to secure the glass position and stick the sticker on top:
Installing Arcade Buttons and JoysticksMax purchased two sets of arcade buttons and joysticks in advance, which are easy to use and do not require circuit board knowledge. Therefore, the installation of the arcade buttons is quite simple. Install each button and joystick to their respective circuit boards, then connect the USB cable and circuit board to the computer.
To center the joystick in the hole, Max used wide double-sided tape to place the joystick in the button panel.
Configuring RetroPie on Raspberry PiRetroPie can turn the Raspberry Pi into a retro gaming machine, and it is an open-source project that is continuously updated. You can find installation guides on the official website: https://retropie.org.uk/docs/First-Installation/.Configuring Arcade Buttons and JoysticksThe USB cable of the arcade button circuit board connects to the Raspberry Pi. Power on the Raspberry Pi and RetroPie, and the welcome screen will appear, allowing you to configure the controller.Power ButtonTo facilitate turning the arcade machine on and off, the author added a hole in the screen panel to install the power button.Solder two wires to the power button, connecting them to GPIO pins 5 and 6 on the Raspberry Pi. Shorting GPIO pins 5 and 6 will activate the Raspberry Pi from a paused state.
Then add a small script that executes when the Raspberry Pi starts. This script listens for another shorting of GPIO pins 5 and 6, triggering a safe shutdown of the Raspberry Pi.The process of adding the shutdown script will not be elaborated here; for details, please refer to the GitHub project.
Currently, the power button can only turn off the Raspberry Pi. Max stated that he plans to install a relay controlled by the Raspberry Pi later to switch other electronic devices (such as the screen, lightbox, etc.).SpeakersEach speaker has two wires soldered to it. Place the speaker in the CNC drilled hole and connect it to the screen panel. All wires connect to the amplifier. Then connect the amplifier and Raspberry Pi with a 3.5mm AUX stereo audio cable.
Improving Wiring StructureTo keep the internal wiring structure of the machine clear, Max used double-sided tape to attach cable organizers.
Arcade Machine CompletedAt this point, the process of building the arcade machine using the Raspberry Pi is complete.
Who wouldn’t want to own such an arcade machine?Currently, this “self-built” arcade machine can run many retro games.The author also plans to upgrade from Raspberry Pi 3 to Raspberry Pi 4 so that more classic Nintendo 64 and PS1 games can be run!
