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How to Build an Arcade Cabinet Joystick

Recreate classic arcade games by making your own joystick controller. These controllers work perfectly with retro games you would find on an arcade system. If you aren't satisfied with current joysticks on the market, you don't have to settle for something sub par. Instead, use available tools to do it yourself. This method should take a few hours, but the results will feel worth it when you play your favorite game with style.

Things You'll Need

Soldering iron
Wire
Drill
Saw
Sand paper
Happ joystick
8 Happ buttons
Used joypad
Desk with pullout drawer
1 1/2 inch screws
3/4 inch screws

Instructions

- 1
  Remove the pullout table from the desk.
- 2
  Drill holes in the table for the eight buttons and the joystick. Typical designs place the joystick on the right side with six buttons to the left and two above the joystick.
  
  If you have a large pullout desk, you may want to make two joysticks in the pullout section. This will require twice as many screws and buttons as well as two joysticks and joypads.
- 3
  Place joystick and buttons in the appropriate holes and screw in place.
- 4
  Use a wire to connect the buttons and joystick. Be careful to connect these wires carefully to avoid future circuit failure or other electronic problems.
- 5
  Remove the back of the joypad controller and connect the wire to the exposed copper of the circuit of the controller. Then take a smaller wire and connect the circuit to itself.
- 6
  Place the original controller to the side or duct tape it to the bottom of the pullout desk. Make sure the controller is out of the way so you don't accidentally smash it while playing games.

Video Game Accessories