Custom Light-Up Retro Arcade Cabinet

In a tribute to classic gaming & computer science student, I created a custom arcade cabinet that blends nostalgic fun with modern technology. This project was born from my passion for retro games and my love of woodworking and electronics. Featuring a Raspberry Pi 400 at its heart, a 22” display for crisp visuals, and a dismantled speaker system for rich sound, the cabinet also boasts vibrant LED-lit controls and a marquee that sets the mood for gaming sessions. The design is my personal touch, complete with custom decals that celebrate iconic game franchises. The bottom part of the cabinet, constructed from 2x4s and plywood, demonstrates that functionality meets creativity, offering stability and style. This arcade cabinet is more than a gaming machine; it's a statement piece that lights up the room and brings joy to players of all ages.

Materials:

• Raspberry Pi 400, Pi 4-5 or any other computer capable of running retro games.
• 22” TV/Monitor
• Repurposed speaker system
• Plywood/MDF for the cabinet and marquee (Thickness of your choice, I've used 1/4" for this project)
• 2x4 lumber for the base structure
• LED strips - optional
• Arcade joystick and buttons (USB Plug n play)
• Paint, screws, nuts, bolts, and other hardware
• Electrical components for connections
• Custom decals for decoration - optional
• Inlet Module Plug - optional
• Wood Glue

Tools:

• CNC machine or laser cutter (for precision-cut parts)
• Saws (circular, jigsaw, hand saw)
• Drill and screwdrivers
• Soldering iron and wire strippers
• Sanding tools

Design:

• Use Fusion 360 to design the top part of the cabinet. The DXF file available for download, focusing on the intricate parts like the control panel and marquee.

• Begin by creating a design in Fusion 360 (DXF design available for download in the project file), The design include all cuts for the Plywood/MDF sheets, placements for the TV, Raspberry Pi, speakers .

• Utilize the CNC machine to cut out the top part of the cabinet from plywood based on the DXF design(Available for download in the project file).
• Construct a sturdy base using 2x4 lumber and additional plywood pieces, ensuring it matches the dimensions of the top for a seamless fit. (I would suggest building the top part of the cabinet first before taking the dimension of the base)

• Assemble the cut pieces using screws/finishing nails and glue to form the base, sides, and marquee of the cabinet. Ensure the structure is sturdy and leaves adequate space for the TV, Raspberry Pi, and speakers. (see picture for reference)
• Attach small wooden blocks or cleats to join the plywood sections, thereby reinforcing and stabilizing the entire structure.
• Once the top part of the arcade is build, assemble the base structure using 2x4s to create a frame, then cover with plywood for a finished look.

• Apply paint to the entire structure. Opt for a classic black or go bold with colors that pop.
• Place custom decals on the sides, marquee or anything to decorate the outside of your machine. (I've built mine using a laser cutter)

• Install the 22” TV into the top cabinet. Ensure it's secure and angled for optimal viewing.
• Mount the joystick and buttons onto the control panel. Connect these to the Raspberry Pi with careful attention to the wiring for functionality and aesthetics. (see photo for reference)
• Sound System:

1. Integrate the speaker system within the cabinet, positioning for the best sound distribution.
2. Customize the installation as necessary, considering the dismantled components.
3. Mount the TV's control board and power supply inside the cabinet, ensuring they are accessible but out of sight.

• Lighting Up:

1. Fit LED strips under the marquee and around the control panel. Wire them to a power source, ready to dazzle onlookers.

• Wiring It Together:

1. Organize all electrical wiring neatly, ensuring each component is connected correctly and safely.
2. Label wires and connections for easy identification and maintenance.

• Install the operating system on the Raspberry Pi 400 and configure it for arcade emulation.(there is plenty of guide online to help you with that part)
• Load up your library of classic games and test each control component for responsiveness.
• Testing and Troubleshooting:
• Conduct a thorough test of all the arcade buttons, joystick, audio, and video. Make sure everything works as expected.
• Play several games to ensure the system's stability and fine-tune any settings for optimal performance.

• Regular updates and checks on the software will keep the arcade running without hitches.
• Monitor the electronics periodically for any loose connections or wear.
• Consider adding a fan for cooling if the Raspberry Pi or TV generates significant heat during use.