27" Vertical Bartop Cab Build

[alexqts]

Hi all,

At the end of last year I spent considerable time designing a compact 27" vertical cab for some old 27" iMac screens that I have at work. The screens have proper glass covers and didn't want to see them go to waste. Once happy with the design everything was flattened and converted to 2D DXF files together with correct layers for holes, pilot holes, cam locks and t-molding. I thought that was the hard part done!

Sadly, I must have contacted over 20 CNC companies and unfortunately none of them seem to be able to cut it for one reason or another. Most either don't have all the tools, material (12 & 18mm black melamine) or willingness to cut and then do the finishing work - holes, cam locks..etc.

After much difficulty I appear to have finally managed to place an order to have 2 of these cabs cut and drilled.

Still deciding on the system. Not sure if I go with an original vertical PCB or Mister...etc... any ideas would be welcomed.

I will update the thread with progress on the build, being my first design I'm sure it won't be without it's challenges!

.

 

[rocolowithoutbrakes]

Sounds like a fun project to me. Always love DIY creations, I'll definitely keep an eye on your progress. Good luck!

 

[9999 Damage]

A lot of people will turn up their nose at modern recreations, but I think there's a place for this stuff.

You mention original PCBs, but I don't see where one would fit. Would it sit outside the unit, or are you planning on fitting it inside?

 

[alexqts]

A lot of people will turn up their nose at modern recreations, but I think there's a place for this stuff.

You mention original PCBs, but I don't see where one would fit. Would it sit outside the unit, or are you planning on fitting it inside?

Totally fair, I am very much involved in my vintage computers and newly discovered arcade hobby. There's no other feeling quite like something original.
I really just wanted to learn how to start designing and make use of the screens!

Quite a bit of space at the bottom, also possibly mounted to one of the rear panels, but admittedly only smaller sized boards would work!

Also been looking at the bitkit2 or similar FPGA.

Parts have been cut, so hopefully have something started in a week or so.

 

[Bikthor]

sdsdsdsdsd

 

[Bikthor]

Were you able to make any progress with the project?
Any updated images? Thanks

 

[alexqts]

Yes - have been building up the first cab and test mounting screens etc.

They messed up the first cut and drilled the cam lock holes all the way through! That has now been corrected and everything else else looks good.

Edge drilling the 12mm sections for the cam dowels is difficult - MDF keeps wanting to split. If anyone has any advice I would appriciate!

Now have inverter board for screen and jamma harness has been sorted, so ready to test with mister tomorrow!

Still need to sort a custom border for the screen and t-molding (hard to find in 12mm)

Any thoughts on improvements very welcome!