Planning stage

[FredBueno]

Hello there, I’m obviously new here and I did browsed around, read a lot, stored a few useful tips and thoughts..

My big question is: Are you all relying on Pinball wizard to create your custom controls? I couldn’t find any discussions about interfacing keyboard to buttons, so I wonder if this is too easy or too hard, that nobody approaches the subject.

If I have to go with Pinball Wizard because it’s the only option, then I will. Even though it will cost me a lot of money to import (transportation costs of a 20 pounds box + 60% of the value in importation taxes!)

if any of you could provide me with links and/or tips on how to map/interface the keys to buttons I’ll be very grateful….

[maguiar]

Your best bet would be to use a keyboard encoder. Check out any of the following...

http://groovygamegear.com/webstore/index.php?main_page=index&cPath=76_80

Or

http://www.ultimarc.com/ipac1.html

I recommend going with Ultimarc. They have great products and support.

[SophT]

I believe the main reason that people are using the pinball wizard is to have the actual plunger on their cab.

The other option is to use a 'fire' button like some of the newer pins have.

As far as button interfaces go, there are a variety of options available since VP / FP / HP just use key presses.

You can:

1) Use a keyboard hack

2) Use a gamepad hack with XPadder or Joy2Key

3) Order an Interface like the iPac (http://www.ultimarc.com/ipac1.html) or the GPWiz (http://groovygamegear.com/webstore/index.php?main_page=product_info&cPath=76_81&products_id=235)

[FredBueno]

Thanks for the replies guys. I'm glad to hear there are other options. Not only they're cheaper but they also allow better cabinet customization. Again, If I lived in US, $300,00 might look appealing, but imagine end up paying close to double this value for the button's interface only!

[BadBoyBill]

I dont know anyone here actually except maybe 2 guys that use the Pinball Wizard for their button controls, most of us use a keyboard encoder. The Pinball Wizard people mainly want that so they can have a plunger that reacts more realistically.

So in my case I have an IPAC2 to interface my flippers, interface buttons, shooter button and coin door, I use the PBW board to interface the plunger.

[wonderpuddle]

I am using an ipac from ultimarc for my buttons and I recommend it as well. And as for the plunger, I created one from random spare parts around the house, along with a spare leaf switch:

http://www.hyperspin-fe.com/forum/showthread.php?t=3673

May not be as realistic as the pinball wizard plunger, but I think it will work out fine for me.

[bossgp]

I used a keyboard encoder purchased from ebay in Australia for around A$35, works great, was easy to hook up, see pictures. I then used molex plugs for easy connection or removal to flipper buttons, start, coin door,exit button and plunger in the cabinet.