Wednesday, January 18, 2012

MAME Machine Project




I have started a new project which excites me greatly which is a MAME machine project. For those of you who don't know what MAME is, it stands for Multiple Arcade Machine Emulator and what it does is it replicates classic arcade games for you. It is a 2 part project which consists of both software and hardware. As have no experience in this field, I have decided to do all the software configuring before I start the Hardware.


The software will consist of Microsoft Windows XP automatically booting straight into MaLa (a MAME GUI controller) which will hold over a hundred of hand chosen ROMS to play. ROMS are basically the emulated games that have been adapted straight into configuration for playing on a pc.

The hardware end will be built as a classic arcade stand up cabinet that will be adapted and shrunk to fit on a table top or in your lap. I haven't decided weather it will have controls for 1 player or 2 but it will definitely have classic looking buttons and joy sticks to give it that authentic feel.

I have already started the software portion on my spare monitor running a Virtual Machine while I research on this one. I have MAME up and configured with only one working ROM right now. I have had a torrent download going for the past 48 hours for ROMS that hopefully will supply me with a nice selection. As for the interface, I am researching MaLa layouts and configurations to try and get a modern customized look while at the same time meeting that classic feel.

I am quite excited about this project and I can't wait to post more. I would love to hear your thoughts on it as well. If you haven't noticed there is a new widget in the sidebar to receive post notifications by email which is a really cool feature that I recommend readers to use. If you have any questions or suggestions you can comment below. Also don't forget to follow this blog by becoming a subscribed member in the sidebar. Lastly, if you want, you can receive blog updates via twitter by becoming a member through your twitter account.

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