Two-in-One

Over the weekend, I did another layout test. This time, I created a FedEx box stick using the size of the PT-10 aluminum panel. I also positioned the buttons differently on the two rows so I could see which one worked better. Overall, I think the PT-10 enclosure is a great size for what I'm used to and the layout of the buttons will be a custom modification to the Sega layout.

Also, I connected a RJ-45 jack to the four USB wires coming from the PCB. This way, I'll be able to use that jack for any other PCBs I might add later to my stick. Right now, I just have the Neo SE PCB installed, but I might add a PSX PCB later on. You can read more about using the RJ-45 jack here.

Head Drill

After much research into cutting holes in aluminum sheets, I decided to cut my top and back panels using hole saws. I found a great deal on all the tools I needed to cut 15/16" (close to 24mm) and 1&3/16" (close to 30mm) holes at plumbersurplus.com. Check out what it cost me:

DeWALT D180015 15/16" Heavy-Duty Hole Saw $4.53
DeWALT D180019 1-3/16" Heavy-Duty Hole Saw $4.73
DeWALT DW1800 1/4" Shank Mandrel (Fits Hole Saws 9/16" - 1-3/16") $4.81
Shipping $9.27
Total $23.34

I think that's much more reasonable than buying lower quality saws at Home Depot for about double the cost.

Can't wait to get these tools so I can get moving on my stick!

I thought you wielded greater power than this...

After doing a layout test on my FedEx box, I realized that the overall box size was too big for my tastes. People have raved about the TE stick, so I was eager to try out the feel of it with my FedEx box stick (roughly the same dimensions). Maybe it's because I don't like to play with the stick on my lap, or because I'm so used to my Hori Compact Joystick, but I decided not to pursue a large-sized box. Anyway, I got two Pactec PT-10 boxes already, so I'm kinda locked in to those...

How Will the Battle Shape Up?

According to USPS tracking, my parts from Lizard Lick have arrived at home! While waiting for the parts, I've been looking into all sorts of enclosure options for my custom stick. Everything from a FedEx Box (the old medium size/new large size, which is about the same dimensions as the Madcatz TE stick), a Rubbermaid container, my old VCR (which I'd have to gut) to building my own wood/metal box... LUCKILY, I came across this thread, today. After some thought, I ordered two (one of each color) from PacTec. I'm thinking that I'll paint the PC bone colored enclosure white, so that it'll match my Xbox 360.