Friday, August 31, 2001
Today I placed an order with Hagstrom Electronics for their KE-72T encoder board (pictured to the left - top board) which will take the inputs from the buttons, joysticks, and trackball and then convert them into a language MAME will recognize. I decided on the KE-72T because it is the top-of-the-line encoder board and allows 72 separate connections without matrices, and thus, no ghosting. With 72 discrete inputs, it allows for future upgrades (think 4 players) along with great control for all involved.
Along with the KE-72T, I ordered a KE-TBH3 cable which connects the encoder board to the Happ Controls trackball that I plan on purchasing (still haven't decided on the exact trackball). Also, I purchased 2 KE-MM6 cables to connect the KE-72T to the computer properly and although they are probably cheaper at Fry's or a similar store, they were only $5.95 each and compatibility is guaranteed. A small price to pay for technical support and guaranteed compatibility.When I ordered the products, I was extremely pleased with the level of customer support on the other end. I got through to a representative on the first ring and was able to place my order quickly and efficiently. Since I'm still in the process of building the cabinet, there was no rush on these products (especially since I don't even have any of the pushbuttons, joysticks, or other controls). They are going to be shipped UPS ground and should arrive in a week. Since I am receiving these as a birthday present, they will not be added to the total cost thus far, but are added up below:
KE-72T: $139.95 + KE-MM6 x 2: ($5.95 x 2): $11.90 + KE-TBH3: $9.95 = $161.81 + shipping (unknown right now).
After ordering, I was also informed that I would be receiving an IOX-36 breakout board free of charge (pictured to the left - bottom board). This was a great addition as I was contemplating buying one anyways, but since cash is tight at the moment, I held off on it (if all else failed, I would have bought 2 at a later time). Many thanks to Hagstrom for including this great accessory free!
The KE-72T Features:
- 72 Input, programmable interface to your PC keyboard input.
- Features 72 individual inputs.
- -T Option for Track Ball signal conversion to PS/2 mouse protocol.
- RS-232 Port receives ASCII characters and outputs to the Keyboard Port.
- Each input can be programmed to emulate any standard key or Macro sequence of up to 32 keystrokes
- Supplied with PC application "KE72LOAD" used to configure the KE72
