How to Choose Plexiglass for Arcade1Up Control Deck Upgrades

Introduction: Why plexiglass matters for Arcade1Up control decks

Arcade1Up cabinets are compact, but the control deck area sees a lot of use. Upgrading to a high-quality plexiglass panel can protect the internals, reduce wear on buttons, and improve aesthetics. In this guide we explore how to choose the right plexiglass, what specs to pay attention to, and how to order a panel that fits your specific A1U model.

Understanding the material: Plexiglass vs alternatives

Plexiglass is a common name for polymethyl methacrylate (PMMA). It’s clear, lightweight, and can be cut and formed with precision. For arcade control decks, you want a material that resists yellowing, stays clear under light, and holds up

to repeated button presses and occasional spills. While polycarbonate is tougher, it can scratch more easily if uncoated. Here we focus on cast plexiglass, which has better optical clarity and more consistent thickness than extruded variants.

Why 1/8 inch thickness?

1/8 inch (about 3.2 mm) is a common thickness that provides rigidity without adding excessive weight. It fits most control deck openings and maintains button travel feel. Thicker panels can interfere with button actuation; thinner sheets may bow or scratch faster. The right thickness balances durability, fit, and accessibility for maintenance.

What matters when choosing Plexiglass for Arcade1Up Control Decks

• Fit and cut accuracy: The panel needs to align with the exact cutouts for your control layout and any wave-cut CPO designs. Even a small misalignment can cause bezel gaps or placement issues for lights and LEDs.
• Panel cut matching the panel you ordered: If your order includes a replacement control deck or a skinned CPO, the plexiglass should be cut to match those precise dimensions to avoid interference with buttons and mounting hardware.
• Edge finishing: Smooth, polished edges reduce the risk of cracks and make handling safer during installation.
• Clarity and UV resistance: A clear, non-yellowing sheet preserves the vibrancy of the arcade artwork and labels over time.
• Scratch resistance: Consider coatings or surface hardness that resist scuffs from repeated button presses and cleaning.
• Compatibility with existing hardware: The plexiglass should not interfere with mounting brackets, mounting screws, or any coin-door alignment. Ensure the panel does not clash with the CPO waves and artwork you have installed.
• Ease of ordering and customization: A service that cuts to match your specific panel, with clear notes about whether it’s for factory CPO or a panel you ordered, helps avoid mismatches and returns.
• Turnaround time and price: Custom-cut panels come with trade-offs between speed and cost. For ongoing projects, consider a supplier who offers consistent quality and straightforward reorders.

Measuring and specifying your order: steps you can take

1. Identify your cabinet model and the exact control deck configuration. Arcade1Up has several variants, and even small differences in button layouts can affect the required cut.
2. Measure the width and height of the active control area, including any accounting for overhang where the bezel sits. If you have an existing CPO overlay, measure its cutouts to ensure compatibility with the plexiglass corners and edge tolerances.
3. Confirm the cut pattern: Will the plexiglass be a flat sheet, or should it accommodate a wave-pattern around the CPO edges? If you are using a skin or overlay, ensure the plexiglass aligns with the printed art beneath.
4. Decide on the material grade: 1/8 cast plexiglass is a common choice for its optical clarity and consistent thickness.
   

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   Be aware of any special finishes or coatings you might want for extra scratch resistance or anti-glare properties.
5. Plan for mounting: Check whether your existing mounting hardware will still be compatible with the new panel. In some cases, you may need longer screws or spacers to account for added thickness.
6. Place your order with the precise measurements and notes about whether this plexiglass is intended for a factory CPO or a panel produced by the supplier. This helps ensure a perfect fit and avoids confusion on installation.

Here is what matters.

After you receive the plexiglass, follow a careful installation process to preserve fit and see long-term results.

Installation and care: getting the best results

Before installation, gather the right tools: a non-abrasive cloth, mild soap, isopropyl alcohol for stubborn grime, and a soft plastic scraper to push through any lint around mounting holes. Clean the panel surface and the backing plate before placing the plexiglass. Align the sheet with the control deck cutouts, then gradually secure it with the mounting hardware. Do not overtighten screws, which can cause stress cracks or warp the edge finish.

Edge finishing matters: if the plexiglass arrives with rough edges, a professional can polish them; avoid sanding or filing aggressively, which can introduce micro-cracks. Once installed, test the button response and LED alignment to ensure there is no interference with the CPO overlay or light piping.

Maintenance and longevity: keeping your upgrade looking sharp

Plexiglass kept clean typically lasts for many years with minimal yellowing when exposed to standard indoor lighting. Use a mild cleaner and a soft microfiber cloth; avoid ammonia-based cleaners that may degrade the edge seal or gloss over time. If you notice minor scratches, light buffing with a non-abrasive polish can help restore clarity. Avoid rough scouring pads that might scratch the surface. If you frequently swap artwork or overlays, consider sealing the edges to reduce exposure to humidity that could affect the panel fit over time.

Why choose Plexiglass For Arcade1Up Control Deck from DIY Retro Arcade?

The Plexiglass For Arcade1Up Control Deck from DIY Retro Arcade is designed to fit 1/8 inch cast plexiglass specifications and is cut to the exact panel you order. It’s intended to work with CPOs produced by the seller and not for A1U factory CPOs. This ensures a precise fit and reduces the risk of misalignment that can occur with generic sheets. If you’re upgrading a panel with a replacement CPO or a wave-overlaid design, this plexiglass helps maintain a clean line and consistent support for your artwork. The service specializes in converting your panel measurements into a cut that matches your unique configuration, making installation smoother and more predictable than off-the-shelf sheets.

Common questions about plexiglass upgrades for Arcade1Up

• Is plexiglass safe around LED lighting and fans? Yes, when properly cut and installed. Plexiglass does not interfere with typical LED backlighting and can help preserve light piping if mounted correctly.
• Will this plexiglass affect button travel? When matched to the correct thickness and with proper mounting, button travel remains consistent. The 1/8 inch thickness is a balanced choice for most control deck layouts.
• Can I reuse existing screws and hardware? In many cases yes, but verify that you have room for the added thickness of the plexiglass and any mounting standoffs.

With thoughtful selection and careful installation, Plexiglass upgrades for Arcade1Up control decks can protect your investment and preserve the look of your cabinet for years to come.