What’s Inside an Arcade Machine & How Does It Work?

Introduction

Arcade machines have fascinated gamers for decades, but what’s really inside them? Unlike home consoles, arcade cabinets are self-contained gaming systems with dedicated hardware designed for fast, coin-operated gameplay. Understanding how they work can help collectors, restorers, and enthusiasts better appreciate their design and even troubleshoot common issues.

This guide will break down the key components of an arcade machine, how they interact, and how they’ve evolved over time.

The Key Components of an Arcade Machine

Every arcade machine consists of several core parts that work together to deliver the gaming experience.

1. Power Supply Unit (PSU)

  • Converts AC power into low-voltage DC power for the game’s components.
  • Provides different voltage levels (often +5V, +12V, and -5V) depending on the hardware.
  • A faulty PSU can cause game resets, monitor flickering, or complete power failure.

2. Monitor (CRT or LCD Screen)

  • Displays the game visuals, typically in a 4:3 aspect ratio for classic games.
  • Older machines use CRT monitors, while newer or restored cabinets may have LCD replacements.
  • Issues like screen flickering, color distortion, or burn-in can affect gameplay.

3. Game Board (PCB – Printed Circuit Board)

  • Acts as the brain of the arcade machine, storing the game’s code and running the software.
  • Older machines had individual PCBs for each game, while later systems adopted JAMMA (Japanese Arcade Machine Manufacturers Association) standards for interchangeable boards.
  • Damage to the PCB can cause freezing, graphical glitches, or failure to boot.

4. Control Panel (Joysticks & Buttons)

  • The player’s interface for controlling the game, typically consisting of joysticks, buttons, or trackballs.
  • Each input is connected via a wiring harness to send signals to the PCB.
  • Worn-out buttons or faulty micro-switches can cause unresponsive gameplay.

5. Sound System (Speakers & Amplifier)

  • Produces the game’s music and sound effects.
  • An amplifier boosts the sound output to the speakers.
  • Sound distortion or failure is often due to faulty wiring, bad speakers, or a failing amplifier board.

6. Coin Mechanism & Free Play Setup

  • Detects inserted coins and registers credits to start the game.
  • Some machines have been modified to enable free play via DIP switch settings or button mods.
  • A jammed coin mech can prevent players from adding credits.

7. Cabinet & Marquee Lighting

  • The wooden or plastic housing that holds all the components.
  • Typically decorated with game-specific artwork and a light-up marquee.
  • Damaged cabinets may need refinishing, and failing marquee lights can often be replaced with LED alternatives.

How These Components Work Together

When you power on an arcade machine, here’s what happens behind the scenes:

  1. Power is distributed from the PSU to the monitor, PCB, and other components.
  2. The game board (PCB) boots up, running the software that displays graphics and processes input.
  3. The monitor displays the game visuals, refreshing at a set frame rate.
  4. The joystick and buttons send signals to the PCB, which translates them into in-game actions.
  5. The sound system plays game audio, amplifying it through speakers.
  6. If a coin mechanism is used, the game won’t start until credits are added.
  7. The player interacts with the game, and the machine continuously processes inputs, graphics, and sounds until a game over occurs.

Evolution of Arcade Machine Technology

JAMMA Standardization

  • Before the 1980s, each arcade game had unique wiring, making conversions difficult.
  • JAMMA introduced a universal connector that allowed operators to swap game boards between cabinets easily.
  • Most arcade games from the mid-1980s onward adopted this standard.

CRT to LCD Transition

  • Classic arcade machines relied on CRT monitors for sharp, responsive gameplay.
  • As CRTs became harder to maintain, many restorers converted to LCD displays, though purists argue this changes the game’s authentic look.

Multi-Game Cabinets & Emulation

  • Original arcade PCBs were dedicated to a single game, but modern setups allow for multi-game boards or emulation-based systems.
  • Devices like Pandora’s Box or Raspberry Pi-based MAME setups allow cabinets to play hundreds of games.

Common Issues & Troubleshooting Basics

Arcade machines, like any electronics, develop issues over time. Understanding their components helps diagnose problems quickly.

Power Issues

  • Machine won’t turn on → Check power supply, fuses, and wiring connections.
  • Random restarts → May indicate a failing power supply or loose power cable.

Monitor Problems

  • No display but game plays → Issue with video wiring or a dead monitor.
  • Distorted or rolling screen → Adjust horizontal/vertical hold settings.

Control Issues

  • Buttons don’t respond → Likely a bad micro-switch or loose connection.
  • Joystick stuck in one direction → Could be worn-out springs or broken switches.

Sound Problems

  • No audio → Check volume settings, wiring, or amplifier board.
  • Crackling sound → Could be due to a failing speaker or bad ground connection.

For in-depth troubleshooting, check out our Arcade Machine Repair Guide.

Conclusion

Arcade machines are more than just gaming cabinets—they are intricate systems where hardware and software work together to create a seamless experience. Understanding their internal components helps with troubleshooting, maintenance, and even restoration projects. Whether you’re a casual fan, collector, or repair enthusiast, knowing how these machines operate is key to keeping them in top shape.

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