You just received your beautiful custom marquee and can't wait to transform your Arcade1Up? This complete guide walks you through each step for a perfect installation in under 15 minutes.
What You'll Need
Before starting, gather the following materials:
- Your new printed marquee (adhesive vinyl or rigid)
- Phillips head screwdriver
- Microfiber cloth
- Isopropyl alcohol (IPA)
- Squeegee or credit card
- Optional: hair dryer for vinyl
Step 1: Remove the Original Marquee
Accessing the Marquee
- 1Unplug your cabinet from the electrical outlet for safety
- 2Locate the screws at the back of the top panel (usually 4 screws)
- 3Gently remove the panel to access the marquee
Removing the Old Marquee
- Most Arcade1Up units have a marquee consisting of:
- A transparent plexiglass plate
- The printed graphic (often glued)
- LED backlighting
Remove the clips or screws holding the plexiglass. Keep them safe!
Pro tip: Take photos at each step to make reassembly easier.
Step 2: Prepare the Surface
A clean surface ensures perfect adhesion and a professional look.
Deep Cleaning
- 1Clean the plexiglass with isopropyl alcohol
- 2Wipe with the microfiber cloth
- 3Let it dry completely (2-3 minutes)
- 4Check that no dust or fingerprints remain
Check Dimensions
Standard Arcade1Up marquee dimensions are:
| Model | Width | Height |
|---|---|---|
| Arcade1Up Standard | 18.5" (47 cm) | 5.5" (14 cm) |
| Arcade1Up XL | 20" (50.8 cm) | 6" (15.2 cm) |
| Legacy Edition | 19" (48.3 cm) | 5.75" (14.6 cm) |
Step 3: Install the New Marquee
Option A: Adhesive Vinyl Marquee
This is the most popular method and what we recommend.
- 1Position without sticking: Place the vinyl on the plexiglass to check alignment
- 2Hinge method: Tape one edge with masking tape to create a hinge
- 3Peel the backing: Gradually remove the protective paper
- 4Squeegee: Use the squeegee from center to edges to remove bubbles
- 5Finishing: Heat slightly with hair dryer for curves if needed
Option B: Rigid Marquee (Direct Print)
If you opted for a pre-printed rigid marquee:
- 1Simply remove the old graphic
- 2Insert the new one in the existing guides
- 3Make sure it's centered
Step 4: Reassemble the Cabinet
Reinstall the Backlight
- 1Place the marquee back in its slot
- 2Secure the clips or screws
- 3Check that the LED backlight is properly positioned
Test Before Closing
Before screwing the panel back:
- 1Temporarily plug in the cabinet
- 2Turn it on to check the backlight
- 3Make sure the marquee is evenly illuminated
- 4Check for any bubbles or visible defects
Close the Top
Once satisfied with the result:
- 1Replace the top panel
- 2Screw in the 4 screws without over-tightening
- 3Admire the result!
Troubleshooting Common Issues
Air Bubbles Under the Vinyl
- Small bubbles: Gently pierce with a fine needle and squeegee
- Large bubbles: Partially peel and reapply
- Prevention: Work slowly and use the hinge method
Misaligned Marquee
- Use masking tape to mark reference points before sticking
- RetroGraphX files include safety margins for easier alignment
Uneven Backlighting
- Check that LEDs are properly spaced
- A diffuser (tracing paper) can even out the light
- Our marquees are optimized for standard Arcade1Up LED backlighting
Expert Tips for Professional Results
- 1Temperature: Install at room temperature (65-77°F). Vinyl is more flexible and adheres better.
- 2Patience: Don't rush the application. Better to take 20 minutes and have a perfect result.
- 3Print Quality: Always choose high-resolution files (300 DPI minimum). All RetroGraphX designs are 300 DPI.
- 4Quality Vinyl: Choose polymer vinyl with matte or gloss lamination according to your preference.
FAQ
Can I reuse my old marquee?
Yes, if you use repositionable adhesive vinyl. Standard vinyl may damage the original print when removed.
How long does installation take?
Between 10 and 20 minutes for a beginner. Experienced users do it in 5 minutes.
Does LED backlighting work with all marquees?
Yes, our files are designed to be backlit. We recommend translucent vinyl or plexiglass for optimal effect.
Where to find quality marquees?
RetroGraphX offers over 100 high-resolution marquee designs, compatible with all Arcade1Up models. PDF and PSD files for customization.
Conclusion
Installing a custom marquee on your Arcade1Up is one of the simplest and most impactful modifications. In 15 minutes, you completely transform the look of your cabinet and give it a unique identity.
Ready to customize your Arcade1Up? Discover our collection of marquees and complete kits in our shop.
Successfully installed your marquee? Share the result on our social media with #RetroGraphX!
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RetroGraphX
Arcade expert
Passionate about retro gaming and arcade cabinet customization for over 10 years.
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