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30 mars 20265 min read0 views

How to Install a Marquee on Arcade1Up [2026 Guide]

Learn how to install a custom marquee on your Arcade1Up in 15 minutes. Step-by-step guide with dimensions, tools, and expert tips.

Comment installer un marquee sur Arcade1Up [Guide 2026]
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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

  1. 1Unplug your cabinet from the electrical outlet for safety
  2. 2Locate the screws at the back of the top panel (usually 4 screws)
  3. 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

  1. 1Clean the plexiglass with isopropyl alcohol
  2. 2Wipe with the microfiber cloth
  3. 3Let it dry completely (2-3 minutes)
  4. 4Check that no dust or fingerprints remain

Check Dimensions

Standard Arcade1Up marquee dimensions are:

ModelWidthHeight
Arcade1Up Standard18.5" (47 cm)5.5" (14 cm)
Arcade1Up XL20" (50.8 cm)6" (15.2 cm)
Legacy Edition19" (48.3 cm)5.75" (14.6 cm)
Always measure your marquee before ordering to avoid surprises.

Step 3: Install the New Marquee

Option A: Adhesive Vinyl Marquee

This is the most popular method and what we recommend.

  1. 1Position without sticking: Place the vinyl on the plexiglass to check alignment
  2. 2Hinge method: Tape one edge with masking tape to create a hinge
  3. 3Peel the backing: Gradually remove the protective paper
  4. 4Squeegee: Use the squeegee from center to edges to remove bubbles
  5. 5Finishing: Heat slightly with hair dryer for curves if needed
💡
Tip: Work in a dust-free environment. A bathroom after a hot shower is ideal (humidity brings dust down).

Option B: Rigid Marquee (Direct Print)

If you opted for a pre-printed rigid marquee:

  1. 1Simply remove the old graphic
  2. 2Insert the new one in the existing guides
  3. 3Make sure it's centered

Step 4: Reassemble the Cabinet

Reinstall the Backlight

  1. 1Place the marquee back in its slot
  2. 2Secure the clips or screws
  3. 3Check that the LED backlight is properly positioned

Test Before Closing

Before screwing the panel back:

  1. 1Temporarily plug in the cabinet
  2. 2Turn it on to check the backlight
  3. 3Make sure the marquee is evenly illuminated
  4. 4Check for any bubbles or visible defects

Close the Top

Once satisfied with the result:

  1. 1Replace the top panel
  2. 2Screw in the 4 screws without over-tightening
  3. 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

  1. 1Temperature: Install at room temperature (65-77°F). Vinyl is more flexible and adheres better.
  1. 2Patience: Don't rush the application. Better to take 20 minutes and have a perfect result.
  1. 3Print Quality: Always choose high-resolution files (300 DPI minimum). All RetroGraphX designs are 300 DPI.
  1. 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!

Tags
arcade1up
marquee
installation
tutoriel
personnalisation

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Passionate about retro gaming and arcade cabinet customization for over 10 years.

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