Bartop Arcade PDF A0 Plans: Complete Construction Guide

Dreaming of building your own bartop arcade but don't know where to start? This complete guide takes you from A to Z, from A0 format PDF plans to the final assembly of your cabinet.

The A0 format (841 x 1189 mm) is the professional standard for cutting plans. Here are its advantages:

• 1:1 Scale — No calculations or conversions, pieces are full-size
• Maximum Precision — Clean lines for error-free cutting
• Laser/CNC Compatible — Files optimized for professional machines
• Large Format Printing — Available at all print shops

Our bartop design uses proven dimensions, optimized for gaming comfort:

• Thickness: 18 mm (¾")
• Advantages: Easy to machine, smooth surface, affordable
• Disadvantage: Moisture sensitive, heavy

• Thickness: 15-18 mm
• Advantages: Lighter, durable, beautiful edges
• Disadvantage: More expensive, can splinter when cutting

• Thickness: 16-19 mm
• Advantages: Ready-to-use finish, easy to clean
• Disadvantage: Edge chipping, less aesthetic

A standard bartop consists of 8 to 10 main pieces:

1. Side Panels (x2) — The characteristic cabinet shape
2. Back Panel — Component access, ventilation
3. Bottom — Structure support
4. Control Panel Deck — Playing surface with joysticks and buttons
5. Screen Mount — Holds the monitor at optimal angle
6. Marquee — Top illuminated header
7. Bezel — Frame around the screen
8. Access Hatch — Maintenance and wiring

1. Download the A0 PDF file
2. Visit a print shop (Staples, Office Depot, local copy center)
3. Request 100% scale printing on standard paper or tracing paper
4. Verify the scale with a ruler on the plan's reference marks

Tracing Method:

• Secure the plan to the panel with masking tape
• Use a sharp point to mark the corners
• Connect the points with pencil

Template Method:

• Cut out the shapes from the paper plan
• Trace the outline onto the wood
• Faster for batch production

Jigsaw (DIY):

• Fine wood blade (T101B)
• Medium speed, slow feed
• Follow the outer line

Track Saw:

• Ideal for straight cuts
• Depth set to thickness + 2 mm

CNC/Laser Cutting (pro):

• Import the vector file (DXF/AI)
• Precision to the tenth of a millimeter
• Perfect edge finish

Pre-drilling:

• 3 mm drill bit for 4 mm screws
• Countersink for flush screw heads

Gluing:

• D3 wood glue for indoor use
• PU glue for extra strength

Screwing:

• 4x40 mm wood screws
• Every 15-20 cm on joints

Once your structure is assembled, bring it to life with our graphics kits:

• Side Art — Side panel decoration
• Marquee — Illuminated header with game logo
• Control Panel Overlay — Playing surface cover
• Bezel — Decorative frame around the screen

All our files are provided in high resolution PDF (300 DPI) and layered PSD for complete customization.

1. Measure twice, cut once — The carpenter's golden rule
2. Dry fit test — Before gluing, verify everything fits
3. Plan for ventilation — A Raspberry Pi runs cool, a PC runs hotter
4. Keep wiring neat — Use cable sleeves and connectors
5. Protect the wood — Varnish or paint before applying graphics

• 1:1 Scale A0 Bartop PDF Plans (download)
• Bartop Graphics Kits

Building your own bartop arcade is a project accessible to all DIY enthusiasts. With A0 format PDF plans, you eliminate measurement errors and save valuable time. Combined with RetroGraphX professional graphics, you'll get a cabinet worthy of 80s arcades.

Ready to get started? Download our 1:1 scale A0 plans and discover our graphics kits.