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Mounting Kit - Installation Guide 

Model #: S1039 - Please read this manual and follow the instructions and warnings prior to usage.

Installation Time: As little as 20 minutes
Difficulty: Beginner to Intermediate
Installation Type: Through-panel mounting

For TinyBrights™ Insert Coin Cube Gen 2 (Model S1025) Chronic Concepts®

What's Included:

  • The main structure that supports the Cube inside the panel opening. Designed to securely install your Insert Coin Cube Gen 2 through a cabinet wall or panel.

  • Holds the Insert Coin Cube inside the installed bracket.

  • 2x Bracket Clamps. Secure the brackets against the back of the mounting panel. Their orientation can be changed to accommodate different panel thicknesses.

  • Includes 6 screws and a hex wrench to secure the mounting hardware. Optional 3.5-inch (89 mm) hole saw highly recommended for creating the mounting opening.

PRODUCT OVERVIEW

Bring the classic arcade experience to your gaming setup!

The Arcade Cabinet Mounting Kit allows you to permanently install your Insert Coin Cube Gen 2 into an Arcade1Up cabinet, custom arcade machine, or other suitable enclosure.

Using a single 3.5-inch (89 mm) opening and our custom mounting hardware, you can transform your Cube into a built-in illuminated coin mechanism with a working coin slot, customizable sound effects, and optional game-controller integration.

Whether you're upgrading a mini arcade, building a custom MAME cabinet, or just want a unique interactive feature for your gaming setup, this kit makes installation straightforward.

WHAT YOU CAN DO WITH IT

  • Install your Insert Coin Cube Gen 2 directly into a cabinet wall or panel.
  • Insert real U.S. quarters or compatible arcade tokens.
  • Press the illuminated INSERT COIN button to play arcade sounds.
  • Upload your own custom sound effects.
  • Use the Cube as a decorative coin mechanism without connecting it to your game.
  • Use USB Keyboard Emulation to add credits or trigger commands on compatible computer-based arcade systems.
  • Add the optional Wired Button Connection Kit to trigger a compatible arcade button input, allowing coin insertions and button presses to register with your game.

Important: This mounting kit provides physical installation only. The Cube's USB Keyboard Emulation or optional Wired Button Connection Kit provide button input and credits to your system.

Before & After

Watch the Installation Video

Tools You'll Need

Tip: We strongly recommend using the optional 3.5-inch hole saw. It makes creating a clean, accurately sized hole much easier than cutting the opening manually.

Depending on your setup:

  • USB-A to USB-C cable
  • Compatible 5V USB power source
  • Wired Button Connection Kit
  • Pliers for the supplied wiring connector
  • Wire cutters

Compatibility Check Before Install

Before drilling, verify that your cabinet or enclosure is suitable.

The mounting kit is designed for suitable panels on:

  • Arcade1Up cabinets
  • Custom MAME arcade cabinets
  • Raspberry Pi / RetroPie cabinets
  • Full-size home arcade builds
  • Custom gaming stations
  • Arcade control stands
  • Sim racing and simulator enclosures
  • Other DIY electronics projects with compatible mounting panels

Not every cabinet will have a suitable location, and not every cabinet supports direct electronic integration.

  1. Panel Thickness
    Measure the thickness of the panel where you intend to install the Cube. The reversible clamp blocks accommodate different panel thicknesses. Approximately 3/16–3/4 in (4.5–19 mm).
  2. Available Surface Area
    The front face needs a flat, unobstructed area approximately 4 inches square (100mm). Avoid installing over cabinet seams, raised trim, exposed fasteners, or curved surfaces.
  3. Rear Clearance
    There must be enough space behind the panel for the mounting bracket, Cube, retainer, and any connected wiring. Allow additional space for connecting and disconnecting the USB-C cable and for accessing the Cube's rear controls.
  4. Cabinet Components
    Make sure your drilling location does not interfere with joysticks, buttons, speakers, display components, wiring, structural supports, or other installed hardware.

Important: Do not drill until you've inspected both the front and back of the proposed mounting location.

Safety Information

Please read this section before beginning installation.

Cabinet Modification Safety

  • Always turn off and unplug the arcade cabinet before opening it, drilling, or working on its internal wiring.
  • Remove or relocate any wires and components that could be damaged by drilling.
  • Check both sides of the panel before making a hole.
  • Wear eye protection when drilling or cutting.
  • Use appropriate respiratory protection when cutting MDF or other materials that generate fine dust.
  • Hold and control the drill securely. Large hole saws can suddenly bind or catch.
  • Keep hands away from moving cutting tools.
  • Do not drill through existing electrical components or wiring.
  • Avoid altering structural components that support the cabinet.
  • Read all insert coin cube user manual safety warnings
  • Only connect the cube to low voltage and low current wiring circuits 12V 8mA maximum. 
  • Do not overtighten the mounting screws. Snug is more than enough.

Electrical Safety

The optional external button output is intended only for compatible low-voltage, low-current DC button circuits. It is designed to replace an arcade button on a normal low voltage arcade system. 12V and 8mA maximum.

It must not be connected directly to household AC wiring, motor circuits, solenoids, electromechanical coin mechanisms, or other unsupported loads. 

The Cube must be powered using its own battery or a compatible 5V USB source. The external button connection does not supply power.

Battery & Product Safety

The Insert Coin Cube Gen 2 contains a built-in rechargeable lithium-ion battery.

  • Do not open, puncture, crush, or modify the Cube.
  • Do not charge below 32°F (0°C) or above 120°F (50°C).
  • Do not expose the Cube to water or excessive moisture.
  • Do not block access to the charging connection or prevent safe maintenance.
  • Use only a suitable 5V USB power supply.
  • Keep coins and small parts away from young children and pets.
  • Modifying a commercial arcade cabinet may void the cabinet manufacturer's warranty. Installation and integration are performed at the owner's responsibility.

Planning Your Installation

Taking a few minutes to plan your installation can prevent a costly mistake.

Most arcade cabinets look best with the Cube mounted on the front panel below the game controls. This gives the machine the appearance of a traditional coin-operated arcade cabinet while keeping the illuminated button and coin slot within convenient reach. Other installations may work equally well depending on your cabinet design.

Consider the following:

  • Will the Cube be easy to reach while playing?
  • Will inserting coins feel natural?
  • Is the surface flat?
  • Is the Cube clear of existing controls?
  • Is there adequate room behind the panel?
  • Can you retrieve inserted coins?
  • Can you reach the rear controls and wiring when necessary?

The coin mechanism is designed to operate upright. Avoid horizontal, inverted, or unusual mounting orientations unless you've confirmed that coins travel through the mechanism correctly.

  • Turn off the arcade cabinet, disconnect its power cord, and wait for all components to power down. If the cabinet has an exposed CRT display you need to wait 24 hours after disconnecting the power due to the high voltage risks.
  • Remove the necessary rear access panel using the appropriate screwdriver.
  • Identify the area directly behind your proposed installation location.
  • Check carefully for obstructions, including wiring, boards, speakers, bracing, and existing hardware.
  • If your cabinet has insulation, cable bundles, or components attached to the inside of the mounting panel, move them safely away from the drilling area.

Use a tape measure or ruler to determine the panel thickness. The mounting blocks can be reversed to accommodate thinner or thicker panels.

Thin Panel Configuration

For panels approximately 3/16–3/8 inch (4.5–9.5 mm) thick, orient the clamp blocks with the thin-panel side facing upward.

Thick Panel Configuration

For panels approximately 1/2–3/4 inch (12.7–19 mm) thick, rotate the clamp blocks to use the thick-panel side.

Both mounting blocks must contact the panel properly and be secured with the supplied screws.

  • Place the mounting face against the cabinet at your chosen location.
  • Use your tape measure to center it relative to the cabinet or nearby controls. Remember that the finished mounting face extends beyond the hole.
  • Once satisfied with the location, mark the exact center of the 3.5-inch opening.
  • Double-check the location from both the front and rear before proceeding.

Drilling the Mounting Hole

Warning: The next step permanently modifies your arcade cabinet. Make sure the location is correct before drilling.

  • Install the 3.5-inch (89 mm) hole saw onto your drill using the appropriate arbor and pilot bit.
  • Keep any wiring and loose components away from the cutting area.
  • Set the drill to a suitable low-speed setting and gently drill into the panel. Keep control of the drill and don’t press hard. Let the hole saw do the work.
  • Position the hole saw's pilot bit directly over the center mark.
  • Keep the drill as perpendicular to the panel as possible.
  • Begin drilling slowly and apply steady, controlled pressure.
  • Avoid forcing the saw through the panel and be careful and safe.
  • Reduce pressure as you approach the back of the panel to help prevent tearing or chipping.c
  • Vacuum or remove sawdust.
  • Before installing the mounting hardware, carefully position the bracket in the opening. The bracket should fit without excessive force, and the front face should cover the opening cleanly. 
  • If the hole is undersized or has irregular edges, carefully correct the problem with an appropriate tool.
  • Avoid unnecessarily enlarging the opening, since the mounting bracket relies on the cabinet panel for support.

Choose Your Insert Coin Cube Gen 2 Configuration and Setup

The Cube operates independently of the arcade game's controls. Inserting a coin or pressing the button activates the light and plays sound effects. This option is ideal if you want the appearance and experience of a traditional arcade coin mechanism without modifying your game's electronics.

The Cube connects to a computer or compatible arcade system using USB. Each coin insertion or front button press can send a keyboard input configured through our web app at insertcoin.chronicconcepts.com. Ideal for MAME, RetroPie, and other compatible computer-based systems. 

The Cube connects to a compatible low-voltage arcade button circuit through the optional Wired Button Connection Kit. A coin insertion or button press activates the Cube's electronic button output. This option is useful for many Arcade1Up cabinets and other arcade systems that do not accept USB keyboard inputs. See our instructions HERE for using the wired button output. Configure using our web app at insertcoin.chronicconcepts.com 

  • Important: Adding the physical mounting kit alone does not automatically make your arcade register credits. Choose a compatible input method if you want the Cube to interact with the game.

Configure Your Cube Before Installation

For the easiest installation, customize your Cube before placing it inside your cabinet.

You can also configure it later if the USB connection remains accessible.

  • Connect the Cube to a Windows, Mac, or Linux computer using a suitable USB data cable.
  • Turn on the Cube.
  • Open a compatible browser, such as Google Chrome or Microsoft Edge, and visit: https://insertcoin.chronicconcepts.com
  • Select Connect Device.
  • When prompted, choose Insert Coin Cube Gen 2 and select Connect.
  • The web app should indicate that the device is connected.

The Cube includes preloaded arcade sound effects, but you can also upload your own. The web app allows you to:

  • Upload custom WAV or MP3 files.
  • Assign a sound to the coin slot.
  • Customize the sound selection for the front button.
  • Remove existing sounds.
  • Reorder sounds.
  • Choose audio quality to balance playback quality and storage space.

For permanently installed arcade cabinets, we recommend reviewing the power settings.

USB Auto Wake and Sleep Mode

When enabled, the Cube can automatically wake when USB power becomes available and sleep when USB power is removed.

This is particularly useful when the Cube is powered by a USB port that turns on and off with the arcade cabinet.

For example:

  1. Turn on the arcade cabinet.
  2. USB power becomes available.
  3. The Cube wakes automatically.
  4. Turn off the cabinet.
  5. USB power is removed.
  6. The Cube goes to sleep.

Important: This behavior depends on whether your cabinet's USB port actually loses power when the cabinet turns off. Some USB ports remain powered even when the connected system is shut down.

Auto Shutoff Mode

By default, the Cube can turn off after four hours of inactivity.

For a cabinet that should remain active during long gaming sessions, you may prefer to disable the standard Auto Shutoff feature.

  • If you're using USB Keyboard Emulation, configure the keyboard inputs.
  • If you're using the Wired Button Connection Kit, configure External Button Emulation.
  • See the main Insert Coin Cube Gen 2 user manual for more details on using the web app.
  • You may leave both features disabled for a standalone decorative installation.

Install the Mounting Bracket

Now that the hole is complete and your cube is configured, you can secure the mounting kit to your cabinet.

It is usually best to install the cube prior to installing the bracket because it may not be able to slide by the clamps once installed.

  • Slide the cube fully into the mounting bracket
  • Position the supplied Cube retaining clamp at the rear of the assembly.
  • Align the retainer with its mounting points and install the supplied retaining screws using the included hex wrench.
  • Tighten evenly until the Cube is securely retained.
  • Do not overtighten or apply excessive force to the Cube's enclosure.
  • Make sure the cube is flush with the front and visually centered, adjust if necessary
  • Insert the mounting bracket into the prepared opening from the front of the cabinet, positioning the front mounting face against the exterior surface.
  • Check that the front face is straight and properly aligned.
  • Make sure the bracket is fully seated and that the mounting surface is not preventing it from lying flat.
  • From inside the cabinet, locate the mounting features for the two reversible clamp blocks.
  • Choose the correct block orientation based on the measured panel thickness.
  • Slide both clamp blocks into their designated positions.
  • The blocks should engage the bracket and contact the rear of the mounting panel when tightened.
  • Make sure both blocks use the same appropriate orientation.
  • Insert the supplied mounting screws into the designated clamp-block holes.
  • Start the screws loosely before fully tightening any of them.
  • This allows the bracket to be adjusted slightly for final positioning.
  • If possible, have another person hold the front mounting face in place while you work from the rear.
  • With the screws partially tightened, check the bracket's position from the front of the cabinet.
  • Make any final adjustments so the front face is straight and properly centered.
  • Gradually tighten the clamp screws, alternating between them to apply even pressure.
  • Do not overtighten. The bracket should be secure without deforming the cabinet panel or damaging the mounting components.
  • Once tightened, gently check the bracket by hand to confirm that it does not shift or wobble.

Provide Power to the Cube

The Cube can run from its built-in rechargeable battery or USB-C power.

For a permanently installed arcade cabinet, continuous USB power is recommended.

  • Connect a USB-C cable to the port on the rear of the Cube.
  • Connect the other end to a suitable USB power source.

The power source must provide 5V DC and at least 400mA. A good-quality 5V USB charger rated at 4W or more is recommended.

Depending on your cabinet, suitable power sources might include:

  • A powered USB port already inside the cabinet
  • A compatible computer USB port
  • A standalone USB power adapter
  • A compatible powered USB hub

Some Arcade1Up cabinets include accessible USB ports that may be suitable for powering the Cube, but this varies by model. Often a cheap USB splitter can work as well. If your cabinet does not offer a suitable USB supply, you can use a separate USB adapter. Do not connect the Cube directly to unregulated internal power wiring or a higher-voltage supply.

Steps to Connect to a Computer or MAME Cabinet With USB

The Cube supports standard USB HID keyboard emulation.

This allows it to send keyboard inputs directly to compatible computers and arcade systems.

  • Windows-based MAME cabinets
  • RetroPie
  • Raspberry Pi arcade builds
  • Linux arcade computers
  • Custom emulation software
  • Other systems that recognize USB keyboards
  • Connect the Cube to the web app.
  • Enable USB Keyboard Emulation.

Choose the keyboard input you want the Cube to send when:

  • The INSERT COIN button is pressed
  • A coin passes through the coin slot

These actions can be configured to send different keys. For example, if your arcade emulator uses the 5 key to insert credits, you can configure the coin slot to send 5. You might configure the main button to send 5 as well, or assign it another supported key.

  • Click Apply Settings to Device to save the configuration.
  • Connect the Cube's USB-C port to a USB data port on your computer or compatible arcade system.
  • Make sure the cable supports data transfer. Some USB cables are designed only for charging.
  • Open your emulator or game's controller settings.
  • Assign the corresponding keyboard inputs to your game's credit, coin, start, or other desired functions.
  • The correct key mappings depend on the emulator and game.
  • Launch a game that supports the configured input.
  • Insert a quarter or press the INSERT COIN button.
  • The game should receive the assigned keyboard input.
  • If nothing happens, verify the emulator's key mapping and confirm the Cube is recognized as a USB keyboard.

Note: A USB charging port does not necessarily support keyboard input. The arcade system must support USB HID devices and the game must respond to the configured command.

Steps to Connect to an Arcade Cabinet With the Wired Button Connection Kit

Inside the Cube is an electronic solid-state switch that can simulate a button contact. When a quarter or token is inserted, or when the INSERT COIN button is pressed, the output briefly switches on. The standard pulse duration is approximately 100 milliseconds. For most compatible arcade controller inputs, this behaves like pressing a normal momentary button. This can be useful on Arcade1Up machines, custom controller boards, USB arcade encoders, and other compatible systems. It is quick and easy to wire into most systems.

Test Your Completed Installation

Before closing the arcade cabinet, we recommend performing a complete functional check.

  • Check that the front mounting face is straight and seated against the cabinet.
  • Gently press and release the INSERT COIN button to confirm smooth movement.
  • Test coins for good operation
  • Adjust volume and brightness.
  • Verify that the intended game input is registered.
  • Test both button presses and coin insertions.
  • Confirm that the original arcade controls still operate.

If the Cube is powered by the cabinet:

  1. Turn off the arcade.
  2. Confirm the Cube behaves as intended.
  3. Turn the arcade back on.
  4. Verify that the Cube wakes or remains available as configured.

When everything works correctly, turn the cabinet off and unplug it again before reassembling any protective covers or access panels.

Troubleshooting & FAQ's

Additional questions? Email: Info@ChronicConcepts.com

The kit is suitable for most Arcade1Up cabinets, but compatibility depends on available panel space, panel thickness, rear clearance, and internal components. Inspect your specific model before drilling. Electronic integration also varies by cabinet and controller.

No. The mounting kit works independently and allows the Cube to function as an illuminated coin mechanism with sound effects. You only need the optional wired kit if you want to connect to a compatible physical button interface. For computer-based arcade systems, the built in USB Keyboard Emulation may be sufficient.

Not for decorative operation. USB-enabled systems may support keyboard commands without modifying existing control wiring. Systems that use traditional arcade button inputs may require connecting the optional wired harness. It comes with an easy to use solderless and crimpless connector.

Yes, but continuous USB power is generally more convenient for permanent installations.

Use a suitable, good-quality 5V USB charger capable of supplying at least 500mA. A 5W or higher-rated charger is recommended. Do not power the Cube directly from higher-voltage cabinet wiring.

Yes. You can connect it to a compatible computer and use the configuration web app. Depending on your installation, you may need to open the arcade cabinet to access its USB port.

Yes, if the selected button input is compatible and the Cube is correctly connected in parallel. Either the original button or the Cube can then activate the same input.

Yes. The Insert Coin Cube Gen 2 supports standard U.S. quarters and the included arcade token.

No. The Cube is an interactive coin mechanism rather than a commercial coin validator. It is not intended for accepting payments or validating currency.

Yes, provided the panel is suitable, flat, strong enough, and within the supported mounting thickness range.

Potentially, if the panel meets the dimensional and structural requirements. Use cutting tools appropriate for the material. Thin or flexible panels may need additional support and may not be suitable for the supplied clamps without a properly engineered mounting arrangement.

Yes, you can use another appropriate method to produce an accurate 3.5-inch opening. However, the optional hole saw is highly recommended for simplicity and a cleaner result.

Yes. The Cube can be used as a standalone device on a suitable flat surface without the mounting kit. The through-panel mounting kit is specifically intended for a more permanent built-in installation.

The brightness may be set to off. Press the rear brightness button until the desired setting is reached.

The Cube may be muted. Press the rear volume button to cycle through the available levels.

The standard Auto Shutoff feature may be enabled. Connect to the web app and review Auto Shutoff settings. If you want the Cube to remain available throughout long arcade sessions, consider disabling automatic inactivity shutdown.

Piggy Bank Mode may be enabled. Connect to the web app and disable Piggy Bank Mode for normal arcade operation.

  • Your cabinet's USB port may remain powered after the cabinet shuts down.
  • Check whether the port continues providing 5V when the machine is off.
  • USB Auto Wake and Sleep Mode requires the power source to actually switch off and on for this behavior to work.
  • If necessary, use a suitable USB power supply that switches with the arcade cabinet.

Solutions:

  • Verify the USB power source becomes active.
  • Check that USB Auto Wake and Sleep Mode is enabled.
  • Confirm the Cube receives stable 5V power.
  • Try another compatible USB cable or charger.

Technical Specifications

Arcade Cabinet Mounting Kit

Specifications:

  • Compatibility: Insert Coin Cube Gen 2 (S1025)
  • Installation: Through-panel
  • Required Hole Diameter: 3.5 inches (89 mm)
  • Front Mounting Face: Approx. 4 × 4 inches (100 × 100 mm)
  • Supported Panel Thickness: Approx. 3/16–3/4 inches (4.5–19 mm), with appropriate clamp configuration
  • Installed Depth: Approx. 2.25 inches (59 mm) with a thin panel
  • Cabinet Access: Rear access required
  • Coin Collection: Included collection tray
  • Hole Saw: Optional 3.5-inch hole saw
  • Electrical Connection: Optional, provided by the Cube itself
  • Designed Use: Indoor arcade cabinets and compatible custom enclosures

Operation outside of device specifications, beyond limits, or outside of methods described in this manual is not supported or condoned and may result in damage to the device or other property. We are not responsible for any damage caused by misuse or improper usage or installation.

Insert Coin Cube Gen 2 

Specifications:

  • Model: S1025
  • Power Input: 5V USB-C, 500mA minimum
  • Battery: Rechargeable 3.7V, 250mAh
  • Audio: Custom WAV/MP3 files via configuration app
  • Keyboard Interface: USB HID
  • External Button Output: Optional two-wire solid-state switch
  • Maximum Button Output Voltage: 12V DC
  • Maximum Button Output Current: 8mA
  • Default Output Duration: 100ms
  • Operating Environment: Indoor use only

For complete electrical, battery, USB, and operating specifications, refer to the main Cube manual.

⚠️ CHOKING HAZARD - SMALL PARTS

  • This product contains small components and parts that may present a choking hazard.
  • Keep out of reach of children and pets.

Warranty

We care about our customers and we will work with you to resolve your issue. We make every effort to make sure we engineer, craft, and deliver to you the best product possible. Your product has a 1 year warranty against any manufacturing defects or functionality issues from the date of purchase. If there is a manufacturing defect or functionality issue please contact us directly using our email info@chronicconcepts.com with a description of your defect and proof of purchase date.

Important Notices

The Arcade Cabinet Mounting Kit is an aftermarket accessory designed for the Chronic Concepts Insert Coin Cube Gen 2.

Arcade1Up and other referenced manufacturer names belong to their respective owners. Reference to these manufacturers does not imply endorsement or affiliation.

Physical installation requires modification of a cabinet or enclosure and may void the original equipment manufacturer's warranty.

The mounting kit does not provide electrical integration by itself. Any connected electrical equipment must be operated within the Insert Coin Cube's published electrical specifications.

Do not install or operate this product in a manner that exposes it to moisture, excessive heat, unprotected electrical hazards, or unsafe mechanical conditions.

The Insert Coin Cube contains a rechargeable lithium-ion battery and small components. It is not a toy. Recommended for ages 14+.

For complete battery warnings, care instructions, FCC information, and warranty terms applicable to the Cube, refer to the official Insert Coin Cube Gen 2 User Manual.

© Chronic Concepts®. All rights reserved.

Enjoy your upgraded arcade!

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