[KB-011] What serial cable do I need for your X-Arcade adapter?

Product: Tankstick | Platform: Console | Confidence: High

Answer:

You need the X-Arcade PC/Console cable specifically designed for the X-Arcade adapter. Generic RS232 serial cables will NOT work.

The authentic wooden X-Arcade Tankstick/Tankstick Max with built-in trackball originally ships with a console cable featuring a DB9 connector on both ends, which is located inside the original product packaging. Legacy console adapter kits, including PS3 adapter setups, still need this DB9 console cable between the Tankstick and adapter; if the customer has the adapter but cannot physically connect the Tankstick to it, they likely need the PC/console cable kit that includes the missing console cable.

IMPORTANT: Standard serial cables from Amazon or other retailers (like DTECH RS232 cables) are wired differently and will not function correctly with the X-Arcade adapter.

The correct cable is available at: https://shop.xgaming.com/products/x-arcade-pc-cable

The kit includes the required serial cable. If you lost your original cable, you must purchase the X-Arcade specific cable - do not substitute with generic serial cables.

PC USB cable versus the console-to-adapter serial cable

Do not confuse the DB9-to-DB9 console lead above with the computer USB/PS2 connector option. When support has identified a compatible X-Arcade controller requiring the DB9 computer cable, the specified replacement-selector option is USB/PS2 Connector Cable for Computer(DB9-USB/PS2): X-Arcade replacement part selector.

Check the exact controller/back-panel ports and the option label before buying; a DB9 plug alone does not establish wiring compatibility, and this is not a universal USB cable for Arcade2TV-XR or every revision. In the reviewed exchange the customer bought the recommended option and requested return of a previously purchased wrong cable, but did not confirm an installed input test. Return approval, address and receipt requirements must be confirmed for the individual return.