[KB-034] How do I install a Tankstick Max into an existing X-Arcade cabinet?

Product: Tankstick Max | Platform: PC/Arcade Cabinet | Confidence: High

Answer:

The Tankstick Max has the same dimensions as the original Tankstick with trackball and can replace it in your X-Arcade cabinet. However, a small modification is required before installation.

For older cabinets that used an original Tankstick with trackball, a reported cabinet opening of approximately 25.5" x 10.75" was confirmed as compatible with a Tankstick Max replacement. The spinner hole/cutout size on the Tankstick Max is 28 mm, the same size as the pushbutton holes; button-style third-party spinners with that size may fit those holes, while other spinner models should be checked against the manufacturer's dimensions.

Required Modification - Programming Button Removal: The front programming / trackball horizontal-disabler button on the Tankstick Max can cause fitment issues when installing the unit into older cabinets; removing this button is the recommended modification to provide the necessary clearance. If the cabinet presses this button during installation, it can disable horizontal trackball movement.

Installation Steps:

Open the case (see Xgaming support article: how-do-i-open-my-x-arcade-controller-case)

Disconnect the connection from the programming button (use tape to insulate each terminal on the wires to prevent them from touching each other or the housing, which would complete the circuit and accidentally trigger the button's function)

Remove the plastic nut and remove the button

Close the case

Place the Tankstick Max into your cabinet

Mode Configuration: The Tankstick Max is shipped from the factory with the mode switch set to Mode 1 (Keyboard Mode) by default. Both Mode 1 and Mode 2 (Keyboard Modes) on the Tankstick Max utilize the same default key mapping as legacy Tankstick units to ensure backward compatibility without requiring reconfiguration.

Maximus Arcade Configuration:

Open Maximus Arcade Preferences Window → Controller Tab

Under Setup 1, set Controller Layout to "X-Arcade Tankstick"

Under Setup 2, set Controller Layout to "X-Arcade Tankstick" as well

Return to Maximus Arcade and test

Windows Updates can occasionally erase Maximus Arcade registration data from the system registry, requiring the manual re-entry of the unique registration name, email, and code.

Using save and load commands on MAME-based X-Arcade machines typically requires a connected keyboard unless the system has been specifically customized with alternative mappings. Game progress is saved using 'save states' by pressing Shift + F7 followed by a slot number (e.g., '1') on a connected keyboard, and loaded by pressing F7 followed by the corresponding slot number. However, the save state feature is not universal; some older arcade titles may not support saving or loading progress as the ability to save depends on the specific game title's compatibility with MAME's save state feature.

X-Arcade PC Factory Restore: Xgaming provides a 6GB 'MaximusSetup.zip' archive containing the necessary files and batch scripts to restore an X-Arcade PC to its original factory shipping condition. Antivirus software should be temporarily disabled during the Maximus Arcade setup process, as it can often identify and block the automated scripts from running.

Troubleshooting - Joysticks/Buttons Not Working: If an X-Arcade unit's trackball and mouse functions are working correctly but no keyboard inputs (such as joysticks or buttons) are detected by the system, it typically indicates that the controller is set to the wrong operating mode. This specific combination of symptoms is a primary diagnostic indicator that the Tri-Mode PCB is not in the expected Keyboard Mode. When the Tankstick Max is in Xinput Mode (Mode 4), it functions as an Xbox 360 controller; if used with a system expecting keyboard inputs, the credit and start buttons will not function correctly until the unit is switched to Keyboard Mode (Mode 1). If the joysticks and buttons don't work after installation (but trackball and spinners do), try the following:

Verify USB and DB9 cables are securely connected. For the Tankstick MAX, the main controller must be connected using the original DB9-to-USB cable (referred to as the DB9 USB cable) provided with the unit to ensure proper power and data connection; using an incorrect cable can cause the controller to have no lights even if the trackball and spinners are functional.

Confirm mode switch is in position 1 (keyboard mode)

Test in a text editor - buttons should register as keystrokes

Reflash the firmware - this has resolved issues for multiple customers where only mouse/trackball functions worked but joysticks and buttons did not respond

In one confirmed cabinet replacement case, the Tankstick Max physically replaced an older Tankstick with trackball after the front horizontal-disabler button was removed, the unit was set to Mode 1, Maximus Arcade was set to "X-Arcade Tankstick" for both Setup 1 and Setup 2, and the firmware was reflashed when the trackball/spinners worked but the joystick/buttons did not. When troubleshooting connection issues with the Tankstick Max, Xgaming support may request a photo showing all external connections, including the USB cable, serial cable, and any other connections to the cabinet, to help identify potential adjustments. Programming Button Note: During normal operation of the Tankstick Max, the programming button must not be actively depressed, as this can interfere with the unit's functionality. Legacy Arcade2TV Pedestal Note: For older Arcade2TV pedestal systems, the manual is maintained online at Machine.xgaming.com. The Exit button is mapped to Mouse M3, similar to the Tankstick, and the manual includes the exit-button and audio/volume-control behavior. LED Button Note: The Tankstick Max may not have the same LED indicator as older Tanksticks. If the red button on the far right does not light up, this is normal - functionality is not affected. The red LED button on the Tankstick features four terminals: two dedicated to the button press and two dedicated to the LED power. Because this LED is hardwired, it cannot be disabled via software; to turn it off, the two specific LED power terminals on the back of the button must be physically disconnected, while leaving the two button-press terminals connected for functionality. The Red M3 LED button is not available for purchase as a standalone replacement part. Additionally, Xgaming does not offer the wood top panel for the Tankstick Max as a standalone replacement part, as shipping and handling costs make it non-cost-effective. Customers looking for custom or replacement wood panels may find options through third-party makers on platforms like Etsy.

Joystick Hardware Note: X-Arcade Tankstick models use digital arcade-style joysticks with switches; they are not equipped with analog flight sticks or gimbals, and there is no official upgrade kit to add analog joystick functionality (e.g., for flight-style games like Cinematronics Tail Gunner). However, X-Arcade joysticks can be modified with third-party flight-style handles, such as those from Thunderstick Studio, though this requires DIY rewiring of the trigger buttons to the appropriate arcade button terminals.

Cabinet Lock Replacement: If keys for an X-Arcade cabinet are lost, the customer is responsible for replacing the lock assembly themselves.

Xgaming no longer maintains physical inventory of discontinued arcade machines, and technical support for these units is provided based on existing documentation and historical knowledge rather than hands-on testing. The original Single Joystick Tankstick model has also been discontinued and is no longer manufactured. Xgaming is not currently developing or manufacturing commercial machines for playfields and does not utilize ticket dispensers or related redemption components in its product line. The legacy 5-in-1 console adapter is expected to be compatible with the new Tri-Mode PCB upgrade. Legacy 5-in-1 adapters do not include a USB connection, which prevents them from being compatible with newer firmware-upgradable adapter setups like the Wingman series. Xgaming no longer sells the Wii / Wii U adapter, and there is currently no official method to connect X-Arcade controllers to a Wii U console. Discontinued Product Parts: The Arcade2TV Pedestal Home Arcade Kit has been discontinued and is no longer available for purchase. For arcade cabinets that are out of production, Xgaming no longer provides warranty service, nor does it maintain stock or provide replacement parts for these discontinued models. This includes replacement plexi panels for discontinued pedestal cabinets, such as models with LED acrylic sides and kickplates; customers seeking replacements are advised to use their original panels as templates for local plastics or sign shops to cut custom pieces.

2017 Arcade2TV Pedestal Retrofitting: Arcade2TV Pedestal units manufactured around 2017 do not include an onboard programming button or circuit and operate strictly in Mode 1 (Keyboard mode) because the factory wiring harness was extended and spliced, omitting the programming circuit. There is no official drop-in replacement top or simple add-on button to enable onboard programming on these units; enabling this feature requires a custom retrofit using a BYO wiring harness and a program/mode switch. Evidence: Support thread 2024-11, keywords: Tankstick Max, cabinet installation, horizontal disabler button, firmware reflash, Mode 1, keyboard mode, Maximus Arcade, joysticks not working, 2017 Arcade2TV Pedestal, onboard programming, third-party compatibility, Arcade1Up

Trackball Issues (NEW)

Third-Party Cabinet Compatibility: Mechanical compatibility of Xgaming trackballs with third-party cabinets does not guarantee software compatibility, as input handling varies by manufacturer. Even if the hardware fits the physical dimensions of a third-party cabinet (such as an Arcade1Up machine), the software may not recognize the input. To assess trackball compatibility with third-party cabinets, Xgaming support requires clear photos of the existing trackball assembly, mounting points, and wiring/connectors. For modding an Arcade1Up Deluxe cabinet for Nintendo Switch compatibility, Xgaming recommends using a dedicated DIY kit and a Switch adapter kit to ensure full hardware compatibility and stability. Xgaming has not officially tested or confirmed the compatibility of the Tankstick Max with the Atari GameStation Go (My Arcade) due to not having the console on hand for verification. Additionally, Xgaming has not officially verified the compatibility of the Tankstick MAX with the All8Bit G11 Pro console, as it remains an untested third-party system. Xgaming has also not officially tested or verified compatibility with the Kinhank X2 Pro Console. Xgaming has also not officially tested or confirmed the compatibility of the Tankstick MAX with the Retro Monster (Hyper Base) Retro Game Console. ★ NEW entries added in v1.9 ★