Ultimarc Mini-PAC USB Arcade encoder PC Raspberry Pi

The Mini-PAC is a revolutionary combined Switch/Trackball/Spinner Interface with wiring harness. It is designed so that a complete control panel can be wired up in minutes. Ideal for OEM builders of controllers and arcade cabinets but also suitable for the first-time builder.

The Mini-PAC works identically to the I-PAC2 board. All programming features are identical and it has the same number of inputs (32). It Works in PS/2 or USB mode. For PS/2, you will need an optional PS/2 adaptor. The Mini-PAC comes with a fully programmable key code set. Stored even after power off unlike some other interfaces which lose all data when powered off. 

When connecting the Mini-PAC to our computer we will see that it is recognized as a keyboard, since this encoder emulates a USB keyboard. However, with this board we will not have the problem that USB keyboards normally have, that is, of not being able to press more than 6 keys at the same time. Nor will we have the "Ghost Keys" problem that occurs when pressing the same key repeatedly. This is thanks to the fact that the Mini-PAC has built-in full native USB support and does not rely on any additional adapters.

Another great advantage of this encoder is that it has no LAG at all thanks to the fact that each key/action button input has its own dedicated connection that goes directly to the CPU of the PCB. This is something super important for us retrogamers that won't accept any LAG when playing our favourite games!

The action keys of the MAME emulator are assigned by default in the Mini-PAC, although it is not mandatory to use them and these can be reprogrammed differently. Here is an instructions manual where we go in depth into the different possibilities offered by this wonderful encoder. In addition we have also left several links with direct downloads to very useful programs to configure the encoder.

Any input can also be assigned as a shift key so that we can access a set of alternative action keys thus doubling the number of input connections. 

The Mini-PAC does not need any drivers as it uses generic Windows USB drivers. It is also fully compatible with all Apple MACS which have USB support. It also supports the Apple Mac "command" key and the Windows "GUI" keys.

Configuration Programs

Windows / WinIpac

Linux / Raspberry Pi

Wiring Diagram

LINK

Features

• Tiny board! Only 57 X 38mm
• Fully programmable key code set. Stored even after power off
• Dual encoder. Full Speed USB or Keyboard - small adaptor plug available for PS/2 mode
• Unlimited number of keycode configurations can be stored and downloaded on-the-fly.
• No separate power needed
• Does not use a matrix - no ghost keys.
• No LAG. Each input has dedicated connection into the on-board CPU 
• No delays between keys depressed at the same time
• 2 modes. Either uses standard MAME keys (default) or you can program your own character set
• Shift functions. No extra buttons are needed on the cabinet
• Supports selective up/down key repeat in PS/2 mode (all keys repeat in USB mode) 
• No special drivers needed. Plug & Play
• Fully compatible with all Apple Macs which have USB ports
• Supports the Apple Mac "command" key and the Windows "GUI" keys
• Can be paired in any combination to increase the total number of inputs
• Self-test LED indicator which shows and wiring or other problems