Ultimarc
Ultimarc I-PAC 2 USB Interface
Best interface for DIY arcade cabinet builders and retro gaming enthusiasts.
Elevate your arcade setup with the Ultimarc I-PAC2 USB Interface. This versatile board connects arcade controls like joysticks and buttons directly to your PC via USB, ideal for MAME emulators or rhythm games. Enjoy a seamless setup with solderless screw connections and experience lag-free performance thanks to its fast, interrupt-driven response. The I-PAC2 supports up to 32 inputs, preventing input lockout during intense gameplay and retaining your custom programming even after power cycles. It emulates a USB keyboard, bypassing common switch limitations for broader compatibility.
Owner Satisfaction
4.8
/ 5
Category Rank
1
/ 1154
Best Computer Interface Cards & Adapters
Who it's for
- Plug-and-play users needing instant cross-platform compatibility
- Arcade builders constructing full-featured two-player cabinets
- Customizers wanting flexible button layouts and advanced control options
Who should skip it
- Budget-conscious hobbyists looking for the most affordable hardware
- Builders preferring quick-connect wiring over manual screw terminals
- Gamers playing modern titles requiring native controller support
Performance breakdown
Input Latency
Interrupt-driven architecture ensures near-instantaneous response for competitive arcade gaming.
Installation Ease
Solderless screw terminals make wiring your control panel a straightforward process.
Input Capacity
Thirty-two programmable inputs provide ample room for complex, multi-button arcade layouts.
Software Compatibility
Keyboard emulation bypasses standard limitations for seamless integration with any emulator.
Configuration Flexibility
Shift functions and configurable de-bounce logic allow for deep, personalized control.
Build Reliability
Onboard memory retains your custom settings even after complete power cycles.
Key Specs
32 inputs (supports 2 joysticks, 8 buttons each, plus coin/start keys)
Multi-mode functionality
Keyboard/mouse, dual gamepad/mouse, or dual Xinput controller
Shift function for secondary keycodes
Self-test LED included
Programming retained after power off
Full Speed USB 2.0 compatible
Connection Interface Type
USB
Accessory Component Type
Encoder Board
Features
- Solderless screw connections for easy setup
- 32 programmable inputs
- Fast, interrupt-driven response time
- Emulates USB keyboard, bypassing 6-switch limit
- Shift function for secondary key assignments
- No ghosting or scanning delays
- Programming retained after power loss
- Configurable de-bounce logic
What customers say
The Ultimarc I-PAC 2 USB Interface is highly regarded in the DIY arcade community for its rock solid reliability and near zero latency, essential for authentic gameplay. Users consistently find the setup remarkably straightforward, noting its true plug and play recognition across operating systems. A key feature is the high quality screw terminals, which greatly simplify wiring buttons and joysticks for builders of all skill levels. Although the initial price is higher than generic options, the superior build quality, flawless performance, and longevity establish the I-PAC 2 as an outstanding value. It is viewed as an essential, professional grade encoder for any serious MAME or custom cabinet project, resulting in extremely high satisfaction.
Know before you buy
No, the board features solderless screw terminals. You can simply strip your wires and secure them directly into the board using a small screwdriver.
Not at all. The I-PAC 2 uses an interrupt-driven design that ensures near-instant response times, making it ideal for high-speed rhythm games and competitive arcade titles.
Yes, the I-PAC 2 is highly versatile. It supports multiple modes, including dual gamepad, mouse emulation, and dual Xinput controller modes, allowing it to work with a wide variety of modern and legacy software.
Your custom programming is stored in non-volatile memory on the board. All your settings and key assignments will be retained even after the device loses power.
No. Because the I-PAC 2 uses a dedicated matrix-free architecture, it avoids the limitations of standard keyboards, ensuring that every button press is registered correctly regardless of how many keys are held down simultaneously.
The Shift function allows you to assign a secondary set of keycodes to your buttons. By holding down a designated 'shift' button, you can trigger different commands, effectively doubling the number of inputs available on your control panel.
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