Electricity 101: What Powers an Arcade?

From the flashing lights to the loud buzzers and joysticks that fight back, arcades are a playground of electricity in motion. But have you ever stopped to wonder: what’s really going on behind the games?

Whether you’re curious, nostalgic, or planning your own game room — here’s how electricity makes arcades come to life.

⚡ 1. Power-Hungry Machines (They’re Not Just Plug & Play)

Each arcade cabinet uses a surprising amount of power, especially older games with CRT monitors and big sound amps. Multiply that by 10–20 machines in one room, and you’ve got a major electrical load. That’s why arcades often have dedicated circuits and high-capacity panels.

🧠 2. What’s Inside the Cabinet?

Most arcade machines include:

• A power supply (converts electricity to usable voltages)
• A mainboard (basically the brain of the game)
• Lights & speakers
• Input systems (joysticks, buttons, coin slots)

Each part runs on a specific voltage — typically 5V, 12V, or 120V AC depending on age and build.

🎇 3. The Glow-Up: Lights, Screens & Signs

The blinking lights on cabinets and the neon signs overhead are often low-voltage LED systems today, but many still run on fluorescents or even incandescents. Bad wiring or old ballasts? That’s why some arcades flicker or smell a little…toasty.

🪙 4. The Coin Mechanism Runs on Sensors

Yes, even the coin slot has a job! Optical or magnetic sensors read if you’ve inserted a valid token or quarter — powered by small circuits and tied into the game’s motherboard.

🔌 5. Why Home Arcades Blow Breakers

Trying to run 2 or 3 full-sized arcade games at home? You might blow a breaker if your room only supports a 15-amp circuit. Each game can pull 2–5 amps, so if you’re adding LED signs, mini fridges, or a TV setup — it’s time to consider dedicated outlets or panel upgrades.

👷 Need Help Setting Up a Home Arcade Safely?

At E&A Electric LLC, we can inspect your panel, add dedicated circuits, and install safe outlets or surge protection — whether it’s for your garage-turned-arcade or a full commercial setup.

📞 Call us today — because nothing kills the fun faster than a tripped breaker!