Want to build my own arcade sticks, i got two questions!

[gooner]

How would i make sure its going to be compatible with Windaz XP and MAME.

Anyone know where i can get some decent plans, either free or uber cheap?

[Papercut]

How would i make sure its going to be compatible with Windaz XP and MAME.

Use an I-pac controller:

http://www.ultimarc.com/

Anyone know where i can get some decent plans, either free or uber cheap?

There should be some good info on the ultimarc site, but also try:

http://www.mameworld.com/

as they feature loads of homebrew arcade cabinets and sticks.

[randombs]

i think an i-pac would be a bit too much?
the quickest (and cheapest) method would be to buy a cheap usb joypad (preferably digital-only, no analog sticks or force feedback etc) then do what everyone else would do (me included!):

1) you unscrew and take apart the joypad and have a gander

oh wait i forgot:

you'd obviously need the actual stick and buttons - you can either buy the bits and build a joystick (i did this and while time consuming, it is your own personal controller and you can place the buttons and stick wherever you want) or you could buy a DC stick or similar and mod that. Depends on your preference

ok back to the directions:

2a) if you've built the joystick, you need to solder wires from the buttons and stick (4 from the stick for each direction) to the contact points on the joypad

2b) if you're modding a DC stick or similar, you'd want to open it and discard the circuitry. you only need the actual stick and buttons

3) the idea is that you'd be pressing the buttons on your stick and this would make the joypad think you're pressing its buttons, thus letting you use it in Windows.

Basically, the joypad you use determines which Windows version will work with your sticks. For example, I have two microsoft sidewinder pads that don't use usb (they have old 15-pin neo style) so while they work in XP, they're very basic. The MS software that lets you program the pads doesn't work in XP (it only works with USB pads)

If you need links to sites that deal with joypad hacking just ask here, although papercut's recommendation has good info and pics.
one of the best is

http://www.arcadecontrols.com

it got a mention in the latest Edge magazine and was one of my main sources of info