Getting Started
Complete User Manual
The full operating, safety, software, care, and support reference for Mectura arcade owners.
- Version
- 1.1
- Revised
- Sep 17, 2026
Introduction
Your Mectura arcade combines purpose-built cabinet construction, commercial-style controls, a display, audio equipment, and a configured Batocera game system. This manual explains normal owner operation without requiring technical experience.
Cabinet overview
Configurations vary by model. Typical systems include a control panel, display, speakers, lighting, ventilation, computer, power distribution, and a serial identification label. Optional hardware may include a trackball, spinner, or light guns.
Safety and power
- Use a grounded outlet and certified surge protector.
- Keep liquids, children, and pets away from ventilation and wiring.
- Do not climb, sit, or place heavy objects on the cabinet.
- Do not open or service internal parts while connected to power.
- Use sufficient help when moving the cabinet.
- Stop using the cabinet if you observe smoke, odour, sparking, heat, or physical damage.
Turning on and navigating
Power on once and allow the boot sequence to finish. The Batocera interface organizes games into systems and collections.
- 1Press A until the top-level Systems or Collections screen is visible.
- 2Move the joystick left or right to highlight a system or collection, then press B to open it.
- 3Inside it, move the joystick up or down to highlight a game; press L1 or R1 to move one page at a time.
- 4Press B to launch the highlighted game.
- 5Press A to return one screen.
- 6Press Y from a game list to search.
- 7Hold X to add or remove a favourite.
Games, systems, collections, and genres
Systems generally represent original hardware families. Collections group titles across systems by attributes such as Favorites, Last Played, genre, or player count. Filters can temporarily narrow the visible library.
Launching, exiting, and progress
Launch with B. Arcade titles often require Select / Coin before Start. Exit any active game or emulator with Hotkey plus Start. Save a state with Hotkey plus Y and load it with Hotkey plus X. PS1, PS2, and Dreamcast normal saves use virtual memory cards through the game's own Save menu.
Shaders, bezels, and game options
Shaders alter image presentation; bezels fill unused widescreen space around original aspect ratios. Advanced game options can affect emulator choice, controls, and saved data. Record defaults and make one change at a time.
Network and software safety
Networking supports approved metadata and support functions. Connect through Network Settings.
Do not update Batocera on a configured Mectura cabinet. A version change can alter controls, drivers, emulators, save paths, themes, and optional hardware settings. Contact Mectura before making any software-version change.
Shutdown
Exit the active game by holding Hotkey and pressing Start. When the game list returns, press Start, choose Quit, then Shut Down System. Wait until the cabinet computer is fully off before switching off external power.
Cleaning and maintenance
Disconnect power before cleaning. Use microfibre cloths and material-appropriate products. Never spray the display, acrylic, controls, or cabinet directly. Keep vents unobstructed and arrange periodic dust inspection.
Troubleshooting, support, and warranty
Use the Knowledge Center troubleshooting articles before requesting service. Record symptoms, timing, affected games, and steps tried. Warranty terms depend on component, cause, date, and the published Mectura Limited Warranty.
Specifications
Dimensions, weight, electrical rating, computer specification, control layout, and optional hardware are model- and build-specific. Use the serialized Launch Portal or cabinet specification sheet for the authoritative configuration.
