Understanding the power consumption of arcade machines is crucial for operators, collectors, and enthusiasts alike. It impacts operational costs, electrical safety, and cabinet placement. The most common metrics used to measure this consumption are Watts (W), Amps (A), and Volts (V).

Watts represent the real power consumed by the machine, indicating the total rate of energy usage. A typical classic arcade cabinet like Pac-Man might consume between 150-300 watts. Modern arcade machines with large LCD screens and advanced hardware can draw 400 watts or more. Knowing the wattage helps estimate electricity costs.

Amps, or amperage, measure the current flow. This is critical for ensuring your circuit breakers and wiring can handle the load without tripping. A standard US arcade machine operating on 120 volts and drawing 2 amps would consume 240 watts (Watts = Volts x Amps).

Volts are the electrical pressure supplied from the outlet, which is fixed by your region (e.g., 120V in North America, 230V in Europe). The machine's internal power supply converts this to the lower voltages needed by the components.

To accurately measure these metrics, a multimeter is the essential tool. You can measure the voltage at the outlet and the amperage drawn by the machine to calculate the total wattage. Monitoring these metrics helps in selecting the right power strips and preventing circuit overloads, ensuring your arcade remains both fun and safe to operate.