Virtual Pinball builds are awesome, but they can get frustrating when you hit the “how do I attach this the right way?” stage. A common question is how to mount a rear LED matrix to a playfield mounting system .
The key idea here is simple: instead of mounting the rear matrix to the cabinet in some separate, indirect way, this approach attaches the rear matrix panel directly to the playfield mounting system . It is easier to install, and it keeps everything moving correctly when the playfield rises and lowers.
What You Are Installing
You will be working with two main assemblies:
· Playfield mounting system (already assembled and painted in this example)
· Rear matrix display panel with mounting riser boards installed
You also use an add-on kit that includes:
· Two small boards
· Two shims
· A small spacer board
This guide focuses on the mechanical mounting part. Wiring is handled by the appropriate instructions for your control board and power supply.
Tools and Setup Tips
Before you start drilling, a couple of build habits make everything smoother:
· Pre-drill holes to avoid splitting wood.
· Be ready to work from the back side of the playfield mounting system.
· If you prefer, you can glue or use a nail gun where appropriate. The core process is the same either way.
Step 1: Work From the Back of the Playfield Mount
With your playfield mounting system assembled, flip it over and work on the back side.
In this setup, it is common to already have the control components attached to the rear matrix panel. For example, many builders mount:
· The Cleveland software control board
· The power supply
The advantage is practical: it keeps wiring organized and makes it easier to plug into the PC and/or outlet later.
Step 2: Position the Rear Matrix Panel Correctly
Line the rear matrix panel up so the matrix display board sits fully inside the playfield mounting system.
If part of the display board ends up outside the mounting rails, it can cause fitment and clearance issues because the playfield will move up and down during maintenance and operation.
In that case, builders may need to trim the matrix panel slightly (the guidance here is to remove roughly 1/8 inch to 1/4 inch from the board depending on how far it overhangs). The goal is simple: the panel should stay within the mounting system boundaries.
Step 3: Install the Shims (Adjust Viewing Angle)
The shims do two things:
· They help raise the back of the matrix panel slightly
· They can improve viewing angles (even though flat mounting still works fine)
On each side of the panel:
1. Line up the shim at the correct position.
2. Pre-drill a couple of holes.
3. Install the small screws to lock the shim down.
You do not need extreme precision. These shims are meant to create a small lift. Expect a small difference on the order of 1/8 inch to 1/4 inch .
Step 4: Add the Spacer and “Cable Pocket”
Next, bring the playfield mounting system back into position and attach the rear matrix assembly against the back rail.
Inside the kit, there is also a small spacer . Install it between the rear matrix panel and the side rail .
This spacer matters when you raise and route the addressable LED cable . It creates a clean area that makes it easier to:
· Route the cable neatly
· Hide the wiring in the pocket
· Trim and manage slack during installation
Step 5: Mount the Two Joiner/Mounting Boards
Now you install the two small mounting boards that secure the rear matrix panel inside the playfield mounting system.
For each side:
4. Position the mounting board so it sits on the inside of the monitor mounting system.
5. Pre-drill a hole.
6. Install a screw.
7. Install the second screw toward the back for stability.
You can be flexible with how far the mounting board extends left to right within reason. The important part is that the rear matrix panel is supported and stays square inside the moving frame.
If you want to add more strength, you can also glue the joints. Some builders prefer a nail gun for speed on cabinet projects. Use what you’re comfortable with.
Step 6: Finish the Mounting Surface (Optional)
Once everything is solid, you can paint the exposed interior wood surfaces if you want the cabinet to look finished from every angle.
One practical note: these surfaces are typically inside the cabinet structure. If it is your personal build, you might choose not to paint everything because it will not be seen. If you are delivering a finished unit to customers, painting is often the safer choice for aesthetics.
Result: Rear Matrix Panel Attached and Moving Correctly
At this point, your rear DMD matrix panel is attached and will sit securely inside the cabinet while it moves up and down with the playfield .
That is the whole win of this method: it keeps the rear display aligned with the playfield mounting system and reduces fiddly mounting steps compared to more indirect approaches.
Why This Approach Is Easier Than Other Methods
Other setups may mount the matrix to the cabinet first and then adapt later. Here, everything is integrated into the playfield mounting system from the start.
· Straighter alignment because the panel is installed within the same frame that moves
· Cleaner cable routing thanks to the spacer pocket idea
· Less guesswork about clearances during playfield travel
And there is a practical note from the build philosophy: the attachment kit is designed to be low-cost and easy to add with your rear matrix purchase. The goal is to get you installed quickly, without overbuilding a complicated mounting solution.
Next Steps: Wiring and Final Setup
Mechanical mounting is only half the job. After the rear matrix panel is secured:
· Follow your control board instructions for connecting the addressable LEDs
· Route power and data cleanly
· Double-check fitment so nothing strains when the playfield is raised
Once powered and configured, you can compare the visual result with other completed builds. The mounting method described here is used in real-world playfield setups, including cabinet builds shown at major pinball and virtual pinball events.
Quick Checklist
· Matrix display board is fully inside the playfield mounting system
· Shims installed for desired lift and viewing angle
· Spacer installed to create a routing pocket for LED cables
· Two mounting boards installed with pre-drilled holes and screws
· Everything clears when the playfield moves up and down
If you want a rear DMD setup that is straightforward, stable, and integrated with the moving playfield frame, this attachment method is one of the cleanest options out there.