Doug's Arcade 1.35

The history of the man behind the business.

Hi, My name is Doug Barger I am an electronic technician with an associate’s degree in electronic technology. I have been repairing electronic devices for over 20 years. I have a well rounded knowledge of analog and digital circuitry. I was part of the last classes to receive training in the older technologies like tube and older relay technology used in industrial and home products. At the same time I was learning the newer technology called digital electronics, now more commonly referred to as computer technology. I have made it a point to keep my skills up-to-date but I think my real calling is to maintain and restore a part of our own Americana that is being lost in the sea of products from China. I love pinball machines and can’t stand to see them disappear. But for a few of us Pinball is still alive and well. My goal is to keep them running for the next generation to enjoy. Computer games are great but there is nothing like a real pinball machine to play.

Almost every pinball machine ever made was manufactured in the USA, more specifically Chicago. Pinball is now on the edge of extinction. There is only one manufacturer left, Stern – located in Chicago, manufacturing just a few hundred machines a year. Too many machines are rotting away in a barn or basement somewhere and will be lost forever. Our pinball heritage will only be here if we keep maintaining them now.

My focus is on pinball machines from any age, and any electro-mechanical coin op devices from 40’s through the 70’s. For the most part I do not work on many video games although one may pop up from time to time for sale. Go to my website for all the details on contact information, and to learn even more about my business.