The world of arcade machine restoration and preservation is fraught with hardware compatibility challenges that test even the most dedicated enthusiasts. Perhaps the most significant hurdle is the sheer obsolescence of original components. Finding functional CRT monitors, specific proprietary chips, or replacement parts for classic boards like those from 1980s-era games becomes increasingly difficult as decades pass.

Another major challenge stems from the lack of universal standards across manufacturers and eras. While the JAMMA (Japan Amusement Machinery Manufacturers Association) standard created some consistency in the late 80s and beyond, pre-JAMMA machines and even some contemporary non-JAMMA systems require complex custom wiring harnesses and adapter boards. This fragmentation means maintaining a diverse arcade collection demands extensive technical knowledge and adaption solutions.

The integration of modern technology presents its own compatibility layer. Replacing failing CRT monitors with LCD screens introduces issues with aspect ratio, resolution, and input lag, often requiring additional scaling hardware to approximate the original look and feel. Similarly, using modern multi-game solutions like PC-based MAME systems with original cabinets demands intricate wiring adapters, voltage regulation, and control interface mapping to bridge the gap between old and new hardware.

Finally, the physical degradation of hardware itself—from leaking capacitors and corroded connectors to decaying ROM chips—creates persistent compatibility barriers. Each repair must balance authenticity with functionality, sometimes requiring software emulation or FPGA-based replacements that may not perfectly replicate the original hardware's behavior, leading to subtle differences in gameplay, sound, or timing that purists immediately notice.