MAMEWAH v1.6+ Performance Tips

I am not sure what the current mimimum requirements for MAMEWAH are, but here are some performance-enhancing tips:


Layouts:

Use the lowest resolution possible.

Using no background image will enhance performance, but if you must use one then make sure it is exactly the same dimensions as the main form (ie the resolution) - eg for a 640x480 layout use an image of 640x480 pixels, this will help reduce flicker.

Try to avoid using transparent objects where possible.

Use as few 'Artwork' objects as possible, and make them as small as possible.

If using emulator and/or list specific layouts, use the same resolution, colour depth and refresh rate for all layouts.


Sound:

Use as few sounds as possible - avoid the 'navigate' sound in particular if you are having performance problems.

Don't use background music (MP3's etc. take CPU power to decode).


Input:

Use as few different inputs per event as possible, eg using only 'cursor up' will perform better than 'cursor up or mouse up'.  In some cases you may be able to use emulator or list-specific ctrlr files for separate inputs (eg if using swappable control panels).

Disable keyboard, mouse and/or joystick devices where possible.


General:

Make sure refresh_images is set to 0.

Set keep_image_aspect to 0.

Using small lists will improve performance on Win98 systems when switching lists.

Don't use movie previews.