How to Install a Dart Board Arcade Machine in a Bar

How to Install a Dart Board Arcade Machine in a Bar

Why install a dart board arcade machine in your bar?

Installing a dart board arcade machine in a bar is a proven way to increase dwell time, boost food and drink sales, and create recurring revenue from gameplay. For bar owners looking to diversify entertainment offerings, knowing how to install a dart board arcade machine in a bar — from physical mounting to payment integration — is essential to launch quickly and safely with commercial-grade equipment.

Pre-installation planning and commercial requirements

Confirm local rules, permits, and insurance

Before you install a dart board arcade machine in a bar, check local regulations and your landlord’s rules. Some jurisdictions require permits for amusement devices or electronic gaming. Notify your insurance provider and update liability coverage if you add a public-use game. Compliance reduces risk and ensures the machine can operate without interruption.

Assess space, traffic flow, and target audience

Choose a location where the machine complements your bar layout and avoids obstructing emergency exits or heavily trafficked routes. Consider nearby seating, visibility from the bar, and whether your clientele prefers casual play or competitive leagues. A well-placed commercial dart machine can act as both an attraction and an upsell point for food and drinks.

Measurements and standard playing geometry

Follow standard dartboard dimensions for consistent play

Accurate measurements ensure fairness and player comfort. For steel-tip dartboards (traditional sisal), measure the bullseye center at 5 ft 8 in (1.73 m) above the floor. The throwing line (oche) should be 7 ft 9.25 in (2.37 m) from the face of the board. For soft-tip (electronic) boards, many leagues use an 8 ft (2.44 m) oche distance. These standards are widely accepted by governing bodies and improve player satisfaction when you install a dart board arcade machine in a bar.

Comparison: Steel-tip vs Soft-tip setup dimensions

Selecting the right location and mounting surface

Choose a solid wall and allow correct clearance

Install the machine on a structurally sound wall that can support the dartboard cabinet or commercial arcade unit. Allow at least 6–8 ft (1.8–2.4 m) of free space in front of the board for the oche and a 3–4 ft (0.9–1.2 m) side clearance per player lane to prevent crowding. Avoid installing near windows, breakable decor, or surfaces that can be damaged by stray darts.

Use a protective surround or backboard

Protect walls and equipment with a surround or full backboard. For high-traffic bars, a wooden or composite backboard extending 4 ft (1.2 m) above and to each side of the board absorbs missed throws and keeps walls clean. This is especially important when you install a dart board arcade machine in a bar to minimize wear and maintenance costs.

Mounting hardware and anchoring the machine

Secure brackets and ensure level alignment

Commercial dart cabinets or arcade machines typically include manufacturer-specified mounting brackets. Use heavy-duty anchors appropriate for your wall type (concrete anchors for masonry, toggle bolts for drywall with studs where possible). Use a spirit level to ensure the bullseye is centered and true; a few degrees off will make the game feel unfair and lead to complaints.

Anchoring freestanding arcade cabinets

If using a freestanding dart arcade machine, position the unit on level flooring and, if possible, bolt it to the floor or a nearby structure per manufacturer guidance to prevent tipping. Many commercial arcade cabinets have floor anchors or optional wall straps — use them to comply with safety guidelines.

Electrical, networking, and payment integration

Plan power and network access for electronic machines

Electronic dart board arcade machines require a reliable power source and often Wi‑Fi or Ethernet for updates, leaderboards, and remote monitoring. Ensure the outlet is GFCI-protected if near a wet area and that the dedicated circuit can handle the machine’s electrical draw. Check the machine’s manual for specific amperage and voltage requirements before you install a dart board arcade machine in a bar.

Integrate coin, token, or cashless payments

Decide whether to use coin acceptors, token systems, or card/cashless payments. Modern commercial machines often support cashless payments (cards, NFC) and app-based credit systems, which increase convenience and operator revenue share. Configure pricing, free-play modes for events, and loyalty tie-ins to maximize profitability.

Testing, calibration, and user experience setup

Calibrate sensors and run quality checks

For electronic dart machines, run a full calibration and sensor test before opening to customers. Check target sensitivity, scoring accuracy, sound levels, and lighting. For mechanical or manual boards, ensure the board surface is flush, the surround is intact, and that replacement segments are on hand for wear items.

Train staff and establish operating policies

Train bartenders and floor staff to troubleshoot basic issues, handle payments, and enforce safety rules. Set policies for league play, reservations, and age restrictions if applicable. Well-trained staff reduce downtime and improve guest satisfaction when you install a dart board arcade machine in a bar.

Safety, maintenance, and operational best practices

Implement safety measures and signage

Post clear rules for play, including no running, no alcohol-impaired play, and safe retrieval of darts. Use adequate lighting and non-slip mats behind the oche. Regularly inspect darts for damage; remove warped or broken darts from play to reduce injury risk.

Schedule routine maintenance and spare parts

Establish a maintenance schedule: clean electronic contacts monthly, replace worn bristle or electronic segments per usage, and tighten cabinet fasteners quarterly. Keep a stock of common consumables (tips, flights, replacement segments) to minimize downtime and maintain a high-quality player experience.

Maximizing revenue and marketing your dart machine

Promotions, leagues, and events drive repeat business

Host weekly dart nights, tournaments, or happy hour promotions to drive traffic. Consider cross-promotions with food and drink specials for participants. Loyalty programs and leaderboard competitions encourage repeat visits and can position your bar as a local darts hub.

Use data to optimize placement and pricing

Modern dart arcade machines often provide usage analytics. Monitor plays per day, peak hours, and payment methods to adjust pricing and staffing. Data-driven adjustments help you get the best ROI after you install a dart board arcade machine in a bar.

Why choose Neofuns Amusement for commercial dart solutions

Commercial expertise and certified manufacturing

Neofuns Amusement Equipment Co., Ltd. is a leading supplier in Guangdong with full capabilities in OEM/ODM, product R&D, and amusement center design. Their products comply with international certifications such as CE, RoHS, and UL, and the factory has been previously certified by professional institutions including BV and TUV. Choosing a supplier with these credentials helps ensure reliable, certified equipment appropriate for commercial bar use.

Conclusion

Install correctly to maximize safety, revenue, and guest experience

Understanding how to install a dart board arcade machine in a bar — from planning and measurement standards to mounting, power, payment integration, and maintenance — is key to a successful rollout. Follow industry-standard dimensions, secure the unit properly, integrate modern payment methods, and promote events to drive usage. Partnering with an experienced manufacturer like Neofuns Amusement ensures you get commercial-grade equipment and support to keep your bar profitable and entertaining.

Frequently Asked Questions

What height should the bullseye be mounted at?
The center of the bullseye should be 5 ft 8 in (1.73 m) from the finished floor for both steel-tip and soft-tip setups. This is a widely accepted standard for regulated play.

What is the correct throwing distance (oche) for a dartboard?
For steel-tip dartboards, the oche is 7 ft 9.25 in (2.37 m) from the face of the board. For soft-tip electronic boards, many organizations use 8 ft (2.44 m).

Do I need a permit to install an arcade dart machine in my bar?
Permitting requirements vary by municipality. Check local regulations and your landlord’s lease. You may need an amusement device permit, and you should inform your insurance provider.

Can I install an electronic dart machine myself or should I hire a technician?
Basic mechanical installation can be DIY if you have tools and construction experience, but electrical hookup, network integration, anchoring, and calibration are best handled by a qualified technician or the machine supplier to ensure compliance and warranty protection.

How do I keep the dartboard area safe for guests?
Use wall surrounds/backboards, post clear rules, ensure adequate lighting, use non-slip flooring, and train staff to manage play. Regularly inspect equipment and remove damaged darts.

What payment systems are best for commercial dart machines?
Cashless systems (card, NFC, app-based credits) and integrated loyalty programs are increasingly preferred. Coin acceptors still work but require more handling and maintenance.

What routine maintenance will the machine need?
Monthly cleaning of contacts and sensors (electronic), replacement of worn board segments or bristles as needed, checking mounts and anchors quarterly, and keeping spare parts in stock for quick replacement.

References:

• World Darts Federation (WDF) and common competition measurement standards for dartboard height and throwing distance.
• British Darts Organisation (BDO) and tournament setup guidelines for steel-tip darts.
• International Association of Amusement Parks and Attractions (IAAPA) — industry best practices for arcade operations and operator guidance.
• Neofuns Amusement Equipment Co., Ltd. corporate and product compliance information (company certifications CE, RoHS, UL; factory BV and TUV history).
• General electrical safety standards and GFCI guidance for public entertainment equipment.