Build Decisions?

[dbeam]

After much research and reading I'm coming closer to a vision of what I want to build...
Need advice and/or hints and how to avoid pitfalls...

I like the idea of flexible panel so I can fly different planes....
I think I've decided on getting the following for input devices:
Amazon.com has these.....
Saitek Pro Flight Yoke and Three-Lever Throttle $126
Saitek Pro Flight Rudder Pedals $87
Saitek Pro Flight Multi Panel $117
Saitek Pro Flight Radio Panel $119
Saitek Pro Flight Switch Panel $87

Total for Saitek Input Devices $535

For my panel I would like a set of generic gauges displayed on a LCD Screen. The screen(s) would be mounted behind a MDF cockpit cutout and the gauges could have a CNC Machined metal front plate...
The big decision here is what Software to use and what size LCD Screen would work best..
I have looked at three choices for Gauge Software:

Project Magenta GA-IFR: It cost ~$150
Peix Software: It cost ~ ~60 http://www.peixsoft.com/
Panel Mania: Shareware http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=RA8UEWsZ6n0
Total of 300 new or modified gauges! I've tried it out and it seems pretty good!
Does anyone have suggestions on this?

How about material and finish for CNC Panel(s) for Gauges? I was thinking aluminum with powdercoat finish?
Should I go to the trouble of trying to build in the rotary knobs into the panel or can I buy I prebuilt box with rotary knobs instead?

I would also like a seperate LCD for a Gamin 530 GPS (this could be a separte project for later but need to plan for it on my panel)
I was thinking about a touch screen? Not sure if that is possible? Or possibly build the knobs and buttons my self and connect to Leo Bodnar BU0836 board...
I think I will tackle this as a seperate project!

I have a Panosonic Projector and a Theatre Room setup I would like to use as my front projection...
What views do people usually use on this? Virtural Cockpit View?

I then need some sort of portable table that I can put my panel and control Yoke and pedals.. That way I can move it out of the way when I'm watching movies etc.....

LOTS OF QUESTIONS!!! Any comments and/or help much appreciated!!!!

[dbeam]

PanelV3.jpg
PanelV4.jpg
My vision of panel build.... MFD board and Saitek Devices....
19" Dell LCD Monitor
12" Touchscreen for GPS

[dbeam]

better2.jpg

I think I've come up with a better layout....