Ok, I tried all sorts of stuff, and it just isn't working. I am still getting the intermittent keyboard errors and such...so I think that the problem lies within the IPAC itself. It's the only explination I can come up with for this.
So, I have ordered a Key Wiz Max. I maybe should have done it this way to start with instead of trying to "save a few bucks" and EBaying an IPAC. Live, learn and get Luvs as the Bard said.
Either way, I now have to decide if I'm going to just replace the "brain" or if I should go ahead and redesign (read: downsize) the whole CP.
Either way, something is getting thrown into the fire.
Thanks for those who tried to help me get this beast up and running...looks like I'm officially back to square 1.
Huzzah!