Newbie Ques... CP Ques. & Trigger Joystick Hack

[photorock]

I've been reading so much from this site that I think my heads gonna explode! I've learned so much here at this forum that I am confident that I can build, wire and configure my own control panel, Can't wait to start and finally start playing. I plan on building the CP and attaching it to my computer desk. No room for an arcade cabnet in my apartment.

I'm ready to make a few orders for CP controls, as this is my first time I think I've got a good handle on what I'll need.

Ultimarc
i-pac 2player USB (with mountin Feet)
Opti-pac USB (with mountin Feet)
Trackball 2 1/4", Mounting Plate I don't play alot of trackball games.

SlikStik
Tornado Spinner ( standard purple top)

HappControls
Apx. 32 Ultimate Pushbutton with Microswitch
2 Competition Joysticks
1 Replacement Joystick for MS Pac-Man/ GALAGA

Here are my questions...

Is there anything listed here that you would have concerns with, except the Trackball?

I was considering the Competition Pushbuttons, but they look convex and I want the concave ones. What's a good choice?

I was using a Gravis Xterminator dual control trigger joystick with Mame for a long time and it's great with games like 1942, but sucked with most other games especially Ms Pac Man, my favorite. What I would like to do is hack it with a new joystick and put it in my consol.

Is this possible with this unit?
If so any suggestions on what joystick to use?
If it's a waste of time and money please be honest with me, I can take it, any suggestions would be greatly appreciated.

I know this was a long post with a lot of questions, but I would like to get the order right the first time becouse I live in canada and the exchange rate is a killer. I figure the finished CP will cost apx. $650 CDN.

You guys are the best, so I figured I get some input on my choices before I ordered. Attached is a layout for my CP minus the Trigger Joystick. Artwork not finished yet, still thinking...

Thank you

[photorock]

Forgot the attachment...

[whammoed]

Couple answers:
Buttons:  most people get the horizontal microswitch buttons, they are concave.

Mspac/galaga sticks:  these are very short stick meant for metal cp mounting.  If using a thicker material you may have to route out a recess for it.

[photorock]

Thanks, I wasn't sure on the pushbuttons, horizontal it is. As for the CP everything will be recesed including the screws and bolts then covered with laminate and finally clear vinyl graphics on top.