Question about Xbox Controller button configuring

[KeithPuetz]

I want to be able to have the option to play the arcade using either the control panel or by simply plugging in a xbox controller into the usb port. Is there a way to map the controls to work for both?

And if I have TWO usb xbox controllers plugged in will both controllers be responsive and would the computer identify a second xbox controller as being the second one?
And would the control panel be responsive too?

Can someone explain how to make this work? Please be as thorough as possible while explaining this to me. And make sure if there are programs that I need to download/buy to make this work, please point me in the right direction.

[yotsuya]

Keith-

When I helped a friend with his build, we found the easiest thing to do was just keep the controllers plugged in all the time. He hides them in the coin box area. They never get unplugged, and nothing changes in the settings.

[KeithPuetz]

So let me make sure I understand. When if I set up the controllers and unplug them the settings will reset?

[yotsuya]

Yes, they can. It all has to do with USB IDs. Unplugging the IPAC might even affect your MAME settings. You could try using ControllerRemap, but I'm afraid it would break your head. He just keeps everything plugged in, and everything works fine.

[KeithPuetz]

I don't like that. I created USB ports outside of the cabinet and I have the controllers on the inside of the cabinet (in the coinbox). Meaning that there is no way to keep them plugged in at all times because I have to close the coin door. I guess I can keep them plugged into the inside of the cabinet and have people leave the coindoor open when they want to play (annoying) but that's not really what I wanted to go for. That really stinks. Wish there was another way.

Should I use Xpadder? Is that what loses its settings? Or were you using a different program?

[yotsuya]

I kept it simple for my friend. We put external USB ports on the outside, too, but he had issues when he'd swap, and didn't want to call me every time for support. In the end, he wanted to go simple, so we went that route. We were going to use ControllerRemap, but it was way simpler for the both of us to just leave everything plugged in. He even put a pair of AimTraks in there, as well.

Personally, it's an arcade cabinet, not a console emulator, so I wouldn't have even used those external controllers, but it's his cabinet. He's happy now. 

[Malenko]

the controllers in the coin door is the best way to do.

[KeithPuetz]

Were you guys using Xpadder. If not, do you think there is a possibility of Xpadder holding the settings?

[KeithPuetz]

If I follow these instructions will I be able to make it work?
http://www.hyperspin-fe.com/forum/showthread.php?11377-Xpadder-and-multiple-xbox-360-controllers
Have you guys already tried this? And are saying it doesn't work. Or have you guys never tried it at all and it MIGHT work?