• Programmable touch screen that allows custom graphics and animations like the URC MX-3000/MX-6000.
    
• Size, weight and shape comparable to URC MX-3000/MX-6000. The iPad is too big and the iphone is too small.
     
• Some dedicated physical buttons such as those found on the URC MX-3000/MX-6000. The iphone and ipad don’t have these.
    
• *Central base station that allows for 2-way RS-232 and IP control. Need at least 6 RS-232 channels. Rack mountable preferred.
    
• * Returned information from 2-way feedback needs to be able to be displayed on the remote’s screen.
    
• RF control with remote antenna
    
• Cost under $2000 (street price) for both remote and control station.
    
• Ability to program on my own even if not preferred by vendor. I had little issue programming my MSC-400 and MX-3000 with all custom graphics and I did not use any templates. Many of my RS-232 codes were not available for download and I manually created them. My 5 year old autistic son was able control the system with ease with little instruction from me. All of my components have discrete commands and use RS-232 or IP. I do not use IR at all in my system. I purchase all my components with control in mind.
  
   

• HVAC control
    
• Lighting control
    
• 12v triggers
    
• Display video on remote (security cams)
    

• iphone controls
   
• Control of PC or internet media sources.
    
• Internet browser on remote
    
• Games or other apps on remote.
    
• Wall mount.
   

The features you are asking for are pretty advanced for a DIY control system. In my opinion you dont have much of a chance in obtaining the features you want with good software and sophistication without a pro doing programming. Control systems like RTI and Bitwise and even ThinkFloods Pro edition would give you the hardware you need. As far as th software goes it's not as intuitive as URC. Many people seem to think because they figured out CCP that they can program anything. The truth is that CCP is by far the easiest and self-sufficient programs out there to the credit of URC. Most other companies rely on firmeware that needs to be manually patched in and updates that need to be done manually. Extensive training is needed to learn how to program RTI and I doubt you will just pick up Bitwise. Sorry, got you halfway there...

PS - bitwise is coming out with Android apps which should make finding a controller easier. I realize the iPad is too large for you.

Other than RTI, do any of these others have touch screen controllers that match what I am looking for? It looks like the rest of them rely on tablets. I have not seen any tablets with hard buttons that are useful to me. Thanks for the candid feedback.

Dang it, I may just have to suck it up and go with an iPad/iRule/portserver solution.  This mount may help.  This should help deal with my issue of size.

[Link: ram-mount.com]