Probably time to re-think the communications layer- master/slave with the Wixel works well but only has a 50ft or so range. Xbee is actually cheaper and offers a point to multipoint network out of the box. Duh. Also, if you want to spend the money, the PRO will do a freaking MILE in range! Sounds almost too good to be true, eh? We shall see.
So with that in mind, I’m also thinking of switching to the AVR 1634. It has two built-in usarts and extra i/o pins, however it is only available in a SMD package. Not terrible but a little more difficult to breadboard than a PDIP package.
Also found a nice free schematic drawing package from these guys:
ExpressPCB.com
But their PCB software kinda sucks (I like autorouting) so I’ll be sticking with these fellows:
Pad2Pad.com