I am just outputting my stuff on a nice 27" TV in the cabinet, so it will work for you too. In fact, you SHOULD be able tin interface a control panel with your HTPC and have it all in one location. Your quickest way to get started would be to buy a control panel that you want. Some good ones (you don't even have to built them if you don't want) are at:
SlikStick
HotRod
X-Arcade
I opted to build my own. You can get parts from:
IPac PC Interface
For joysticks and buttons contact PonyBoy at:
ArcadeControls Forums
If you are looking to build one yourself, let me know, I had some spare pieces machined to .0001" precision by a local fabricator with a CNC machine.
