[NIC numbering]

If your using the Ethernet Index number there a good chance it will change. Just depends on how much you much you manipulate the installed devices.  Uninstalling it or re-installing it are good ways to force a index number change. I think some driver updates monkey with it as well.  I recently found my self fighting with windows over what type of network connection it was, and during the process something I did in moving it from public to domain or private caused the index number to change again. 

[Looking for a 7inch IPS or TFT, 16 or 24 bit color panel /w USB Interface.]

Thanks for the links. 

[Display 7 Inch power consumption]

I am guessing the HDMI connection is providing power for the 7inch?

[Looking for a 7inch IPS or TFT, 16 or 24 bit color panel /w USB Interface.]

I am looking for a 7in screen that can do 16 or 24 bit color using a USB2 interface.  I was looking at the Matrix Orbital EVE4x-70A-IPS-BLH-TPN-F128-USB-VS but with the graphic ram limit of 1MB you cannot use the full resolution above 8 bit color.  I am trying to avoid going the GTT route due to the cost. I am also planning to use the internal mobo USB headers.  

Any other recommendations? 

[DPI & Scaling]

Are you guys using USB or HDMI interface?