I was just making sure there were no fatal flaws with where I was trying to go here.
So Zener diodes can work well/decently with static load (and low current load). I would guess then for changing loads, a linear regulator, and for larger loads I would need a switching power supply or something a bit beefier.
I think I'm going to stick with zener for now, as it should be low heat and not require much real estate, and I think I have a bit to learn from doing it this way.
Thanks again!
edit: Apparently the basic linear regulator is zener based as well: http://upload.wikimedia.org/wikipedia/commons/9/92/Zener_reg.gif Linear regulator - Wikipedia
