Currently the wired temperature probes must return to zones 1 to 16 on the main control. I am working on getting the Oregon Scientific wireless temperature probes working with the M1. They have a floating temperature probe that is good for pools or hot tubs.
Touch screens will use the RS-232 or ethernet module.
Looking at what you are doing, you may be better off price wise using a M1EZ8 control remoted from your main M1 as the input and output controller and let it talk to the main M1 through Cat5, X-10, UPB, Zwave or what ever.