> Would you suggest I utilize that PSU degin you posted mentioned in #2 ?

I make no recommendations... use at your own risk after taking your own requirements and circumstances into account.

> Did you ever try replacing the 5V regulator with a 5V1 or 5V6 zener instead ?

No, because I was using the PICs ADC in my design, and wanted a closer repeatable tolerance and higher current than a Zener could provide.

> Have you had any strange anomalies in the PSU's use ?

None

> Have you had any blow?

No, the design is short-circuit proof and failsafe.

> Is there any ripple or noise encountered on the outputs ?

None beyond the design specification of the 78L05.