Does anyone know how to setup the main view area so I can see the side, top, front, and perspective simultaneously like in 3ds max?

Cut up the 3D display pane into a custom layout....

http://youtu.be/dQKsXmlDf78

Gets into what you want about one minute in.
_________________
Spacemice Wiki -- Input devices for a 3D world.
Spacemice / Blender Compatibility