COMPATIBILITY QUESTION

Greg,

"When I purchase my MTH DCS Controller and TIU, will it be necessary to also purchase the MTH Z-4000". 

No,  it is not necessary to use a Z4000 with DCS.

DCS will work fine with most modern and postwar transformers. There's a compatibility list in the manual that accompanies DCS sets.

The CW-80 transformer won't work with most PS-2 engines made by MTH. It just makes them stutter electrically, I tried one with a PS-2 engine and that's why I know. 

Should be good with most other transformers. But like Barry B. says; check the instruction manual from MTH.

Lee Fritz

You didn't say how large your layout is, but I suspect you're golden with that ZW-L!!!

Sounds like you are starting out with TMCC or maybe Legacy first then adding DCS later? If so, you should pay attention to the method of wiring recommended for good DCS signal strength. Its not onerous if you apply it from the start. Recommend Barry's "DCS Companion" which covers the topic very well.

Rod

I will second everything Rod says above. If there is any chance you will add DCS, get Barry's book and wire for it now. DCS seems to be a little more particular and you could save yourself a lot of possible headaches, debugging and re-wiring later on. Also, Barry's book is worth every cent, lots of good info in there. I would get the print copy, you can take it to the layout with you for trouble shooting which is very handy.

I think you should be in very good shape with the ZW-L. If you use the older transformers for your trains I would add some fast cirsuit breakers sized properly for the load. I think the ZW-L would be preferred for the trains and their electronics. The DCS TIU has built in TVS diodes, but many folks here also add them to some of their power connections around the layout for a little added surge protection safety here and there.

Thanks everybody for chiming in, a lot of good info provided. I've seen the DCS Companion book and will order a copy shortly for future reference. GILLY@N&W, My layout will be a 12'x30' multi-level layout, possibly 3 levels high, I was considering using all of the transformers for LED's, buildings and accessories, all of them except the ZW-L.  Soon I will introduce the layout to the forum and then possibly to family members via FB. Nonetheless thank all of you for this bit of information that you have provided.  MARSHELANGELO