I have no problem with using ScaleTrax for a layout, they look alright to me. There were some problems with some of their early production runs for the #4 and #6 turnouts (gaps too close for non-derail feature; have since been fixed). I'm just trying to figure out if there will be any issues with the wiring that Mike is currently working on. This leads me to ask more questions.
I know that you will be planning on operating your turnouts through the DCS remote eventually by hooking up an AIU. In the meantime, what are you planning to do with the controllers that come with all of the MTH turnouts? Will you mount them on a central panel of some sort or will they be staged locally at various places around the layout?
I've included a wire diagram from one of their manuals that I'm sure you've already seen. Note that power connects to the controller, not the switch machine. So distributing power around the layout for turnouts doesn't make much sense. What you need to distribute to the turnouts are the 3 control wires that come from the controllers or eventually from the AIU.
Also, in reading through some of the DCS documentation, I believe that they call for around 18 volts for the track power. You won't get that from the fixed outputs of the Z4K transformer. But the variable outputs (the handles) can get you there; about 3/4 throttle is what they call for. Don't most people use bricks for DCS power?
I must admit that I have no experience with any of these fancy control systems other than what I've read in the forums and the instruction manuals. I think you should tell us more about your plan so that we can assist you when you're not sure what to do.
