In order to control turnouts with a DCC system you will need stationary decoders and Tortoise or similar switch machines. Depending on the brand and type of turnout, you can get by with no motor at all, just a Caboose Industries ground throw or manual throw.
There are many options available that depend on not only the brand of turnout but how much money you're willing to spend for decoders and switch motors.
For turnouts that can be reached to throw by hand, a Peco turnout is a good choice; or even an Atlas with a manual throw mechanism.
You don't need to use the controller to control switches. They can be done with individual buttons and/or switches. There is an option if you decide later to add electronics to control them with DCC, but it's not required.
Springfield PA
And to answer the second part of your question. Yes, Zephyr can control Accessory switch decoders and be expanded with or added to all other Digitrax components. It's a "mini" Chief.
Martin Myers
810ajmcan the Digitrax Zephyr do that and everything else I might want it to do?
Well, it's not going to help you pick up girls. I don't have one, so I don't know if it will open non twist-off beer bottles, either. But, it's a very capable starter DCC system. It does, however, come with only a single stationary controller, not a walk-around throttle. You can add any of the Digitrax throttles to the system later, though.
I agree that you have the choice of controlling your turnouts manually, with traditional toggle switches or using your DCC system. You can make that decision later on, too. You can mix and match, too, running each turnout in the manner that's most appropriate for your layout.
It takes an iron man to play with a toy iron horse.