The 'size' if the layout really is not the issue. The number of trains/engines running on the layout is what draws the current and you need to size the system with that in mind.
Both Digitrax and NCE have very good starter systems that can be expanded(more throttles/boosters/wireless/etc). MRC also has a starter system, but the expansion is more limited and comes at a price.
Wireless throttles and the receivers can be added to the above system. Wireless in not cheap, and you will spend as much on the wireless throttles/receives as you have in the system. But they are very nice!
One item that both of the above systems support is the addition of adding a computer interface. You may not think that is too important now, but 6 months from now you will understand how easy programming decoders with you computer can be. Both NCE and Digitrax support JMRI Decoder Pro software(free download). MRC has a proprietary interface and you have to use their own software. Decoder Pro is updated often and has support for the newest decoders. You do not need a powerful PC to run this stuff. I had used a dedicated 600 MHz/Pentium III unit that is a little slow, I bought a 'Walmart Special' computer for under $300 to replace it and that old one is still running down at our club's layout - It just refuses to die.
Myself; I have a Digitrax DCS100 wireless Chief system and a booster - More power than my home layout needs. But there was no NCE Procab, MRC Prodigy Express or Digitrax Zephyr when I bought it. If I had to start over, I would buy a Digitrax Zephyr Xtra - 3.5 amps of power, ability to run 22 trains/engines, and lots of 'big system' features. It includes a built-in throttle and you can add wireless throttles/computer interface/etc.
Jim
Modeling BNSF and Milwaukee Road in SW Wisconsin
NCE might be a good start.
I'm faced with a similar problem.
http://cs.trains.com/TRCCS/forums/t/193014.aspx
Jim Murray The San Juan Southern RR
Sorry, I meant wireless, not hands free controls, it just proves that I am very confused!
First, I would like to thank everyone for their responses to my previous posting entitled "DC or DCC".
Based on all of your thoughts, I have dicided that DCC is the route to go. I am told that this will eliminate about 90% of the wiring snafu's.
Now, here is my new problem. The choices for the seem endless and some what confusing. Digitrax, NEC, MR, EasyDCC and so on. I have visited a few clubs and there are opinions all over the board.
Question: Which DCC product is recommended to begin with that is expandable and allows for teethed or hands free cab controlls?
All of you have previously posed some interest questions and I have found that I did not provide enought info about what i have in mind. So here goes:
1. My current layout was a 4x8 with 2 unconnected ovals and 2 trains. It was simple DC with no trunouts. But it also had a 1967 version Aurora Model Motoreing slot car set going thru it. It was very simple, but that is how my projects always start.
2. I am building this layout in my home and I am a "lone wolf" on this project. I envision the with the family I will utilmately end up with 2 or 3 operators.
3. My layout calls for a U-shaped table that will fill part of the L-shaped dowstairs family room; approximate size or room = 11 ft by 15 ft.. The layout has been designed for an industrial area( Red Wing Mill, ADM Grainery, etc.), trasition into a town setting and moving to a country setting. It is somewhat of a large undertaking and I have aready built most of the benchwork as I have alot of 3/4" plywood and 2x4's laying around the garage.
4. Scale = HO
5. I want sound and lights
6. I am planning to start with 2 trains, but plan on expanding to at least 4 trains.