David, We need some additional information.

How big (small) is the layout? Track plan?

How will the layout be mounted (Legs, wall brackets, on top of book shelves, suspended from the ceiling, etc.)

Will you only be using the Zypher for control, or will you be adding additional throttles?

How are you planning to control your turnouts?

Do you plan for any signaling?

Are you incorporating a programming track?

Are you going to want a Loconet computer interface (PR3, LocoBuffer)?

Probably more questions, but that sould get us started.

Thanks for the reply. I was looking for some general photos and examples; however, some additional information may help garner more responses.

My new layout will be a point-to-point switching layout that is 27 feet long by 30 inches wide. Where possible, I will use hand thrown switches and the others will be tortoise operated. The Zypher will be the main (ond only) power source with two stations spaced for additional operators (4 additional) switching yards and customer sidings. There is an additional power pack for lights and switches coming off the Accessories connection. Signals will not be interactive but steady lights for cosmetic appearances. One of the sidings will be an engine facility that doubles as a programming track (have one the same on the current layout). 

This layout will use new a benchwork of L-girder design at 48 inches high to allow for standard reach. There is only one track that depresses to a lower level positioned at the front of the right side of the layout. I am planning on 1/4 inch plywood base with 1" pink foam for sub-roadbed and track laid directly to the foam. Light ballast except for switches and scenery backdrop will be foam board mounted to the rear of the benchwork. Lighting will be LED goose arm fixtures mounted to the top of the backdrop (IKEA lights I have used previously) and adjusted to provide even light in addition to the LED shop lights I have overhead. 

I have combined two layout plans I have been carrying around for a number of years with some slight modifications. Will scan and post these later. These two are joined by a bridge structure across the gap of a basement exit door (used only in emergencies) that can be quickly disassembled with plug-in wiring and bench-to-bench connections.

As I said, I see all kinds of fascia with switch toggles and operator stations. What I haven't seen is a power station and wiring setup that doesn't look like spaghetti and is positioned/portable/moveable or part of the benchwork that allows for operation and minimal space. Since the layout is against a wall, my "aisle space" is more than 4 feet, so no problem there. 

Hope this helps with those who have suggestions or can post examples of what others have done. Many thanks.

David we have a similar set up to what you are looking for that is used with the n scale layout. I just checked and there are not any good photos of it. I will see if I can get a photo or two for you.

David, 

My panel has the controls for throwing switches (pushbuttons) and has the ability to set the signals for the interlocking area it controls. This make the person(s) running a train during a session to pay attention. Not the most sophisticated, but I enjoy throwing the switches from the panel as there will be another panel similar to it about 2 feet away. This is where the dispatcher/tower operator will be during an operating session. The rotary switches will control the 3 aspects on the signals. 

Neal

Thanks. I'm looking to place the Zypher and other power pack somewhere accessible but not blocking things overall.

I am packing for a trip to Germany, so I will not have time to setup the modules for pictures, but I will describe what we have used to support our power supplies, command stations and boosters when we setup the modules at home. For shows the DCC system is mounted in a tool box with all of the connectors mounted in the sides of the tool box. When we are allowed by the CFO to occupy space in the garage or basement we install the DCC system either in a drawer or on a book rack which mounts to the bottom of the modules. The book rack, similar to the one pictured below, was purchased at a kitchen supply store.

The drawers and slides were purchased at Lowes and at a local hardware store.  Both the drawer and book holder provide easy access and fold / slide out of the way for storage.

At the club we are also using under shelf drawers to hold the power supplies, power packs / throttles and switch gear for the O and S layouts. For storage access and maintenance on the N and HO layouts power supplies, command stations / boosters are mounted on swing-out, slide-out and dropdown wooden panels mounted under the bench work.

Ken, how strong are those book holders? I am asking because they just might make nice desk surfaces for car cards or someone writing on a switch list. Do you think they are strong enough for that or should I just go with my first idea of a flat surface mounted on drawer guides so it can be stored out of the way.

Rob, The book holders I have will handle several pounds (DCS100 and DB150 with power supply plus accessory power supply plus power strip,) without a problem. I often use them as a writing surface, but you can only write on them when they are fully extended. I have seen some similar holders which were not very strong, but these are holding up very well.

Ken, when you get time send me a pm with the info on those book holders, they sound like just what the club needs for op sessions. Out of the way when not in use and easy access.

"My new layout will be a point-to-point switching layout that is 27 feet long by 30 inches wide. Where possible, I will use hand thrown switches and the others will be tortoise operated."

 I don't think you'd need anything special for that size and complexity. The Zephyr could just sit on a shelf below a handy spot and the layout it's self could be the track schematic. The hand thrown turnouts don't need anything( other than a way to power the frogs if needed or desired) and the tortoise thrown turnouts could just use a fascia switch near them. If you need throttle plugs  a couple could be added along the route. Most of the photos of complicated control panels are relics of pre DCC days when lots of wiring and switches were needed, today it's possible to eliminate most of the work and clutter.......DaveB