Tortoise Questions
I tried 2 of the ways recommended. I ended up using the AC power and SPDT solution until I converted to DCC:
I used solid core copper wires. For the switch wiring to Tortoise and Feeders, I used 22 gauge wires. For the bus wiring, 12 gauge. For the AC feeder wires, 16 gauge. AC power came off my Tech II controller. As for the wire, if it had to go more than 3/4's of an inch, I replaced it with thicker wire. (Yes, they say 1 inch but some times the throw would not finish with the wire they give you.)
After deciding to convert to DCC, I kept the same wires for the bus and feeders but upgraded the switch wiring to 16 gauge and used "The Hare" from DCC Specialties with SPDT's:
I also used the LED's feature on "The Hare". Here is a picture of one of my Hare's connected to a Tortoise as well as the wiring:
A good source of wiring information, electronics and especially DCC is "Wiring for DCC" by Allan Gartner:
http://www.wiringfordcc.com/
You can also find good info and parts at "Tony's Train Exchange":
http://www.tonystrains.com/