BobH, I don't know if you're asking about the 200-amp main, or the 200-amp minimum service. I've done the setup that Steve describes, and consider it an additional disconnect. Personally I LIKE having an additional disconnect within sight in that situation.
The 200-amp minimum isn't an NEC requirement, but a local amendment. One town will allow 100-amp if you provide load calculations. I prefer to go with the 200-amp service than to do calculations. It's more time involved to make less money and I'd look like a fool if the additional service were needed in the future.
Dave
