Mark,
Let me some up what everyone here is telling you in regards to your questions. Unfortunately there is no set standard for a protocol. In some people all it takes is 100-150mg of Test-C and their numbers go shooting to 1100 while others might need around 200-250 just to stay in the 700-800s. The safest protocol is one that starts off low and slow, the last thing anyone should do is start high. Then you have to remember that Test converts into E2, this is not a good thing. E2 is the same shit that makes women get all hormonal and crazy. Rule of thumb, the more fat you carry...the more Test will convert to E2. Estradiol is converted from Testosterone in adipose tissue (Fat). If you have lots of fat, you're probably making too much E2.
I myself had E2 out of range without any HRT and it causes all kinds of bad issues. So right off the bat a smart doctor is going to put you on Test, an AI, and if possible...HCG to keep your testes in good shape. Blood tests are very important because at some point too much Test in the body is not going to do much good or build your up any faster. You need to find that "sweet spot" that works for you. Also remember that HCG causes massive spikes in Test levels. I had to stop my TRT for a couple of months because my Test level went too high and my lipids and cholesterol needed to get back down. Yes I feel like shit but will be getting my blood test soon to see how low I am after two months. I do regret having to stop, but it needed to be done until I find a new PCP who doesn't mind giving me a blood test every 4 weeks. Like mentioned above, my current PCP is a douchebag and does blood tests in house so they can pad the bill. My last blood test was near ****ing worthless and the things that needed to be checked he wouldn't do. (ie. It wasn't profitable to check my Vitamin-D, PSA, or IGF).
Good luck and go slow!