I am moving in the fall and I am planning my new layout. I am interested in adding working signals to my layout. I will be modeling a diesel era, HO Scale, and DCC layout. I model multiple railroads so I am not to concerned about specific signaling rules and procedures. The model layout will be in the Great Lakes region, but an exact location hasn’t been determined yet.
I do not want to use a PC to control the signals. I am interested in brand names and systems that would meet my needs. I have build three layouts, but never included signals before.
What do you want the signals to do? I like having signals, too, but I’m not interested in a complex system of blocks and train control. I use my signals as “turnout position indicators,” going green when the turnout is lined correctly and red when it’s not. Other modelers prefer train detection and a more prototypical block control with timers.
Oregon Rail Supply, Tomar and NJ International come to mind immediately for the signals themselves.
CML Electronics has a system that only needs a computer to program it, but not to operate it with. The company is in England. http://www.cmlelectronics.co.uk/
Signals are fun, but my layout requires about 200 of the things in order to look realistic. The LION cannot afford to buy that many signals let alone to buy the controllers needed to animate them.
I built my own signals from scratch: a stick of wood, three LEDs, a resistor and some wires. My signals cost less than $1.00 each. To light the signals I use a three position switch as shown below. They will not work prototypically, but I can use the switches to set up a photo shoot.
This was built before I built my automated train operation system. I will now tie the signals to the automated train control system. The signals will still not operate exactly correctly but it will be good enough for me.
The other fun piece of my system is the use of my GRS model-5. Some of these levers operate the home signals. Signals are RED when the levers are in the normal position. When the lever is pulled the signal turns to green. On a GRS board the red levers that control the signals are at the ends of the machine, the black levers are in the middle and control the switches. Signals for trains moving left to right are on the left of the machine, the signals for trains moving right to left are on the right., You do not really need to make a big machine like this: a few toggle switches on a fascia w
As you apparently know, signaling can be a rather complex topic.
To make signaling more practical for most model railroads, serval great modelers from the past suggested only modeling “interlocking” signals, that is the signals that are absolute indications - stop, proceed, proceed at restricted speed, etc.
These are the signals commonly found near turnouts, crossings, etc. and they generally indicate two conditions - is the track ahead clear or occupied? - is the turnout route correctly set?
So using detection and modeling only these signals, we can make the signals truely functional, without making them or their meaning to operators overly complex.
A number of simple ciricuits can be used, but they must be designed and installed per the specific track diagram - there is no real easy “plug and play” product or method.
All the “plug and play” products are VERY expensive and still require a good understanding of prototype signaling - even to use in a simplified form.
If you have access to old MR’s - like on their new CD set, Bruce Chubb did a nice series of articles on his original signal system - in the early 70’s I believe.
It is a good building block of information for the developement and implementation of a working signal system.
I like your concept for “interlocking” type signals. This is what I have in mind. While I haven’t designed the layout yet, I’m putting together my requirements. I think it will be a double and triple main line with a branch and/or yard. I was only going to signal the main and the branch where it joins the main.
I was also thinking about putting dwarf signals from the yard onto the main. As I design the layout I’ll share progress on the board.
