I am building a new layout and would like to add in operating signals. I am modeling a northern climate where the prototypes typically use signals with snow shields. I’d like operator on the layout to follow the signaling on the layout but I have a practical question about this style signal.
While the prototype match is great, does the snow shield make it hard for an operator to see the signal unless they are looking from a distance down the track? Any advice on visibility by real humans of HO scale signals with snow shields is greatly appreciated.
I’m not sure about that particular type, but the best bet may be to purchase one signal and test it. That’s what I usually do. Sometimes folks with good intentions don’t get the information right.
I build my own signals and have used 3mm LEDs because they stick out the front of the target some and operators can see them from the side.
Another factor on the visibility of the signal would be your layout height. If your viewing angle is high, they would not show up as well as if it was closer to level.
These shields, if you’re talking about the shields around the light itself, are not really snow shields but rather “sun” shields designed to cut down the glare from the sun.