Semaphore and block signals, their usage

Block signals and semaphores perform the same function. Semaphores are older technology than lighted signals.  There are lots of websites that describe prototypical railway signalling, but usually hobbyists who play with toy train layouts, which have extreme compromises on track length, just place signals where they seem to perform a logical function, such as where two tracks merge, where a siding enters a main line, or for use as a "train order" signal at a station.

Apples and oranges!   

Block Signaling is a SYSTEM of signaling where the line is divided into sections called blocks.  For operating purposes,  the trackside signals indicate if the block is occupied.  If the block is "absolute" only one train can occupy it at one time.  A "permissive" block allows other trains to proceed at "restricted" (able to stop within range of sight) speed. The block signals may be of any TYPE including semaphore, position lights, multiple color lights or the "searchlight" .  On a single track railroad, they are usually positioned at the ends of passing sidings.

A semaphore is a TYPE of signal having a moving blade.  The vertical position usually indicates clear while the horizontal means stop.

Thank you very much sir is this answers my question.

Best, Jerry 

Jerry, a model block signal system (that detects trains and provides signal protection against other trains entering an occupied block) is complex and expensive -- and it's only worth it if you really want it.  I have it on my medium sized layout and, if I recall, the signals and the circuits and the building of the circuit board cost close to $3,000.00.  But I'm a retired railroader and I like that kind of stuff.

Something you can do with 2-position operating semaphores or color light signals (such as the postwar Lionel semaphore or block signal) is make them switch indicators, so that they display a Stop indication if the switch is lined for a spur or siding.  You can also enjoy them as operating accessories if you create an insulated track joint on each side of the signal.  That way, when a train passes a signal it will change from Proceed to Stop.  Or, you can use signals such as those from Z-stuff, which have a sensor that sees the train pass the signal, and causes the indication to change to Stop.  After the train has finished passing, a timer changes the indication to Approach (yellow) and then to Proceed (green) just as if the train were moving down the railroad to other blocks.  Z-stuff makes a very nice semaphore -  it looks good and operates slowly, like prototype semaphores.  Their color light signals are also good-looking.  You will get a nice accessory without having to spend a lot of money.

I just am in the process of installing a Z-Stuff "searchlight" type block signal.

No, it does not "control" trains at all. Really just a nice, cosmetic thing. Quite happy with it and will likely get another one (or two).

Neat,

By the way I have several Lionel post-war signals if anybody is interested.

Thanks everyone, Jerry

I really like the Z stuff 3 position semaphore signals. Really nice, and easy to add the animation to your layout.

I have 4 Z-Stuff DZ-1060 PRR position signals on the layout.  Two are used to protect the block ahead of them and two protect trailing point switches on the mainline.  In addition to that, two MTH PRR signal bridges are used to protect blocks ahead of them.  I don't have signals / blocks cascaded as I don't have the kind of space required, but with the short braking distances of O-gauge locomotives, the signals do enable running in a semi-realistic manner.

George

It's probably a little complicated to get into detail here in the 'real trains' forum, but with three rail track it's usually not that hard to set up a simple block signal system, if you're using track where all three rails are insulated from each other (i.e., not like traditional tinplate track where the two outside rails are connected by metal ties.) Basically you run the positive from the transformer to the center rail, and the negative to one of the running rails. Use insulator joiners to keep the other running rail unpowered. You connect a wire up to the unpowered running rail and another to the powered running rail. When an engine or car with metal wheels is in that section, it completes a circuit (between the two rails) and throws a relay or other gizmo to change the signal from green to red. When the train leaves the section, the circuit breaks and the signal goes back to red.

wjstix posted:

It's probably a little complicated to get into detail here in the 'real trains' forum, but with three rail track it's usually not that hard to set up a simple block signal system, if you're using track where all three rails are insulated from each other (i.e., not like traditional tinplate track where the two outside rails are connected by metal ties.) Basically you run the positive from the transformer to the center rail, and the negative to one of the running rails. Use insulator joiners to keep the other running rail unpowered. You connect a wire up to the unpowered running rail and another to the powered running rail. When an engine or car with metal wheels is in that section, it completes a circuit (between the two rails) and throws a relay or other gizmo to change the signal from green to red. When the train leaves the section, the circuit breaks and the signal goes back to red.

Exactly.  That's what I do.  The center rail is for AC (hot).  One (the inner) silver rail is Ground (Common).  The other (outer) silver rail is used for insulated control of accessories and signals.  The Z-Stuff signals (DZ-1060/70/80) function either optically or take input from a wire connected to the control rail.  Pretty simple hook-up.  The MTH signal bridge (30-11030?) will also do that, but you need a relay (DZ-1008a) between the track and each signal head. 

George

It's also easy to create a track occupancy indicator light on a track schematic or other set-up on a control panel. Connect one wire of the light bulb to the center rail, and the other to the unpowered, insulated section. An engine or car with metal wheels in that section of track will turn the bulb on; when the train clears that section, the light goes back out.

It's also how some accessories work, where something moves or lights up when the train goes past.

Again, thank you, jerry