Wiring semsphore signals

[Anonymous]

I am considering installing semsphore signals but do not know how to wire the signals so that the lights will work in conjunction with the semsphore arm. I am a novice at this. I would appreciate any help.

[MisterBeasley]

That probably depends on which manufacturer made the semaphore. Also, in some cases it's necessary to provide some sort of activation mechanism for the arm, which may include contacts for the lighting. You also need to decide whether you are going to control the semaphore manually, or run it in parallel with a switch motor, or possibly use detection circuitry to tie it to train location.

I agree with the idea, though. Working signals in general add a lot to your layout, and I think semaphores are the most interesting of all signals.

[tomikawaTT]

The big trick with a semaphore signal is to get the arm to move correctly and stop at the appropriate location for the desired indication. The light is no problem - there is only one bulb, fixed, and the moving part of the semaphore (the spectacle) positions an appropriately-colored lens in front of it.

Most American semaphores were motor driven and moved slowly. The semaphores I encountered in Japan were cable-connected to operating levers and flashed from clear to stop faster than the eye could follow.

I have a couple of ancient Tenshodo semaphores with solenoids in the bases. A better idea would probably to operate them from below the baseboard with something more durable.

[MisterBeasley]

Circuitron (the Tortoise people) makes a semaphore actuator. NJ International, one of the better-know signal manufacturers, recommends it for their semaphores which need a separate actuator.

From looking at the semaphores at Walthers and Discount Trains Online, I think that some of them may have multiple bulbs. I've got an old one at home that works as TomikawaTT describes, though. I guess you won't know until you open the box.

[Anonymous]

The NJ International 2-position sempahores include the actuating mechanism. Its a standard twin-coil device such as those that are often used for turnout control. For automatic functioning (i.e. in conjunction with a turnout position or block occupancy) you will need a small capacitor-discharge system with a DPDT relay.

[waltersrails]

ditto to all replys signals to add a lot to a layout.