|
Model Railroader 1938 October
Table of Contents.
Small Station409
O Gauge Bridge413
An Interurban Railway414
Colortone Photo Pages416,417
A. C. Power Supply418
Scenic Kinks420
Building an Atlantic Loco423
Locomotive Plans428
Passenger Train Car Plans430
Yard Layout (Boomer Pete)____433
Colortone Locomotive Photos___440
Two-Rail Kink443
News446
Trade Topics452
Manual Signaling Has Advantages.
USUALLY model railroad signaling implies automatic signals of one type or another. Even where interlockings are used they are more likely automatic or as nearly so as practical. The wide possibilities of manual signaling in model railroad operating are almost entirely overlooked.
The manual signal has one fundamental distinction in operation: its movement is not definitely tied up with train movement or movements. The human element enters
into the picture. And perhaps what model railroad operating needs is more of the human element.
Semaphores are especially susceptible to manual operation, as a lever from a central control board to the signal is usally even easier to install than the solenoid that would be needed for automatic operation. And for HO and 00 gauges the manual signal is many times the only practical solution.
A semaphore signal worked by hand from a control lever can easily be tied in with the power supply so that the one hand movement both clears the signal and starts the train. A contact right on the rod which works the signal is so connected that with the blade at clear the current flows through the contact to a short section of third rail immediately in front of the signal. The balance of third rail is permanently connected to power. Signals are left normally at stop and when a train approaches if all is O. K. the lever is moved to clear the blade and the power is turned on at the same time. The train proceeds and as soon as the engine is past the signal the lever is restored to the normal position, leaving power off ready to stop the next train should the operator be forgetful.
All this sounds complicated for block signaling as we know it on model pikes, with many short blocks. But is there need, on the average small road, for so many blocks? Signals can be placed at the really necessary points and their working will add immensely to the fun.
| 
