by Tdub
This is only my second post as a new subscriber and as a relatively new railfan. So much info here, great forum. So, I know I will never really understand wayside signaling, I'll leave that up to the professionals. I just have a couple basic questions so please pardon my ignorance. Living in Sandusky, Ohio I have the good fortune to view the action on the NS mainline. There is a very busy diamond for a north/south line that not only crosses the main, but also has the ability to access the main, a few control points and a draw bridge. Signals everywhere! Here I go. When driving over one of the many grade crossings, I see a signal bridge that is almost always red. I think it protects the diamond but not sure. Maybe it is a block signal. I have no idea. But, when I see a yellow over red or green overhead I know a train is coming. My first question. I assume a far off dispatcher is controlling that signal, Right? Or could it be a block signal? Are block signals different than dispatcher controlled? I also notice that once the train passes under it, it goes red. Does the dispatcher change that to red as well or does the presence of a train control that? Last question, there are many hand thrown switches nearby since there used to be a yard just off the main. If one of those switches was in the wrong position, would that trigger a red since there is no way a crew member could see a switch in the wrong position? I know these are basic questions so again I am a novice at this so I apologize. This forum is a great resource and I appreciate any and all input.
Tom
Sandusky, Ohio
Tom
Sandusky, Ohio