(jeb@oscalemag.com). - O Scale Trains Magazine Online

REVIEW: Searchlight SignalsSL-25 2/3 Rail MSRP $ 64.95SL-35 2/3 Rail MSRP $ 69.95SL-45 2/3 Rail MSRP $ 69.95SL-55 2/3 Rail MSRP $ 74.95Custom Signals, LLC, 27 Gellatly Drive, Wappingers Falls, NY12590 ● www.customsignals.comreviewed By Gene ClementsProduct News & ReviewsThe PrototypeTrain movement through blocks governed by signals hasbeen around since 1872 with the introduction of ABS (AutomaticBlock System), and with CTC (Centralized Traffic Control)in 1927. Searchlight signals were introduced in 1920 asan improvement over the then common semaphore types.The design was improved upon in 1930, to give an even morefocused beam of light that could be seen at a greater distance.The searchlight signal uses a single lamp with a system ofmoveable lenses to project multiple colors, usually red, yellow,and green. Other color variations can be found. The searchlightsignal found widespread use by American and Canadianrailroad companies and is still in use at many locations today.Most of the signals I operate by on every trip on the BNSF BirminghamSub are of the searchlight type.The ModelsThe signal models being reviewed are the SL-25, SL-35, andSL-45, all double headed signals, and the SL-55, a triple-headsignal. Both the SL-35 and SL-55 stand approximately 24 scalefeet tall above the foundation, while the SL-25 and SL-45 standapproximately 19 scale feet above the foundation. The designand detail work of each signal is exceptional and to 1/48 scaledimensions. Details include proportioned ladder, service platforms,and safety railings for each signal head.Also included are nut and bolt castings on themasts where each appliance mounts to themast, as well as base details. Details on eachsignal head include the maintainer’s lock onthe back of the case, and the maintainer sighton the top of each signal head, complete withthe hole in the target that is used to aim thesignal. Also included with each signal are aremovable number plate and decals to identifythe signal as a “permissive signal”. Removethe number plate to designate an “absolutesignal”. The simulated round concrete basehas multiple holes for ease of mounting to thelayout.Each signal head light is a computer-fabricatedboard with 3 LEDs (red, yellow andgreen), designed to be as close to the prototypicalcolor as possible and bright enough togive a searchlight effect. Each signal includesa Signal Control Board from the Atlas-O 21stCentury Signal System. Connection to thecontrol board is made with a modular plugattached to a 21” long wiring lead from thesignal base. A 7/16” to 1/2” diameter holethrough the layout scenery will be required inorder to insert the modular plug through andbelow the layout; this hole is easily coveredby the width of the signal base.Also included with each signal is an “Installationand Instruction Manual”. I was impressed that prototypeterminology shown in the glossary corresponded to G.C.O.R.(General Code of Operating Rules) definitions and rules thatI work under. Equally impressive were the various signal scenariosyou typically find in ABS and CTC systems. Illustrationsand text show and explain the components to use and how towire each scenario for prototype operation.Last, but not least, a power supply of 6-22V (AC or DC) canbe used to power the system. All signals and control boardsare compatible with the Atlas-O 21st Century Signal Systemproducts currently available. Custom Signal’s products canbe used with either three- or two-rail layouts. For two-railapplications, the modeler will need a source of “block detection”.A relay, photocell, or infared system can be used for thispurpose, or use the Atlas Current Sensing Detector, #7935. Allhardwire connections are made via screw-down terminals oneach signal board.In SummaryTerry Christopher and the people at Custom Signals havegiven the O Scale marketplace a very detailed model of variousprototype signals, with an expandable plug-and-playcontrol system. By using the signals of choice, combined withthe control board system, the O Scale model railroader hasthe option of creating as simple, or as complex, a prototypicaloperating ABS or CTC signal system as desired. Check outCustom Signals for yourself; you will find their advertisement,website address, and mailing address in this issue of O ScaleTrains. To Terry Christopher and the people at Custom Signals,as we say in the South,” Way to go, folks”.Mar/Apr ’07 - O Scale Trains • 53