3Valve said:
(snip)Could someone with infinately more knowledge than me educate me in the use of ground signals please, so I have some idea where to put mine.
(snip)
Basic answer is to provide a signalled manoeuvre that is not otherwise provided for by main stop signals (e.g. semaphore homes) on "running lines" (think main movements). So you need to provide a diagram and think about which routes would require "running" signals and which would not.
You may find this site helpful:
http://www.signalbox.org/
You could use the ground discs for any of the following purposes:
1) Calling-on: admitting a train into a section of line already occupied by a previous train (usually at a station)
2) Shunt-ahead: what it sounds like, but with inherent implications about block working
3) Warning: line is clear only as far as the next stop signal (again associated with specific types of block working)
4) Shunting
Item (4) is probably most likely for most G-scalers, so I'll quote directly from the BR 1972 Rule Book (clause C.3.2.4 if you care!):
"Shunting signals govern the passage of a train from a siding to a running line, from a running line to a siding, between one running line and another, and control shunting operations." "When cleared, shunting signals authorise Drivers to proceed as far as the line is clear".
In case the last sentence doesn't sound logical, normally in the UK a cleared stop signal indicates the line is clear to the next stop signal with no obstructions possibly in the way. A driver passing a cleared shunting signal MUST expect the possibility of an obstruction before the next stop signal.
End of lesson! PM me if your brain needs more serious frying or just for an opinion on where you need main/shunting signals! :callme: