The "Abfahrsignal" signal is a series of green lights arranged in a circular pattern that when turned on and showing green indicate to the locomotive engineer to depart the station. This is separate from the "Ausfahrtsignal" which is the block signal, for the track, and which always appears to the right of the track. That signal might indicate green, but the engineer wouldn't start moving the train until the "Abfahrsignal" is green too.

Could someone describe the correct placement of the "Abfahrsignal"?
It is usually located on the platform, but I am wondering if there is a 'rule' that applies for its placement? I've seen them to left and right sides of the engine, when its facing forward, depending on the direction of the train.

Any guidance is appreciated.

Peter

Hi Peter,
The Abfahrsignal will be placed at the end of the platform where the train is stopped either left or right depending on the side where the doors are open (It is usually hanging from the roof if it a covered platform) or just after the platform in order for the engineer to see it.
The "H" Signaltafel for Halt should then (logically) be placed before the Abfahrsignal.
Hope this helps
Cheers

Hi!

I know they have some at Cologne Central Station - and they are mounted at the pole of the Ausfahrsignal.

Look here for a sample picture:
http://de.wikipedia.org/wiki/Abfahrsignal
They say:
"2. als „Lichtsignal“, ortsfest am Ausfahrsignal oder Zwischensignal angebracht: Ein aus mehreren Lichtpunkten gebildeter grüner Ring oder senkrechter grüner Lichtstreifen"
This means: it's on the pole of the Ausfahrsignal or a signal before that.

BTW: they have those signals only at huge stations.
On most stations the Zugführer will only lift a white plastic disc with a green ring or show a green flashlight.
Cologne central station has 11 tracks, 11 platforms and Ausfahrsignale. But Cologne Tradefair Deutz (500 metres away, 12 tracks, 10 platforms) doesn't.
I won't have them on my layout.