A fixed signal governing the entrance to an interlocking or controlled point.
In the normal direction of travel on any one line, the first stop signal encountered at a block post, is the home signal. (See also inner-home and outer-home). On some railways and in some railway parlance, all stop signals are called home signals.
A fixed signal at the entrance of a route or block to govern trains or engines entering and using that route or block.
A signal capable of displaying the indication "On" (danger), or "Off" (clear), generally in the rear of a station or signal box. A home signal may be cautiously passed when at danger when permitted by a calling-on signal. The arms of home (and starter) signals were (and still are) red with a white band on the front, and white with a black band on the rear; they show a red light at "on" (danger).
A signal separating one signalling block from another. Found at the approach end of station platforms.
In railway signalling, a home signal (British English and sometimes in American English as well) or absolute signal (US English) is a signal that protects junctions, points (switches in American terminology), movable bridges, platforms, or block sections.
