On this page, you find information about:
- how to build an Austrian light distance signal with LEGO bricks,
- equipping the it with lights,
- automating the signal with a MattzoLayoutController.
About the signal
The signal was designed by Matthias Runte of MattzoBricks in 2026.
Shape and functionality is based on the standard Austrian light distance signal that has been introduced to all major railroads in Austria since a couple of decades.
Signal aspects
The signal has two yellow and two green lights.
Expect “stop”
Two yellow lights indicate “expect stop on next main signal”.
Expect “clear”
Two green lights indicate “expect clear on next main signal”.
Expect “speed restriction 60km/h”
Two green lights and one yellow light indicate “expect speed restriction 60km/h on next main signal.”
Expect “speed restriction 40km/h”
Two green lights and one yellow light indicate “expect speed restriction 40km/h on next main signal.”
Colocated main and distant signals
If the light distant signal is colocated with a main signal, and the main signal indicates “stop”, the screen of the distant signal must be blank.
In the Mattzobricks Train Automation System 2.0, this behaviour can be set in Rocrail in the signal settings of the main signal.
Building Instructions
The signal is similar to build like the German light distant signal. On the page of the German light distant signal, there are some building instructions, which you may find useful.
The required parts are also quite similar to the mentioned German signal.
Automation
The signal is automated with a MattzoLayoutController (MLC). The MLC controls the LEDs.
Find more details about the MLC here.
To use the MLC with signals is described here.
In the firmware, there are some useful MLC example configuration files for light signals. This is a good starting point for you. Modify the file depending on your needs.
Enjoy!