No. Switch position indicators should never be solely relied upon to determine point position. SwitchPath Lights™—like any indicator—should be used as a visual aid that helps crews quickly recognize when a potentially unsafe alignment exists.

Crews must still visually confirm point position at the switch before making a movement.

A sensor detects the position of the points and directs power to a series of lights in either the straight or divergent side of a turnout, creating an obvious indication of the “safe route” to travel. When the switch is thrown, the lit path changes automatically.

The system is designed to illuminate an aligned path 24/7/365.

The system is powered by a 12V Tycon solar kit, which is mounted to a pole or other fixed structure near the turnout. We are also developing a battery pack that can be charged every 3 months and does not require a solar panel to be mounted.

A heavy-duty wire connects the power source, point sensor, and lights. This wire is secured within the web of rail using magnetic cable mounts so it is not a tripping hazard. Each wire connection consists of easy to install, Murr Elektronick M12 weatherproof cable connectors.

Each route can be customized using either white, red, green, or yellow lights, but customers typically follow their railroad’s switch position color pattern. (For example, Norfolk Southern would use white for the straight side and red for the divergent side.)

Once a point moves away from the stock rail, both sets of lights go dark. The system will not illuminate again until the points are fully closed and aligned in either direction.

This acts as a safety feature by eliminating any indication when the switch is in an intermediate or unsafe position.

SwitchPath Lights™ can be installed on most track types, with the exception of track fully filled with asphalt or concrete.

For track covered above the ties with dirt, ballast, or similar material, the system can still be installed. In these cases, risers are used to bring the lights up to the top of rail elevation.

SwitchPath Lights™ can be installed on wood, composite, concrete, or steel ties.

Wood and composite ties: Components are secured using grade-5 or grade-8 lag bolts.
Concrete and steel ties: Components are mounted to a base that is epoxied to the tie.

If a tie needs to be replaced, the components can be removed and reinstalled using a new base, which is available at low cost.

SwitchPath Lights™ are designed as a visual aid, not a replacement for verifying point position. If the lights are obscured by snow or debris, crews should follow standard procedures and verify alignment by inspecting the switch points directly.

The system is built to operate in typical track environments, but regular inspection and housekeeping practices should still be followed.

On uncovered track, it takes about 60 to 90 minutes to install. For covered track, plan to add whatever time it takes to move enough material away from the rail to access the web and to access 4 areas within the gauge for the LED housings.

In general, no. A ¼” impact driver and post driver (to drive the pole for the solar mount) are the two primary tools used. A few small hand tools like wire cutters, Allen wrenches, and screwdrivers are also required. The system was designed with ease of installation in mind.

Each system comes with a complete a detailed set of installation instructions. We are also working on a series of video installation guides that will be posted soon on our website. Our team can also be contacted by phone for live installation and trouble shooting help.

The standard 4-LED solar-powered system (2 lights for straight, 2 lights for divergent) is currently priced at approximately $4,900, not including taxes or shipping.

Please contact us for current pricing and configuration options.

Yes, all parts are covered by a 12-month replacement warranty for quality and workmanship. Damage caused by misuse or accidents such as being run over is not covered.