Philips SGS306 Lantern Installations

The Philips Trafficvision was an iconic post-top or side-entry SON lantern. Lamps up to 150W were admissible in the small version (SGS305), whereas the larger SGS306 was built for lamps of 150W and above. The SGS306 had unique contact points allowing for the complete removal of the gear-area without disconnecting any wires, something not often seen on lanterns. Despite this intelligent design, these lanterns often suffered water intake issues after about a decade.

A5, Tamworth

The Philips SGS 306 "Trafficvision" is seen here commonly, however about 30% of them dont work. They generally don't last very long for sodium lanterns. And the same can be said for this one on the A5. The LEDs shine brightly in the background while this wounded SGS306 sits silently in the dark, awaiting its inevitable removal. It did used to run 150W SON.

A better view of the same lantern at night time reveals the gasket-seal is hanging loose, likely the cause of death for this mouldy Trafficvision; Well, at least the resulting water damage was!

This example is one of the few to still burn brightly throughout the night, showing us it's 150W SON glow in all it's magnificence.

Infact, on the 31/01/2024 I noticed it was still going during the day!

Tamworth Train Station

This Trafficvision is at Tamworth Train station, and looks to be lop-sided. Loosened grub-screws and a tall (12m) mounting height means more exposure to wind, which may have pushed the lantern to one side. This installation was replaced in February 2024. I did ask if any lanterns were available but they were sadly already gone. The lantern on the other end of the bracket is a Thorn Alpha 2000.

Buckingham Road, Tamworth

A rather out-of-place Trafficvision (SGS306) is located on Buckingham Road, Coton.

It was put up in 2019 when an SGS201 and it's column were crashed into.

The same lantern at night.