# Man builds DIY train station departure board - **Source:** [Popular Science](https://brifing.si/source/cc3d313a-759c-4802-b881-fc8585f35ef9) - **Published:** 2026-07-24 - **Original article:** - **On Brifing:** https://brifing.si/s/4e3b38e1-1999-488c-8a09-4fc3a0739f8a ## The Appeal of Train Station Boards Train station departure boards are both informative and soothing for passengers. They enhance the excitement before a journey while offering an aesthetic appearance. ## Jon Morris Smith's Project DIY enthusiast Jon Morris Smith decided to build his own train departure board at home. This project was designed not just as a replica but as a functional device. ## Technical Details Smith used a 1GB Raspberry Pi 4 for his project. This device was connected to LED matrix screens and programmed to display real-time train information. ## Challenges and Solutions One challenge was accessing real-time train data. Smith subscribed to Rail Data Marketplace, a UK-based service, to get accurate information for his board. ## Customization and Flexibility Smith's project is highly customizable. Users can tweak the system to display train information from different regions, making it versatile for various locations. ## A Unique Home Accessory Even if not used for tracking trains, Smith's departure board serves as a unique and stylish home accessory, blending functionality with aesthetic appeal. ## Sources covering this story - https://www.popsci.com/technology/diy-train-station-departure-board/ — --- _Summary written by Brifing from the original reporting. Copyright in the original article belongs to its publisher; read the full piece at the link above._