Redstone comparators are arguably the most intricate Redstone component in Minecraft. Unlike simpler components with readily apparent functions, the comparator’s workings are less obvious. Understanding how they operate opens up a world of possibilities for complex Redstone creations. This guide will delve into the functionalities of the Redstone comparator and how to utilize its full potential.
Crafting a Redstone Comparator
Before diving into functionality, let’s cover crafting. To create a comparator, you’ll need:
- 3 Redstone torches
- 3 stone blocks
- 1 nether quartz
Arrange these materials on a crafting table: place the three stones across the bottom row, the nether quartz in the center, and the Redstone torches in the left, right, and top center slots.
Understanding Comparator Inputs and Outputs
The comparator resembles a Redstone repeater, featuring a flat slab with Redstone torches. However, the comparator boasts three torches instead of two. The side with two torches serves as the main input, while the opposite side with a single torch is the output. Uniquely, the comparator also possesses two secondary inputs, one on each side. Crucially, only the stronger of the two secondary inputs is utilized at any given time. The comparator’s core function is to compare the signal strength of the main input to the selected secondary input.
Redstone Signal Strength and Comparison Modes
Redstone signal strength is key to understanding comparators. Signal strength ranges from 1 to 15, decreasing as it travels along a Redstone line. A comparator outputs a signal matching the main input’s strength. However, a secondary input alters this behavior based on the comparator’s mode:
Comparison Mode (Default)
In comparison mode (indicated by the front torch being off), the comparator outputs the main input signal strength only if it’s stronger than the secondary input. If the secondary input is stronger, the output signal ceases entirely.
Subtraction Mode
Activated by right-clicking the comparator (indicated by the front torch being on), subtraction mode subtracts the secondary input strength from the main input strength. The resulting difference becomes the new output signal strength. For example, a main input of 15 and a secondary input of 10 will yield an output of 5.
Measuring Container Fullness with Comparators
Beyond comparing Redstone signals, comparators can gauge the fullness of various containers and blocks, translating this into signal strength. This functionality is crucial for creating automated systems like item sorters.
Containers like chests, furnaces, and hoppers emit signals proportional to their contents. More items equate to a stronger signal. The specific signal strength varies depending on the container’s capacity.
Comparators also interact with special blocks like:
- Beehives/Bee Nests: Signal strength corresponds to honey levels.
- Cake: Signal strength diminishes with each slice consumed.
- Cauldrons: Signal strength reflects the water level.
- Composters: Signal strength increases as compost fills.
- Command Blocks: Signal strength depends on command success.
- End Portal Frames: A filled frame emits a signal strength of 15, while an empty frame emits no signal.
- Item Frames: Signal strength corresponds to the rotation of the item inside.
- Jukeboxes: Signal strength varies based on the music disc being played.
- Lecterns: Signal strength corresponds to the open page of a placed book.
- Respawn Anchors: Signal strength increases with each charge level.
Conclusion
Redstone comparators are powerful tools for creating sophisticated Redstone contraptions in Minecraft. Their ability to compare and subtract signal strengths, as well as measure container fullness and interact with special blocks, opens up a vast realm of possibilities for automation, logic circuits, and intricate redstone mechanisms. Mastering their functionality is essential for any aspiring Redstone engineer.
