How to Make Machines Recognize Each Other's Work State (Worker Capability)

The Worker capability is the core of Common Capabilities. It lets a machine answer two simple questions: "Can I work right now?" and "Do I have work to do?" When two mods both speak this capability, they can cooperate without either mod knowing about the other.

What the Worker Capability Actually Does

A machine that exposes the Worker capability reports a work state. This is why you sometimes see a machine from one mod correctly pausing when a machine from another mod is backed up.

Practical Steps to Use It

1. Place two machines that both support the Worker capability next to each other, ideally with an inventory connection between them.

2. Insert items or energy so one machine has work and the other can accept output.

3. Watch the machine that is idle. If it supports Worker, it should stop requesting input while it has no work, instead of constantly pulling and voiding items.

4. If a machine does not respond, check whether it actually implements the capability. Not every block in every mod does, even if the mod is listed as supported.

5. Use this behavior to build compact automation lines where each machine only runs when the next one is ready, reducing wasted fuel, energy, or items.

The main benefit is fewer jams and less wasted throughput in mixed-mod setups.