Contents (9)
Core Computer Hardware
To function, a computer requires a Case, a CPU, RAM, a Graphics Card (GPU), a Screen, and an Operating System (usually OpenOS on a Hard Disk Drive).
Computer Cases
Cases come in three tiers, determining how many component slots and expansion card slots are available.
| Tier | Card Slots | Component Slots | Memory Slots | Description |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Tier 1 | 1 | 2 | 2 | Basic iron-based case for simple tasks. |
| Tier 2 | 2 | 3 | 2 | Gold-based case with more expansion room. |
| Tier 3 | 3 | 4 | 2 | Diamond-based case for high-end automation. |
| Creative | 3 | 9 | 3 | Infinite power and maximum slots. |
Essential Components
- CPU (Central Processing Unit): Determines the number of components the computer can manage. Tiers 1, 2, and 3 increase the component limit.
- Memory (RAM): Required to run programs. If a program exceeds the available RAM, the computer will crash with an "out of memory" error.
- Graphics Card (GPU): Controls the output to a Screen. Higher tiers support higher resolutions and more colors.
- Hard Disk Drive (HDD): Permanent storage for files and the Operating System.
- EEPROM: Contains the bootloader (BIOS). A computer cannot start without an EEPROM programmed with Lua code (typically the 'Lua BIOS').
Peripheral Blocks
Display and Input
- Screen: Displays text and graphics. Screens can be placed next to each other to form a single large display. Tier 2 and 3 screens support color.
- Keyboard: Must be attached to a screen (or placed adjacent) to allow player input.
- Hologram Projector: A high-end device that projects a 3D voxel grid into the air, useful for maps or data visualization.
Networking and Power
- Power Converter: Converts external energy (RF, EU, etc.) into OpenComputers' internal energy buffer.
- Capacitor: Stores energy for the computer network. Essential for handling power spikes.
- Cable: Connects blocks in a network. Components connected via cables can communicate with the computer.
- Switch: Connects different networks while filtering traffic to prevent packet collisions.
Specialized Blocks
- Adapter: Allows the computer to interact with non-OpenComputers blocks, such as chests, furnaces, or machines from other mods (e.g., IndustrialCraft 2, Thermal Expansion).
- Disk Drive: Allows the reading and writing of Floppy Disks.
- Geolyzer: Scans the surrounding terrain to detect ore density and block hardness.
- 3D Printer: Uses Chamelium and Ink to print custom decorative or functional blocks designed in Lua.
Crafting Materials
Crafting in OpenComputers is tiered and progressive. Most high-level components require several sub-components:
- Transistor: The most basic building block, used in almost every recipe.
- Microchip (Tier 1-3): Used to create CPUs, RAM, and complex cards.
- Printed Circuit Board (PCB): Created by treating an Unprepared PCB with acid (usually involving water and gold/iron dust).
- Control Unit: A high-tier component used for building Computer Cases and Robots.
- Chamelium: A synthetic material used as 'filament' for the 3D Printer.
Nanomachines
Nanomachines are a late-game mechanic where the player can inject themselves with a Nanomachine Controller. By using a Nanomachine Remote, players can trigger various buffs (Speed, Strength, Night Vision) or abilities (Flight) by configuring the internal neural network of the nanites. These require a constant supply of energy, which can be provided by standing near a Wireless Charger.
