Redstone on Slabs: A Comprehensive Guide

Redstone is a versatile and essential component in Minecraft, enabling players to create complex circuits and mechanisms. However, routing Redstone signals vertically can be challenging due to the block’s inability to travel through solid blocks. This article explores two methods for transmitting Redstone current vertically: using glowstone and upside-down slabs, and utilizing the staggered placement of half-slabs.

Key Facts

  1. Redstone on Glowstone and Upside-Down Slabs: You can place Redstone dust on glowstone blocks and upside-down slabs. These blocks are transparent, allowing the Redstone current to pass through without being blocked. By setting up a pattern of glowstone or top slabs with Redstone on top, you can run the current vertically.
  2. Staggered Placement of Half-Slabs: In Minecraft version 1.5 “Redstone Update,” there was a behavior where Redstone current could be sent up staggered placements of half-slabs. This means that if you place half-slabs in a staggered pattern, the Redstone current can travel upwards through them.

Method 1: Glowstone and Upside-Down Slabs

Glowstone and upside-down slabs are transparent blocks that allow Redstone current to pass through them. By placing Redstone dust on these blocks, players can create a vertical channel for the current.

To create a vertical Redstone channel using this method, follow these steps:

  1. Place a row of glowstone blocks or upside-down slabs.
  2. Place Redstone dust on top of the blocks or slabs.
  3. Connect the Redstone dust to the desired input and output points.

Method 2: Staggered Placement of Half-Slabs

In Minecraft version 1.5 “Redstone Update,” a bug allowed Redstone current to travel up staggered placements of half-slabs. This behavior was later classified as “Works As Intended” by Mojang.

To create a vertical Redstone channel using this method, follow these steps:

  1. Place a row of half-slabs in a staggered pattern.
  2. Place Redstone dust on top of the half-slabs.
  3. Connect the Redstone dust to the desired input and output points.

Comparison of Methods

The two methods described above have their own advantages and disadvantages:

Glowstone and Upside-Down Slabs

  • Advantages:
    • Transparent, allowing for easy visibility of the Redstone channel.
    • Can be used in any version of Minecraft.
  • Disadvantages:
    • Requires additional materials (glowstone or slabs).
    • May be more difficult to conceal in builds.

Staggered Placement of Half-Slabs

  • Advantages:
    • Does not require additional materials.
    • Can be more compact than the glowstone method.
  • Disadvantages:
    • Only works in Minecraft version 1.5 “Redstone Update” and later.
    • May be more difficult to create in certain situations.

Conclusion

By utilizing the methods described in this article, players can effectively route Redstone signals vertically in Minecraft. The choice of method depends on the specific requirements of the build and the version of Minecraft being used.

Sources

FAQs

Can you put Redstone on slabs?

Yes, you can place Redstone dust on glowstone blocks and upside-down slabs. These blocks are transparent, allowing the Redstone current to pass through without being blocked.

Can you put Redstone on half slabs?

Yes, you can place Redstone dust on half slabs. However, the Redstone current will only travel upwards through half slabs if they are placed in a staggered pattern.

Why can’t I put Redstone on slabs?

If you are unable to place Redstone dust on slabs, it is likely because you are using a version of Minecraft earlier than 1.5 “Redstone Update.” In earlier versions, Redstone dust cannot be placed on slabs.

How do you make a vertical Redstone channel?

You can create a vertical Redstone channel using glowstone blocks, upside-down slabs, or staggered half slabs. Place Redstone dust on top of these blocks or slabs to create a path for the current to travel.

What is the difference between glowstone and upside-down slabs for Redstone?

Glowstone and upside-down slabs are both transparent blocks that allow Redstone current to pass through. However, glowstone emits light, while upside-down slabs do not.

What is the advantage of using staggered half slabs for Redstone?

The advantage of using staggered half slabs for Redstone is that it does not require any additional materials, such as glowstone or slabs. Additionally, it can be more compact than the glowstone method.

What is the disadvantage of using staggered half slabs for Redstone?

The disadvantage of using staggered half slabs for Redstone is that it only works in Minecraft version 1.5 “Redstone Update” and later. Additionally, it may be more difficult to create in certain situations.