Redstone is Minecraft’s version of electricity. Redstone machines include everything from working doors and music machines to block robots and even computers. The rules surrounding redstone are borrowed from circuitry, logic, and engineering. It’s a great first primer in these subjects. Check out the video below to learn more about the basics of redstone circuitry.
Redstone can be found several ways, but one of the most common is mining. When Redstone is mined it turns into redstone dust which can be used like electricity. Redstone dust makes up the wires of redstone circuitry. Most solid blocks can be powered by redstone.
Blocks can be turned on via several different mechanisms depending on the type of power needed. Levers provide a charge as long as they are switched on, similar to light switches. Buttons will only provide a charge for a few seconds after being pushed. Presser plates only provide a charge while someone or something is standing on them.
How far the power travels depends on the power source at the beginning of the circuit. The circuit wire – made with redstone dust – can travel up stairs. Redstone repeaters can boost the power on a circuit, as well as delay a charge for a few seconds and allow power to only pass in one direction.
Redstone results in all kinds of wacky devices and machines. Check out the video below for some unique redstone contraptions.