OpenAutomation Mod: Automate Everything in Minecraft
Minecraft has always been a game about creativity, but for players who love efficiency, automation mods turn the blocky world into a finely tuned machine. OpenAutomation is a standout addition that bridges multiple mods and introduces its own clever transport mechanics. Whether you are a seasoned engineer or just dipping your toes into complex crafting, this mod promises to help you automate all the things.
What is OpenAutomation?
OpenAutomation is a Minecraft modification built to extend automation possibilities across your modded world. It originally started as a companion to OpenComputers, but it has grown to include standalone features that work with other popular mods. The core philosophy is simple: if something can be automated, OpenAutomation gives you the tools to do it. From converting energy types to teleporting players with lasers, the mod packs a surprising amount of utility into a few carefully designed blocks.
Core Modules and Features
OpenAutomation is divided into modules, each targeting a different aspect of automation. You can enable or disable them depending on your modpack setup, making it a flexible choice for server owners and single-player worlds alike.
OpenComputers Integration
The original module requires OpenComputers to function and adds two key components. First, the Power Out-Converter lets you transform OpenComputers energy into Redstone Flux (RF), allowing your computer networks to power machines from other mods. This is a game-changer if you want a centralized computer system managing your entire factory.
The second feature is the Computer Data Laser, which enables wireless communication between OpenComputers components. Using a simple Lua method, component.laser.sendDataLaser(sides., message), you can beam data to any component in the network except the computer block itself. When received, it fires a signal with the signature "laser_message" along with the sender’s address and the message. This opens up possibilities for remote sensor networks and distributed control systems.
Tinker's Construct Micro Smeltery
If you have ever built a Tinker's Construct smeltery, you know how much space those multi-block structures can consume. The Micro Smeltery solves that problem by condensing the entire melting process into a single block. It can smelt any item that a standard smeltery handles, but it does so faster and runs on RF power. This compact design makes it perfect for tight automation setups where every block counts. You can pipe in ores and pull out molten metals without managing a sprawling lava tank.
Laser Transport System
Long-distance item, fluid, and energy transport often relies on tesseracts or cumbersome pipe networks. OpenAutomation introduces an invisible laser system that can span up to 400 blocks in any direction, traveling only through air blocks. If you have Computronics installed, these lasers become visible, adding a sci-fi aesthetic to your builds.
The laser system includes several specialized blocks:
- Energy Laser Emitter – Accepts RF power on any side and fires a laser from the opposite side, transferring energy wirelessly.
- Energy Laser Emitter (Energisable) – Functions like the standard emitter but can be energized once every 100 pulses (roughly every 5 seconds) for boosted output.
- Laser Energiser (Solids) – Energises any energisable laser that passes through it, consuming items piped into the block.
- Human Laser Emitter – Requires RF power and, when right-clicked, teleports the player to the linked Laser Receptor. It sends a ping every 5 seconds; shift-right-click to disable this feature.
- Mirror (Laser) – Reflects lasers at a right angle. Right-click to set the two sides that will redirect the beam.
- Double Mirror (Laser) – Allows you to set one input side and rotate between two output sides for more complex routing.
- Laser Receptor – The endpoint of any laser link, outputting transferred energy, items, or players from the opposite side.
These lasers are not just for power; they can move players instantly, making them a fun alternative to traditional teleportation methods. The energising mechanic adds a layer of resource management, as you need to supply solid items to the Laser Energiser for temporary boosts.
Getting Started and Installation
OpenAutomation requires Awesome Sauce Core as a dependency, so make sure that library is installed first. The mod is available on CurseForge for stable releases, and you can also find development builds on drone.io. Installing OpenAutomation is straightforward, especially if you use a modern launcher like foxygame.net, which lets you browse and download mods directly from its menu, simplifying the whole process. Once you have the files in your mods folder, you can jump into a world and start crafting the new blocks using standard recipes.
Conclusion
OpenAutomation lives up to its name by delivering automation tools that feel both powerful and balanced. The OpenComputers integration brings deep programmable control, the Micro Smeltery shrinks a classic multi-block into a tidy single block, and the laser system offers a unique way to move energy and players across vast distances. Whether you are building a high-tech factory or just want to teleport around your base in style, this mod deserves a spot in your modpack. Automate all the things, and let OpenAutomation handle the heavy lifting.