The idea is simple enough... Have a redstone component that compares the block/entity/mob on it's left to the block/entity/mob on it's right and sends a redstone charge forward if they are the same. Block types with inventory's, such as hoppers, would be considered the same only if the contents of their inventories were identical.
Purpose: To facilitate the development of advanced PROGRAMMABLE condensed redstone circuitry. Either by dropping stuff through hoppers or chests on either side of the comparator, or by pushing blocks beside these comparators, one can quickly identify and react to matching blocks/items. Current methods for programmable redstone are bulky and extremely complicated. This component could greatly simplify these designs, and in addition, could be used in other ways for very original redstone creations. (i.e. Minecart type identifier, alternative to crop growth BUD switch system, water flow detector, live mob identifier).
Sidenote: Although block carrying carts is not currently considered a valid suggestion, it would have new purpose in combination with this idea. The version of such a block carrying cart that I would suggest to compliment this idea is posted in the MCX360 Suggestions forum if you would care to take a look.
EDIT: Since the "block" comparator compares more than blocks, I have given it a new name, the "Universal Comparator" or "UCom" for short.
EDIT: New feature added. This mechanism can be turned off by applying a constant redstone charge into the back.
I feel like this idea really could be molded into something that people who frequently use redstone could do a variety of things with. Although a bit more detail on possible uses for this would be appreciated. Such as uses on adventure maps because quite a lot of redstone and commands are used for them.
Unlock a door or hidden passage by placing a specific block down in a specific place.
Separate mobs by type as they pass by block comparators with different mobs trapped in individual pens on the other side. A match means certain gates/trapdoors are opened.
Program a song by filling chests with specific combinations of items and item stacks and letting them drop through hoppers on a timer. Hoppers with one item are on the opposite side of block comparators. A match triggers a specific note block (lights a specific set of lamps for a display screen, opens or locks specific combinations of doors for a dynamic maze, etc.)
Redirect water flow based on what is floating by in the water. (Maybe)
Redirect carts based on type as determined by the isolated cart on the other side of the comparator for complex cart networking. Even redirect hopper or chest carts based on their inventories.
Used piston pushed blocks going around in a circle to trigger specific circuits depending on the block type at a given point. Change the combination in the chain using pistons pushing blocks in from the side.
And the list goes on. Minecrafters will have a field day with this.
A few details I left out... This component would be a solid block, not a dependent entity like a regular comparator. It may appear as a gray block, appearing 3/4 of a block in height with what looks a little like a regular comparator on top taking up the top quarter. This component doesn't get washed away by water and is not flammable.
Crafting Recipe: Undecided. Off the top of my head, one comparator in the middle + 2 redstone blocks (one on either side).
Nice! Some of these things I have already learned to do with commands, but they are too hard for most people, and also some of these you can't do with commands. 7.5/10
Rollback Post to RevisionRollBack
So.. How do I sign my device?
Havent played this game in 1 year... so much new stuff...
Unlock a door or hidden passage by placing a specific block down in a specific place. Can be done with command blocks.
Separate mobs by type as they pass by block comparators with different mobs trapped in individual pens on the other side. A match means certain gates/trapdoors are opened. Separating mobs can also be done by command blocks, but you idea is also an interesting one.
Program a song by filling chests with specific combinations of items and item stacks and letting them drop through hoppers on a timer. Hoppers with one item are on the opposite side of block comparators. A match triggers a specific note block (lights a specific set of lamps for a display screen, opens or locks specific combinations of doors for a dynamic maze, etc.) Hmm... Nice use, bu I don't really see how the block comparator would be used in this.
Redirect water flow based on what is floating by in the water. (Maybe) What? Blocks are blocks, blocks flowing on water are entities.
Redirect carts based on type as determined by the isolated cart on the other side of the comparator for complex cart networking. Even redirect hopper or chest carts based on their inventories. What? I thought this thing can only detect blocks next to it? When did it check for items inside inventories?
Used piston pushed blocks going around in a circle to trigger specific circuits depending on the block type at a given point. Change the combination in the chain using pistons pushing blocks in from the side. I can't imagine what you mean here.
And the list goes on. Minecrafters will have a field day with this.
A few details I left out... This component would be a solid block, not a dependent entity like a regular comparator. It may appear as a gray block, appearing 3/4 of a block in height with what looks a little like a regular comparator on top taking up the top quarter. This component doesn't get washed away by water and is not flammable. So this can be placed without a block on the bottom?
Crafting Recipe: Undecided. Off the top of my head, one comparator in the middle + 2 redstone blocks (one on either side).
Unlock a door or hidden passage by placing a specific block down in a specific place. Can be done with command blocks.
Separate mobs by type as they pass by block comparators with different mobs trapped in individual pens on the other side. A match means certain gates/trapdoors are opened. Separating mobs can also be done by command blocks, but you idea is also an interesting one.
Program a song by filling chests with specific combinations of items and item stacks and letting them drop through hoppers on a timer. Hoppers with one item are on the opposite side of block comparators. A match triggers a specific note block (lights a specific set of lamps for a display screen, opens or locks specific combinations of doors for a dynamic maze, etc.) Hmm... Nice use, bu I don't really see how the block comparator would be used in this.
Redirect water flow based on what is floating by in the water. (Maybe) What? Blocks are blocks, blocks flowing on water are entities.
Redirect carts based on type as determined by the isolated cart on the other side of the comparator for complex cart networking. Even redirect hopper or chest carts based on their inventories. What? I thought this thing can only detect blocks next to it? When did it check for items inside inventories?
Used piston pushed blocks going around in a circle to trigger specific circuits depending on the block type at a given point. Change the combination in the chain using pistons pushing blocks in from the side. I can't imagine what you mean here.
And the list goes on. Minecrafters will have a field day with this.
A few details I left out... This component would be a solid block, not a dependent entity like a regular comparator. It may appear as a gray block, appearing 3/4 of a block in height with what looks a little like a regular comparator on top taking up the top quarter. This component doesn't get washed away by water and is not flammable. So this can be placed without a block on the bottom?
Crafting Recipe: Undecided. Off the top of my head, one comparator in the middle + 2 redstone blocks (one on either side).
Unlock a door or hidden passage by placing a specific block down in a specific place. Can be done with command blocks.
Separate mobs by type as they pass by block comparators with different mobs trapped in individual pens on the other side. A match means certain gates/trapdoors are opened. Separating mobs can also be done by command blocks, but you idea is also an interesting one.
Program a song by filling chests with specific combinations of items and item stacks and letting them drop through hoppers on a timer. Hoppers with one item are on the opposite side of block comparators. A match triggers a specific note block (lights a specific set of lamps for a display screen, opens or locks specific combinations of doors for a dynamic maze, etc.) Hmm... Nice use, bu I don't really see how the block comparator would be used in this.
Redirect water flow based on what is floating by in the water. (Maybe) What? Blocks are blocks, blocks flowing on water are entities.
Redirect carts based on type as determined by the isolated cart on the other side of the comparator for complex cart networking. Even redirect hopper or chest carts based on their inventories. What? I thought this thing can only detect blocks next to it? When did it check for items inside inventories?
Used piston pushed blocks going around in a circle to trigger specific circuits depending on the block type at a given point. Change the combination in the chain using pistons pushing blocks in from the side. I can't imagine what you mean here.
And the list goes on. Minecrafters will have a field day with this.
A few details I left out... This component would be a solid block, not a dependent entity like a regular comparator. It may appear as a gray block, appearing 3/4 of a block in height with what looks a little like a regular comparator on top taking up the top quarter. This component doesn't get washed away by water and is not flammable. So this can be placed without a block on the bottom?
Crafting Recipe: Undecided. Off the top of my head, one comparator in the middle + 2 redstone blocks (one on either side).
Unlock a door or hidden passage by placing a specific block down in a specific place. Can be done with command blocks.
Separate mobs by type as they pass by block comparators with different mobs trapped in individual pens on the other side. A match means certain gates/trapdoors are opened. Separating mobs can also be done by command blocks, but you idea is also an interesting one.
Program a song by filling chests with specific combinations of items and item stacks and letting them drop through hoppers on a timer. Hoppers with one item are on the opposite side of block comparators. A match triggers a specific note block (lights a specific set of lamps for a display screen, opens or locks specific combinations of doors for a dynamic maze, etc.) Hmm... Nice use, bu I don't really see how the block comparator would be used in this.
Redirect water flow based on what is floating by in the water. (Maybe) What? Blocks are blocks, blocks flowing on water are entities.
Redirect carts based on type as determined by the isolated cart on the other side of the comparator for complex cart networking. Even redirect hopper or chest carts based on their inventories. What? I thought this thing can only detect blocks next to it? When did it check for items inside inventories?
Used piston pushed blocks going around in a circle to trigger specific circuits depending on the block type at a given point. Change the combination in the chain using pistons pushing blocks in from the side. I can't imagine what you mean here.
And the list goes on. Minecrafters will have a field day with this.
A few details I left out... This component would be a solid block, not a dependent entity like a regular comparator. It may appear as a gray block, appearing 3/4 of a block in height with what looks a little like a regular comparator on top taking up the top quarter. This component doesn't get washed away by water and is not flammable. So this can be placed without a block on the bottom?
Crafting Recipe: Undecided. Off the top of my head, one comparator in the middle + 2 redstone blocks (one on either side).
The Block Comparator compares more than just blocks. As mentioned in the OP it compares inventories within inventory blocks, and as implied by the mob example and the water example it compares mobs and entities as well.
Some of these comparisons may be done with command blocks, but lets face it, many of the things already in the game wouldn't be there if that were a valid argument. Correct me if I am wrong, but even the regular comparators function can be simulated using command blocks. Redstone repeaters can be made using redstone torches, blocks, and dust, but they are in the game. Just because there's a more complicated or round-about way to accomplish something doesn't invalidate an idea.
The piston push programming idea you said you didn't get works by pushing chains of up to 12 blocks around in a square (cyclical) pattern. Sticky pistons could replace blocks in the chain. If you set up a block comparator with a block of cobblestone on the other side, and a redstone output to a note block tuned to C, then C note would be played when cobblestone is pushed next to that comparator. Repeating this circuit for the other notes gives you a programmable music box (not withstanding the annoying piston sound). It's not the most efficient use of the block for redstone programming but it is one way to do it. The hopper drop method would be much more efficient and completely silent. The piston method may be more practical for something like a maze morpher or redstone text display circuit using lamps.
Also, yes, as later described, the "block" comparator is a solid block, not a dependent entity like a regular comparator. It would have to be if it's to be used next to water. It's function for comparing the items in flowing water is not written in stone, it's a "maybe" and was added as an afterthought.
Perhaps the block comparator deserves a different name since it compares more than blocks. Maybe a "Universal Comparator" - (UCom)? I've updated the OP to reflect the name change but ain't editing all the posts inbetween.
The Block Comparator compares more than just blocks. As mentioned in the OP it compares inventories within inventory blocks, and as implied by the mob example and the water example it compares mobs and entities as well. Okay. So how do you suppose comparing entities would work?
Some of these comparisons may be done with command blocks, but lets face it, many of the things already in the game wouldn't be there if that were a valid argument. Correct me if I am wrong, but even the regular comparators function can be simulated using command blocks. Redstone repeaters can be made using redstone torches, blocks, and dust, but they are in the game. Just because there's a more complicated or round-about way to accomplish something doesn't invalidate an idea. No, it is not possible to delay and repeat signals and/or compare signals without Redstone Repeaters and/or Comparators. These blocks have special properties that cannot be replicated by command blocks. Repeaters are used for delay mechanisms and clocks, comparators are used as logic gates and for item detection in inventories. They can also be used to detect if a command block is activated or not, meaning they cannot be simply replaced by commands.
The piston push programming idea you said you didn't get works by pushing chains of up to 12 blocks around in a square (cyclical) pattern. Sticky pistons could replace blocks in the chain. If you set up a block comparator with a block of cobblestone on the other side, and a redstone output to a note block tuned to C, then C note would be played when cobblestone is pushed next to that comparator. Repeating this circuit for the other notes gives you a programmable music box (not withstanding the annoying piston sound). It's not the most efficient use of the block for redstone programming but it is one way to do it. The hopper drop method would be much more efficient and completely silent. The piston method may be more practical for something like a maze morpher or redstone text display circuit using lamps. I think i get the idea.
Also, yes, as later described, the "block" comparator is a solid block, not a dependent entity like a regular comparator. It would have to be if it's to be used next to water. It's function for comparing the items in flowing water is not written in stone, it's a "maybe" and was added as an afterthought. How would this block work? How does it take in signals? Does it need to be powered?
Perhaps the block comparator deserves a different name since it compares more than blocks. Maybe a "Universal Comparator" - (UCom)? I've updated the OP to reflect the name change but ain't editing all the posts inbetween.
PS: Careful with that paste key bud.
Comments and reviews in bold
Sorry about the repeating posts. Post reply won't post so I clicked it repeatedly.
No, it is not possible to delay and repeat signals and/or compare signals without Redstone Repeaters and/or Comparators. These blocks have special properties that cannot be replicated by command blocks. Repeaters are used for delay mechanisms and clocks, comparators are used as logic gates and for item detection in inventories. They can also be used to detect if a command block is activated or not, meaning they cannot be simply replaced by commands.
Before the repeater was put in the game it's function was replicated by using a block with redstone on top and a torch on the side (copied multiple times for longer delays). It was bulky, but did perform the basic function of the repeater. The Repeater was a welcome addition as it consolidated this system into a single entity. As for the redstone comparator, I don't know if it could be done using command blocks since I've got the XBOX 360 edition and have never actually worked with command blocks. That's why I said "correct me if I am wrong" which I guess you did.
The UCom would not need to be powered. It performs block/mob/entity/inventory comparisons on it's left and right and generates a signal in front of it if the comparison is true. As an afterthought, just now, I think it might be cool if it could be suspended (turned off) if a redstone signal was constantly fed into the back of it. (Kind of like how hoppers can be suspended by applying a constant charge). This would allow players to suspend comparisons while other operations of their redstone contraption are working.
Although commands blocks can perform this task they are exclusive to cheats, you can't even get them in the creative inventory, you literally have to use a command to get them; whereas a redstone comparator as the name suggests compares two redstone signals, however I see no reason why it can't compare much more.
The idea is simple enough... Have a redstone component that compares the block/entity/mob on it's left to the block/entity/mob on it's right and sends a redstone charge forward if they are the same. Block types with inventory's, such as hoppers, would be considered the same only if the contents of their inventories were identical.
Purpose: To facilitate the development of advanced PROGRAMMABLE condensed redstone circuitry. Either by dropping stuff through hoppers or chests on either side of the comparator, or by pushing blocks beside these comparators, one can quickly identify and react to matching blocks/items. Current methods for programmable redstone are bulky and extremely complicated. This component could greatly simplify these designs, and in addition, could be used in other ways for very original redstone creations. (i.e. Minecart type identifier, alternative to crop growth BUD switch system, water flow detector, live mob identifier).
Sidenote: Although block carrying carts is not currently considered a valid suggestion, it would have new purpose in combination with this idea. The version of such a block carrying cart that I would suggest to compliment this idea is posted in the MCX360 Suggestions forum if you would care to take a look.
EDIT: Since the "block" comparator compares more than blocks, I have given it a new name, the "Universal Comparator" or "UCom" for short.
EDIT: New feature added. This mechanism can be turned off by applying a constant redstone charge into the back.
Support my suggestions. Make the game better!
Try creating programmable redstone and come back and see me.
Support my suggestions. Make the game better!
I feel like this idea really could be molded into something that people who frequently use redstone could do a variety of things with. Although a bit more detail on possible uses for this would be appreciated. Such as uses on adventure maps because quite a lot of redstone and commands are used for them.
Examples:
Unlock a door or hidden passage by placing a specific block down in a specific place.
Separate mobs by type as they pass by block comparators with different mobs trapped in individual pens on the other side. A match means certain gates/trapdoors are opened.
Program a song by filling chests with specific combinations of items and item stacks and letting them drop through hoppers on a timer. Hoppers with one item are on the opposite side of block comparators. A match triggers a specific note block (lights a specific set of lamps for a display screen, opens or locks specific combinations of doors for a dynamic maze, etc.)
Redirect water flow based on what is floating by in the water. (Maybe)
Redirect carts based on type as determined by the isolated cart on the other side of the comparator for complex cart networking. Even redirect hopper or chest carts based on their inventories.
Used piston pushed blocks going around in a circle to trigger specific circuits depending on the block type at a given point. Change the combination in the chain using pistons pushing blocks in from the side.
And the list goes on. Minecrafters will have a field day with this.
A few details I left out... This component would be a solid block, not a dependent entity like a regular comparator. It may appear as a gray block, appearing 3/4 of a block in height with what looks a little like a regular comparator on top taking up the top quarter. This component doesn't get washed away by water and is not flammable.
Crafting Recipe: Undecided. Off the top of my head, one comparator in the middle + 2 redstone blocks (one on either side).
Support my suggestions. Make the game better!
Wow this sounds really nice, I can support this.
Nice! Some of these things I have already learned to do with commands, but they are too hard for most people, and also some of these you can't do with commands. 7.5/10
So.. How do I sign my device?
Havent played this game in 1 year... so much new stuff...
Comments and review in bold
Comments and review in bold
Comments and review in bold
Comments and review in bold
--------------
Re: Above post
The Block Comparator compares more than just blocks. As mentioned in the OP it compares inventories within inventory blocks, and as implied by the mob example and the water example it compares mobs and entities as well.
Some of these comparisons may be done with command blocks, but lets face it, many of the things already in the game wouldn't be there if that were a valid argument. Correct me if I am wrong, but even the regular comparators function can be simulated using command blocks. Redstone repeaters can be made using redstone torches, blocks, and dust, but they are in the game. Just because there's a more complicated or round-about way to accomplish something doesn't invalidate an idea.
The piston push programming idea you said you didn't get works by pushing chains of up to 12 blocks around in a square (cyclical) pattern. Sticky pistons could replace blocks in the chain. If you set up a block comparator with a block of cobblestone on the other side, and a redstone output to a note block tuned to C, then C note would be played when cobblestone is pushed next to that comparator. Repeating this circuit for the other notes gives you a programmable music box (not withstanding the annoying piston sound). It's not the most efficient use of the block for redstone programming but it is one way to do it. The hopper drop method would be much more efficient and completely silent. The piston method may be more practical for something like a maze morpher or redstone text display circuit using lamps.
Also, yes, as later described, the "block" comparator is a solid block, not a dependent entity like a regular comparator. It would have to be if it's to be used next to water. It's function for comparing the items in flowing water is not written in stone, it's a "maybe" and was added as an afterthought.
Perhaps the block comparator deserves a different name since it compares more than blocks. Maybe a "Universal Comparator" - (UCom)? I've updated the OP to reflect the name change but ain't editing all the posts inbetween.
PS: Careful with that paste key bud.
Support my suggestions. Make the game better!
Comments and reviews in bold
Sorry about the repeating posts. Post reply won't post so I clicked it repeatedly.
--------------
Before the repeater was put in the game it's function was replicated by using a block with redstone on top and a torch on the side (copied multiple times for longer delays). It was bulky, but did perform the basic function of the repeater. The Repeater was a welcome addition as it consolidated this system into a single entity. As for the redstone comparator, I don't know if it could be done using command blocks since I've got the XBOX 360 edition and have never actually worked with command blocks. That's why I said "correct me if I am wrong"
which I guess you did.
The UCom would not need to be powered. It performs block/mob/entity/inventory comparisons on it's left and right and generates a signal in front of it if the comparison is true. As an afterthought, just now, I think it might be cool if it could be suspended (turned off) if a redstone signal was constantly fed into the back of it. (Kind of like how hoppers can be suspended by applying a constant charge). This would allow players to suspend comparisons while other operations of their redstone contraption are working.
Support my suggestions. Make the game better!
Although commands blocks can perform this task they are exclusive to cheats, you can't even get them in the creative inventory, you literally have to use a command to get them; whereas a redstone comparator as the name suggests compares two redstone signals, however I see no reason why it can't compare much more.
+1
Just to be clear, the redstone comparator doesn't change, it just gets a new buddy.
Support my suggestions. Make the game better!