Basic Assembler Module

The Basic Assembler Module is a payload attachment block used to modify the behavior of nearby unit assembler boundaries. It is placed adjacent to a construction boundary created by any of the three unit assemblers and increases the tier of that assembler’s boundary in the direction the module points. This tier increase affects which unit variants are available from the assembler: while the module remains attached the lower-tier version of the unit at that boundary is disabled.

The tier increase granted by the Basic Assembler Module is applied passively and does not require the module to be powered. Power, however, unlocks an additional function: a powered Basic Assembler Module can act as a secondary payload input point, allowing it to accept and forward payloads (unit payloads in practice) into the adjacent assembler boundary. When unpowered the module still modifies the boundary tier but cannot accept payloads for production.

Practical usage and interaction notes:

• Place Basic Assembler Modules next to a unit assembler’s construction boundary so the module faces the boundary you want upgraded. The direction the module points determines which boundary is affected.
• Only one module is needed to raise the assembler tier at that boundary; removing the module immediately restores access to the lower-tier unit.
• Use powered modules when you need an extra input for unit payloads or want to route units/payloads through multiple inputs; use unpowered modules when you only need to raise the tier without adding power draw.
• The module interacts with any of the three unit assembler categories (tank, ship, mech), so it can be used to selectively enable higher-tier builds at specific boundaries while keeping other boundaries at their base tier.
• Because unit payloads are the practical payload types for assemblers, plan your payload routing accordingly: Basic Assembler Modules used as secondary inputs should be integrated into your payload network so required units or resources reach the assembler boundary.
• Keep in mind assembler production rules (requirements and rates are determined by the assembler and configured inputs); the module only affects unit tier availability and optional payload input behavior, not base production rates or recipe costs.

The Basic Assembler Module is a simple but flexible tool for upgrading and expanding unit production capability at specific assembler boundaries without replacing or reconfiguring the assembler itself. Use it to gate access to higher-tier units, to add payload inputs where space is limited, and to create differentiated production zones across a single assembler structure.