Router

The Router is a 1x1 transport block that accepts items and distributes them equally to up to three output directions. It performs active transport rather than passive conveyor movement, and each Router divides the input throughput evenly across every available output; chaining multiple Routers further subdivides that flow so each successive Router reduces the per-output throughput. The block was introduced in version 3.5 and later gained player-control behavior in version 6.0, allowing a player to temporarily direct its outputs by "firing" the Router like a turret.

Routers output to any adjacent, valid output directions and split items equally among them. A single Router provides its own transport speed; when Routers are chained the effective throughput of the chain has been measured at about 7 (as reported in community documentation). In modern builds Routers no longer send items backwards along a Router chain. The in-game description and implementation reflect that the Router is intended as an equal-splitting distribution tool rather than a maximum-throughput delivery solution.

Because each Router has an internal item capacity, placing Routers directly adjacent to item-producing blocks (such as factory inputs) commonly causes clogging: factory output into a Router can fill the Router and stall the production chain. For that reason, other distribution methods—like Overflow Gates, Bridge Conveyors, or Unloaders—are usually preferred where reliable high throughput or prevention of jams is required. Routers are still convenient for small fractional splits (for example extracting one part from many) or compact layouts where equal division is desired.

The Router has several unconventional interactions and cultural notes. Players can possess and control a Router like a turret; while this control disables automatic output, firing in a direction causes the Router to output solely toward the nearest cardinal direction to the aim. This control mechanic is an intentional Easter egg related to the Router's meme status in the community. That meme has been acknowledged in-game: the block’s flavor text calls it a "necessary evil," the game includes a jokey "router" language option that replaces strings with router variants, and several achievements reference the Router (A Grave Mistake, The Ultimate Form, Heresy, and the language-switching achievement named router). On mobile, a Router (V6) has been used as a freecam exploit because Routers cannot move when possessed.

Practical notes and usage tips:

• Routers split incoming items equally across all available outputs; use them when you need equal fractional distribution rather than full throughput to a single destination.
• Chaining Routers multiplies the split effect and permanently reduces the per-output rate; avoid long Router chains when full throughput is required.
• Because Routers have internal item capacity they can clog; do not place them directly on production outputs that must remain unblocked.
• Consider Overflow Gates, Bridge Conveyors, or Unloaders when space and throughput permit, as they avoid Router-specific clogging behavior while offering similar distribution.
• Player control of a Router can be used for novelty or fine directional control, but it is primarily an Easter egg and has limited practical application.