Automatic Dispenser

Automatic Dispenser is a building used to unload items from a storage network into the world or into a configured drop point. It is most often used to automate item delivery, stockpiling, and item sorting, but it can also be set to simply hold items in place for later pickup.

An Automatic Dispenser can still drop items when it is not powered; power is only needed for its automation functions. Because it consumes power continuously even when idle, it is usually best to leave it unpowered unless it needs to respond to automation. When set up, it generates Supply errands rather than Storage errands, so care is needed to avoid creating hauling loops that can feed items back and forth forever.

One of its most useful configurations is sweep-only mode, which turns it into a compact, fixed stockpile. This makes it useful for quantum stockpile-style setups, where many items are effectively stored in a single tile. Placing the building at the edge of a shaft can also save haulers climbing time, since duplicants can access it more directly.

Automatic Dispensers can be chained with Auto-Sweepers when placed at the edge of the sweeper’s range. In this arrangement, they can form a broader sweeping system whose throughput is limited mainly by the Auto-Sweeper instead of a single Conveyor Rail line, making it a practical option for high-volume item handling.

• It drops items even while unpowered.
• Only its automation functions require power.
• It draws power constantly, so unpowered operation is preferred when possible.
• It produces Supply errands, not Storage errands.
• Incorrect setups can create infinite hauling loops.
• Sweep-only mode is useful for compact stockpiles.
• Placing it at shaft edges can reduce hauling time.
• It can be daisy-chained with Auto-Sweepers for very high throughput.