Large Payload Mass Driver

The Large Payload Mass Driver is a long-range payload transmitter used to send items, blocks-in-progress, or unspawned units (payload-form entities) across distances and obstacles that conveyors cannot traverse. It functions as a paired transporter: one driver is configured as the sender and another within range as the receiver. When powered and linked, the sender instantly launches its payload to the linked receiver, where the payload is deposited onto the receiver's output tile (typically connecting to Reinforced Payload Conveyors or other handling blocks).

Placement and linking behave visually and interactively. Before placement the driver shows an arrow indicating the direction the received payload will exit. When a unit-type payload arrives and the receiver’s output tile is clear of solid blocks (conveyors and conduits are acceptable), the unit spawns at that tile. Spawned units can only be loaded back into payload form by another unit physically entering the block or, in builds 147 and later, by issuing a direct command for the unit to enter the driver. To link two drivers, click one to display its range and then click another driver within that range; the first becomes the input and the clicked driver becomes the output (the output is highlighted). A powered input driver will then fire its payload directly to the linked output.

Practical considerations and usage notes:

• Use Large Payload Mass Drivers to bridge chasms, bypass enemy defenses, or connect distant production chains where conveyors would be impractical or exposed.
• Drivers transmit payload-form items and unspawned units; they do not act like normal conveyors for fully spawned units or ordinary items unless those items are in payload form.
• Ensure the receiver’s exit tile is not blocked by solid terrain or blocks if you intend units to spawn there. Conveyors and conduits may occupy the tile without preventing spawning.
• Drivers must be powered to fire. Place power sources and consider wiring and power flow when integrating long-range links.
• Organize networks so that payloads arrive where automated handling (like Reinforced Payload Conveyors, Payload Loaders/Unloaders, or constructors) can immediately process them to avoid buildup.
• Historically, an earlier variant called the Payload Propulsion Tower existed on Serpulo (builds 127–135.2) before being replaced by the current implementation on Erekir; related blocks such as Constructor, Deconstructor, Payload Loader, and Payload Unloader also received pre-Erekir versions.