MEMORY CELL (ADDRESSABLE)
A circuit that stores a value and can be written to or read from using address/control signals. Multiple cells form a register or RAM. Foundation for redstone computers.
When to Use
Redstone computers, programmable combination locks, stored password systems, ROM data storage.
Materials
- ▸Multiple Redstone Torches
- ▸Repeaters
- ▸Comparators
- ▸Levers
- ▸Solid Blocks
Overview: what the Memory Cell (Addressable) is and does
A circuit that stores a value and can be written to or read from using address/control signals. Multiple cells form a register or RAM. Foundation for redstone computers.
As a memory circuit it stores a state and holds it after the input goes away, giving redstone the equivalent of a saved bit.
In practice it is used for redstone computers, programmable combination locks, stored password systems, ROM data storage. The build below targets vanilla Java Edition 1.21.
How it works: the redstone mechanics
A row of RS latches or locked repeaters stores one bit each, gated by a shared Write Enable line for storing and a Read Enable line for reading onto an output bus. Addressing several cells through a decoder is how redstone RAM and ROM are built.
It is assembled from multiple Redstone Torches, repeaters, comparators, levers, and solid Blocks, and each of those parts plays a specific timing or logic role in the circuit rather than being interchangeable filler.
Because this is a memory circuit, the thing to watch as you build is the input isolation — stray power on the wrong line can flip or corrupt the stored state.
How to build it
- 1Build a row of RS latches or locked repeaters (one per bit).
- 2Add a Write Enable line that gates all data inputs simultaneously.
- 3Add a Read Enable line that passes the stored values to the output bus.
- 4For addressing: use a decoder to select which cell to read/write.
- 5For ROM: use torch patterns on blocks where torch=1, no torch=0.
- 6Power it up and watch one full cycle: confirm it holds its state after you release the input before wiring it into a larger contraption.
Uses & applications
- ▸Redstone computers, programmable combination locks, stored password systems, ROM data storage.
- ▸RS latch array (one RS latch per bit, simple but large) — a variant suited to particular space or timing needs.
- ▸Locked repeater memory (compact, uses repeater lock feature) — a variant suited to particular space or timing needs.
- ▸Comparator memory (analog, stores signal strengths 0-15) — a variant suited to particular space or timing needs.
- ▸ROM (read-only, torch pattern encodes fixed data) — a variant suited to particular space or timing needs.
Tips & common mistakes
- !Without separate write and read enables a cell will corrupt as you read it — keep the two control lines distinct.
- !Label or colour-code your Set/Reset (or Data/Enable) inputs while building; mixing them up is the usual cause of a latch that will not hold.
- !Remember that bare redstone dust loses 1 signal strength per block, so insert a repeater before any run exceeds 15 blocks inside this circuit.
Memory Cell (Addressable) FAQ
What is a Memory Cell (Addressable) used for?
A Memory Cell (Addressable) is used for redstone computers, programmable combination locks, stored password systems, ROM data storage. As a memory circuit it stores a state and holds it after the input goes away, giving redstone the equivalent of a saved bit.
What do you need to build a Memory Cell (Addressable)?
You need multiple Redstone Torches, repeaters, comparators, levers, and solid Blocks. Build a row of RS latches or locked repeaters (one per bit).
How does a Memory Cell (Addressable) work?
A row of RS latches or locked repeaters stores one bit each, gated by a shared Write Enable line for storing and a Read Enable line for reading onto an output bus. Addressing several cells through a decoder is how redstone RAM and ROM are built.
Are there different versions of the Memory Cell (Addressable)?
Yes — common variants include RS latch array (one RS latch per bit, simple but large), locked repeater memory (compact, uses repeater lock feature), comparator memory (analog, stores signal strengths 0-15), and ROM (read-only, torch pattern encodes fixed data). Pick the one that fits your available space and timing requirements.