Description
Detector Rail is a special rail type used in railway systems to detect when a minecart passes over it and to emit a redstone signal. This makes the detector rail a vital component for automated transport systems automated loading stations and for circuits that need to know when vehicles arrive. Unlike a normal rail the detector rail acts like a pressure based sensor that triggers a redstone output when an entity such as a player or a minecart passes across it. Builders use detector rails in conjunction with redstone repeaters comparators and powered rails to create timed stops doors and item transfer mechanisms. It is especially useful in compact stations where detection must be immediate and precise so that unloading and loading sequences can begin without delay. Detector rails also help in adventure maps where map makers want to start events or traps when a player enters a cart at a checkpoint. Because the rail interfaces directly with redstone the logic it enables is straightforward and accessible even for players new to automation. Proper placement and wiring of the detector rail allows the creation of elaborate transport networks that automatically route carts switch tracks and control gate sequences. For players who build transport hubs the detector rail simplifies the detection problem because it requires no extra sensors and is compact and stable once installed.
What is Detector Rail?
Detector Rail is a type of minecart track that emits a redstone signal when a minecart or entity passes over it. It is used to trigger automated actions in railway systems and to create interactive stations and devices that respond to cart presence.
Where to find Detector Rail
Detector rails are typically crafted and found in player built railway networks and in adventure map builds where transport automation is required. They do not tend to generate naturally in the standard world so you will see them in constructed tracks and stations.
How to get Detector Rail
Craft a detector rail using iron redstone and any required recipe components at a crafting table. Gather the materials and build a small section of track in your base or station. Place the detector rail inline with other track components where you need detection and wire the output to redstone circuits.
Release Information
First introduced: Introduced in early railway updates and present in the game for many versions
Give Command
/give @p minecraft:detector_rail
How to use Detector Rail
Place detector rails at station stops and junctions to detect incoming carts. Connect the rail to redstone circuits to power pistons doors or activate unloading systems. Use repeaters and redstone dust to extend the signal and to create timing delays so that loading and unloading can complete reliably.
Recipes for Detector Rail
Shaped Crafting Items must be placed in a specific pattern in a crafting table
Iron Ingot
Empty Slot
Iron Ingot
Iron Ingot
Stone Pressure Plate
Iron Ingot
Iron Ingot
Redstone
Iron Ingot
Detector Rail
×6