How to use CONV to make continuous SPRK

  • Windspren
    21st Feb 2016 Member 0 Permalink

    I've seen a bunch of saves that use a piece of CONV with a ctype of SPRK to make a pixel of PSCN output a constant SPRK. When I try to replicate this, it doesn't work for me. Can someone explain how this is done?

  • LBPHacker
    21st Feb 2016 Developer 0 Permalink
  • Mrprocom
    21st Feb 2016 Moderator 1 Permalink
    @Kevino36 (View Post)
    Simplest form:
    [CONV (Ctype: METL)] [METL] [BTRY]

    This is how it works:
    [BTRY] sparks [METL] => [METL] becomes [SPRK] => [CONV] converts [SPRK] back into [METL] => The cycle starts again.

    You can replace [METL] with any conductor.
    Edited once by Mrprocom. Last: 21st Feb 2016
  • Windspren
    22nd Feb 2016 Member 0 Permalink

    I've tried those methods, and it just acts like a normal pixel of METL with BTRY next to it.

     

    EDIT: Well, now I feel really dumb. I've been trying to copy the design that DS66 uses, and the ctype of the CONV is set to SPRK. Thanks everyone!

     

    EDIT2: If I use PSCN instead of METL, it doesn't conduct to ARAY.

    Edited 2 times by Kevino36. Last: 22nd Feb 2016
  • Schmolendevice
    24th Feb 2016 Member 0 Permalink

    Ah, with the 60Hz solid spark setup, the CONV must be set to the ctype of the element you are trying to spark. The quickest way to do this is select the METL or PSCN element and directly click on the pixel of CONV. Press 'D' to open debug mode and you should now be able to see things like CONV (METL) instead of just CONV.

     

    LBPHacker's link to mniip's explanation describes the fundamental sequence for making solid spark work using the 'modern, classical method.' This is what I wrote on it. A more paragraph form explanation starts under "What is A3SFTT." You will also have to save and reload the save to guarantee that all particles receive the correct particle ID.

     

    Summary: 

    • Press 'D' to toggle debug mode and view ctypes, tmp, life and X/Y coordinates.
    • Select on a conductor element and click on CONV to set its ctype. 
    • Particles are executed in order of particle ID; this is assigned in 'reading order' from left to right, top to bottom.
    • Place active elements like ARAY or CRAY 'left' or 'above' the METL and CONV pixels. The ARAY/active element should touch the METL or conductor but not the CONV. 
    • BTRY must be placed 'right' or 'below' the conductor but not touch the CONV.
    • CONV should touch the conductor and be positioned on screen so that it 'does its thing' 'between' the ARAY and BTRY.
    • Save and reload prior to testing.