AE2 Mechanics: Bytes and Types

Storage Cells in AE2 are limited by both bytes and types.

Bytes measure how much total “stuff” can be stored. Types measure how many unique items can be tracked.

Example: A 4k cell has 4,096 bytes but only 63 item types. Lots of enchanted or damaged items eat type slots quickly.

* Bytes – Just like in a real computer, bytes are the raw storage capacity of a cell. Each item is stored as 1 bit, so 8 items = 1 byte. A full stack of 64 = 8 bytes.

• Fluids follow the same logic: 8 buckets = 1 byte.
• Identical items, even unstackable ones like saddles, don’t take extra space.

* Types – Each unique item stored (including NBT data such as damage or enchantments) counts as one type.

• 4,096 cobblestone = 1 type.
• 16 enchanted swords, all different, = 16 types.

Each type uses a small upfront byte cost (varies by cell size). Because of this, a cell holding 1 type can store about double the amount compared to a cell filled with all 63 types.

* Too many types = too much NBT data on the storage item. This can lag players or even cause “book banning” style crashes if data is too large. * More types = more load on the system’s sorting and item handling. * Prevents dumping thousands of damaged tools/armor from mob farms directly into ME storage.

• Recommendation: Filter out random junk before it reaches your network.

Types aren’t as restrictive as they look: * 1 ME Drive full of cells = 630 types total. * This is usually plenty unless you insist on hoarding unique unstackables.

* Don’t rush only top-tier storage. Higher tiers give more bytes but no extra types. * Lower tier cells stay useful even late game due to type balancing. * Mix cell sizes depending on what you’re storing.

* A Cell With 1 Type – Far more total capacity. * A Cell With 63 Types – Much less overall space.