====== AE2 Mechanics: Subnetworks ======

^ Author | Applied Energistics Team |
^ Category | Storage & Automation |

A **subnetwork** is a loosely-defined term in Applied Energistics 2, but it generally refers to any smaller ME system that supports your main network or handles a specific task. They are typically small enough to not require controllers.

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===== Why Use Subnetworks =====

  * **Restricting Access** – Prevent certain devices from accessing your main storage. For example, an import bus on a pipe subnet should not have access to your main cells, or it will dump items into them instead of the destination inventory.  
  * **Saving Channels** – Reduce channel usage on your main network. For example, a single Pattern Provider can output to an Interface connected to several Storage Buses on multiple machines, using 1 channel instead of one per machine.

Colored cables have nothing to do with subnetworks except that different colors prevent cables from connecting to each other.

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===== Common Subnetwork Uses =====

  * **Item/Fluid Transfer** – An Import Bus and Storage Bus acting like a pipe system.  
  * **Filtered Breaking** – Annihilation Plane connected only to a Storage Bus, ensuring the plane can only place items into a specific inventory.  
  * **World Placement** – Interface feeding a Formation Plane, so whatever enters the Interface is placed or dropped into the world.  
  * **Automation** – Controlled setups like automatically creating Certus Quartz, regulated with an ME Level Emitter on the main network.  
  * **Specialized Storage** – A farm output system isolated via a Storage Bus on an Interface, preventing farm overflow from filling main storage.

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===== Powering Subnetworks =====

A very useful tool is the **Quartz Fiber**.  
It transfers power between networks **without connecting them**, allowing you to power subnetworks without needing extra Energy Acceptors or power cables everywhere.