Power defines the pace of progress in Arknights: Endfield. As your factory grows, every new machine, research node, and production line leans on a stable energy supply. When power caps out, expansion stalls. Understanding how power output works and how to scale it efficiently keeps your AIC factory running without interruptions.
How Power Output Works?
Your factory begins with a fixed base output of 200 power units supplied by the Automation Core. This value never increases on its own. You can store excess power as reserves, but once consumption exceeds output, the grid drains those reserves quickly. When reserves run dry, facilities shut down in sequence, breaking production chains and slowing progress.
To move beyond this limit, you must supplement the base output rather than upgrade it.
Thermal Banks Are the Key to More Power
The only way to increase factory power output is by building Thermal Banks. These facilities convert fuel materials into usable energy and feed directly into your power grid. Each Thermal Bank functions as an independent generator, allowing you to scale output in measured steps.
You unlock the Thermal Bank by researching the Power I node in the Basic AIC II section of the Factory Plan menu. This tier becomes available after you complete the main quest Paving the Way and receive the Basic Expansion Core.
Building Your First Thermal Bank
Once unlocked, a Thermal Bank requires:
- 10 Origocrusts
- 10 Amethyst Parts
After placement, connect it to your factory grid using transportation belts. A disconnected Thermal Bank produces nothing, so layout planning matters from the start.
Choosing the Right Power Source
Thermal Banks generate different amounts of power depending on the fuel you supply. This choice shapes both efficiency and long-term sustainability.
- Originium Ore produces 50 power units
- LC Valley Battery produces 220 power units
- SC Valley Battery produces 420 power units
Originium works well early on, especially when resources remain limited. Batteries become essential as your factory expands and power demands spike. They provide higher output while reducing the need to spam multiple generators.
Producing Batteries for Stable Output
You can craft batteries through the Packaging Unit, which unlocks after researching Packaging Tech in Basic AIC II. To craft one LC Valley Battery, you need:
- 5 Amethyst Parts
- 10 Originium Powder
Automating battery production creates a reliable power loop. Feed batteries directly into Thermal Banks and maintain consistent output even as consumption rises.
Scaling Power Without Waste
Instead of adding generators blindly, match power output to actual demand. Monitor the grid report at the Automation Core to track usage and reserve levels. A balanced setup prevents resource waste and keeps production lines stable during expansion phases.
As demand increases, replace ore fueled banks with battery powered ones rather than stacking more generators. This approach saves space and simplifies logistics.
Keeping Your Factory Running Smoothly
Power management in Arknights: Endfield rewards planning over brute force. Thermal Banks offer flexibility, but fuel choice determines long term efficiency. Build smart, automate battery production early, and adjust output as your factory evolves.
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