The Minecraft Redstone Torch is an object that looks like a fiery red torch and glows similar to a Coal Torch, however the light is a lot dimmer.

What Does a Redstone Torch Do?

The main use for this object is to provide a power source to Redstone Wire. Once powered, these Wires can be used to power Doors, Pistons and Switches. It may also be used as a light source, but is not as effectively as a Coal Torch. The Redstone Torch will not melt ice or snow, and does not stop Mobs from spawning. It will however reduce the chances of a Mob spawning near you.

How to Make a Redstone Torch

To make a Redstone Torch, you will need to place a piece of Redstone Dust over a Stick. This will create the Torch, which appears as a glowing red stick.

How to Use a Redstone Torch

By placing a Redstone Torch on a a set of Wires, you can provide power to the set. The Torch will power the Wires up to 15 blocks long, and only takes 0.1 seconds (or 1 ‘tick’) for the power to reach the end. Once placed, the Torch will provide a constant stream of power to the wires. To turn off a Redstone Torch, you need to place a Switch, Lever, Wire or Pressure Plate adjacant to it, and turn the respective object on.

Why does a Minecraft Redstone Torch Burn out?

You will know when a Torch burns out, when you see a puff of smoke and hear a hissing noise. Redstone Torches burn out when they are switched from on to off (and vice-versa) too much, too soon. If it turns off and on more than 7 times within 5 seconds, it will burn out. If you wire a Torch to itself, then you will create a chain reaction causing the Torch to turn off and on repeatedly until it burns out. To turn the torch back on, you will need to unpower the blocks adjacent to it.

Interested in more Advanced Redstone objects and tactics? Continue reading the Redstone Tutorial and move onto Redstone Circuits.