The concept of a fully automated Schedule 1 substance production facility, like a methamphetamine lab, presents a complex challenge within virtual economies. This guide explores how to establish such a system in a game setting, focusing on conveyor belt logic and NPC task assignment. By strategically arranging equipment and managing ingredient supply through designated chemists and handlers, players can create a self-sustaining production chain. This automation allows for passive income generation, shifting focus from manufacturing to distribution and expansion within the game’s simulated illicit world.
How to Fully Automate Meth Factory
While more complex than the weed farm setup, the automated meth factory operates on a conveyor belt logic each part of the chain must be working smoothly, or the entire system can break down. The setup doesn’t need to run 24/7, a few in-game days of operation can provide enough supply to outstrip demand.
Factory Layout & Equipment
The game now allows each chemist to operate four stations, reducing setup costs and making automation more efficient.
Basic Setup for 2 Chemists:
- 4 Chemistry Stations
- 4 Lab Ovens
- 4 Shelving Units (one behind each oven)
Note: If setting up for only 1 chemist, reduce the numbers to 2 chemistry stations and 2 lab ovens.
Keep space between stations to allow NPCs to navigate more efficiently, as their movement speed and task time are slower than the player’s.
Assigning Chemists
Assign each chemist to four specific stations:
- Chemistry Station → Set Recipe: Liquid Meth
- Set the destination of each station to the corresponding lab oven
- In the lab oven, set the destination to the shelf behind it
Chemists will:
- Cook Liquid Meth at the chemistry station
- Transfer it to the lab oven
- Convert it into Solid Meth
- Place it onto the shelf
This repeats endlessly as long as supplies are available.
Supply Management
Setting up storage correctly is key to preventing the system from breaking.
Shelf Inventory:
- Place ingredients in repeating sets of:
- 10 Phosphorus
- 10 Acid
- 10 Pseudoephedrine
Repeat the sequence again to make two full supply sets per shelf.
- 10 Phosphorus
Important: Workers pull items in shelf order. If all of one item is taken at once, the station won’t function properly.
Each batch takes 7 minutes to process, so stocking two full sets is enough to run smoothly for about two in-game days.
Assigning Handlers
Assign a worker (handler) to handle supply delivery:
- Set their job as Shelf to Table
- Go down the line assigning shelf-to-table for all chemistry stations
- Always keep ingredients in 1-1-1 order (1 Phos, 1 Acid, 1 Pseudo). Any variation can break the chain.
Once running, the handler will top up ingredients only when one is removed, keeping things balanced.
Time of Day Matters
NPCs stop working at 4:00 AM, so the system halts unless the player steps in manually. However, players can continue operating the lab manually past this time if desired.
Optional: Mixing Process
For more advanced operations, the automated mixing system can be set up similarly:
- Assign a worker to move meth from shelf to the mixing station
- Link each mixing station in a chain using destination settings
- Workers then transfer mixes to the final storage shelf
More details are available in the weed factory guide, but the method is the same.
Final Notes
- Setup time is front-loaded, but the system is highly efficient once running.
- Meth production takes longer than weed but can yield 2–3x the profit.
- With enough supply, players can keep dealers stocked for days without manual input.
This automation system allows players to focus on distribution and expansion while the factory handles production ideal for long-term, passive profit in Schedule 1.
