Merged Patching

[Spineraker]

So I understand how to create a merged patch in FO3Edit--that isn't too hard. The thing I don't understand, and this isn't documented clearly on any of the FAQs or guides, is if the merged patch actually merges the data or if it just aliases it. I notice that my merge files are usually only 1k, so this leads me to believe that the merges are simply aliases that direct to the actual mods in a simplified order. So my question is this: Which is it? Can I remove the mods from my mod folder after I merge them and not worry about them, or do I have to keep them in the folder and thus keep the unchecked mods in FOMM?

 

I ask this just to simplify my mod list. I don't mind so much having the non-enabled mods there, it's just I sometimes worry that having them there--enabled or not--still taxes the system in some weird way; this is Fallout 3, after all...some of the weirdest errors in a game I've ever seen. If anyone could explain this for me, I'd appreciate it! :D

[Quetzlsacatanango]

A merged patch takes what your enabled mods have in common - form lists are usually the most important thing - and makes an esp of that, so that they don't overwrite each other. Yes, you need to keep your esps enabled.