Catalytic component of the chromatin structure-remodeling complex (RSC), which is involved in transcription regulation and nucleosome positioning. RSC is responsible for the transfer of a histone octamer from a nucleosome core particle to naked DNA. The reaction requires ATP and involves an activated RSC-nucleosome intermediate. Remodeling reaction also involves DNA translocation, DNA twist and conformational change. As a reconfigurer of centromeric and flanking nucleosomes, RSC complex is required both for proper kinetochore function in chromosome segregation and, via a PKC1-dependent signaling pathway, for organization of the cellular cytoskeleton. This subunit is the essential ATPase of the complex. It is a DNA translocase capable of nucleosome remodeling. Required for full expression of early meiotic genes. Essential for mitotic growth and repression of CHA1 expression. Also involved in G2 phase control. ATP + H2O = ADP + H(+) + phosphate Interacts directly with SFH1, CSE4, histones H3, H4 and H2B, and via its N-terminus, with RSC8. Interacts with LDB7, NPL6 and RTT102. Component of the two forms of the RSC complex composed of at least either RSC1 or RSC2, and ARP7, ARP9, LDB7, NPL6, RSC3, RSC30, RSC4, RSC58, RSC6, RSC8, RSC9, SFH1, STH1, HTL1 and probably RTT102. The complexes interact with histone and histone variant components of centromeric chromatin. Localizes to centromeric and flanking chromatin. Association of the RSC complex with these loci is dependent on this subunit. Present with 1990 molecules/cell in log phase SD medium. Belongs to the SNF2/RAD54 helicase family.