There are two types of information processing Computer Devices, the basic examples of each being the Associative Matrix and the Micro Computer. The Associative Matrix handles patterns of information as a whole matching them against other patterns, and the Micro Computer handles bits of information very fast following information in the form of Programming Device programs. The Coder is a pattern device which is built to only handle one type of pattern, and the Reflex Processor is a bit device similarly restricted to a fixed program. The more powerful bit devices can be set, using programs (see "Programming Devices"), to act as pattern devices.
The best results are often obtained when pattern and bit devices work together, for example a Vocoder and Micro Computer (with suitable programs) giving a robot speech recognition and synthesis. Note that many of the more powerful devices may have the equivalent of Coders and Reflex Processors as part of their design without this being explicitly mentioned, particularly if they handle complex information.
The power of the pattern devices is given by describing what they can do, the power of bit devices is measured in MCs (Machine Capacity units, also used for information storage capacity). Bit devices gain their power by parallelism, and each can be split so each 2MC runs separately. Further each extra MC can, if used properly, give double the capacity for a given function. It takes a great deal of work to reach this maximum and if it is reached there is little chance others can understand how it works. Information of this sort is sometimes described as 'holographic' and is only usually attempted for the most difficult storage, analytical, or control work (e.g. storing or analysing personalities, or programming Pattern Synthesisers).
In 'real-world' values 1MC is roughly equivalent to 1Mbyte (a million characters) and 1mips (a million instructions per second), every +1MC is x2 capacity (thus 4MC is 8Mbyte&mips, 9MC is 256; every +10MC is approx. x1000). There is no real-work equivalent to measure the power of pattern devices.
Recorder L=2 Recorder Crystal L=2 Storage Crystal L=2 Hardwiring L=- Sensors L=2 Transducers L=2 Terminal L=2 Interface L=2 Video Camera L=3 Video Monitor L=3 Reflex Processor L=3 Coder L=3 Vocoder L=3 Tacticoder L=3 Navcoder L=3 Associative Matrix L=3 Alarm L=3 Storage L=3 Exchangable Storage L=3 Permanent Recorder L=3 Secure Permanent Recorder L=3 Micro Recorder L=3 Micro Recorder Crystal L=3 Micro Storage Crystal L=3 Permanent Storage Crystal L=3 Permanent Recorder Crystal L=3 Gesture Scanner L=3 Micro Computer L=4 Robot Eye L=4 Message Laser L=4 Micro Storage L=4 Micro Exchangable Storage L=4 Permanent Storage L=4 Permanent Exchangable Storage L=4 Macro Crystal L=4 Flake Recorder L=4 Flake L=- Crystal Reader L=4 Multi Crystal Reader L=4 Visicoder L=4 Scentcoder L=4 Biocoder L=4 Computer L=5 Holo Camera L=5 Holo Display L=5 Macro Crystal Storage L=5 Multi Macro Crystal Storage L=5 Micro Macro Crystal L=5 Permanent Macro Crystal L=5 Personality Crystal L=5 Colour Visicoder L=5 Holocoder L=5 Mindcoder L=5 Dedicated Field Processor L=5 Personality Storage L=5 Deck Personality Storage L=5 Bio Comp L=5 Bio Storage L=5 Data Reader L=5 Deck Reader L=5 Nav Comp L=5 Nav Comp Usage L=- Nav Comp Sensors L=- Macro Computer L=6 Image Scanner L=6 Image Display L=6 Mind Interface L=6 Micro Field Processor L=6 Macro Storage L=6 Deck Storage L=6 Macro Flake L=6 Permanent Micro Macro Crystal L=6 Micro Personality Crystal L=6 Colour Holocoder L=6 Colour Mindcoder L=6 Data Storage L=6 Field Processor L=7 Permanent Macro Flake L=7 Personality Flake L=7 Macro Field Processor L=8 Dex L=8 Deck L=- Planar Comp L=8 Planar Storage L=8
Explanation of Computer Devices
Recorder: records or displays various electrical signals or sound (from a built-in microphone/speaker) in/from a randomly accessible (exchangable) storage crystal, capacity 20MC. Has a 100hrs of storage for sound, 2hrs for (2D) visual images, and 1hr for (3D) holographic images, full-sensory dreams or memories; note that the lower density information is stored very sparsely to give full random access. Some or all of the stored information may be fixed, see Hardwiring. A replacement crystal may be built as a 2nd level device for 500gp, weight 2.5gp. They are Non Miniturisable. Uses: 1ep/turn. Weight: 50gp. Non Micro Miniturisable.
Level: 2nd.
Recorder Crystal: see Recorder, this is the same as, and is interchangeable with, a Storage Crystal. Non Miniturisable.
Level: 2nd.
Storage Crystal: see (Exchangable) Storage, this is the same as, and is interchangeable with, a Recorder Crystal. Non Miniturisable.
Level: 2nd.
Hardwiring: is a process which fixes the programs or information in a (Micro/Macro) Computer, (Micro/Macro) Field Processor, Macro Storage, storage crystal, or Dex; rather like a Reflex Processor. It is done as the last stage during construction and may only be done in 2MC units, e.g. 4MC of a Micro Computer I are hardwired leaving 2MC for general use. Hardwiring may only be changed by a R/MM roll and at 10% of the original device cost. Hardwiring may be removed with a R/MM roll and at 25% cost, and added after construction with a R/MM roll and at 10% cost. Hardwiring in storage crystals and Dex cannot be typically changed; replace the device. Some programs which change a lot during use, such as the Gen and Program Development programs, cannot be used if hardwired. Note that Reflex Processors (and Dedicated Field Processors) are hardwired and must always be so. Uses: none. Weight: none.
Level: -.
Sensors/Transducers: see "Sensor Devices".
Level: 2nd.
Sensors: see Sensors/Transducers.
Level: 2nd.
Transducers: see Sensors/Transducers.
Level: 2nd.
Terminal: is used for controlling complex devices by 'hand'. Accepts input from controls/sensors and outputs to displays/transducers; a Video Monitor will give a more general display. Uses: 1ep/6 turns. Weight: 50gp.
Level: 2nd.
Interface: is used for controlling complex devices by another device. A general connection between devices, e.g. Micro Computer to Gravitic Neutraliser and Field (De)Focuser; many devices include simple interfaces. Uses: negligible. Weight: 20gp.
Level: 2nd.
Video Camera: see "Sensor Devices".
Level: 3rd.
Video Monitor: see "Environmental Devices".
Level: 3rd.
Reflex Processor: a small, simple laser and crystal computer of a very robust nature. Computer Theory I is required. Contains a program or information which is Hardwired or 'burned' into it as the final stage of manufacture (may be constructed up to this point) and may not be changed. The program is a Programming Device (or the information is a Information Device) of size 1MC (Machine Capacity) unit (x2/extra L) and must be complete in itself, i.e. not a split part of a larger program, unless +2L. Uses: 1ep/turn (x2/extra L). Weight: 40gp (+10gp/extra L).
Level: 3rd.
Coder: a specialised device which does complex signal recognition, synthesis, filtering, and (loss-less) (de)compression. Computer Theory I is required. The basic device handles speech (Vocoder) or simple senses and fine manipulation (Tacticoder) or automated navigation (Navcoder); at +1 L can alternatively handle visual information without colour (Visicoder) or complex signals from scent sensors (Scentcoder) or complex biological signals (Biocoder), at +2 L with colour (Colour Visicoder) or holographic information (Holocoder) or mental patterns (Mindcoder) (both without colour), at +3 L holo or mental with colour (Colour Holo/Mindcoder). See individual devices for further details. Compressed information must be expanded again by a suitable Coder of at least equal L before use. Also used for (d)encrypting signals or checking (compressed) information for correctness, and may be used for overload protection in sensory systems. Often used with a (Micro) Computer. Uses: 1ep/hr (+1ep/extra L). Weight: speech/tactile- 1gp, visual/scent/bio/holo/mental- 5gp.
Level: 3rd.
Vocoder: see Coder. Converts signals to/from speech, usable for mechanical speech/hearing, voice disguise, voice duplication etc. At +1L can (de)compress speech 10x, at +2L 100x, and at +3L 1000x. Uses: 1ep/hr (+1ep/extra L). Weight: 1gp.
Level: 3rd.
Tacticoder: see Coder. Converts signals from sensors/to manipulators, usable for touch, taste, smell and very fine manipulation. Substitutes for the Bipedal Control, 1 Arm Control, and Eye Hand Coordination programs in a sub 5th Gen robot, and can control a second limb with an off-hand modifier. Can (de)compress as a Vocoder. Uses: 1ep/hr (+1ep/extra L). Weight: 1gp.
Level: 3rd.
Navcoder: see Coder. Converts signals from sensors/to (vehicle) controls, usable for automated navigation by comparing maps with sensor data to produce spatial match-ups, and steer on this basis. Can also display maps with positions, waypoints, and the like to help a human navigator. Since it tracks positions continuously, it is very hard for this device to become confused about its position, provided the map and sensor data are accurate and adequate. At +1L can (de)compress navigation information 10x, at +2L 100x, and at +3L 1000x. Uses: 1ep/hr (+1ep/extra L). Weight: 1gp.
Level: 3rd.
Associative Matrix/Alarm: a device which is set to give a simple response to simple stimuli. Computer Theory I is required. In the case of an Alarm up to 2xL different alarms are activated when the readings from the up to 7 sensors connected to it go outside a certain combination of ranges, hence 2xL different alarm conditions. An Associative Matrix is set for up to 2xL different response situations, for example one might be 'fire laser when door opens more than 30 degrees if a warm object is in the direction of fire'. Sensors and devices to control/alarms must be provided. Uses: 2ep/hr. Weight: 10gp.
Level: 3rd.
Associative Matrix: see Associative Matrix/Alarm.
Level: 3rd.
Alarm: see Associative Matrix/Alarm.
Level: 3rd.
(Exchangable) Storage: stores programs/information for rapid access by a computer system in a recording crystal with a capacity 20MC; may also store information as a Recorder. Cost is +500gp if the crystal is exchangable. Crystals are 2nd level devices costing 500gp to build, weight 2.5gp. They are Non Miniturisable. If more than one Storage device is used then an Interface is required. See Hardwiring. Uses: 2ep/turn. Weight: 100gp. Non Micro Miniturisable.
Level: 3rd.
Storage: see (Exchangable) Storage.
Level: 3rd.
Exchangable Storage: see (Exchangable) Storage.
Level: 3rd.
Permanent Recorder: a version of Recorder where the information written to the (exchangable) crystal may not be changed. In addition the capacity is x2.5, 50MC. For 500gp and +50% time a Crystal Clock may be part of the recording system (Secure Permanent Recorder) so that a time and a unique code identifying the 'Recorder is recorded with every piece of information, this reduces the capacity to only x2, 40MC. This clock usually draws its almost negligible power from the 'Recorders supply but includes its own supply which can run independently for 2 years. The clock may only be removed or adjusted by a R/MM roll at -25% and even if successful it is almost impossible (another -15%) without some sign of tampering. By very careful inspection (UM roll at -40%), given a workshop, it is possible to tell whether all the information recorded on a given crystal was recorded on a given recorder, and even match information to particular recorders (UM roll at -60%). Permanent Recorder Crystals may be freely used in Recorders but more information may only be added to them using a Permanent Recorder. Replacement crystals are a 3rd level device with a cost of 750gp, weight 2.5gp. (Secure) Micro Permanent Recorders can be constructed at +1L in a similar way to Micro Recorders (gives a further -20% to clock tampering; 2000gp and +100% time to add clock, and +0.5gpwt). See Hardwiring. Uses: 1ep/turn. Weight: 50gp, +clock- 55gp. Non Micro Miniturisable.
Level: 3th.
Secure Permanent Recorder: see Permanent Recorder.
Level: 3rd.
Micro Recorder: a very small version of the Recorder. A DEX of 13 is required to shape the recording crystal. Functions as a Recorder except that crystals are not interchangeable with a Recorder. Replacement crystals are a 3rd level device with a cost of 750gp, weight 0.25gp. See Hardwiring. Uses: 1ep/game turn. Weight: 5gp. Non Micro Miniturisable.
Level: 3rd.
Micro Recorder Crystal: see Micro Recorder, this is the same as and is interchangeable with a Micro Storage Crystal. For +500gp the full-sized version of the Recorder, for example called a Recorder+, could read but not write to micro crystals. Non Miniturisable.
Level: 3rd.
Micro Storage Crystal: see Micro (Exchangable) Storage, this is the same as, and is interchangeable with, a Micro Recorder Crystal. For +500gp the full-sized version of (Exchangable) Storage, for example called (Exchangable) Storage+, could read but not write to micro crystals. Non Miniturisable.
Level: 3rd.
Permanent Storage Crystal: see Permanent (Exchangable) Storage, this may be read, but not written to, by Exchangable Storage. Non Miniturisable.
Level: 3rd.
Permanent Recorder Crystal: see Permanent Recorder, this is the same as, and is interchangeable with, a Permanent Storage Crystal. Non Miniturisable.
Level: 3rd.
Gesture Scanner: see "Sensor Devices".
Level: 3rd.
Micro Computer: a delicate array of programmable dynamic laser-and-crystal computing elements. Computer Theory I is required. Capable of a wide range of control functions, which must however be programmed into it. Researching the Programming Device programs to conveniently operate the machine is time consuming so 'Computers are often built in a standard form so as to use bought standard programs. If suitable cushioning is used it is quite rugged. Basic capacity for programs is 6 Machine Capacity (MC) units, x2/extra L. Note that most of the power used goes in cooling. Also see Hardwiring. Uses: 5ep/turn (x2/extra L). Weight: 200gp (+50gp/extra L).
Level: 4th.
Robot Eye: see "Sensor Devices".
Level: 4th.
Message Laser: see "Sensor Devices".
Level: 4th.
Micro (Exchangable) Storage: a very small version of (Exchangable) Storage. A DEX of 13 is required to shape the storage crystal. Functions as Storage except that crystals are not interchangeable with Storage. Crystals are exchangable at a cost of 500gp. Replacement crystals are a 3rd level device with a cost of 750gp, weight 0.25gp. See Hardwiring. Uses: 2ep/10 turns. Weight: 10gp. Non Micro Miniturisable.
Level: 4th.
Micro Storage: see Micro (Exchangable) Storage.
Level: 4th.
Micro Exchangable Storage: see Micro (Exchangable) Storage.
Level: 4th.
Permanent (Exchangable) Storage: a version of (Exchangable) Storage where the programs/information written to the crystal may not be changed. In addition the capacity is 50MC. Crystals are exchangable at a cost of 500gp. Exchangable 'Crystals may be freely used in Exchangable Storage but more information may only be added to them using Permanent Exchangable Storage. Replacement permanent crystals are a 3rd level device with a cost of 750gp, weight 2.5gp. Micro Permanent (Exchangable) Storage can be constructed at +1L in a similar way to Micro (Exchangable) Storage. See Hardwiring. Uses: 2ep/turn. Weight: 100gp. Non Micro Miniturisable.
Level: 4th.
Permanent Storage: see Permanent (Exchangable) Storage.
Level: 4th.
Permanent Exchangable Storage: see Permanent (Exchangable) Storage.
Level: 4th.
Macro Crystal: see Macro Crystal Storage. Non Miniturisable.
Level: 4th.
Flake Recorder: a very small version of the Micro Recorder. A DEX of 19 is required to shape the recording crystal, called a 'flake'. Functions as a (Micro) Recorder except that flakes are not interchangeable with a (Micro) Recorder. Replacement crystals are a 4th level device with a cost of 1000gp, weight 0.025gp. Flake (Permanent) (Exchangable) Storage and a Flake Permanent Recorder is possible in a comparable way at +2L on basic device, and one hundreth weight and power usage. A Secure Flake Permanent Recorder (L=5) is possible giving -40% rather than -20% to clock tampering; 4000gp and +100% time to add clock, and +0.05gpwt. See Hardwiring. Uses: 14.4ep/day. Weight: 0.5gp. Non Micro Miniturisable.
Level: 4th.
Flake: 'flake' versions of the various recorder and storage crystals may be made at +1L on the micro versions, but require 19 DEX or must be synthesised by something like a Crystal Synthesiser. The equivalent level of flake is +1L on the corresponding micro crystal and has the same capacity but a tenth weight, i.e. a hundreth of the full-size crystal. For +500gp the micro, but not full-sized version of the device, for example called a Micro Recorder+, could fully use flakes; Macro Crystal Storage can fully use flakes anyhow. Flakes are Non Miniturisable, very tough and have quite sharp edges; you could use them as shuriken...
Level: -.
Crystal Reader: can read the information stored in any variety of 'Crystal (or 'Flake), similar to a read-only version of Macro Crystal Storage, but cannot store or write information into any of them. Includes a built-in speaker (sound transducer). For +500gp may include a special carrier which holds up to five crystals of any sort (Multi Crystal Reader), though only one can be accessed at a time. Uses: 5ep/turn. Weight: 500gp (including a Macro Crystal).
Level: 4th.
Multi Crystal Reader: see Crystal Reader.
Level: 4th.
Visicoder: see Coder. Used for mechanical sight, image creation for display, image decoding, etc. At +1L can (de)compress visual information 10x, and at +2L 100x. Uses: 2ep/hr (+1ep/extra L). Weight: 5gp.
Level: 4th.
Scentcoder: see Coder. Used for mechanical smell analysis. Can (de)compress as a Visicoder. Uses: 2ep/hr (+1ep/extra L). Weight: 5gp.
Level: 4th.
Biocoder: see Coder. Used for full-body or brain-only cyborgs, usually one for the body and one for the eyes. Can (de)compress as a Visicoder. Uses: 2ep/hr (+1ep/extra L). Weight: 5gp.
Level: 4th.
Computer: similar to a Micro Computer but has much greater speed and capacity, 18MC (x2/extra L). Computer Theory II is required. Computers are usually built to a standard design so as to use standard Programming Device programs. Many complex devices need programs to control them which requires some form of computer. Also see Hardwiring. Uses: 10ep/turn (x2/extra L). Weight: 1000gp(+250gp/extra L). Non Micro Miniturisable.
Level: 5th.
Holo Camera: see "Sensor Devices".
Level: 5th.
Holo Display: see "Environmental Devices"
Level: 5th.
Macro Crystal Storage: stores information as either a Recorder or Exchangable Storage, but with x5 capacity, in an exchangable, re-writable (Micro) Macro Crystal. This gives a capacity of 100MC, a permanent variant gives 250MC (x12.5 capacity) written-once. Recorder and Storage Crystals (and Flakes) of all varieties may be read and written, and for +500gp may include a special carrier which holds up to five of any sort (Multi Macro Crystal Storage), though only one can be accessed at a time. The standard version of this device does not have a clock option, but does include a built-in microphone/speaker. Permanent Macro Crystals are particularly useful for recording complete personalities, and secure copies of even very large programs. Macro Crystals are 4th level devices costing 1000gp to build, and weigh 25gp, the permanent variety is +1L and +250gp cost. Micro Macro Crystals are 5th level devices requiring a DEX of 13 to shape, cost 1250gp to build, and weigh 2.5gp; Macro Flakes are 6th level devices requiring a DEX of 19 to shape, cost 1500gp to build, and weigh 0.25gp, the permanent variety in both cases is +1L and +250gp cost. See Hardwiring. Uses: 5ep/turn. Weight: 500gp (including Macro Crystal).
Level: 5th.
Multi Macro Crystal Storage: see Macro Crystal Storage.
Level: 5th.
Micro Macro Crystal: see Macro Crystal Storage. Non Miniturisable.
Level: 5th.
Permanent Macro Crystal: see Macro Crystal Storage. Non Miniturisable.
Level: 5th.
Personality Crystal: is a varient on Permanent Macro Crystal, and may be used where one can, which is used for storing a personality of any size, except possibly Very Complex Personas. Further, may be used to store updates of this personality as it develops, as often as is required, which does not increase the size of the information stored; assume 300MC, Complex Persona (see "Information Devices"). If it is recorded before any personality information it is possible to fit a non-updatable Full Body Pattern onto a Personality Crystal so it does not interfere with the stored personality. Micro Personality Crystals are 6th level devices requiring a DEX of 13 to shape, cost 1500gp to build, and weigh 2.5gp; Personality Flakes are 7th level devices requiring a DEX of 19 to shape, cost 1750gp to build, and weigh 0.25gp. The body, but not the personality, pattern could be Hardwired. Cost: 1250gp. Uses: none. Weight: 25gp. Non Miniturisable.
Level: 5th.
Colour Visicoder: see Coder. Can (de)compress visual information 10x, and at +1L 100x. Uses: 3ep/hr (+1ep/extra L). Weight: 5gp.
Level: 5th.
Holocoder: see Coder. At +1L can (de)compress holographic information 10x. Uses: 3ep/hr (+1ep/extra L). Weight: 5gp.
Level: 5th.
Mindcoder: see Coder. At +1L can (de)compress mental patterns 10x. Uses: 3ep/hr (+1ep/extra L). Weight: 5gp.
Level: 5th.
Dedicated Field Processor: see Micro Field Processor. Capacity is 3MC (x2/extra L of Micro Field Processor buildable). Uses: 1ep/2 turn. Weight: 2gp.
Level: 5th.
Personality Storage: is a varient on Macro Storage of +1L which can only be used to store personality information as a Personality Crystal, but may store any variety including Very Complex Personas. The +1000gp Deck Storage option is possible, but only personality information may be used on a Deck; sometimes called Deck Personality Storage. There is only one mark of this device. The body, but not the personality, pattern could be Hardwired. Uses: none. Weight: 100gp.
Level: 5th.
Deck Personality Storage: see Personality Storage.
Level: 5th.
Bio Comp: is a living biologically-based computer. Capacity is three 4 Machine Capacity (MC) unit 'lobes' (x3 capacity per extra L). See "Life Devices". Uses: none. Weight: 20gp.
Level: 5th.
Bio Storage: is living biologically-based storage. Capacity is two 'lobes' of 80MC each (x3 capacity per extra L). See "Life Devices". Uses: none. Weight: 10gp.
Level: 5th.
Data Reader: can access or read almost any recorded information stored in patterns of matter and/or energy; a read-only version of Data Storage. Computer Theory III and Reality Theory I is required. This is done by a special scanner, with 1" range, and even information from non-Tech sources, such as alien technology, and including text or images on paper etc, may be read, the exception being biological, psionic or magical data storage. Also cannot access information in Decks, or Macro Storage information where the 'Storage device has been destroyed. This device does not translate the information to make it readable in any particular language, or convert it into an understandable notation, just makes it capable of being stored and processed. Includes a built-in sound transducer (which can acts as a microphone or speaker), a Micro Video Monitor, and can act as a slow-scan version of any type of Video Camera or Holo Camera. Cost: x2. Uses: 10ep/turn. Weight: 1000gp.
Level: 5th.
Deck Reader: accesses, but cannot change, information stored in a Deck of any size. Can also access Macro Storage information where the 'Storage device has been destroyed, as long as the position where it was destroyed can be precisely located. Similar to a read-only version of Deck Storage, which in addition is restricted by having no internal information storage. Has no built-in display devices. Uses: none. Weight: 100gp.
Level: 5th.
Nav Comp: is a computed navigation system, which can either automatically pilot, or provide information for a human navigator. This is effectively a complex system of devices, and could be built from the individual devices at -2L, but navigation is a sufficiently common problem (particularly for vehicles) that this device has been developed. Includes the equivalent of an interlocked pair of Secure Permanent Recorders (which include a pair of Crystal Clocks), a Navcoder, and an Associative Matrix of -2L. Also includes a read-only version of Exchangable Storage (which can use crystals and micro crystals) and a Video & Sound Monitor. External maps can be read using the Storage, and the Monitor used to display maps etc as described under Navcoder. Some sort of sensors suitable for the environment navigated through must be attatched, such as compass, sextant and sonar, for sea travel. At +1L this includes Secure Micro Permanent Recorders, a Multi Crystal Reader instead of the Storage, and a Full Spectrum Video & Sound Monitor. At +2L Secure Flake Permanent Recorders, a Data Reader and a Deck Reader, and a Holo Omniphonic Display. The Crystal Clock equivalents include their own emergency power, and there is a Power Pack of -2L, to run the processing parts if external power fails. This device is quite rugged, and is designed to survive most things except direct attack. See Nav Comp Usage, and see Nav Comp Sensors. Uses: processing- 2ep/turn (+1L 0.25ep/turn, +2L 0.07ep/turn), other- 3ep/turn (+1L 6ep/turn, +2L 20ep/turn). Weight: 200gp, +2L 1000gp.
Level: 5th.
Nav Comp Usage: Nav Comps contain the processing and display parts of a navigation system, along with enough emergency power to keep it running for hours in a stand-alone mode (as long as the displays aren't used). Typically these are used in vehicles, but they can be used stand-alone. Sensors are added to the Nav Comp, appropriate to the environment to be navigated, and the Navcoder and Associative Matrix set up to interpret those sensors, and either automatically navigate the vehicle, or display navigation instructions. A set up configuration for a particular sensor/environment combination might usefully be stored in each (micro) crystal/flake, with the maps; standard ones exists for the Inertial Sensor, for both atmosphere and space navigation. A map consists of expected sensor readings combined with information allowing these to be represented on the display (e.g. the Monitor), such as reference points, 'landmarks', flows and tides of all sorts, and frequently anotations on dangers to be avoided (e.g. could sound alarms). As the Nav Comp is used a map, or log, of its travel is recorded, with timestamps, and the two interlocking recordings make this map very difficult to interfere with, which may be vital to be able to have any chance of returning, if end up somewhere unexpected. If there is a mis-match between the map and what is actually found, then 'safe' action will be taken, to avoid the potentially dangerous new feature, or not proceed any further and warn of the problem. Navigation using the system tends to be highly accurate, given a sufficiently good map, as there is continuous checking of the course both in gross and fine detail, and an increased emphasis on nearby features as the destination becomes close. However, a course cannot be any more accurate than the map allows, and the sensor information compared with it. All Nav Comps have a sound sensor (two, actually) and a means of reading external information, for anotating logs, but they have no built-in way of recording information, except securely. See Nav Comp, and see Nav Comp Sensors.
Level: -.
Nav Comp Sensors: are connected to a Nav Comp, to provide information appropriate to the environment to be navigated. A given set of sensors generally has a Nav Comp set up configuration for a given environment, which describes to a Tech how to initially set the Navcoder and Associative Matrix within a Nav Comp. If the variety of sensors are changed, or one particular variety of sensor is completely lost (say due to damage) then navigation will be at least less accurate (if possible at all) until the Nav Comp is appropriately re-configured. Cautious navigation sensor array designers will include spare sensors, combat designs typically are triple redundant, so two thirds of the sensors can safely be lost. Another technique used is to have different varieties of sensors any one of which could be used on their own, and check that the course they suggest agrees, and if they disagree either having an automatic voting system configured into the Associative Matrix, or manual selection of which source of information is to be accepted. Sensors might reasonably measure variety, intensity and direction of things such as light, gravity, magnetism, energy fields, inertia, the ether, air movement (wind), (air) pressure, temperature, currents, (water) colour, tides, waves, and anything else appropriate to the environment. Typically there are no more than three different varieties of Sensors connected to a Nav Comp, but note that in addition the internal Crystal Clocks provide input, and there can be manual input, for example from manual readings taken using a Multi Spectrum Lens, and beacons which can either just mark a position, or send more elaborate information, such as their estimate of the position of this and other vehicles. A common complex Sensor used is the Inertial Sensor or Micro Stabaliser, as this is not affected by most outside conditions, but other possibilities are things like the Ether Sensor, or possibly the really exotic sensor the Reality Clock, particularly if you are suspicious about interference with the internal Crystal Clocks. Where sensors are highly complex their information may need further processing before input to Nav Comps, for example a Video Camera will need a Visicoder, a (Fine) Scent Sensor a Scentcoder, and a Holo Camera a Holocoder. In general whatever would be needed for the appropriate senses of a robot, but the Navcoder can substitute for the non-speech capabilities of a Vocoder, etc. See Nav Comp Usage, and see Nav Comp.
Level: -.
Macro Computer: similar to a Micro Computer but has much greater speed and capacity, 54MC (x2/extra L). Computer Theory III is required. Macro Computers are usually built to a standard design so as to use standard Programming Device programs. Many complex devices need programs to control them which requires some form of computer. Also see Hardwiring. Uses: 20ep/turn (x2/extra L). Weight: 5000gp(+1250gp/extra L). Non Micro Miniturisable.
Level: 6th.
Image Scanner: see "Sensor Devices".
Level: 6th.
Image Display: see "Environmental Devices"
Level: 6th.
Mind Interface: see "Biological Devices".
Level: 6th.
Micro Field Processor: a relative of the Micro Computer which uses multi-stable force field, rather than laser and crystal, computing elements. Computer Theory I and Multi-Planar Theory I is required. This complex of fields extends onto higher planes and remains even if the power is cut off, and even if the processor is destroyed, though it may be rather difficult to access; similar in many respects to Macro Storage. Though very different in design, the standard Programming Device programs produce exactly the same results from both laser-and-crystal and force-field computers. Basic capacity for programs is 10 Machine Capacity (MC) units, x2/extra L. If are capable of building a Micro Field Processor, a Dedicated Field Processor may be built at -1L which functions with fixed programs as a Reflex Processor ((Capacity is 3MC (x2/extra L of Micro Field Processor buildable). Uses: 1ep/2 turns. Weight: 2gp.)). Field Processors are subject to possession by innovative spirits, unlike the laser-and-crystal (or Demi/Non Material) computers, unless they are closely coupled to a Pattern Associator/Synthesiser or a living creature; AIs in them with at least 3rd Gen/Robot Intelligence have also been known to become independently intelligent over time. Also see Hardwiring. Uses: 1ep/turn. Weight: 20gp.
Level: 6th.
Macro Storage: stores information as (Exchangable) Storage, but not exchangable, in a very stable force field with a capacity of 500MC, x2/extra L. Energy is only required to change the information, even if the device is destroyed the field is not, but the information is more difficult to access. For +1000gp can in addition to using the standard internal information storage, access and change information in a Deck of any size, sometimes called Deck Storage. Also see Hardwiring, and see Deck. Uses: none. Weight: 1000gp.
Level: 6th.
Deck Storage: see Macro Storage.
Level: 6th.
Macro Flake: see Macro Crystal Storage. Non Miniturisable.
Level: 6th.
Permanent Micro Macro Crystal: see Macro Crystal Storage. Non Miniturisable.
Level: 6th.
Micro Personality Crystal: see Personality Crystal. Non Miniturisable.
Level: 6th.
Colour Holocoder: see Coder. Can (de)compress holographic information 10x. Uses: 4ep/hr. Weight: 5gp.
Level: 6th.
Colour Mindcoder: see Coder. Can (de)compress mental patterns 10x. Uses: 4ep/hr. Weight: 5gp.
Level: 6th.
Data Storage: can access information from, and store information into, almost any information storage medium using patterns of matter and/or energy. Computer Theory III and Reality Theory I is required. This is done by a special scanner and probe, with 1" range, and even non-Tech sources, such as alien technology, and including text or images on paper etc, may be accessed and stored, the exception being biological, psionic or magical data storage mediums. This device does not translate the information to make it readable in any particular language, or convert it into an understandable notation, it just processes patterns of information. Can also access and store information in Decks, and even Macro Storage information where the 'Storage device has been destroyed, as long as the position where it was destroyed can be precisely located. If attached to a Non Material Interface can access information in Non Material devices, even the 'Macro Storage' associated with the mind in a Non Material Computer if the mind allows it, and further if also attached to a Cache Manager can access information in a Cache. The information in Pattern Synthesisers, and similar closely integrated with a mind, e.g. the Computer with the AI in a Demi Material Computer, or (Micro/Macro) Field Processors which cannot be possessed, may not be accessed. Includes a built-in sound transducer (which can act as a microphone or speaker), a Micro Video Monitor, and can act as a slow-scan version of any type of Video Camera or Holo Camera. Cost: x2. Uses: 10ep/turn. Weight: 1000gp.
Level: 6th.
Field Processor: is to a Computer as a Micro Field Processor is to a Micro Computer. Computer Theory II and Multi-Planar Theory I is required. Capacity is 30MC (x2/extra L). Also see Hardwiring. Uses: 2ep/turn. Weight: 100gp.
Level: 7th.
Permanent Macro Flake: see Macro Crystal Storage. Non Miniturisable.
Level: 7th.
Personality Flake: see Personality Crystal. Non Miniturisable.
Level: 7th.
Macro Field Processor: is to a Macro Computer as a Micro Field Processor is to a Micro Computer. Computer Theory III and Multi-Planar Theory II is required. Capacity is 90MC (x2/extra L). Also see Hardwiring. Uses: 4ep/turn. Weight: 500gp.
Level: 8th.
Dex: is an almost indestructable store of information, of size 500MC. Computer Theory III and Reality Theory II is required. It may be accessed by Data Storage, or Deck Storage (modified Macro Storage), and requires 25 (AD&D) DEX, or a (Lesser) Reality Generator, to 'shape' or create it. Dex takes the form of a black apparently two-dimensional 'crystal' (which cannot cut with its 'sharp' edge, but does not penetrate solid matter), and which is weightless, but behaves as if weighs 0.025gp. It is effectively indestructable without careful use of a Reality Generator (or Limited Wish), and is not normal matter; it cannot be marked or written on, and nothing will stick to it for more than a few seconds. It could be considered to be 'solid' information, rather like a more managable form of the 'force field' which stores the information for Macro Storage. Note that Dex is not really crystal, and cannot be made by a Crystal Synthesiser. Hardwiring cannot be removed from or added to a Dex device after construction. See Hardwiring, and see Deck. Cost: 2000gp. Price: 200kgp. Uses: none. Weight: none (0.025gp).
Level: 8th.
Deck: is a collection of information in the form of multiple Dex devices, stacked together. Due to Dex being two-dimensional several are not thicker than one, but they can be reasonably easily separated by sliding them apart. A Deck 'weighs' as much a a single Dex device, i.e. both nothing at all, and as if 0.025gp. Any size Deck can be as easily accessed as a single Dex device. A Deck is sometimes named for its capacity, for example a City Deck is 5000MC, a Planet Deck is 10,000MC and a Universe Deck is 100,000MC. People have been known to kill for large Decks... Price: City- 2Mgp, Planet- 4Mgp, Universe- 40Mgp. Uses: none. Weight: none (0.025gp).
Level: -.
Planar Comp: a relative of the Micro Computer which does its processing in what is effectively a nearly undetectable pocket universe, which is created when this device is created. Computer Theory II, Reality Theory II and Multi Planar Theory II is required. Though very different in design, the standard Programming Device programs produce exactly the same results as in other computing devices. Basic capacity for programs is 50 Machine Capacity (MC) units, x2/extra L. Unlike the various Field Processor devices, these are not subject to possession. This device effectively includes a not usually physically accessable Cache and a Cache Key, see "Creation Devices", but the Cache is only suitable for processing information, not for storing power, and does not contain a reality suitable for living, or even material, things. The usual rules apply for re-attaching the Cache if this device is so badly damaged contact is lost with it; note that this device is very rugged, and should be treated as embedded in +4 Crystal. All interface to the computer effectively flows through the (modified) Cache Key, without using any power. Hardwiring cannot be removed from or added to a Planar Comp after construction, with devices up to L=9. Also see Hardwiring. Uses: none. Weight: 20gp.
Level: 8th.
Planar Storage: stores information as (Exchangable) Storage in what is effectively a nearly undetectable pocket universe, which is created when this device is created. Reality Theory II and Multi Planar Theory II is required. Capacity is 5000MC, x2/extra L. This device effectively includes a not usually physically accessable Cache and a Cache Key, see "Creation Devices", but the Cache is only suitable for storing information, not even for storing power, and does not contain a reality suitable for living, or even material, things. The usual rules apply for re-attaching the Cache if this device is so badly damaged contact is lost with it; note that this device is very rugged, and should be treated as embedded in +4 Crystal. All interface to the storage effectively flows through the (modified) Cache Key, without using any power. Hardwiring cannot be removed from or added to Planar Storage after construction, with devices up to L=9. Also see Hardwiring. Uses: none. Weight: 10gp.
Level: 8th.