Electronics Database
Electronics are a broad array of tools that can be used to remotely operate, communicate, sense, or compute. Beyond the most basic operations, items in this database require the use of the Electronics skill, though which depends on the type.
Communications System Database
Sensor Descriptions
Computer Descriptions
Software Descriptions
Communications Devices
Communications devices allow the user to communicate with others at great distances. This can also include remote control interfaces. Most communications devices use the Electronics (communication) skill, but some (drone control interfaces, avatar interfaces etc.) use the Electronics (remote ops) instead.Communications System Database
Avatar Chair: Essentially a bulky armchair with a bunch of machinery installed that allows the operator to control an avatar or drone. In the case of avatars, the operator can enter a state of unconsciousness and effectively “inhabit” a robot with the requisite avatar receiver. The chair has a built in transceiver with a range of 500 kilometers, but can, in theory, operate at unlimited distances with sufficient uplinks. However, beyond 500 kilometers, the communication delay becomes noticeable, imposing a DM -1 to dex rolls, and at distances greater than 5.000 kilometers avatar control is impossible, though the chair may still be used to operate drones.
Autohack Device: The Autohack Device, or autohack is a relatively small, portable hacking tool that can be used to quickly and effectively break into a secured computer. At lower levels, these devices are not especially effective, but get progressively better as they become more advanced (though even the most advanced autohack is still bound by TL difference rules). Though quite effective, autohacks do require the hacker to have physical access to the computer they are trying to crack.
Bug: Bugs are tiny spying devices that can be hidden from plain view. At lower tech levels, they are primitive listening devices that record everything they hear, however, as technology progresses, bugs become more and more capable, at first being able to record video, but at higher levels they can download the contents of an unsecured computer’s drive, perform chemical or DNA scans, and even have spare onboard computing power so that a user can run data analysis software without an additional computer.
Comm Scramblers: Comms scramblers are communications encrypters. There are two varieties, defensive scramblers are connected devices that encrypt communications between linked devices to impose difficulties on those attempting to intercept and decrypt communications. Offensive scramblers use the encryption process to block communication between devices over a limited area by turning communication signals into unintelligible noise.
Comm Dot: The comm dot is a tiny, basic, communication device that allows audio communications between people in a 50 meter radius. At higher tech levels, they can process and to some extent interpret subvocal sounds.
Drone Command Console: A drone command console allows the operator to remotely control a single drone from a considerable distance, which can theoretically be extended over infinite distances with an uplink to a satellite network. As these devices become more advanced, control over the drones becomes easier, and the drone can send back more types of information.
Drone Control Helmet: For those lacking a cybernetic implant to do so, the drone control helmet allows the wearer to control a zone via their senses. The wearer doesn’t need the Electronics (remote ops) skill to pilot a drone this way, but benefits from having it (DM +1 per level of the skill to checks made with the helmet on). The helmet comes with a 50km transceiver built into it but can uplink for theoretically unlimited range. In practice however, distances over 5.000 kilometers impose a stacking penalty of DM -1 to operate the drone for each 5.000km distance away it is. The Drone Control Helmet.
Holographic Display/Projector: Holographic displays are devices that project three dimensional, usually moving images, often into open air. Holographic projectors tend to be bulkier, but have a greater degree of flexibility, displays tend to be smaller, but more limited in what they can project, typically unable to create an image smaller than the average person.
Laser Transceiver: One of the first steps away from traditional radio transceivers is the Laser Transceiver. Sometimes also called the Tightbeam communicator, the laser transceiver directly beams communications between two points, making it significantly harder to intercept. Laser transceiver communications can only be intercepted with another such device after making a Difficult (10+) Electronics (communications) check, with relevant modifiers applied. Additionally, laser transceivers have the longest possible range of any known communicator with a minimum operating range of 500 kilomters, 50.000 kilometers if logged into a satellite uplink, or with a Difficult (10+) Astrogation check, anywhere within the same star system.
Meson Transceiver: Meson transceivers are communications devices that, like a more traditional tightbeam, send a message between two targets directly. Travelling through meson particles, the information sent by such a device can only be intercepted by the intended target. Meson transceivers are the only ones capable of interfacing with faster than light communications. With a modification costing GCr5.000.000 to install, and the right connections, a meson transceiver can receive messages from an Ansible facility, and send a message back to the facility that sent the message.
Mobile Comm: A portable communications device, usually roughly the size of a human hand, the mobile comm allows the user to carry an effective means of communication with them. The natural range of mobile comms are quite short, but but can be extended dramatically within a wider telecoms network. More advanced mobile comms will include onboard computing capabilities, and possibly even autotranslation software. Though rare and expensive, some advanced mobile comm units have been fitted with tightbeam or meson transceivers.
Personal Heads Up Display: The personal heads up display is an electronic device that displays information for every sensor, computer, and other device linked to it allowing the user hand’s free and “heads up” access to it (thus negating an negative DMs from multitasking in electronics related skill chains with linked devices). Each personal HUD comes with one key and additional ones must be purchased separately (GCr 200 each). To link a device the user must spend one hour linking them or make a Normal (8+) Electronics (sensors) check to do it quickly. They may alternatively pay GCr 100 for the services of a skilled expert. Militarized P-HUDs (covered here) with additional functions can be purchased at a premium. At lower tech levels, Personal Head’s Up Displays must be attached to glasses, a visor or other wearable. However, as technology advances, Holographic P-HUDs with their own projectors come into service that require no such auxiliaries.
Multifunction Electronic Device: The Multifunction Electronic Device is an advancement of the militarized Personal HUD that has additional functions, in addition to P-HUD functionality, it also can be used as a manual guidance system for linked smart weapons, and can access information from linked drones and provided limited (essentially at the level of simple one word commands such as “engage or return”) control capability.
Radio Jammer: Radio jammers are devices that broadcast noise on most radio frequencies over a certain area, effectively disrupting communications in a desired place. There are two varieties, small handheld jammers that have an limited range, and large, long range jammers that are available at lower tech levels, and have long ranges, but are often extremely heavy and expensive, though they can become lighter and cheaper as tech levels advance.
Swarm Control Console: The swarm control console is a device that allows an unaugmented user to control large numbers of robots. Its primary function is to issue task commands to large groups of nanobots or microbots. However, it has drone control ability for smaller groups of proper robots. This drone control is not as effective as that offered by a drone control device, limiting the effective skill of an operator to Electronics (remote ops) 0. More advanced versions of the swarm control console exist that allow for improved operations (up to Electronics (remote ops) 3) but cannot completely eliminate skill limitations for the most elite drone operators.
Tactical Relay Network: Tactical relay networks are specialized variants of basic mobile comms, and radio transceiver technologies that link large groups of personnel into a single network. The tactical relay network links together 50, 250, or 1,000 or one hundred people. At its most basic, its an integrated mobile comms system with dedicated channels. However, as technology becomes more advanced, camera feeds between soldiers, a holographic map, and eventually equipment and health status of operators becomes available, allowing a single commander to direct larger units with increasing effectiveness from a central command post. The relay network consists of an 8kg backpack providing the central hub of the network and additional kits available per soldier at GCr50 for the basic package, GCr100 for an integrated camera, GCr250 for location and basic equipment transponders, and GCr350 for the full package which includes advanced equipment status monitoring and health monitoring.
Transceiver: Basic telecommunications equipment, transceivers allow for the operator to receive radio transmissions, and to send them back. At lower tech levels, this is simple radio audio transmissions, though audiovisual transceivers arrive at not significantly higher levels of development. The most advanced tend to offer the option to send olfactory data as well, though in practice most users rarely make use of this feature. Ranges vary significantly from small short range radio sets to enormous operations that can transmit or receive data from across a star system, though even the lowest range can be integrated into a network to boost range. Advanced transceivers typically can be integrated into other electronic devices, or alternatively have their own computers built that can run useful software, most consumer grade devices of this type tend to come with onboard translation and encryption software, but this is not always the case. Higher range transceiver equipment typically requires special licensing to use on most worlds, these “Ham Radio” licenses are mostly there to ensure a user knows how to refrain from using restricted bands for their own personal communications.
Transceiver Encryption: On transceivers without encryption already included, or for those seeking more advanced encryption capability the transceiver encryption option integrates an encryption module. If a message from an equipped transceiver is intercepted, the interceptors must make a Very Difficult (12+) Electronics (communications check) to break the code and decrypt the message. This check is modified by the difference between the TL of the transceiver and the TL of the interceptor.
Transceiver Onboard Computer: On more basic transceivers, the onboard computer option adds a computer. The basic option integrates a portable computer of the TL of the transceiver-2 into it, and is largely used for adding computing function to a transceiver that wouldn’t otherwise have it, though certain extremely high TL transceivers may use it to integrate a more advanced machine that would regularly be installed. The advanced option is more expensive but integrates a computer appropriate for the TL of the transceiver, and is more frequently used to “upgrade” onboard computing power.
Transceiver Satellite Uplink: Satellite Uplinks provide massive extensions of transceiver ranges. Transceivers will increase range by 100 times, and if two transceivers are linked to a satellite uplink, the range is multiplied by 10.000 instead. There are two types of satellite uplink, flexible, and geostationary. Flexible uplinks can uplink to any satellite that will permit access, and can therefore benefit from most satellite networks. The geostationary uplink however requires access to satellites in a specific orbital range, and therefore can only benefit from operating within a particular network, or one functionally identical to it.
VR Goggles: A basic, entry level way of accessing virtual reality (VR) or augmented reality (AR) spaces, VR goggles provide a cheap and relatively safe entry point to VR. Goggles start as fairly primitive audiovisual immersion goggles, but over time can create entire holographic AR environments and limited tactile feedback while becoming lighter and less cumbersome with a longer battery life.
VR Helmet: A bulkier, more immersive version of VR goggles, even basic VR helmets provide full audiovisual VR or AR immersion with some tactile feedback, but more advanced helmets can provide full neural stimulation creating a complete VR experience. Helmets, like goggles become lighter as they become more advanced and lengthen usable time in the simulation.
VR Immersion Chair: The ultimate in VR immersion, the immersion chair seals the user into a controlled environment to provide a true immersive VR experience with a full multisensory immersion. VR chairs typically can be used for 24 hours before the user needs to take an eight hour break to attend to their physiological needs, however, for the truly committed, a slightly heavier and much more expensive extended immersion VR chair stimulates muscles, processes waste and nutrition and simulates bed rest allowing the user to, in theory, remain in the simulation indefinitely provided power is provided.
Autohack Device: The Autohack Device, or autohack is a relatively small, portable hacking tool that can be used to quickly and effectively break into a secured computer. At lower levels, these devices are not especially effective, but get progressively better as they become more advanced (though even the most advanced autohack is still bound by TL difference rules). Though quite effective, autohacks do require the hacker to have physical access to the computer they are trying to crack.
Bug: Bugs are tiny spying devices that can be hidden from plain view. At lower tech levels, they are primitive listening devices that record everything they hear, however, as technology progresses, bugs become more and more capable, at first being able to record video, but at higher levels they can download the contents of an unsecured computer’s drive, perform chemical or DNA scans, and even have spare onboard computing power so that a user can run data analysis software without an additional computer.
Comm Scramblers: Comms scramblers are communications encrypters. There are two varieties, defensive scramblers are connected devices that encrypt communications between linked devices to impose difficulties on those attempting to intercept and decrypt communications. Offensive scramblers use the encryption process to block communication between devices over a limited area by turning communication signals into unintelligible noise.
Comm Dot: The comm dot is a tiny, basic, communication device that allows audio communications between people in a 50 meter radius. At higher tech levels, they can process and to some extent interpret subvocal sounds.
Drone Command Console: A drone command console allows the operator to remotely control a single drone from a considerable distance, which can theoretically be extended over infinite distances with an uplink to a satellite network. As these devices become more advanced, control over the drones becomes easier, and the drone can send back more types of information.
Drone Control Helmet: For those lacking a cybernetic implant to do so, the drone control helmet allows the wearer to control a zone via their senses. The wearer doesn’t need the Electronics (remote ops) skill to pilot a drone this way, but benefits from having it (DM +1 per level of the skill to checks made with the helmet on). The helmet comes with a 50km transceiver built into it but can uplink for theoretically unlimited range. In practice however, distances over 5.000 kilometers impose a stacking penalty of DM -1 to operate the drone for each 5.000km distance away it is. The Drone Control Helmet.
Holographic Display/Projector: Holographic displays are devices that project three dimensional, usually moving images, often into open air. Holographic projectors tend to be bulkier, but have a greater degree of flexibility, displays tend to be smaller, but more limited in what they can project, typically unable to create an image smaller than the average person.
Laser Transceiver: One of the first steps away from traditional radio transceivers is the Laser Transceiver. Sometimes also called the Tightbeam communicator, the laser transceiver directly beams communications between two points, making it significantly harder to intercept. Laser transceiver communications can only be intercepted with another such device after making a Difficult (10+) Electronics (communications) check, with relevant modifiers applied. Additionally, laser transceivers have the longest possible range of any known communicator with a minimum operating range of 500 kilomters, 50.000 kilometers if logged into a satellite uplink, or with a Difficult (10+) Astrogation check, anywhere within the same star system.
Meson Transceiver: Meson transceivers are communications devices that, like a more traditional tightbeam, send a message between two targets directly. Travelling through meson particles, the information sent by such a device can only be intercepted by the intended target. Meson transceivers are the only ones capable of interfacing with faster than light communications. With a modification costing GCr5.000.000 to install, and the right connections, a meson transceiver can receive messages from an Ansible facility, and send a message back to the facility that sent the message.
Mobile Comm: A portable communications device, usually roughly the size of a human hand, the mobile comm allows the user to carry an effective means of communication with them. The natural range of mobile comms are quite short, but but can be extended dramatically within a wider telecoms network. More advanced mobile comms will include onboard computing capabilities, and possibly even autotranslation software. Though rare and expensive, some advanced mobile comm units have been fitted with tightbeam or meson transceivers.
Personal Heads Up Display: The personal heads up display is an electronic device that displays information for every sensor, computer, and other device linked to it allowing the user hand’s free and “heads up” access to it (thus negating an negative DMs from multitasking in electronics related skill chains with linked devices). Each personal HUD comes with one key and additional ones must be purchased separately (GCr 200 each). To link a device the user must spend one hour linking them or make a Normal (8+) Electronics (sensors) check to do it quickly. They may alternatively pay GCr 100 for the services of a skilled expert. Militarized P-HUDs (covered here) with additional functions can be purchased at a premium. At lower tech levels, Personal Head’s Up Displays must be attached to glasses, a visor or other wearable. However, as technology advances, Holographic P-HUDs with their own projectors come into service that require no such auxiliaries.
Multifunction Electronic Device: The Multifunction Electronic Device is an advancement of the militarized Personal HUD that has additional functions, in addition to P-HUD functionality, it also can be used as a manual guidance system for linked smart weapons, and can access information from linked drones and provided limited (essentially at the level of simple one word commands such as “engage or return”) control capability.
Radio Jammer: Radio jammers are devices that broadcast noise on most radio frequencies over a certain area, effectively disrupting communications in a desired place. There are two varieties, small handheld jammers that have an limited range, and large, long range jammers that are available at lower tech levels, and have long ranges, but are often extremely heavy and expensive, though they can become lighter and cheaper as tech levels advance.
Swarm Control Console: The swarm control console is a device that allows an unaugmented user to control large numbers of robots. Its primary function is to issue task commands to large groups of nanobots or microbots. However, it has drone control ability for smaller groups of proper robots. This drone control is not as effective as that offered by a drone control device, limiting the effective skill of an operator to Electronics (remote ops) 0. More advanced versions of the swarm control console exist that allow for improved operations (up to Electronics (remote ops) 3) but cannot completely eliminate skill limitations for the most elite drone operators.
Tactical Relay Network: Tactical relay networks are specialized variants of basic mobile comms, and radio transceiver technologies that link large groups of personnel into a single network. The tactical relay network links together 50, 250, or 1,000 or one hundred people. At its most basic, its an integrated mobile comms system with dedicated channels. However, as technology becomes more advanced, camera feeds between soldiers, a holographic map, and eventually equipment and health status of operators becomes available, allowing a single commander to direct larger units with increasing effectiveness from a central command post. The relay network consists of an 8kg backpack providing the central hub of the network and additional kits available per soldier at GCr50 for the basic package, GCr100 for an integrated camera, GCr250 for location and basic equipment transponders, and GCr350 for the full package which includes advanced equipment status monitoring and health monitoring.
Transceiver: Basic telecommunications equipment, transceivers allow for the operator to receive radio transmissions, and to send them back. At lower tech levels, this is simple radio audio transmissions, though audiovisual transceivers arrive at not significantly higher levels of development. The most advanced tend to offer the option to send olfactory data as well, though in practice most users rarely make use of this feature. Ranges vary significantly from small short range radio sets to enormous operations that can transmit or receive data from across a star system, though even the lowest range can be integrated into a network to boost range. Advanced transceivers typically can be integrated into other electronic devices, or alternatively have their own computers built that can run useful software, most consumer grade devices of this type tend to come with onboard translation and encryption software, but this is not always the case. Higher range transceiver equipment typically requires special licensing to use on most worlds, these “Ham Radio” licenses are mostly there to ensure a user knows how to refrain from using restricted bands for their own personal communications.
Transceiver Encryption: On transceivers without encryption already included, or for those seeking more advanced encryption capability the transceiver encryption option integrates an encryption module. If a message from an equipped transceiver is intercepted, the interceptors must make a Very Difficult (12+) Electronics (communications check) to break the code and decrypt the message. This check is modified by the difference between the TL of the transceiver and the TL of the interceptor.
Transceiver Onboard Computer: On more basic transceivers, the onboard computer option adds a computer. The basic option integrates a portable computer of the TL of the transceiver-2 into it, and is largely used for adding computing function to a transceiver that wouldn’t otherwise have it, though certain extremely high TL transceivers may use it to integrate a more advanced machine that would regularly be installed. The advanced option is more expensive but integrates a computer appropriate for the TL of the transceiver, and is more frequently used to “upgrade” onboard computing power.
Transceiver Satellite Uplink: Satellite Uplinks provide massive extensions of transceiver ranges. Transceivers will increase range by 100 times, and if two transceivers are linked to a satellite uplink, the range is multiplied by 10.000 instead. There are two types of satellite uplink, flexible, and geostationary. Flexible uplinks can uplink to any satellite that will permit access, and can therefore benefit from most satellite networks. The geostationary uplink however requires access to satellites in a specific orbital range, and therefore can only benefit from operating within a particular network, or one functionally identical to it.
VR Goggles: A basic, entry level way of accessing virtual reality (VR) or augmented reality (AR) spaces, VR goggles provide a cheap and relatively safe entry point to VR. Goggles start as fairly primitive audiovisual immersion goggles, but over time can create entire holographic AR environments and limited tactile feedback while becoming lighter and less cumbersome with a longer battery life.
VR Helmet: A bulkier, more immersive version of VR goggles, even basic VR helmets provide full audiovisual VR or AR immersion with some tactile feedback, but more advanced helmets can provide full neural stimulation creating a complete VR experience. Helmets, like goggles become lighter as they become more advanced and lengthen usable time in the simulation.
VR Immersion Chair: The ultimate in VR immersion, the immersion chair seals the user into a controlled environment to provide a true immersive VR experience with a full multisensory immersion. VR chairs typically can be used for 24 hours before the user needs to take an eight hour break to attend to their physiological needs, however, for the truly committed, a slightly heavier and much more expensive extended immersion VR chair stimulates muscles, processes waste and nutrition and simulates bed rest allowing the user to, in theory, remain in the simulation indefinitely provided power is provided.
Sensors
Sensors allow the user to detect things that would otherwise be hard to find with the natural abilities of a human or other organic entity. This can range from basic binoculars to advanced ground penetrating radar technology. These devices usually require use of the Electronics (sensors) skill, though in many cases, especially with simpler sensing equipment, Recon or Investigation are used instead.Sensor Descriptions
Ballistic Location Sensor: Ballistic location sensors are advanced sensors that track the trajectories of incoming weapons fire, and with sufficient data, indicate the positions of the firers. More advanced BLS systems also have return fire capabilities when attached to weapons, allowing them to make a number of pre-programmed reactions to incoming fire, typically to return fire to the suspected location of the shooter (hence “return fire unit”).
Binoculars: An old fashioned set of magnifying binoculars. These can be used to increase a user’s viewing range by a factor of ten.
Biomass Targeting Aid: Biomass targeting aids are advanced sensors that can pick out biomass, including from behind most physical barriers and outline them on a display to make living beings easier to hit. This allows shooters to identify and engage targets from behind cover. Biomass targeting aids are integrated into TL14+ Battledress.
Bioscanner: An advanced version of previous cheical compound detectors, the bioscanner takes in information about organic compounds and analyzes them providing a report on life sign analysis to the user.
Bug Sweeper: Bug sweepers detect small electronic sensors, such as bugs that might be hidden in a certain area. Bug sweepers become more capable at higher TLs versus different bugs and deluxe bug sweepers are more capable to start.
Camera: Cameras are a basic, but very important low, and mid tech device that can record photographs, and later video. Initially only capable of black and white static images, cameras eventually become capable of taking high definition, color video, with audio recordings. Proper professional grade cameras are twice as heavier, much more expensive, and require two or more lenses to use properly, but provide substantial benefits in the hands of a skilled user.
Chemiview Goggles: Specialized sensing equipment, Chemiview goggles visualize chemical sniffing technology by adding a visual signifier to the goggle's input in the presence of a scanned chemical.
Densitometer: Densitometers are high tech scanners that rely on gravitic imaging to surpass most other forms of sensing equipment. They can bypass most stealth systems and scan through surfaces as thick as starship hulls.
Digital Multipurpose Camera: A small, but reasonably capable digital camera that can take decent quality photos and video. These cameras are frequently integrated into advanced electronic devices, especially hand computers and mobile comms.
Electronic Binoculars: More capable versions of regular binoculars, electronic binoculars provide additional features, from IR imaging, to integrated rangefinding, and eventually the ability to process and image partially seen objects.
EM Probe: An advanced version of the bug sweeper, EM probes can in addition to finding small electronic bugs, intercept and analyze encrypted transmissions determining, roughly speaking, what these transmissions are for, though not necessarily the exact content. The EM probe also acts as a TL appropriate deluxe bug sweeper.
Geiger Counter: Geiger counters detect and alert the user to the presence of radiation in an area. Higher tech geiger counters also have the ability to run trace chemical analysis and can indicate what specific compound is emitting the radiation and from where.
Ground Penetrating Radar: Ground Penetrating Radars are useful surveying tools that scan an area underneath the group, detecting cavities, buried objects, and other potentially important pieces of information by using powerful radars to emit signals deep underground. As technology advances these devices can penetrate further underground, and eventually provide enough analysis to assist a skilled user in their operation.
Holocamera: An evolution of the traditional camera, holocameras can record three dimensional images, and either print them into traditional 2D art, or with a holographic projector, project three dimensional images and “trideo” presentations. Holographic cameras can benefit from the professional camera modifier if they pay the relevant costs and have multiple professional lenses.
Infrared Goggles: Early “nightvision” goggles that can take IR imaging to create monochromatic images and make things visible in dark conditions. Early forms of IR goggles could not filter out intense light, and very often needed a support IR light to “paint” the environment. More advanced versions of the goggle had better protection against sudden bursts of light, could always operate independently, and could project both in monochrome, and use multicolor IR imaging to better analyze different heat sources if required.
Light Intensifier Goggles: Light intensifier goggles intensified natural light sources and made it easier to see in the dark. Early versions are somewhat unreliable, failing to protect against bright light sources, but even early improvements limited the bloom effect significantly.
Light Intensifier/IR Goggles: These are, quite simply, a specialized set of goggles that integrate the function of IR goggles, and Light Intensifier goggles into a single unit.
Metal Detectors: Used by security personnel and hobbyists alike, metal detectors can detect most metallic objects in up to a certain depth of non-metallic media. This is often used by security personnel to detect hidden weapons and other contraband, or by amateur treasure hunters sweeping for buried coin hoards.
NBC Analyzer/Alert Unit: This device is a more general purpose version of geiger counters detecting potentially dangerous nuclear, biological, chemical, or radiological agents, alerting the user to their presence, and providing a basic analysis of the threat. This is a common device among surveyors who need to study the more invisible dangers of planetary surfaces in the process of mapping them out.
Neural Activity Scanner: Neural activity scanners can detect and analyze neural activity in a localized area. It can determine if there is any animal life, and the level of its intelligence on the fly. From TL 16 onwards neural activity scanners have PSI detection functions integrated into them automatically.
PRIS Binoculars: PRIS Binoculars provide long range PRIS (IR, Light Intensification, and Geiger) macro functionality, and the functions of a pair of TL equivalent electronic binoculars into a single unit.They are typically used as standalone binoculars, but are integrated into Vacc Suit and Battledress suites from TL13 onwards, and hands-free monocle variants for other armors also tend to arrive at this level of technological development.
PRIS Goggles: PRIS goggles provide short range PRIS functionality. This provides finer analysis when handling materials, but lacks the long distance, broad scope, functionality of goggles.
PRIS Sunglasses/Visor: The ultimate development of PRIS sensing technology, this object coming in the form of a visor coating or a pair of sunglasses dramatically reduces the weight and bulk of the object. It can more easily be controlled by an integrated wristwatch controller, or by any device with Computer/0 or better. Though most units provide only long or short range functionality, multipurpose units with both can be purchased for an additional GCr500.
PSI Finder Binoculars: A development of PRIS Binoculars, PSI Finder binoculars have PRIS capabilities, and can additionally detect the aura of psionically active people and psychoactive objects. More advanced visor coatings exist starting from TL17, and which can be integrated into Vacc Suit and Battledress Suites.
PSI Detector: A basic device made at relatively low tech levels that detect and evaluate the psionic potential of scanned persons. Though in theory, everyone has some psionic potential, the overwhelming majority of people will return a “Clear” rating indicating no such potential. Those with noteworthy latent, or honed psionic abilities will have the rough level of their capability analyzed.
Weapon Scanner: More pointed than metal detectors, weapon scanners scan for weapons specifically and can detect most relatively easily. Specialized “Armor” scanners can be purchased that scan for armor in a similar manner for the same price, though are less popular.
Binoculars: An old fashioned set of magnifying binoculars. These can be used to increase a user’s viewing range by a factor of ten.
Biomass Targeting Aid: Biomass targeting aids are advanced sensors that can pick out biomass, including from behind most physical barriers and outline them on a display to make living beings easier to hit. This allows shooters to identify and engage targets from behind cover. Biomass targeting aids are integrated into TL14+ Battledress.
Bioscanner: An advanced version of previous cheical compound detectors, the bioscanner takes in information about organic compounds and analyzes them providing a report on life sign analysis to the user.
Bug Sweeper: Bug sweepers detect small electronic sensors, such as bugs that might be hidden in a certain area. Bug sweepers become more capable at higher TLs versus different bugs and deluxe bug sweepers are more capable to start.
Camera: Cameras are a basic, but very important low, and mid tech device that can record photographs, and later video. Initially only capable of black and white static images, cameras eventually become capable of taking high definition, color video, with audio recordings. Proper professional grade cameras are twice as heavier, much more expensive, and require two or more lenses to use properly, but provide substantial benefits in the hands of a skilled user.
Chemiview Goggles: Specialized sensing equipment, Chemiview goggles visualize chemical sniffing technology by adding a visual signifier to the goggle's input in the presence of a scanned chemical.
Densitometer: Densitometers are high tech scanners that rely on gravitic imaging to surpass most other forms of sensing equipment. They can bypass most stealth systems and scan through surfaces as thick as starship hulls.
Digital Multipurpose Camera: A small, but reasonably capable digital camera that can take decent quality photos and video. These cameras are frequently integrated into advanced electronic devices, especially hand computers and mobile comms.
Electronic Binoculars: More capable versions of regular binoculars, electronic binoculars provide additional features, from IR imaging, to integrated rangefinding, and eventually the ability to process and image partially seen objects.
EM Probe: An advanced version of the bug sweeper, EM probes can in addition to finding small electronic bugs, intercept and analyze encrypted transmissions determining, roughly speaking, what these transmissions are for, though not necessarily the exact content. The EM probe also acts as a TL appropriate deluxe bug sweeper.
Geiger Counter: Geiger counters detect and alert the user to the presence of radiation in an area. Higher tech geiger counters also have the ability to run trace chemical analysis and can indicate what specific compound is emitting the radiation and from where.
Ground Penetrating Radar: Ground Penetrating Radars are useful surveying tools that scan an area underneath the group, detecting cavities, buried objects, and other potentially important pieces of information by using powerful radars to emit signals deep underground. As technology advances these devices can penetrate further underground, and eventually provide enough analysis to assist a skilled user in their operation.
Holocamera: An evolution of the traditional camera, holocameras can record three dimensional images, and either print them into traditional 2D art, or with a holographic projector, project three dimensional images and “trideo” presentations. Holographic cameras can benefit from the professional camera modifier if they pay the relevant costs and have multiple professional lenses.
Infrared Goggles: Early “nightvision” goggles that can take IR imaging to create monochromatic images and make things visible in dark conditions. Early forms of IR goggles could not filter out intense light, and very often needed a support IR light to “paint” the environment. More advanced versions of the goggle had better protection against sudden bursts of light, could always operate independently, and could project both in monochrome, and use multicolor IR imaging to better analyze different heat sources if required.
Light Intensifier Goggles: Light intensifier goggles intensified natural light sources and made it easier to see in the dark. Early versions are somewhat unreliable, failing to protect against bright light sources, but even early improvements limited the bloom effect significantly.
Light Intensifier/IR Goggles: These are, quite simply, a specialized set of goggles that integrate the function of IR goggles, and Light Intensifier goggles into a single unit.
Metal Detectors: Used by security personnel and hobbyists alike, metal detectors can detect most metallic objects in up to a certain depth of non-metallic media. This is often used by security personnel to detect hidden weapons and other contraband, or by amateur treasure hunters sweeping for buried coin hoards.
NBC Analyzer/Alert Unit: This device is a more general purpose version of geiger counters detecting potentially dangerous nuclear, biological, chemical, or radiological agents, alerting the user to their presence, and providing a basic analysis of the threat. This is a common device among surveyors who need to study the more invisible dangers of planetary surfaces in the process of mapping them out.
Neural Activity Scanner: Neural activity scanners can detect and analyze neural activity in a localized area. It can determine if there is any animal life, and the level of its intelligence on the fly. From TL 16 onwards neural activity scanners have PSI detection functions integrated into them automatically.
PRIS Binoculars: PRIS Binoculars provide long range PRIS (IR, Light Intensification, and Geiger) macro functionality, and the functions of a pair of TL equivalent electronic binoculars into a single unit.They are typically used as standalone binoculars, but are integrated into Vacc Suit and Battledress suites from TL13 onwards, and hands-free monocle variants for other armors also tend to arrive at this level of technological development.
PRIS Goggles: PRIS goggles provide short range PRIS functionality. This provides finer analysis when handling materials, but lacks the long distance, broad scope, functionality of goggles.
PRIS Sunglasses/Visor: The ultimate development of PRIS sensing technology, this object coming in the form of a visor coating or a pair of sunglasses dramatically reduces the weight and bulk of the object. It can more easily be controlled by an integrated wristwatch controller, or by any device with Computer/0 or better. Though most units provide only long or short range functionality, multipurpose units with both can be purchased for an additional GCr500.
PSI Finder Binoculars: A development of PRIS Binoculars, PSI Finder binoculars have PRIS capabilities, and can additionally detect the aura of psionically active people and psychoactive objects. More advanced visor coatings exist starting from TL17, and which can be integrated into Vacc Suit and Battledress Suites.
PSI Detector: A basic device made at relatively low tech levels that detect and evaluate the psionic potential of scanned persons. Though in theory, everyone has some psionic potential, the overwhelming majority of people will return a “Clear” rating indicating no such potential. Those with noteworthy latent, or honed psionic abilities will have the rough level of their capability analyzed.
Weapon Scanner: More pointed than metal detectors, weapon scanners scan for weapons specifically and can detect most relatively easily. Specialized “Armor” scanners can be purchased that scan for armor in a similar manner for the same price, though are less popular.
Computers
The quintessential electronic device, computers are advanced math machines that have been leveraged into a number of fields through increasingly obscured applications of the "advanced math machine" concept. They usually use the Electronics (computers) skill. Computers bypass usual TL cost reduction, any mainframe, portable, or midsize computer’s price reduces by half each tech level behind the local market it is until it reaches a discount of 95%.Computer Descriptions
Computer Terminal/Interface: The computer terminal interface provides a simple computer that can be used as a user friendly interface for non-skilled personnel accessing a supercomputer. More advanced versions with networking and voice commands start to exist at higher tech levels.
Data Display/Recorder: Data displays are another computer aiding tool that displays data from linked computers. Up to 24 hours of data can be displayed.
Data Storage: Various forms of data storage, from primitive magnetic tapes to high technology crystal optical and crystaliron solid state drives. These data storage units store data of course, but can also store entire computer programs, however there are limits based on the storage type, to the power of programs that can be stored on a single drive. Larger programs can be stored on multiple drives so long as the total value of maximal programming exceeds the size of the program.
Data Wafer: Wafers are an advanced data storage technology making use of laser etched crystals. Noteworthy for extremely high data storage, and extreme longevity. These can store programs of any size.
Integrated Camera: A camera integrated into a computer. Can be used for remote communications when paired with integrated comms.
Integrated Comms: Allows a computer to communicate with other computers within 50 kilometers, or those within a dedicated network. Integrated comms also allow a computer to access a local area network, or a planetary internet.
Mainframe Computer: Mainframe computers are the lowest tech form of electronic computing available, taking up an entire room, and with limited programming power at first, they slowly become smaller and more capable as technology advances. Starting at TL 7 multiple mainframes can be linked into a single, more powerful super computer at a geometric rate, (for example, two Advanced Mainframes can make a Computer/3 super computer, four can make a Computer/5, eight can make a Computer/6 and so on). However, mainframes can only support a computer power of the lowest actual tech level used to link up a super computer.
Mid-Size Computer: Smaller than full sized mainframes, mid-size computers are fairly large (ranging from the size of a closet, to “portable” units that fit into a backpack but require external power, and usually external input and display devices that take up more space). These are more capable than traditional mainframes, and eventually take over as the equivalent of mainframes and super computers at higher tech levels. Mid size computers, like mainframes can be linked together to create supercomputers at a geometric rate, but have no limitations on what strength they can achieve, if present in sufficient numbers.
Military Portacomp: Military portacomps are portable computers built automatically to the military grade specifications in a compact form. These devices are extremely secure, and unusually sturdy for a computer meaning they can be used as cover (with a Prot of +6), so long as the user doesn’t mind the chance (a roll of 6 or less on 2D) that a shot will destroy the computer.
Milspec Computer: If a buyer is willing to pay a hefty price (10x the usual price), they can upgrade a computer to military spec. This makes a computer more resilient to EMP or ion attacks. Additionally, milspec computers are extremely efficient with cybersecurity and hacking based programs giving them additional bandwidth equal to a fifth of their tech level (minimum 1) on Decrypt, Security, or Intrusion software.
Portable Computer: These are small, relatively powerful computers that can be readily transported and used by the average person in a single unit (though additional hardware can usually also be plugged in if the user wants). This would include all equivalents to modern laptops and tablets. Portable computers cannot be linked together to create supercomputers, but can serve as a more capable version of a Computer Terminal or Interface.
Specialized Computer, Intellect: A specialized computer interface with an intellect program installed. This allows a computer to autonomously run Expert programs without a skilled user present.
Specialized Computer, Intelligent Interface: A specialized computer interface that is more capable than usual. An Intelligent Interface program is built automatically that allows skilled users (minimum skill 0) to run Expert programs, providing a DM+1 to checks the skilled user makes using the computer.
Data Display/Recorder: Data displays are another computer aiding tool that displays data from linked computers. Up to 24 hours of data can be displayed.
Data Storage: Various forms of data storage, from primitive magnetic tapes to high technology crystal optical and crystaliron solid state drives. These data storage units store data of course, but can also store entire computer programs, however there are limits based on the storage type, to the power of programs that can be stored on a single drive. Larger programs can be stored on multiple drives so long as the total value of maximal programming exceeds the size of the program.
Data Wafer: Wafers are an advanced data storage technology making use of laser etched crystals. Noteworthy for extremely high data storage, and extreme longevity. These can store programs of any size.
Integrated Camera: A camera integrated into a computer. Can be used for remote communications when paired with integrated comms.
Integrated Comms: Allows a computer to communicate with other computers within 50 kilometers, or those within a dedicated network. Integrated comms also allow a computer to access a local area network, or a planetary internet.
Mainframe Computer: Mainframe computers are the lowest tech form of electronic computing available, taking up an entire room, and with limited programming power at first, they slowly become smaller and more capable as technology advances. Starting at TL 7 multiple mainframes can be linked into a single, more powerful super computer at a geometric rate, (for example, two Advanced Mainframes can make a Computer/3 super computer, four can make a Computer/5, eight can make a Computer/6 and so on). However, mainframes can only support a computer power of the lowest actual tech level used to link up a super computer.
Mid-Size Computer: Smaller than full sized mainframes, mid-size computers are fairly large (ranging from the size of a closet, to “portable” units that fit into a backpack but require external power, and usually external input and display devices that take up more space). These are more capable than traditional mainframes, and eventually take over as the equivalent of mainframes and super computers at higher tech levels. Mid size computers, like mainframes can be linked together to create supercomputers at a geometric rate, but have no limitations on what strength they can achieve, if present in sufficient numbers.
Military Portacomp: Military portacomps are portable computers built automatically to the military grade specifications in a compact form. These devices are extremely secure, and unusually sturdy for a computer meaning they can be used as cover (with a Prot of +6), so long as the user doesn’t mind the chance (a roll of 6 or less on 2D) that a shot will destroy the computer.
Milspec Computer: If a buyer is willing to pay a hefty price (10x the usual price), they can upgrade a computer to military spec. This makes a computer more resilient to EMP or ion attacks. Additionally, milspec computers are extremely efficient with cybersecurity and hacking based programs giving them additional bandwidth equal to a fifth of their tech level (minimum 1) on Decrypt, Security, or Intrusion software.
Portable Computer: These are small, relatively powerful computers that can be readily transported and used by the average person in a single unit (though additional hardware can usually also be plugged in if the user wants). This would include all equivalents to modern laptops and tablets. Portable computers cannot be linked together to create supercomputers, but can serve as a more capable version of a Computer Terminal or Interface.
Specialized Computer, Intellect: A specialized computer interface with an intellect program installed. This allows a computer to autonomously run Expert programs without a skilled user present.
Specialized Computer, Intelligent Interface: A specialized computer interface that is more capable than usual. An Intelligent Interface program is built automatically that allows skilled users (minimum skill 0) to run Expert programs, providing a DM+1 to checks the skilled user makes using the computer.
Computer Programs
Computer programs are programs that can be slotted into computers. Each has a bandwidth value representing the amount of processing power a computer program takes up on a compatible computer. Programs can only be run on a computer of the same TL or higher than the minimum TL of the program. While programs here can run on shipboard computers and ship programs (consult High Guard for a list), can in theory be used by portable computers, in both cases this is usually seen as a waste of computing resources.Software Descriptions
Agent: Agent software is a combination of a specialized Intellect, and Expert program for Electronics (computers) rolled into one piece of software. This allows the computer in question to do most tasks requiring the Electronics (computer skill). When used in conjunction with a skilled user it adds a DM+2 to their skill check instead.
Clone Creation: Clone Creation software allows a skilled user to modify the genetic template of a living being in preparation for the cloning process. More advanced versions of the software allow the user to create novel creatures, at first from a template of a known species of creature, and then eventually completely from scratch.
Database: Database software stores a large quantity of data. Data can be retrieved with an Electronics (computer) skill check. Database software requires no bandwidth to run, but cannot be run on a computer that doesn’t have some form of Interface software. Multiple databases can be stored on data wafers and accessed via on version of database software.
Decryptor: Decryption software attempts to decrypt encrypted communications in real time requiring a Very Difficult (12+) Electronics (communication) check. If a user is willing to wait a DM+1 is given for each 1D hours provided to decrypt. If the software is of a higher TL an additional DM+2. Decryptor software are only available at the specified TL and cannot decrypt transmissions of a higher TL.
Digital Friend: Digital Friends are a specialized variant of the Intellect program that has a definable, and somewhat customizable personality. This makes it a perfect companion for people that spend a long time in isolation (such as belters, and scouts). It can also provide therapeutic aid, though not as effectively as an actual therapist. In a pinch, Digital Friends also serves as Intellect software, but is considered as operating at bandwidth 3, for the purposes of determining the bandwidth of the Expert package it can run.
Drone Control: Drone control software allows a nonspecialized computer to command drones like an Improved Drone Command Console, or an Advanced Drone Command Console. The only exception to this is that drones can only share up to audiovisual data in this manner.
Entertainment: Entertainment programs cover a wide range of video, audio, video game, and VR players that serve no practical purpose but provide entertainment for the user. More advanced versions of this software provide increasingly immersive experiences until Entertainment/3 which is only surpassed by Avatar sleeving for immersion.
Expert: Expert programs allow a computer to mimic a specific skill. If used as an aid, Expert programs provide a DM+1 to a check made by a skilled user. Expert programs can be run autonomously by computers with Intellect software at a skill equal to the level of Expert program running. For base program costs and the TLs at which they become available please consult the Central Supply Catalogue (page 70) (or the Core Rulebook (page 111) if you don’t have the CSC), prices multiply by ten per level of Expert program beyond 1 (Expert/2 costs 10x more, Expert/3 100x, etc.), and TL increases by 1 each for Expert/2, 3, and 4, and by 2 for Expert/5. In addition to the INT or EDU based skills provided in the Central Supply Catalogue, Expert programs for any other skill not previously covered (often physical skills) are available from TL12 at a base cost of GCr500.
Fabrication: Fabrication software allows the user to design items for production by fabrication chambers. More advanced versions of the software are compatible with increasingly more advanced chambers, allowing for a broader and broader array of components to be created.
Interface: A basic graphical (or eventually, holographic) user interface. It takes no bandwidth to run. Unless specifically ordered without one, computers are assumed to have this basic interface software for free. Intelligent Interface: An advanced variant of the interface, the Intelligent Interface has some level of built in artificial intelligence. This allows it to run Expert programs in conjunction with a skilled (minimum level 0). Specialized Computers can be ordered that run Intelligent Interfaces as default with no bandwidth, but these cost extra. Intellect: Intellect programs provide true artificial intelligence and can autonomously run Expert skill packages at the level indicated, providing user friendly results at increasingly high skill levels as the Intellect software becomes more advanced. These software packages consume a considerable amount of bandwidth, but very expensive specialized computers exist that run TL appropriate Intellect Software as default (and with no bandwidth consumed).
Intrusion: Intrusion software allows a skilled hacker to more easily break into secured systems, providing a DM bonus to the roll equal to the level of Intrusion package used. This program is intended to run with a skilled user at the helm, but could, in theory, be used by a sufficiently powerful computer autonomously with an Agent Package (Minimum Agent/2) or Intellect and Expert package for Electronics (computer).
Personal Trainer: Usually based on special Digital Friend software, personal trainers help a user with their own education, providing knowledge and encouragement (and a DM+2) for efforts to improve post career skills. Unlike traditional digital friend software, personal trainers cannot be used as Intellect programs, as their excess bandwidth is consumed by the training function.
Security: Security programs make a computer more difficult to access. This ranges from fairly basic firewalls that are often for free included in consumer computer sales, to increasingly complex, military grade, metamorphic defense algorithms for a computer.
Swarm Control: Swarm Control software allows a nonspecialized computer to act as a Swarm Controller of a level indicated by the level of software installed.
Translate: Translate software provides near realtime (or true realtime with Translate/1) translation of a selection of regional languages. True universal translation is difficult due to all the local dialects present in a galactic civilization, but is technically possible if used in conjunction with TL15 Database software dedicated to storing languages. If a universal database is undesirable, regional updates can be swapped or downloaded into a database at any type C or better Starport or any TL9+ world with a comms system (which is most), indeed such updates are provided for free to ease communication.
Universal Translator: Universal Translators are more advanced versions of Translate software. In addition to translation functions of Translate/1, a skilled Linguist (or a sufficiently powerful Computer with Intellect and Expert packages (for Science (Social/linguistics)) can decipher an unknown language given one hour of speech samples. A Difficult (10+) check is required with an effect of -6 or worse causing gross mistranslation, and an effect of 6 or better allowing full realtime translation available on the first attempt. Multiple checks can be made, once a week reducing the required DM by 2 each attempt.
Clone Creation: Clone Creation software allows a skilled user to modify the genetic template of a living being in preparation for the cloning process. More advanced versions of the software allow the user to create novel creatures, at first from a template of a known species of creature, and then eventually completely from scratch.
Database: Database software stores a large quantity of data. Data can be retrieved with an Electronics (computer) skill check. Database software requires no bandwidth to run, but cannot be run on a computer that doesn’t have some form of Interface software. Multiple databases can be stored on data wafers and accessed via on version of database software.
Decryptor: Decryption software attempts to decrypt encrypted communications in real time requiring a Very Difficult (12+) Electronics (communication) check. If a user is willing to wait a DM+1 is given for each 1D hours provided to decrypt. If the software is of a higher TL an additional DM+2. Decryptor software are only available at the specified TL and cannot decrypt transmissions of a higher TL.
Digital Friend: Digital Friends are a specialized variant of the Intellect program that has a definable, and somewhat customizable personality. This makes it a perfect companion for people that spend a long time in isolation (such as belters, and scouts). It can also provide therapeutic aid, though not as effectively as an actual therapist. In a pinch, Digital Friends also serves as Intellect software, but is considered as operating at bandwidth 3, for the purposes of determining the bandwidth of the Expert package it can run.
Drone Control: Drone control software allows a nonspecialized computer to command drones like an Improved Drone Command Console, or an Advanced Drone Command Console. The only exception to this is that drones can only share up to audiovisual data in this manner.
Entertainment: Entertainment programs cover a wide range of video, audio, video game, and VR players that serve no practical purpose but provide entertainment for the user. More advanced versions of this software provide increasingly immersive experiences until Entertainment/3 which is only surpassed by Avatar sleeving for immersion.
Expert: Expert programs allow a computer to mimic a specific skill. If used as an aid, Expert programs provide a DM+1 to a check made by a skilled user. Expert programs can be run autonomously by computers with Intellect software at a skill equal to the level of Expert program running. For base program costs and the TLs at which they become available please consult the Central Supply Catalogue (page 70) (or the Core Rulebook (page 111) if you don’t have the CSC), prices multiply by ten per level of Expert program beyond 1 (Expert/2 costs 10x more, Expert/3 100x, etc.), and TL increases by 1 each for Expert/2, 3, and 4, and by 2 for Expert/5. In addition to the INT or EDU based skills provided in the Central Supply Catalogue, Expert programs for any other skill not previously covered (often physical skills) are available from TL12 at a base cost of GCr500.
Fabrication: Fabrication software allows the user to design items for production by fabrication chambers. More advanced versions of the software are compatible with increasingly more advanced chambers, allowing for a broader and broader array of components to be created.
Interface: A basic graphical (or eventually, holographic) user interface. It takes no bandwidth to run. Unless specifically ordered without one, computers are assumed to have this basic interface software for free. Intelligent Interface: An advanced variant of the interface, the Intelligent Interface has some level of built in artificial intelligence. This allows it to run Expert programs in conjunction with a skilled (minimum level 0). Specialized Computers can be ordered that run Intelligent Interfaces as default with no bandwidth, but these cost extra. Intellect: Intellect programs provide true artificial intelligence and can autonomously run Expert skill packages at the level indicated, providing user friendly results at increasingly high skill levels as the Intellect software becomes more advanced. These software packages consume a considerable amount of bandwidth, but very expensive specialized computers exist that run TL appropriate Intellect Software as default (and with no bandwidth consumed).
Intrusion: Intrusion software allows a skilled hacker to more easily break into secured systems, providing a DM bonus to the roll equal to the level of Intrusion package used. This program is intended to run with a skilled user at the helm, but could, in theory, be used by a sufficiently powerful computer autonomously with an Agent Package (Minimum Agent/2) or Intellect and Expert package for Electronics (computer).
Personal Trainer: Usually based on special Digital Friend software, personal trainers help a user with their own education, providing knowledge and encouragement (and a DM+2) for efforts to improve post career skills. Unlike traditional digital friend software, personal trainers cannot be used as Intellect programs, as their excess bandwidth is consumed by the training function.
Security: Security programs make a computer more difficult to access. This ranges from fairly basic firewalls that are often for free included in consumer computer sales, to increasingly complex, military grade, metamorphic defense algorithms for a computer.
Swarm Control: Swarm Control software allows a nonspecialized computer to act as a Swarm Controller of a level indicated by the level of software installed.
Translate: Translate software provides near realtime (or true realtime with Translate/1) translation of a selection of regional languages. True universal translation is difficult due to all the local dialects present in a galactic civilization, but is technically possible if used in conjunction with TL15 Database software dedicated to storing languages. If a universal database is undesirable, regional updates can be swapped or downloaded into a database at any type C or better Starport or any TL9+ world with a comms system (which is most), indeed such updates are provided for free to ease communication.
Universal Translator: Universal Translators are more advanced versions of Translate software. In addition to translation functions of Translate/1, a skilled Linguist (or a sufficiently powerful Computer with Intellect and Expert packages (for Science (Social/linguistics)) can decipher an unknown language given one hour of speech samples. A Difficult (10+) check is required with an effect of -6 or worse causing gross mistranslation, and an effect of 6 or better allowing full realtime translation available on the first attempt. Multiple checks can be made, once a week reducing the required DM by 2 each attempt.
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