A multi-scanner is defined in T4's Central Supply Catalog as "a specialized computer designed for interpretation and analyses of environmental data. In its basic form, it is a rectangular box with a belt attachment and contoured grip. On the face is a 3D screen and touchpad. On one side are up to four chip ports, and on the front side there are four smaller data ports. Typically, you would buy a set of programs and sensors appropriate to the tasks you wished to perform. They can be programmed to run automatically to detect and alert the user if certain conditions are met. This could include perimeter watch at night, alerts for radiation or atmospheric toxins, signals within a given part of the radio spectrum, and so on."
Other than the fact that T4 takes place during the lower tech years of the 3I, I couldn't understand why the device's abilities wasn't extrapolated beyond TL-10. The description of a Hand Computer listed in TNE's equipment section seems to be roughly the same thing. Since one of my PCs was interested in the device, I decided to flesh it out a bit more.
Weight | 800 grams (1.76 lbs) |
Data Ports | 4. At TL-13 Holocrystal Storage enables larger databases to be used. |
Sensor Ports | 4 |
Communication Method | For sensors close to the unit, cables are recommended to avoid battery drain. For distant units, a 5km radio is used. At TL-12, Laser communications become available due to decreased power requirements. However, a large external battery or small solar array is necessary to meet even these power requirements. Also, a clear line-of-sight is required and weather conditions may adversely impact communication. |
Battery Life | A 500g battery comes with the device at all tech levels. The values listed
here assume continuous radio transmission to sensors. If transmissions
are kept to a minimum, battery life is greatly extended. Radio reception power
requirements are negligible.
TL-10: 2 hours TL-11: 2.5 hours TL-12: 3.75 hours TL-13: 4 hours TL-14: 5 hours TL-15: 6 hours |
Miscellaneous | The primary device display/interaction method upon introduction is a 3D Screen and Touchpad. Voice recognition, although available at TL-10, does not become a feature for this device until TL-11. An adaptor, becomes available at TL-13 to enable a user to use VR gear for display/interaction. |
Price for each model: 3000cr at tech level of introduction. Price drops to 1/2, 1/4, 1/10, per TL above (GM's discretion). i.e. TL-11 model costs 300cr at TL-14.
A sample of databases one can buy for the Multi. At lower tech levels, the certain large databases and interpretive software may not be compactable onto one disk (GM's discretion).
Database | Cost | Appropriate Sensors |
---|---|---|
Human Anatomy Microbiological Chemical Electromagnetic Spectrum Surveillance Bots (aka Bugs) |
2000cr 2000cr 500cr 200cr 1000cr |
Med Scanner Biosniffer ChemAnalyzer, BioChemSniffer EMS Passive Array, various others (for sections) Bug Scanner |