Computer Rules and Equipment

Art and Text by Silas "Ravager_of_worlds" DeBoer

Layout Courtesy Derek 'Nafai' Jones

SWRPGNetwork

The Star Wars universe relies heavily upon computers and in the last few thousand years, computers have pressed computer power to the physical boundaries. The schematics of the Death Star could fit in the palm of a hand. However, there are a number of needs for computer users with portable computers, called Datapads or Slicepads. These are used as personal planners, diaries and workstations. They come from a variety of manufacturers in a multitude of compositions. The following are guidelines in modifying and personalizing a datapad beyond the current rules of Star Wars RPG. All references to WEG products are trademarks of West End Games. This is a supplement for both GMs and Players.

KEY

Storage:

The physical or virtual space a computer has to work with. Since all datapad manufacturers produce the cheapest product for the most profit, this means that storage is still limited. In the sense of game terms, each computer has a set Storage Point Pool. A computer cannot store more information than it has storage points left. Some datapads and slicepads can be upgraded with more storage.

Accessories:

Since datapad manufacturers try to skimp and cut corners when they can, most carry second-rate holo and audio (if any) circuitry. It is possible to upgrade a datapad's holo, audio and processor.

Availability:

Items with availability in Rise of the Empire (RE), Rebellion (R) and New Jedi Order (NJO) eras. These are the same codes as found in the Arms and Equipment Guide by WotC.

Repair or Modification (Craft):

Some datapads are designed to be augmented with extras. The character must make a Moderate Technical: Computer roll. Trying to splice or jury rig a datapad that wasn't designed for augmentation requires a Very Difficult Technical: Computer roll. With each additional 'accessory,' increase the total difficulty by 1.

Equipment

The following are two types of computers used. Both conform to the description of Datapad on pp. 226 of the WEG Star Wars RPG 2nd edition rulebook.

Scratch Built Slicepad

Cost: 2,000
Weight: 1.5 kg
Storage Points: 15
Availability: 4
Era: RE, R, NJO
This is a specialized version of the datapad, constructed using powerful components in a versatile superstructure. This kind of datapad allows for the most augmentation and slicepads are easy to modify and use top of the line components. No corners have been cut, but a true tech head will continue to push their system to the next level.

TaggeCo. Series A2 Datapad

Cost: 1,000
Weight: 1 kg
Storage Points: 10
Availability: 1
Era: RE, R, NJO
Store bought and meant for menial games, data processors and interaction with computers. This is the classic datapad and often is built with (sub) standard parts.

Accessories

Many companies manufacture datapads and their accessories, but these are examples of well-known (in computer circles) components to upgrade your datapad. Tagge Co. is a major manufacturer of computers and their accessories.

Fabritech Add-On Holo Chip

Cost: 350
Weight: .1 kg
Availability: 1
Era: RE, R, NJO
Better graphics mean more fun for games. Adds a +2 Perception: Games rolls when playing games on the datapad.

Fabritech Datacard Drive

Cost: 100
Weight: .2 kg
Availability: 1
Era: RE, R, NJO
This portable device utilizes a universal data link for use in personal datapads. These devices read and write datacards. Styles vary from black to silver. This is a standard feature on several datapads, but this device is for building a datapad/slicepad or upgrading an older machine. It provides a +1 bonus to Technical: Computer Programming/Repair checks to write information on a datacard.

Tagge Co. Series A2 Datapad

Hermes Series Processor

Cost: 2500
Weight: 0.1 kg
Availability: 4
Era: RE, R, NJO
The Hermes is a closely guarded processor used by corporations and governments for their slice trackers (special computer operators whose sole job is to locate slicers, trace them and protect the systems). No commercial vendor has access to a Hermes, but the black market sometimes runs across one. Provides a +1D Technical: Computer Programming/Repair if the operator has at least 3D in Computer Use.

Locris Systems M80 Microwave Dish

Cost: Variable*
Weight: *Variable
Availability: 3, 4
Era: RE, R, NJO
This separate relay and transmitter uses ancient microwave technology to send signals through space. It allows a remote link to 'slice' or access computers with a receiver. There are many styles with various ranges (see table below). The medium-size dishes are not practical for carrying while operating the dish.

Neuro-Saav VirtuaX Holojack

Cost: 150
Weight: 1 kg
Availability: 4
Era: RE, R, NJO
This specialized jack is protected by many copyrights and sold only by licensed vendors. This is required for a datapad to download holorecordings.

Tagge Co. Audio System

Cost: Variable
Weight: Variable
Availability: 1
Era: RE, R, NJO
Just because a datapad has an audio card doesn't mean it can produce sound without speakers or an add-on. Most datapads have a simple audio modulator to beep and squirk. The Tagge Co. Audio Systems use remote technology and e-cells to produce audio information.

Audio System Variants:

• Standard includes 1 audio modulator set on remote (35 credits, 0.2 kg).
• Good includes 2 audio modulators to include stereo technology (100 credits, 0.5 kg).
• Excellent includes 4 positional audio modulators for surround sound (250 credits, 1 kg).
• Holo Theater Quality includes a bass cube and 10 positional audio modulators (1,000 credits, 3 kg).

Tagge Co. Data Cards

Cost: 10 credits
Weight: .1 kg
Storage Points: .25
Availability: 1
Era: RE, R, NJO
Small, compact and cheap, these little cards hold 1/4 storage point each and are usually packed with encryption, structure and protection to ensure they last at least 300 years in a temperate environment. People can store documents, common programs and other information on data cards. Data cards have become almost universal for datapads. Data cards can be rewritten, but only 10 times before becoming highly unstable; they are generally discarded long before that.

Tagge Co. Data Card

Tagge Co. Eagle Series Processor

Cost: 500
Weight: .1 kg
Availability: 4
Era: RE, R, NJO
Built to replace standard processors, the Eagle is the fastest commercial processor on the market. In terms of speed, it allows applications to move faster and accessing holonets is a breeze. This processor provides a +1D to skill checks if the operator has at least 3D in Technical: Computer/Programming.

Tagge Co. Radiation Shielding

Cost: 150
Weight: .1 kg
Availability: 1 or 2
Era: RE, R, NJO
Working with datapads in space or other hostile environments can be dangerous due to radiation and other environmental changes. This upgrade encases the datapad in a radiation resistant shell to guard against memory deterioration and breakdown. Affords a +1D bonus to the datapad to resist radiation.

Tagge Co. Storage Unit

Cost: 250
Weight: .3 kg
Availability: 1
Era: RE, R, NJO
Many times, one storage drive just isn't enough for programmers and slicers. Music and holodrama enthusiasts often want more storage as well. Some slicepads have room for as many as three extra storage drives. Datapads (sometimes) allow for 1 extra storage drive. Storage drives add +5 storage points.

Udrane B11 Universal Computer Jack

Cost: 100
Weight: .1 kg
Availability: 1
Era: RE, R, NJO
The Udrane B11 allows datapads to be hooked up to alien and foreign manufactured computers. It is a 'smart link' with a separate processor designed to translate between computer systems. It allows importation and exportation of information to other sources like an exterior monitor, data terminal, etc.

Encryption

Varying degrees of encryption are available, affording penalties to anyone who tries to decode messages and information without the encryption key. The more heavily encrypted, the more storage is required for the information.

Simple

Cost: 200
Storage Points: 1
Availability: 1
Era: RE, R, NJO
Simple algorithms are used to scramble a message or file, the most common form of encryption, used by small businesses and civilians to keep snoopers from mail and other activities. This increases the information package by 35%. Anyone trying to decode this kind of information must make a Difficult Technical: Computer Programming/Repair check.

Flimsiplast

Cost: 500
Storage Points: 2
Availability: 4
Era: RE, R, NJO
Using advanced algorithms and a simple AI, this kind of encryption is used by the elite of private investors, personal finance and others seeking to upgrade the security of communications via datapads. This increases the data package by 125%. Anyone trying to decode this kind of information must make a Very Difficult (21) Technical: Computer Programming/Repair check.

Duracrete

Cost: 1,500
Storage Points: 3
Availability: 4, R
Era: RE, R, NJO
Using complex and advanced algorithms, an advanced AI suitable for droid use and thousands of subroutine programs, this kind of encryption increases the information package by 300%. Corporations and large businesses often need this kind of protection for personal datapads. Many governments outlaw this level of encryption. Anyone trying to decode this kind of information must make a Very Difficult (25) Technical: Computer Programming/Repair check.

Lockdown

Cost: 20,000
Storage Points: 5
Availability: 4, X
Era: RE, R, NJO
Used only by governments and powerful crime lords, this is the pinnacle of encryption technology, with numerous false code trails, an advanced AI, chaotic algorithms and light-years of code. Anyone trying to decode this kind of information must make a Heroic Technical: Computer Programming/Repair check and the information size increases 900%.

Computer Programs

Computers and datapads need software to perform functions, and as such certain programs use a certain number of storage points. While the program may not actually use all of a storage point, this is what the program specifies it needs to run. A lot of the space is used for preferences, saved files, etc. Programs use storage points, though if you delete the program, the storage point is freed up. Remember that a computer needs an operating system to work.

Data Entry

Cost: 50
Storage Points: 1
Availability: 1
Era: RE, R, NJO
Used for all forms of charts, word processing, minimum security protocols, package delivery and proofs of ownership. This includes a variety of minor programs used to accomplish basic data entry needs.

Feature Player

Cost: 175
Storage Points: 2
Availability: 1
Era: RE, R, NJO
Plays such things as holodramas, holovid shows and allows the exportation of holographics via a universal jack or a holojack. Each 1 S.P. allows for 5 hours of feature. It includes sound and visuals. Better quality feature layers are available, enhancing the viewing pleasure with more detail, the ability to zoom in and out and other special features. Some of the better players can cost 500 credits and allow one to edit.

Graphic Design

Cost: 150
Storage Points: 1
Availability: 1
Era: RE, R, NJO
Complex graphics programs are used for advertisements, 3D modeling, digital models of real world phenomena, etc. Extensive libraries of graphics can eat up storage space.

Holowars

Cost: 75
Storage Points: 2
Availability: 1
Era: RE, R, NJO
This is a popular strategy game using holographics to simulate ground wars in variable technology levels. Good detail, which requires a better than standard holo chip to run properly, this game is a favorite of soldiers, academy students and teenagers. Used in various networks, allowing gameplay with other online anonymous people. Droids are generally not allowed to play online due to superior reactions and computing power, but some military academies pit prospective students against such specialized droids. Use of this game for more than 6 months affords a +1 bonus to Knowledge:Tactics. Add-on supplements include Fantasy Wars, Air Wars, Naval Wars and Space Wars, each requiring .25 S.P. and costing 35 credits each.

Holonet Software

Cost: Free
Storage Points: 1
Availability: 1
Era: RE, R, NJO
These programs allow access to various networks across the galaxy, usually relegated to planetary and regional networks. It gives an identification number and identity, required by many networks. Many of these 'free' browsers are plagued with advertisements and government notifications. The software companies view this as a public service.

Music/Audio Player

Cost: 100
Storage Points: 1
Availability: 1
Era: RE, R, NJO
Stores and plays digital music. Room for 150 songs, requires 1 S.P. for each additional 200 songs.

Rebel Hunter

Cost: 50
Storage Points: 1
Availability: 1
Era: R, NR
A first-person shooter exported by Empire Worlds, you play a fearless bounty hunter tasked with picking off rebel scum. It is available over many networks for team games and allows random missions and is holovid compatible. There is a rogue version of this game on the freenets where every 'victim' is a government head. These versions are illegal on Empire-held worlds, but in the NJO era it is available from the New Republic infosite.

Security Protocol

Cost: 200
Storage Points: 2
Availability: 4
Era: RE, R, NJO
Used for complex security protocols, passwords, clearance, etc. There are various kinds of security, but these programs offer the best options with thousands of various security protocols.

Operating System

Cost: 500
Storage Points: 1
Availability: 1
Era: RE, R, NJO
The bare essentials for a computer to enforce stability and structure to the system. It allows for the integration of other programs. An operating system is required for all datapads; the cost is for building a datapad.