The Star Wars universe relies heavily upon computers and the software, and in the last few thousand years, computers have pretty much hit the physical boundaries. The entire schematics to the Death Star could fit in the palm of your hand. However, there are a number of needs for computer users with the portable computers, called Datapads and Hackpads. The following are rules to use describing the storage space available in these portable computers.
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 datapad has a set Storage Point Pool. A computer cannot store more information than it has storage points left. Some datapads and hackpads can be upgraded with more storage.
Accessories: Since datapad manufacturers try to skimp and cut corners when they can, most carry second-rate video and audio (if any) circuitry. It is possible to upgrade a datapad’s video card, audio card and processor.
Repair or Modification: Modifying an existing datapad can be easy if the datapad acquired has the specific slots or is made to be augmented with other equipment. The DC of “Repair” in this case would be 8. Trying to splice or jury rig a datapad that wasn’t designed for augmentation, the DC would be 25.
Different Machines: with so many manufacturers and programmers in the galaxy, not every machine is compatible with the other. When trying to access different machines than one’s own datapad, there is a –4 Computer Use penalty leveled on the operator.
Hackpad- this is a specialized version of the Datapad, constructed using a motherboard, processor, memory and storage drives. This kind of datapad allows for the most augmentation and typically hackpads are easy to modify, use better than standard parts and cost a bit more. Regular hackpad has 15 storage points. Cost- 1400 to 2000 credits
Datapad- store bought and meant to play menial games, word process and interact with computers. This is the classic datapad and often is built with standard parts. Regular datapad has 10 storage points. Cost- 1000 credits
Radiation Shielding- working with datapads in space can be dangerous due to radiation and other environmental changes. Affords the computer with a +3 fortitude vs. radiation (DC varies depending on environment, from 1-20). Cost- 150 credits
Extra Storage- many times one storage drive just isn’t enough for programmers and hackers. Music and movie enthusiasts want more storage as well. Some hackpads have room for as many three extra storage drives. Datapads (sometimes) allow for 1 extra storage drive. Storage drives add +5 storage points. Cost- 200 credits
Eagle Processor- built to replace standard processors, the Eagle is the fastest commercial processor on the market. In terms of speed, it affords a +1 Computer Use, allowing applications to move faster and surfing the net is a breeze. However, the +1 Computer Use is negated if the operator doesn’t have at least 5 skill ranks in Use Computer. Cost- 500 credits
Hermes Processor- the Hermes is a closely guarded processor used by corporations and governments for their hack trackers (special computer operators whose sole job is to locate hackers, trace them and protect the systems). No commercial vendor has access to a Hermes, but the black market sometimes runs across one. Affords a +3 Computer Use if the operator has at least 5 ranks in Computer Use. Cost- variable, 2500 credits minimum
Datadisks- small, compact and cheap. These little disks (5 cm diameter) hold ¼ storage point each and is usually packed with encryption, structure and protection to insure it lasts at least 300 years in a temperate environment. People can store documents, common programs and other information on datadisks. Datadisks have become almost universal for datapads. Datadisks can be rewritten, but only 3 times, after that and it’s a coaster. Cost- 10 credits each
Datadisk Reader- portable and utilizing a universal data link for use in personal datapads, these players read and burn datadisks. Styles vary from black to silver. Cost- generic is 100 credits
Universal Computer Jack- 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. This negates the standard –4 penalty Computer Use between foreign computers. Allows importation of information and exportation of information to other sources, like a large monitor, etc. Cost- 100 credits
Microwave Dish- separate relay and transmitter using ancient microwave technology to send signals through space. Allows a remote link to ‘hack’ or access computers. There are many styles with various ranges. Higher ranges means higher cost. Range and Cost- 50 meters (200 credits), 5 km (1,000 credits), 50 km (10,000 credits), 500 km (100,000 credits) and 5,000 km (1 million credits).
Audio System- Just because a datapad has an audio card doesn’t mean it can produce sound without speakers or an add-on. Most datapads have enough speakers to beep and squirk. Standard Speakers include 1 speaker set on remote (35 credits), Good Speakers includes 2 speakers to include stereo technology (100 credits), Excellent Speakers includes 4 positional speakers for surround sound (250) and the Home Theater includes a bass cube and 10 positional speakers (1,000).
Add On Video Chip- better graphics mean more fun for games. Adds a +2 Entertain when playing games on the datapad. Cost- 350 credits
Computers and datapads need software to perform functions, and as such certain programs use so many storage points.
System Bios/Operating System- (1 S.P.) The bare essentials to the computer to enforce stability and structure to the system. Allows for the integration of other programs. A system bios/operating system is required for all datapads.
Encryption- Varying degrees of encryption are available, affording penalties to anyone who tries to decode messages and information without the encryption key. The heavily encrypted, the more storage is required for the information.
Simple (1 S.P.)- simple algorithms are used to scramble a message or file, most common form of encryption, used by small businesses and civilians to keep snoopers from mail and other activities. Cost: 200 credits
Silk (2 S.P.)-
Rock (3 S.P.)-
Lockdown (5 S.P.)-
Holowars- (2 S.P.) A popular strategy game using holorecorders to simulate ground wars in variable technology levels. Good detail, which requires a better than standard video card to run properly, this game is a favorite of soldiers, academy students and teenagers. Used in various networks, allowing game play with other online anonymous people. Droids are not allowed to play online (no fair). Cost- 75 credits
Add-on supplements include Air Wars, Naval Wars and Space Wars, each taking 1 S.P. and costing 35 credits each.
Data Entry- (1 S.P.) used for all forms of charts, word processing, minimum security protocols, package delivery and proofs of ownership. This includes a slew of minor programs used to accomplish basic data entry needs. Cost- 50 credits
Graphic Design- (1 S.P.) complex graphics program used for advertisements, 3D modeling, digital models of real world phenomena, etc. Extensive libraries of graphics can eat up storage space. Cost- 150 credits
Security Protocol- (2 S.P.) used for complex security protocol, passwords, clearance, etc. There are various kinds of security but these programs offer the best offer with thousands of various security protocol. Cost- 200
Internet Software- (1 S.P.) allows access to various nets across the galaxy, usually relegated to planetary internets and regional networks. Gives an identification number and identity, required by many networks. Cost- free/variable, each one requires its’ own storage point.
Music/Audio Player- (1 S.P.) stores and plays digital music. Room for 100 songs, requires 1 S.P. for each additional 200 songs. Cost- 100 credits
Feature Player- (2 S.P.) shows features, such as movies, televid shows and allows the exportation of holographics via universal jack or holojacks. Each 1 S.P. allows for 5 hours of feature. Includes sound and visuals. Better quality feature players are available, enhancing the viewing pleasure with more detail and sharper colors. Cost- 175-500 credits
Rebel Hunter- (1 S.P.) first-person shooter exported by Empire Worlds. Play a fearless bounty hunter to pick off rebel scum. Available over many internets for team fortress games. Allows random missions and holovid compatible. Cost- 50 credits
There is a rogue version of this game on the freenets where every ‘victim’ is a version of government heads. These versions are illegal on Empire held worlds.
Sim Ship- (2 S.P.) build and augment known transport, fighter and capital class starships using the Sim Ship program. Allows simulation of space battles, environmental tolerances, custom engines and hyperdrive augmentation with current prices. Also allows basic starship design and cost estimates. This capability however is laughable compared to the engineering programs available to starship manufacturers. Cost- 300 credits