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The universal translator is a device used to produce real-time two-way translation of spoken languages. It operated by sensing and comparing brain-wave frequencies, then selecting comparable concepts to use as a basis for translation. In the 2200's a portable version was commonly used to communicate with a lifeform when on away missions, but with advancements in Computers, the ship's computer took over much of the translating. This enabled real-time communications with a larger range of lifeforms. The most recent step came in the middle of the 24th century when the UT was integrated into the communication badges worn by Star Fleet personnel. Even smaller versions of the universal translator could be inserted into the outer ear, providing unobtrusive operation. Such devices could, however, be disrupted by exposure to beta radiation. The universal translator generally requires an adequate sample of language in order to establish a translation matrix. This device is not infallible by any means, as noted by the unit aboard the U.S.S. Voyager which had great difficulty in translating the language of a mysterious civilization called the Swarm in 2373. (Information for this page adapted from Daystrom Institute Technical Library, ST: Omnipedia multiple other areas)
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