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| Q: What is the difference between a 'holodeck'
and a 'holosuite'?
A: Size! A holosuite is a small room which generally limit the scale of simulations because less 'real' people can fit in the room. Holodecks are much larger in size - and therefore have more capacity for 'large scale' simulations. Decks are most often found on large ships, bases and in ground based facilities (colonies/outposts). Suites are found on smaller ships, bases, orbital arrays, research facilities and even owned by individuals. How does a holodeck work? It uses both transporter and replicator systems to 'create' very realistic images. Using replicator technology, it can create food, water, or items that can be 'made permanant' - thus enabling you to "go to dinner" and not have to take food with you. Using transporter technology it scans items 'on file' and replicates simulations of them. This can include plants, animals, people, and locations. These items are generally not removed from the holo-emitter's range or they would simply disappear. Replicators do not have the ability to 'replicate life', therefore "living" things cannot be made permanant. While in the emitter's range all "matter" is held in place by force beams operating at a molecular level rather than 'molecular bonds' as in "real" items. The image is in a constant state of change as sensors evaluate where, and what you (and others) are doing. For instance, if you lean against a tree, the computer will alter the force needed in the tree's image to make it "feel real". The computer projects images on the deck/suite walls to provide a realistic setting for the simulation. Even though you may be standing right next to a 'wall' it can appear as though the horizon extends for miles - unless you reach out and touch it (if you knew it was there...). To keep from "running into a wall", the computer uses a variety of tools ranging from transporters which "redirect" your path, to force fields which hold you in place while the scenery moves around you. Only very recently (late 2370's) have 'portable emitters' been developed, but they are limited by power. If they are powered by "batteries" or fuel cells, run-time is short. If linked to a larger power source, it generally limits their mobility. While these devices allow holograms to leave holodecks/suites they are still holograms generated by a computer and not 'living beings'. If the device is removed, damaged or deactivated the hologram will disappear. It has also recently been revealed that long term use of a hologram will cause it to become 'self aware' - and can in effect, become "real", but it remains confined to areas where there are holo-emitters. |
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