Equipment:
Computer Software
There are more varieties of software in the galaxy than could be described on any single site. There are commercial applications designed for business, engineering and design, finances, data processing, entertainment, and countless specialized roles, from target aquisition in military vehicles to banking and securities. The following is a brief discussion of very common programs and those of most interest to adventurers.
| Item | Cost | Weight |
|---|---|---|
| Codebreaker | 250 cr | — |
| Decryption software | 1,000 cr | — |
| Encryption software | 100 cr | — |
| Lifeform database | 150 cr | — |
| Mapping suite | 100 cr | — |
| Personal assistant | 50 cr | — |
| Search bot | 50 cr | — |
| Software library | 120 cr | — |
| Tactical simulation suite | 500 cr | — |
| Trap diagnostic suite | 200 cr | — |
Codebreaker: This software is either illegal or restricted to authorized government personnel just about everywhere on technological worlds. The program uses complex mathematics to analyze and break codes. The software provides a +4 circumstance bonus on Open Lock and Disable Device checks involving electronic locks, computers, and security systems that rely on alphanumeric passcodes. The program must typically be run on a datapad or other computer device with a wireless modem or dataport capable of linking to the targeted system.
Decryption Software: This software is restricted to authorized government personnel. It uses complex mathematical processes to decrypt encoded data. The software grants a +10 circumstance bonus on Cryptography checks to decipher encrypted data.
Encryption Software: This is the standard, commercially available software designed to encrypt private data and communications. The program allows even untrained users to automatically encrypt data. The program comes with a variety of decryption keys and simple routines that allow the user to create new ones. Characters with access to a decryption key can automatically decrypt data encoded using that key.
Lifeform Database: This program is an extensive database of thousands of species encountered on other worlds. The database is by no means comprehensive, focusing on species that are likely to be of interest to professionals in the field, whether explorers, scientists, military personnel, or adventurers. In most cases, the creatures most likely to be of interest to these people are dangerous ones, and potentially threatening or deadly species are by far the most common entries in the database.
The lifeform database gives the user a +2 circumstance bonus on Knowledge checks related to identifying and evaluating a wide variety of creatures. While the database is incomplete, it is fully customizable and expandable. Newly discovered creatures can be entered, and the characteristics and capabilities of creatures can be expanded and altered.
There are several sites on the Infonet maintained by adventurers and explorers where expansions and updates to the lifeform database can be downloaded free. While this information is not always reliable, many starfarers prefer unreliable data to no data at all.
Mapping Suite: This commercial software suite is used to create maps of all kinds. Responding to simple commands or imported data, it can create both realistic three-dimensional layouts and simple two=dimensional schematics. The program features a number of submenus and callouts that allow the user to integrate personal notes and revisions. Files from this program can be linked or uploaded to a digital mapbox.
Personal Assistant: This software is a lifelike personality that acts as an agent. It can handle messages, perform complex commands, and otherwise manage a data system for a character. This software is much simpler than robotic personality modules. There is little chance of someone mistaking this assistant for an actual person, though the graphics can look realistic. There are many different personalities available. The most common design in the business world is that of a sharp eyed, conservatively dressed young woman.
Search Bot: Datapads are usually sold with a wide variety of factory-installed software, including programs designed to search local networks and the Infonet. A search bot is a much more sophisticated software agent. It has a Research skill bonus of +10 and can run autonomous searches for data on a wide variety of networks. The search bot's ability to locate and retrieve data is somewhat dependent on the information and parameters set for the search. A character with 5 or more ranks in Research or Use Device grants the agent a +2 circumstance bonus on its Research checks made while executing the search.
Software Library: This is a collection of code objects and libraries, along with useful program interfaces, that can be used to quickly program new software. The basic modules are easily accessed and can be quickly assembled for a variety of tasks and applications. The character must have an understanding of programming and computer systems to use this software effectively. A software library grants a +10 circumstance bonus on Use Device checks to create new programs.
Tactical Simulation Suite: This military-grade software can be invaluable when sufficient information about the enemy is known and there is enough time to use that information to prepare a plan of attack. Use of this software typically requires advance reconaissance of the enemy and their location. At a practical minimum, a character must know his enemy's race or species, approximate numbers to within 20%, and the general characteristics of the terrain on which the battle will be fought. This data can be gathered from previous contact with the enemy, scouts, magic, or recon robots and drones.
This information is fed into a datapad or other computer, and the program breaks the information down and analyzes it, running simulations of various attack plans until it chooses an optimal course of action. At any time during the simulation, the user can input new data or change parameters to provide intelligent guidance for the system. Assuming minimal requirements are met, the program grants a +2 initiative bonus and a +1 circumstance bonus on attack rolls and saving throws for the duration of the simulated encounter.
Trap Diagnostic Suite: This program must be run on or linked to a device with imaging capabilities. When a character—usually a rogue—discovers a trap or security system, this program evaluates digital footage of the hazard, analyzes it, and presents a customizable sequence of tips and guidelines to assist the character in disarming it. The program grants a +2 circumstance bonus on Disable Device checks to bypass or disarm traps and security systems. The program does not function if digital images of the trigger or trap mechanism cannot be secured and downloaded to the datapad.