In general, using a computer requires the Knowledge-computer operation specialty skill. An untrained character can perform basic tasks (like word processing or playing a game) without knowing computer operation per se. Anything more complicated requires the use of the specialty.

Computer operation represents a user’s ability to get the most out of a computer’s normal operating parameters. It allows a character to effectively use and operate a computer. The Computer Science broad skill and its specialty skills provide more extensive aptitude to characters willing to put in additional time and training.

The three specialty skills for Computer Science are hacking, hardware, and programming.

• Hacking can’t be used untrained. It allows a character to manipulate programs and infiltrate networks in ways the original designers never intended. In campaigns set at PL 6 or higher, this skill is also used to operate specialized computers such as gridcasters. To use a gridcaster, however, a character has to be wired for it with a nanocomputer, cytronic circuits, and a neural interface jack implanted in his body. A character with hacking doesn’t need computer operation; hacking allows a character to accomplish everything that computer operation covers and more.
• Hardware represents a character’s knowledge and proficiency with the physical components that make up a computer. Understanding how a computer system works, being able to set one up quickly, designing and building your own computer, and (at higher ranks) being able to repair computer components are all covered by this specialty skill.
• Programming provides a character with the training and expertise needed to write computer codes and modify existing programs to achieve a desired effect.

The Computer Itself

For game purposes, a computer consists of a processor, active memory, stored memory, and various interface devices. This basic model holds true for all computers through at least Progress Level 7.

Processor

The processor determines a computer’s power, represented as a situation die bonus to action checks when a character is specifically operating the computer. This bonus ranges from no bonus for a Marginal processor to -1 for Ordinary, -2 for Good, and -3 for processors rated as Amazing.

A co-processor can be added to a computer to provide a -1 bonus to a user’s computer operation or hacking skill checks when operating the computer.

Memory

The quality of a computer’s processor also determines its memory capacity. A processor divides memory (its data storage capacity) into active memory and stored memory.

• Active memory determines the number of programs the computer can use at a given time, equal to the number of active memory slots. A program has a specific size that takes up a number of slots; a size 3 program requires 3 slots of active memory.
• Stored memory holds programs and datafiles on the computer that are not currently in active memory. For game purposes, stored memory isn’t a major concern. Between hard drives and disks, a character can store all of the programs and datafiles she might want to carry around.
• Loading Programs. It requires an action to move a single program from stored to active memory, or to replace a program in active memory with one from stored memory.

Operating System

A computer’s operating system, or OS, provides the basic parameters under which the machine operates. Every processor comes with a built-in OS that matches the quality of the hardware. Though the OS is considered to be active, it doesn’t use up any active memory slots.

Every OS includes the following basic functions: copy, delete, error recognition, file management, protection, protocol, and save.

Interface Device

Every computer comes with an interface device. Standard interface devices include monitors, keyboards, trackballs, styluses, voice recognition technology, and neural connections that allow characters to plug their minds directly into computer systems. GIDs (Grid interface devices), a special type of equipment for use with computers of Progress Levels 6 and 7, are described in detail under “Users in the Grid".

Computers Through The Ages

• Progress Level 5 (Information Age): Defined by an explosion in computer technology. Near the midpoint of the Information Age, the first Grid appears. The basic computers of PL 5 are the supercomputer, the mainframe, the desktop, and the notebook.
• Progress Level 6 (Fusion Age): Experiences breakthroughs including three-dimensional crystal hologram memory storage systems (3Ds), improved processors, and cytronic circuitry that allows users to experience virtual reality in the Grid. New types of computers appear: the gridcaster, the microcomputer, the nanocomputer, and the data slate.
• Progress Level 7 (Gravity Age): Ushers in an advancement in computer miniaturization and power. New technology has led to the development of the computer gauntlet, worn over the forearm and hand.

Computer Costs

Peripherals

• NIJack (Neural Interface Jack): First developed at PL 6, a NIJack is a plug on a character’s body connected to internal cytronic circuitry, allowing a direct data link to cybernetic machinery. It is essential for a gridpilot to link into a gridcaster.
• 3Ds and X3Ds: At PL 6, magnetic storage is replaced by three-dimensional crystal hologram storage devices (3Ds). A standard 3D holds programs totaling 2 slots of memory; the larger X3Ds hold up to 5 slots.
• Memory Harness: Developed at PL 7, this harness is a storage system for a scaled-down artificial intelligence (AI) program, as full AI programs are too large for portable computers.
• Subdermal NIJack: At PL 7, these connections are installed in the wrist or forearm so a gridcaster gauntlet can be plugged directly into a user’s cytronic circuitry without cables.
• Wireless NIJack: A sensor (usually on the head or neck) that completes a data link with a computer via radio emissions within 10 meters line-of-sight, requiring no hard-wired connection.

The Grid

The worldwide computer network known as the Grid expands and improves as time goes by.

• At Progress Level 5, the Grid is a network of computer systems linked by modems and telephone lines. It’s used for entertainment, news, and information sharing.
• At Progress Level 6, the Grid covers the solar system and incorporates virtual reality. Users with a nanocomputer and a gridcaster can generate “grid-selves” or “shadows” to explore the virtual Gridscape.
• At Progress Level 7, each star system has its own Grid, connected by slower-than-light drivespace relays.

Users in the Grid

Anyone can use the Grid. There are two basic Grid interface devices (GIDs): dumb and smart.

• Dumb GIDs (like a telecomm or gridstation) don’t allow a user to fully enter the virtual Gridscape. Interaction is via monitors and manual interfaces.
• Smart GIDs (like gridcasters) allow full interaction with the Grid, letting a user “enter” the Grid, especially if they have cytronic circuitry.

Programs

Computer programs (software) are sets of instructions that enable a computer to perform a specific function. Every program belongs to one of three categories—operation, hacking, or utility—and has a quality rating (Marginal, Ordinary, Good, or Amazing).

Artificial Intelligence

An artificial intelligence (AI) program provides a vehicle or complex with a self-aware computer assistant or operations supervisor. At Progress Level 6, AI programs are new, expensive, and not integrated into everyday society. An AI program can’t be loaded into a personal computer system; it’s too large. A scaled-down version can be loaded into a memory harness.

The quality of the supercomputer’s processor provides a situation die modifier for all actions an AI might attempt. The quality of the AI program determines its Ability Scores (Intelligence, Will, and Personality). An AI can utilize user programs that contain broad or specialty skills associated with these abilities.

Robots

Practical robots appear at Progress Level 5. These are basically automated machines either controlled by a remote operator or by a dedicated computer program. At PL 6, programmable, human-sized robots become more refined. At PL 7, materials and technology become advanced enough to allow for more multipurpose robots.

Robots are equipped with computer processors that determine their action modifiers and memory slots. Their Intelligence score is also dictated by the processor, while other Abilities depend on the robot’s form and function.

Spaceship Computers

Spaceships of Progress Level 6 are stock models. All ship functions and systems make use of the computer that comes with the command compartment, which is a mainframe with a Marginal processor. Dedicated computer systems can be added to other compartments. At PL 7, all qualities of dedicated systems are available, including a new AI supercomputer system.