Comm unit

A comm unit (short for communications unit) is a technological device that allows for voice, text, and video communication with another appropriate transmitter/receiver. Their ranges vary considerably with size, with the largest being capable of transmitting and receiving communications at a system-wide or even unlimited range via the use of drift beacons. These larger comm units are not portable and are often integrated into spaceships or buildings and have their own built-in generators. Short-term use of such devices can generally be purchased in most settlements.

Transmission time and distance

Comm units that can transmit across an entire solar system generally use the Triune's network of drift beacons to achieve faster-than-light communication, although the transmission time is somewhat randomized. All such messages require anywhere from a few minutes to five hours to reach their destination. Transmissions using the drift beacon network to send a message to a different solar system take the same amount of time as a drift-capable starship to reach their destination (i.e. days or weeks). Because of this, courier ships remain a popular way to transport important messages. As with drift travel, there is no theoretical maximum range such a message could be transmitted via drift beacons, although no single sent beyond the edge of Desna's Path has ever been returned.

Identification

Along with the message, these units generally transmit the user's location and identity via a transponder, although black market versions of comm units exist that do not do so, or the user can simply turn off the transponder function for the same effect. Transponders are standard on all spaceships as they are the primary technology used for ship identification.

Personal comm unit

A personal comm unit (sometimes called a planetary comm unit) is an inexpensive, pocket-sized version of the larger comm unit that allows for both audio and text communication with other comm units (or other transmitter/receivers) on a planetary scale. It contains a small computer, a cellular communications device, a flashlight, and several entertainment options (including games and access to the local infosphere). It can be upgraded to include additional functionality. Most modern armor and many vehicles have integrated personal comm units. While certain individuals connect their comm units to function as private, always-on radio channels, the majority communicate by either entering publicly registered names or private identification codes. Transmissions from personal comm units can be blocked by certain materials and may be actively stopped via targeted electromagnetic jamming. Encryption prevents personal comm units from controlling other machines such as drones or spaceships.