Replicator

From TFC Galactopedia

The term 'replicator' describes a type of machine capable of converting energy into matter and vice-versa. Technically, this usage would also include a transporter, however the two technolgies are distinct enough to warrant a different label. For all intents and purposes, replicators generate objects from a pattern stored in memory; transporters move matter an energy from one point to another.

Table of contents

1 Origins and Limitations

2 Operation

3 Uses

4 Source Note

Origins and Limitations

The replicator was introduced in Star Trek: The Next Generation installment of the series, being nonexistent on Star Trek: The Original Series (and arguably, in the 23rd century). It can replicate any inanimate matter, as long as a molecular structure is on file, but it cannot create either a living organism of any kind, or antimatter. Only recently has replication technology been able to reproduce dilithium.

Operation

The technology works by forming and rearranging subatomic particles to form the molecules required by a formula on file. The number of calculations that the computer has to perform in order to accomplish this is astounding; however Federation computing technology is not omnipotent. Replicators have difficulty reproducing extremely complex materials (some biological molecules), or substances with exotic, non-periodic compositions.

Uses

Probably the single most important piece of technology in the Federation, its primary use is food and water replication onboard starships, thus eliminating the necessity of stocking provisions. Replication is also used for renewing breathable air on ships and starbases, thus eliminating the necessity of tanks and providing an endless supply of oxygen.

The technology is also used for producing spare parts in case of need, which makes it possible to repair most damage that might be inflicted on starships without the necessity of returning to a starbase and delaying missions.

Further applications include replication of Starfleet uniforms and every-day-objects, such as toys and souvenirs. Replication is also a key part of the Holodeck, so that food, clothes and other objects belonging to a simulation can actually be used or consumed by the participants.

Starfleet's safety protocols prevent any unauthorized replication of dangerous objects such as poisonous substances and weapons. Replication of any controlled medical substances is restricted to Starfleet Medical personnel bearing a valid identification code.

When supplies are no longer needed, in certain cases, they can be "dissolved" back into their constituent components to be reused in the Replicator.

This item, object, or technology originated on the Star Trek side of the Rift.

Source Note

The original version of this article comes from Wikipedia, the free encyclopedia (http://www.wikipedia.org/).

This area is still under revision. Please do not assume any technology information is Canon unless told otherwise by a tech admin/moderator"

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