Wrist-Comm

Andrali-Tech's Wrist PDA Comm System

The PDA-3 comm unit is essentially a "Personal Data Assistant" and commlink, melded into one unit. It is intended to be able to fulfill the functions of a standard comm-link, video unit, data terminal, and personal secretary. Designed around a comm-unit with full voice and two-way video capability and a range of 50 km (orbit capable on sunny, clear days), the unit also contains a chronometer, a calendar and reminders on the calendar (which allows the user to input important notes, dates, etc.), which can be set to notify the user in a number of ways (beeps, vocal notice, vibration, etc).

For standard input, the screen of the PDA-3 acts as a touchpad allowing the user to type in information. This function is somewhat limited, however, due to the size of the touchpad. For more involved input, a standard datapad can jack into the PDA-3. When connected, information can be uploaded to or downloaded from the PDA. It is also possible to connect standard recording-rods to the PDA-3 in order to view or listen to their content with the PDA.

The Wrist-Comm is also available in a "deluxe" version: the PDA-4. This version adds several features that the PDA-3 lacks and is generally more powerful, but this comes at an increased cost and requires an operating fee (due to its expanded abilities) when purchased. In addition to the standard comm-unit functions, the PDA-4 features an increased range of 75 km (orbit capable on partly cloudy days), as well as transmission encryption protocols and frequency jumping ability. Like, the PDA-3, the PDA-4's screen can act as an input touchpad. However, the PDA-4 can also handle simple vocal input in a single language (selected upon purchase, but can be changed at a dealer). Unlike the PDA-3, the deluxe version requires a thumbprint and voice scan matching the authorized user before it will function.

Model: Andrali-Tech - PDA-3 (AT-PDA-4) Cost: 300 credits (500 credits)
Type: Personal Communications System Availability: 2 (2F)
Skill: None (Communications: commlink) Difficulty: Easy (Moderate for the advanced features)
Game Notes:
  1. The PDA-3 and -4 are designed to be simple to operate and thus for normal operations they generally requires no skill checks. Using a datapad or recording-rod as input may require an Easy Communications or Technical check.

  2. The more advanced features of the PDA-4 (encryption and frequency agility) require a Moderate Communications or Difficult Technical skill.


Revised 08/06/98

By Chris Curtis (c-curtis@tamu.edu)

Copyright © 1997 - 1999 Chris Curtis, All rights reserved.
Where appropriate, copyright ©
1997 - 1999 Thomas Hill, All rights reserved.