This is a basic overview of the information that every signal decoder should know.
Signals are detected using a signal map. More distant signals are rarer, but their discovery increases the risk of encountering Evil.
Once detected, immediate action is required. Seekers use fast and lightweight ships to reach the location before the signal disappears.
The signal is downloaded onto a positron matrix. The onboard computer then decodes it. This process takes place in a shielded environment to avoid interference. It can take hours or days, and the ship is at risk throughout the process. Any movement or interference can degrade the signal.
After downloading, the signal is stored on portable media. Each time it is stored, degradation occurs, reducing the quality and number of manufacturing cycles of the technology.
To intercept signals, the ship must remain stationary for an extended period, making it vulnerable to pirates and Evil. Special shielded modules necessary for signal processing reduce the ship's defensive capabilities. Signal locations are often far from human structures and near Evil armies, increasing the risk of attack.
A robot is mechanical and creates interference, so it is not suitable as a crew member for a decoding ship.
If the signal disappears during the decoding process, there is no need to worry— the ship retains the signal in memory and will complete the process.
Manufacturing plans do not take up any space on the ship.
The antenna gain is calculated using the "SCIENCE" [S] property of the astronauts and takes into account whether all scientific workstations in the module are occupied.
Example of antenna efficiency calculation for a module with 3 scientific workstations:
Crew 1 / 3 Members | Crew 2 / 3 Members | Crew 3 / 3 Members | |
---|---|---|---|
Average Crew Science | Antenna Range (%) | Antenna Range (%) | Antenna Range (%) |
1 |
|||
9 |
|||
17 |
|||
25 |
|||
32 |
|||
40 |
|||
48 |
|||
56 |
|||
64 |
|||
72 |
|||
79 |
|||
87 |
|||
95 |
|||
103 |
|||
111 |
|||
119 |
|||
126 |
|||
134 |
|||
142 |
|||
150 |
If there are multiple antennas on the ship, their effectiveness is combined.