Information Technology and Computers

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High-Tech

The power of words and ideas differs from that of the mysterious energy locked within an atomic nucleus or that of solar photons striking a photovoltaic cell...but it can be mighty indeed. "Information technology" encompasses the numerous ways to store, project, and exhibit that power – from carbon paper to the Internet.

The Printed Page

The printing press was a pivotal development of TL4. Sometime around the mid-15th century, somebody – possibly Johannes Gutenberg – developed the technique of making multiple copies using movable type. With a hand-screw press, one man could turn out 250 impressions an hour, which might be many pages of book or newspaper. That man, with less than half a ton of equipment, could transmit a point of view to thousands of people ... if they could read. With the advent of printing, literacy went from being a luxury to a necessity. Printed works remained the standard means of information storage through TL7.

Printing Technology (TL4)

After its invention, the printing press evolved relatively little until the mid-19th century. The speed of these early presses limited the output of any one printer, encouraging diversity of production. Any city – and most towns – could support at least one printer. As literacy increased, so did the demand for newspapers and "job printing" (posters, handbills, waybills, pamphlets, flyers, etc.).

One possible job for an adventurer is that of "tramp printer." Anyone who can compose and set up type – using Professional Skill/TL (Typesetter) (IQ/A) – can find employment. It's an excuse to travel without being branded a vagrant or a ne'er-do-well. The trade lasts well into the opening years of the 20th century.

Hand-Screw Press (TL4). The real strength of this early press isn't its speed but its ruggedness – it requires nothing more than a weighty box of type, a large hand screw, and a wooden frame. 250 pages per hour. With typecase box: $2,500, 1,000 lbs. LC4.

Rotary Press (TL5). A rotary press' cylinders are much faster to crank than a hand screw. 1,000 pages per hour. With typecase box: $5,000, 1,000 lbs. LC4.

Steam-Powered Rotary Press (TL5). A gargantuan rotary press that uses rolls of paper. It cuts and folds newspapers automatically. Requires a crew of 10 men, plus a steam engine for external power. 12,000 pages per hour. $15,000, 10 tons, external power. LC4.

Offset Printing Press (TL6). A large, electrically powered press. 5,000 pages per hour. $30,000, 1 ton, external power. LC4.

Offset Printing Press (TL8). A high-tech printing press capable of producing full-color, photo-quality output on glossy paper. 10,000 pages per hour. $30,000, 800 lbs., external power. LC4.

Books (TL5)

“I cannot live,” Thomas Jefferson once wrote, "without books." He acquired many thousands of books during his lifetime, twice selling off the most extensive private library in the United States at the time. On the first occasion, he sold over 6,000 volumes to replace the 3,000 volumes of the Library of Congress burned by the British in the War of 1812. His library was broad-based, and included works in Latin, French, and Italian, on topics as diverse as history, law, and the sciences.

Adventurers who need to do research or learn a new skill will likely turn to books. For the purpose of Speed-Reading, assume that the average person reads 250 words per minute. A letter-sized page of printed, single-spaced text contains about 500 words. Handwritten text is approximately one-quarter as dense.

Books can sometimes replace expert knowledge. The GM may count reading a suitable reference work or following a repair manual's instructions while actually performing a task as the equivalent of using a skill at default – even if the reader would normally get no default! Roll against the attribute-based default appropriate to the skill's difficulty: attribute-4 if Easy, attribute-5 if Average, attribute-6 if Hard, or attribute-7 if Very Hard. Extra time gives the bonuses under Time Spent, but these can at most remove the default penalty. This usually only works for IQ-based technical skills, but the GM may let suitable works – esoteric manuscripts, unspeakable tomes, magical spellbooks, etc. – enable default use of other skills. A generous GM might even apply Quick Learning Under Pressure afterward.

A typical book weighs 1-5 lbs. (High-Tech weighs approximately 2 lbs.), a large dictionary like Webster's Unabridged weighs about 12 lbs., and a monstrous tome could weigh up to 25 lbs. At TL8, many "books" are computer data files; professional archivists estimate that an average book contains 10 MB of data. At any TL, prices range from free to hundreds of dollars for technical and reference texts.

A scholar under attack might use a book to ward off blows. This may save the defender, but it seldom does the book any good! Treat a large book as an improvised light or small shield (DB 1). It has DR 1-4 for cover purposes, depending on thickness.

Blank Book (TL5). A journal or diary. Higher-quality versions have a nicer cover. Holdout -1. $15, 0.5 lb. LC4.

Notebook (TL6). A pocket-sized book with a few dozen pages. At TL8, higher-quality versions have waterproof paper. Holdout -1. $1, 0.1 lb. LC4.

Libraries (TL5)

The personal library has long been the mark of a learned man. In 1790, George Washington's library exceeded 900 volumes – mainly on law and agriculture – and was approximately one-tenth the size of Harvard College's.

A library can be a useful tool for adventurers. The GM may allow a suitable library to serve as the curriculum when learning or improving a skill (see Self-Teaching). Generally, the higher the skill levels involved, the more extensive the required library.

A library can also act as a reference for a skill – or for a skill specialty, if the skill allows or requires specialization. It permits Research rolls to look up answers to questions germane to that skill, possibly at a bonus for quality. The bonus for a high-quality library might sometimes extend to the skill itself, at the GM's option. Read the skill's description, in particular its specialties, to assess the breadth of a particular library; e.g., one could have a library for History (20th-Century Military) but not for History in general. If using a library for research outside its area, apply the modifiers under Geographical and Temporal Scope to Research rolls.

Many "libraries" are actually sizable collections on diverse topics stored in one place. Most public libraries would count as a basic library (see below) for dozens of subjects. A higher-quality library might be the sort of "special collection" found at a large university, and cover only a single, narrow field.

How big is a library? Librarians measure the size of a collection by the amount of shelving it occupies, in linear feet. A 7'-long bookshelf stacked eight shelves high is 56 linear feet. Average book count is 8-12 per linear foot. The Library of Congress is reckoned to be the largest library in the world, at nearly 3 million linear feet – over 530 miles of shelving. See the Data Storage Table for another way to compare library and database sizes.

Below, the listed price assumes a mundane skill. Libraries for magical research, Hidden Lore, etc., may cost 100 times as much, if they're available at all.

Small Collection. Perhaps a dozen works on a single topic. This is "improvised equipment"; if the GM allows a Research roll, it should be at -2 or worse. $350, 25 lbs. per skill.

Basic Library. A large shelf or small bookcase (approximately 10 linear feet) covering a particular field. Allows a basic Research roll on it topic. $3,500, 250 lbs. per skill.

Good Library. A couple of bookshelves (approximately 50 linear feet). Gives +1 to Research. $17,500, 1,200 lbs. per skill.

Fine Library. A dozen large bookshelves (several hundred linear feet). Gives +2 to Research. $70,000, 5,000 lbs. per skill.

Office Technology

TODO

Computers

Computer Networks

One computer is a powerful tool, but multiple computers are even more impressive. A network is two or more computers connected by telephone, radio, or cables. Linked computers are assumed to be able to communicate – but before TL8, or between unfamiliar computers, this is idealistic! If the plot turns on whether computers can communicate, the GM may require Electronics Repair (Communication) and Computer Operation rolls to deal with hardware and software incompatibilities, respectively.

The Internet (TL8)

The Internet is a global network of networks that connects people from far-flung corners of the Earth in ways previously unimagined. Its most visible part is the World Wide Web: billions of interlinked documents, both stored and generated on demand. These documents are often interactive, and tie together audio-visual content and such Internet applications as electronic mail, voice and video conferencing, and file- and resource-sharing.

Encrypted Networks (TL8)

A network can be made secure by using encryption software in concert with civilian protocols and software. Information is encrypted at one end, sent over the network, and then decrypted. Encrypted traffic might be routed over the normal Internet or over a completely isolated network.

The U.S. military's Secret Internet Protocol Router Network (SIPRNET) is an example of such a network. "Sipper" links the U.S. military command-and-control complex. Lieutenant General Tommy Franks used it to conduct daily videoconferencing with President George W. Bush throughout the 2003 Iraq War.

Computer-Based Research

The primary benefit of the Internet is accessibility of information. However, too much information can be overwhelming. It's difficult to know which sources are believable – or deliberately false! Search engines help, but these have their own limitations; they often censor websites or direct users toward sites that pay for the extra traffic. The end result is that the Internet is simply basic equipment for Research/TL8.

A database might provide a bonus in a narrow area, depending on design and content – but most databases are basic equipment, too. Better databases and search tools (see Software Tools) count as good or fine equipment for Research. Standard bonuses and cost modifiers apply. Internet-based tools typically charge a monthly fee in addition to or instead of the software cost.

TODO

Bio-Tech

TODO

Ultra-Tech

Computers are a vital part of most ultra-tech societies. It's possible that general-purpose programmable computers will still be common. Alternatively, most computers may be simple terminals connecting to networks, or dedicated special-purpose systems.

Hardware

Every computer has a "Complexity" rating. This is an abstract measure of processing power. Each Complexity level represents a tenfold increase in overall capability over the previous level. A contemporary (mid-TL8) desktop system is Complexity 3-4.

A computer's Complexity determines what programs it can run, and may be a prerequisite for certain options, such as Sentient. Software also has a Complexity rating, and can only run on a computer of that Complexity level or higher; e.g., a Complexity 2 program requires a Complexity 2 computer or better.

Complexity determines how many programs a computer can run simultaneously. It can run two programs of its own Complexity, 20 programs of one Complexity level less, 200 programs of two Complexity levels less, and so on. For instance, a Complexity 2 computer could run two Complexity 2 programs or 20 Complexity 1 programs – or one Complexity 2 program and 10 Complexity 1 programs. Computers are also rated for their data storage (hard drive space, etc.) in terabytes (TB). A terabyte is a thousand gigabytes or a trillion bytes.

Computer Models

These are standard sizes of "ordinary" computer that lack any sort of self-awareness. With various options (see below) they can represent numerous types and models. These systems include the processor, the power supply, the casing, and a storage system, plus an operating system. Computers may also have a cable jack and microcommunicator at no extra cost, although these may also be omitted in order to isolate the computer for security purposes.

Displays and controls are not included. Even so, the computer can be used "as is" via a neural interface, or installed into a robot body or vehicle. Also, if the computer is equipped with AI software, users can interact with it just by talking to it. Otherwise, they should be equipped with a terminal or a communicator.

Tiny Computer (TL9)

The smallest multi-purpose computer in regular use. It's used as a wearable computer or implant, or built into gadgets or robots. It is Complexity 3 and stores 1 TB (at TL9). $50, 0.05 lbs., 2A/20 hr. LC4.

Small Computer (TL9)

This is used as a notebook or wearable computer, or the brain of a small robot. It has Complexity 4 and stores 10 TB (at TL9). $100, 0.5 lbs., 2B/20 hr. LC4.

Personal Computer (TL9)

A workhorse system. Almost every middle-class household may have a system like this, serving as the "house brain." Small businesses and departments of large businesses also use them, as do many vehicles and robots. A personal computer is Complexity 5 and stores 100 TB data (at TL9). $1,000, 5 lbs., 2C/20 hr or external power. LC4.

Microframe (TL9)

A high-end cabinet-sized machine, common in labs, large vehicles, as a network server, or on an office floor (often with several terminals networked to it). Other applications include commercial spacecraft, mobile asteroid-mining complexes, university learning centers, and so on. Merchant ships use a microframe as the ship's main computer. Large warships frequently use microframes as the backup control systems of fighting, damage control, maneuvering and tactical-planning stations. A microframe is Complexity 6 and stores 1,000 TB (at TL9). $10,000, 40 lbs., external power. LC3.

Mainframe (TL9)

These powerful computers are often used for control and systems-monitoring functions for a starship, major business, manufacturing complex, or laboratory. A mainframe is Complexity 7 and stores 10,000 TB (at TL9). $100,000, 400 lbs., external power. LC3.

Macroframe (TL9)

This size of computer is often found administering the traffic, sewage, power, maintenance, and bureaucracy functions for an entire city. They are also found as the main computer aboard large ships and used to run cutting-edge science projects. Macroframes are usually the property of government agencies or major corporations. They are Complexity 8 and store 100,000 TB (at TL9). $1,000,000, 4,000 lbs., external power. LC3.

Megacomputer (TL9)

This is a computer the size of an entire building! Systems this large may be placed in charge of running entire countries, although they're sometimes also installed in capital ships or giant cybertanks. They're often upgraded for even more performance – with a genius option, a megacomputer can cost billions! A megacomputer is Complexity 9 and stores 1,000,000 TB (at TL9). $10,000,000, 40,000 lbs., external power. LC2.

At TL10, add +2 to each model's Complexity. Each further TL adds +1 to Complexity (e.g., +2 at TL10, +3 at TL11, +4 at TL12). Each TL after TL9, multiply storage capacity by 1,000 (i.e., replace TB with petabytes at TL10, exabytes at TL11, zettabytes at TL12.)

Many items of equipment are also described as having integral computers. These use the device's power supply and operating duration rather than their own.

Customizing Hardware

Various options are available to customize computer hardware. Multiple options can be chosen, but each option can only be taken once. Modifiers to Complexity, cost, etc. apply to the hardware statistics. Cost and weight multipliers are multiplied together. For examples a computer that is Fast (which multiplies cost by 20) and Hardened (which doubles cost) is 40 times the normal cost. Complexity and LC modifiers are additive, but LC cannot go below LC0.

Compact (TL9): A lighter but more expensive computer. Double the cost, halve the weight. Halve the number of power cells and the operating duration.

Fast (TL9): A powerful computer, with capabilities equivalent to a system one size larger. This option may not be combined with Slow or Genius. +1 Complexity. Multiply the cost by 20.

Genius (TL9): The computer is on the cutting edge of processor design. This option may not be combined with Fast or Slow. Add +2 to Complexity. Multiply the cost by 500, and reduce LC by 1.

Hardened (TL9): The computer is designed to resist electromagnetic pulses, microwaves, and other attacks that target electrical gadgets. Add +3 to HT to resist these effects. Double the cost, double the weight.

High-Capacity (TL9): The computer can run 50% more programs simultaneously (three programs of its own Complexity, and so forth). Cost is 1.5 times normal.

Printed (TL9): The computer is printed on a flexible surface, such as fabric (so it can be rolled up) or even skin (a digital tattoo). It requires four square feet per pound of weight; an average person has about 20 square feet of skin across his body. It must use solar cells or flexible cells for power. Breaking the surface destroys the computer. This option is not compatible with quantum computers. -1 Complexity, and divide data storage by 1,000.

Quantum (TL9): A quantum computer drastically reduces the time required to perform certain processes; see Quantum Computers (below). Multiply the cost by 10, and double the weight. -1 LC.

Slow (TL9): The computer uses inexpensive processors and storage media, or it may be an older design. This option may not be combined with Fast or Genius. It is -1 Complexity and stores one-tenth the data. Divide cost by 20.

FTL (TL11^): The computer's processors operate at faster-than-light speeds. +1 Complexity; the computer is likely to have the Quantum option. Multiply the cost by 100, and double weight. -1 LC.

Data Storage: Additional built-in data storage can be purchased for $1 and 0.001 lb. per additional TB (at TL9). Multiply storage by 1,000 per TL after TL9.

Quantum Computers (TL9)

Quantum computers perform calculations using atoms in "up" or "down" spin states to represent bits of information. Due to quantum uncertainty effects, each atom does not simply represent one bit, as in a traditional computer. Instead, each "qubit" can be both up and down at once. This allows it to (in a sense) do all possible calculations at the same time until the act of measuring the qubits stops the calculating process.

Quantum computers provide quick solutions to mathematical problems that would tie up a conventional computer for years or centuries. This makes them useful for a wide range of activities, including code decryption, traffic control, and massive database searches. In these situations, the GM may wish to drastically reduce the time of the task (e.g., to the square root of the normal time), or increase the quantum computer's effective Complexity. See Encryption for an example. The GM may rule that some problems require quantum computers.

Terminals

A terminal is a device that lets a user communicate with a computer. Any terminal will have a way (typing, hand motions, speech) for the user to give input, and some way for the computer to respond to the user. Most computers use least one terminal, connected either directly or remotely. Often many terminals will be connected to a single computer. Some users may only own terminals, renting time as necessary on networked systems.

Terminals must be of at least the same TL as the computers and data storage systems they interface with. Higher TLs see steady improvements in video and sound quality, but terminals are often replaced by neural interfaces, neural input systems, or just building an AI into the computer and telling it what to do. Terminals may also have the compact, hardened, and printed computer hardware options.

The standard types of terminals are:

Datapad (TL9):

A tiny color video screen and touch-pad resembling a cell phone. It can be built into the computer or worn separately (e.g., as a wristwatch). It includes a microcommunicator, a cable jack, a speaker/microphone, and a mini-camera. Any tasks requiring use of the keyboard and screen for lengthy or complex periods are at -2 to skill. It has a datachip (p. 51) removable drive. $10, 0.05 lbs. 2A/20 hr. LC4.

Head-Up Display (HUD) (TL9):

This is a 3D video display integrated into glasses or a helmet visor, or designed to be projected onto a windscreen. A HUD can also be printed onto a flat surface. See Using a HUD (below). Many vehicles, suits, sensor goggles, and the like incorporate a HUD at no extra cost, and direct neural interfaces make a HUD unnecessary. If bought separately: $50, neg., uses external power. LC4.

Sleeve Display (TL9):

A square of touch-sensitive digital cloth woven into the fabric of clothing, uniforms, and body armor. It is equivalent to a datapad, except that at TL9, the user will need to rely on the computer's built-in sound system for a voice interface. At TL10+, the cloth incorporates a speaker. $50, neg. weight, A/10 hr. (uses flexible cells). LC4.

Portable Terminal (TL9):

A small but functional color video display and multi-system interface (keyboard, mouse, speakers, mike, video camera), typical of laptop computers. A portable terminal is also used as a remote control for many types of devices, such as sensors, communicators, and drones. It's adequate for most tasks, although the GM may rule that time-consuming or graphics-intensive tasks require a desktop workstation (see below) to avoid a -1 penalty. It has both datachip and removable drives. $50, 0.5 lbs., 2B/20 hr. LC4.

Workstation Terminal (TL9):

A complete desktop, vehicular console, or office system with the same capabilities as a portable terminal, It has a larger keyboard, a full-size 3D monitor, a document scanner/printer, and whatever other peripherals might be standard at higher TLs (GM's option). $500, 5 lbs., C/10 hr. or external power. LC4.

Computerized Crew Station (TL9):

A high-end workstation with controls that can be reconfigured, multi-function programmable displays, and a padded, adjustable seat. This sort of system may be required to control complex systems such as vehicles or power stations. $2,000, 50 lbs., uses external power. LC4.

Holographic Crew Station (TL9):

A computerized crew station (above) that uses holographic projection to immerse the user in 3D imagery. Vehicular versions may be designed to make the rest of the vehicle vanish, leaving the user "floating in air" except for his seat and controls. $10,000, 50 lbs., uses external power. LC4.

Multisensory Holographic Crew Station (TL10):

As above, but the controls and displays can be configured for nonhuman senses – for example, ultrasonic, infrared, or even olfactory outputs. $50,000, 100 lbs.; uses external power. LC4.

Holoprojection (TL10^):

Users might use a holoprojector (pp. 52-53) instead of a screen; even a wrist-size unit can produce a floating 3D image the size of a full-size computer monitor, with larger models typical of display systems built into homes and vehicles.

Using A HUD

The Head-Up Display, or HUD (above), is a nearly ubiquitous technology. It displays visual information (text, sensor views, suit or vehicle instrument readouts, a computer screen, targeting crosshairs, a web browser window, a video show, etc.) by projecting it directly onto the wearer's visor. Any piece of electronic equipment that uses a visual display screen may be connected to a HUD by a cable or a communicator.

A HUD also allows hands-free monitoring of devices. A HUD provides +1 to skill rolls when reacting quickly to information is important – maneuvering with a thruster pack, for example. Driving, Piloting, and Free-Fall skill rolls often benefit from a HUD.

Many wearable sensor devices and suits have a HUD built-in at no extra cost.

Software

A system can be programmed to do just about anything, but good programming is expensive at any TL. The GM should allow the creation of custom programs, but make them costly. Some programs are better than others, regardless of cost. A custom program is likely to have amusing or dangerous bugs when it is first used.

Programs

Programs are rated for their cost, their LC, and their Complexity, which determines what systems they can run on. Descriptions of programs are found in the relevant chapters. In particular, see Encryption, Sensies, Software Tools, Tactical Programs, and Virtual Reality.

The software cost may vary depending on the nature of the program and its provenance (shareware, pirated, demo copy, open-source, etc.). Many programs have free versions, not all of which are legal. Free programs often lack novice-friendly interfaces and manuals, so a Computer Operation roll may be required to find, install, or use them.

Software Cost

Computer programs have a base cost that depends on their Complexity and TL and drops at higher TLs. A Complexity 6 program that costs $3,000 at TL9 is only $3 at TL12, for example – see below.

Software costs a lot to develop, but very little to distribute. Prices listed assume professional and specialized software such as engineering programs, targeting systems, or AI programs for robots. Mass-market software, such as computer games or popular operating systems, will be cheaper, as development cost is spread over a huge user base. Such programs may be as little as 10% of the cost, or even available as freeware.

Software Cost Table

Complexity	TL9	TL10	TL11	TL12
Complexity 1	$10	$1	$0.10	$0.01
Complexity 2	$30	$3	$0.30	$0.03
Complexity 3	$100	$10	$1	$0.10
Complexity 4	$300	$30	$3	$0.30
Complexity 5	$1,000	$100	$10	$1
Complexity 6	$3,000	$300	$30	$3
Complexity 7	$10,000	$1,000	$100	$10
Complexity 8	$30,000	$3,000	$300	$30
Complexity 9	$100,000	$10,000	$1,000	$100
Complexity 10	$300,000	$30,000	$3,000	$300
Complexity 11	$1,000,000	$100,000	$10,000	$1,000
Complexity 12	unavailable	$300,000	$30,000	$3,000
Complexity 13	unavailable	$1,000,000	$100,000	$10,000
Complexity 14	unavailable	unavailable	$300,000	$30,000
Complexity 15	unavailable	unavailable	$1,000,000	$100,000

Software Tools

IQ-based technological skills used at TL9 and up nor- mally require software to function at full effectiveness when performing any task involving research, analysis, or invention. Software tools are also appropriate for a number of other skills at TL9+, such as Accounting, Artillery, Market Analysis, Strategy, Tactics, and Writing.

Basic programs are incorporated into dedicated systems integrated into the devices used to perform the skill, and provide no bonus.

Good-quality programs give a +1 bonus. These are Complexity 4 for Easy skills, Complexity 5 for Average, Hard, or Very Hard skills.

Fine-quality programs give a +2 bonus. These are Complexity 6 for Easy skills, Complexity 7 for Average, Hard, or Very Hard skills.

Artificial Intelligences

An artificial intelligence (AI) is a sentient or sapient computer system. AIs can range from barely-sentient insect-level intelligences to godlike minds, but most systems used in ultra-tech robots are sapient (capable of tool use and language).

Sapient AIs are also classed as dedicated, non-volitional, or volitional.

Dedicated AI: This is a simple AI program that lacks initiative or personality. It is incapable of learning...it is a "smart tool." Its Complexity is (IQ/2)+1. LC4.

Non-Volitional AI: This program is capable of understanding natural speech, learning technological skills, and learning by itself. However, it lacks initiative and is essentially an automaton. Few societies consider a non-volitional AI to be a person. Its Complexity is (IQ/2)+2. These AIs are LC4, or LC3 if IQ 15+.

Volitional AI: This is a "strong AI" program with just as much initiative and creativity as a living creature of equivalent intelligence. Its Complexity is (IQ/2)+3. A volitional AI is LC4 if IQ 6-8, LC3 if IQ9 9-14, or LC2 if IQ 15-19, or LC1 if IQ 20+.

See Machine Intelligence Lenses for appropriate character traits and lenses for AIs.

AI: Hardware or Software?

Ultra-Tech book assumes that artificial intelligence is a software-based phenomena; the only hardware requirement is the necessary Complexity to run the computer software described in Artificial Intelligence. However, this isn't the only option.

Neural Net: A Volitional AI program may be incapable of running on normal machines. It may require a machine specifically dedicated to cognition, e.g., a neural net similar to the human brain. If so, double the cost of the AI's computer hardware.

Quantum Thinkers: In some universes, the human mind – and by extension, machines that can duplicate it – requires more than just good software. If thought involves quantum mechanical effects, then volitional AI will only run on a quantum computer (which will significantly increase its expense).

Databases

A database is a collection of information in computer-readable form. Any database has its own built-in search and indexing programs. For any database of a given size, the wider the subject it covers, the fewer details it has. The cost of a database can range from free information bundled with any system to millions of dollars for proprietary data, secrets, specialized information, or information that costs lives or money to gather. An encyclopedia might be free for download, or cost from $1 to $100. Like programs, cost does not necessarily correlate with size, but with quality of the information, copyright, supply, and demand.

Ubiquitous Computing

Sensors, microcommunicators radio frequency tags, and tiny flexible power cells are inexpensive, and can be integrated or imprinted onto most surfaces. These might be placed on everything from clothing to children. People may exist in an invisible web of infrared, laser, and radio signals. Material goods from shoes to bricks may exchange data with their surroundings and each other. Gadgets may report if they need maintenance or have suffered damage. The refrigerator may write your shopping list for you, or even order from the grocery store by itself.

If a society deploys this web of interconnected sensors and computers, it will add complications for many adventuring and criminal activities! It's hard to knock out a guard and sneak into a building when his vital signs are monitored by a central computer. Police work may be a lot less challenging when every significant possession and person has an implanted tracer. Of course, countermeasures will exist. Players and GMs who like working out all the implications may enjoy such a world, while others may prefer a less complicated future.

It's easy to imagine a future where ubiquitous computing doesn't exist. All of the above technologies bring up questions regarding personal privacy, data security, and resistance to computer viruses and breakdowns. A world where these concerns stifle ubiquitous computing (or limit it to specific enclaves and wealthy areas) is quite plausible