COMLINK
Type: Communications transceiver
Manufacturer: Various
Owner: Various
Use: Long distance communication
Features: Receiver, transmitter, power source
Debut: A New Hope
It's good to talk, though when friends are too far apart to converse, they turn to the comlink. These small communications transceivers followed on from earlier communication devices to present an effective way of talking across long distances.
A typical comlink has a range of around 50 kilometers, though as most comlinks vary in appearance, many will have varying ranges also. The base range can also be extended by tapping into expanded satellite communication networks orbiting the planet. All starships come equipped with a comlink - so the pilot can obtain permission to land, leave etc - though they become unusable once the ship enters hyperspace. Ships also carry subspace radios which have increased power and can be intergrated into a network. The most popular communications network in the galaxy is the HoloNet, though it is far more expensive than a standard comlink.
Many comlinks also feature optional extras; for example, the comlink owned by Jedi Master Qui-Gon Jinn was fitted with a built-in port for transmitting data gathered by other devices. He used this when transferring blood samples to be tested for a midi-chlorian count - hopefully resulting in finding another potential Jedi Knight. Comlinks are also standard issue in most military organizations, including the Galactic Empire - with small comlinks designed to fit in with stormtrooper armour - and the Rebellion, which had comlinks fitted into their pilot's helmets. |
