Research and Development: Difference between revisions

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== R&D System ==
== R&D System ==
[[File:RDComputer.png|64px]]
[[File:RDComputer.png|64px]]
[[File:R&DSystem.png|thumb|The new and improved R&D UI!]]
[[File:R&D Console UI.png|alt=The user interface of the R&D Console|thumb|The user interface of the R&D Console]]
In the R&D computer new technologies can be unlocked via points. To research a technology, click on it if it's in the ''Unlockable technologies'' column. Technologies in the ''Future technologies'' are locked behind others, requiring you to research a previous technology (in the ''Unlockable technologies'' column). Technologies in the ''Unlocked technologies'' section have already been researched.
In the R&D computer new technologies can be unlocked via points. To research a technology, click on it if it's in the ''Unlockable technologies'' column. Technologies in the ''Future technologies'' are locked behind others, requiring you to research a previous technology (in the ''Unlockable technologies'' column). Technologies in the ''Unlocked technologies'' section have already been researched.


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There is another method to research a technology, and that is using the '''Technology Disk Terminal'''. If there is no such console available within the station, it can be created after researching the Tier 1 Experimental Technology, "Alternative Research".  
There is another method to research a technology, and that is using the '''Technology Disk Terminal'''. If there is no such console available within the station, it can be created after researching the Tier 1 Experimental Technology, "Alternative Research".  


By spending 1000 research points, a technology disk would be dispensed, containing the recipe of a single random item (of any tier) for the lathes to fabricate. The random item ranges from a Retractor within the "Advanced Surgery" technology, a redundant item you've already researched, to the highly-sought-after (and expensive) satchel of holding.
By spending 1000 research points, a technology disk would be dispensed, containing the recipe of a single random item (of any tier) for the lathes to fabricate. The random item ranges from a HAMTR Harness within the "Critter Mechs" technology, a redundant item you've already researched, to the highly-sought-after (and expensive) satchel of holding.


When used early into the round, it may reward the research department with end-tier items immediately at the cost of the primary research progress. This is essentially gambling with research points, so ensure that your department agrees with this plan. When used late into the round, it may grant the research department recipes of technologies that have been locked out of the direct research method of unlocking the technology.
When used early into the round, it may reward the research department with end-tier items immediately at the cost of the primary research progress. This is essentially gambling with research points, so ensure that your department agrees with this plan. When used late into the round, it may grant the research department recipes of technologies that have been locked out of the direct research method of unlocking the technology.


== Equipment ==
== Equipment ==
=== [[Autolathe]] ===
=== [[Autolathe]] ===
[[File:Autolathe.png|64px]]
[[File:Autolathe.png|64px]]


The Autolathe doesn't require any research but only makes engineering and salvage tools. Materials must first be inserted into the machine and cannot be extracted. 100 steel<small>cm3</small> equates to 1 steel sheet.
The Autolathe doesn't require any research but only makes a wide array of useful basic items. Materials must first be inserted into the machine and cannot be extracted.


Example recipes:
Example recipes:
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! Image !! Name !! Description  
! Image !! Name !! Description  
|-
|-
|[[File:Apainter.png|50px|center]]|| Airlock Painter||A tool used to change the color and/or appearance of airlocks.
|[[File:Apainter.png|50px|center]]|| Spray Painter||A tool used to change the color and/or appearance of airlocks and pipes.
|-
|-
|[[File:Crowbar.png|50px|center]]|| Crowbar||A tool that is needed to pry open unpowered doors.
|[[File:Crowbar.png|50px|center]]|| Crowbar||A tool that is needed to pry open unpowered doors.
|-
|-
|[[File:Gasanalyzer.png|50px|center]]|| Gas Analyzer||A tool used to find the composition of gasses in the air. Can also detect gasses in pipes.
|[[File:Gasanalyzer.png|50px|center]]|| Gas Analyzer||A tool that will tell you the temperature, pressure, and composition of the gasses within a room or pipe.
|-
|-
| [[File:Gps.png|50px|center]]|| Global Positioning System||A hand-held device used to see what the GPS coordinates ware of your position in the map.
| [[File:Gps.png|50px|center]]|| Global Positioning System||A hand-held device used to see what the GPS coordinates ware of your position in the map.
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| [[File:Lwire.png|50px|center]]|| LV cable coil||A piece of wire that can be used to connect powerered objects to an APC. Refer to [[Power]].
| [[File:Lwire.png|50px|center]]|| LV cable coil||A piece of wire that can be used to connect powerered objects to an APC. Refer to [[Power]].
|-
|-
| [[File:Multitool.png|50px|center]]|| Multitool||A tool that can be used for [[Hacking]].
| [[File:Multitool.png|50px|center]]|| Multitool||A tool that can be used for [[Hacking]] and [[Networking]].
|-
|-
|[[File:Pickaxe_mining.png|50px|center]]|| Pickaxe||A tool that can be used by a [[Salvage Specialist]] for mining ore.
|[[File:Pickaxe_mining.png|50px|center]]|| Pickaxe||A tool that can be used by a [[Salvage Specialist]] for mining ore.
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| [[File:Tscanner.png|50px|center]]|| T-Ray Scanner||A tool that shows underground wires and pipes.
| [[File:Tscanner.png|50px|center]]|| T-Ray Scanner||A tool that shows underground wires and pipes.
|-
|-
| [[File:Ubelt.png|50px|center]]|| Utility Belt||A belt that stores Engineering tools.
| [[File:Ubelt.png|50px|center]]|| Utility Belt||A belt that stores tools and welding masks.
|-
|-
|  [[File:Wtool.png|50px|center]]|| Welding Tool||A tool that enables objects to be welded open/closed. Welded items must need a Welding Tool to be unwelded. It is also needed when building some items. Can be used to repair windows and other objects.
|  [[File:Wtool.png|50px|center]]|| Welding Tool||A tool that enables objects to be welded open/closed. Welded items must need a Welding Tool to be unwelded. It is also needed when building some items. Can be used to repair windows and other objects. (Wear a welding mask or you may become blind)
|-
|-
|  [[File:Wirecutter.png|50px|center]]|| Wirecutter||A tool that enables you to cut wires of powered devices such as doors and vending machines. Refer to [[Hacking]]. You may also need to cut wires of some objects as part of their deconstruction process.
|  [[File:Wirecutter.png|50px|center]]|| Wirecutter||A tool that enables you to cut wires of powered devices such as doors and vending machines. Refer to [[Hacking]]. You may also need to cut wires of some objects as part of their deconstruction process.
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|}
|}


=== Protolathe ===
=== [[Protolathe]] ===
[[File:Protolathe.png|64px]]
[[File:Protolathe.png|64px]]


The Protolathe is a machine capable of printing [[Research and Development#Circuit Imprinter|most]] of what you've researched. It can make things such from beakers or ammo. Materials must first be inserted into the machine but can be extracted with the Material Sheet Printing research. 100 steel equates to 1 steel sheet.
The [[Protolathe]] is a machine capable of printing [[Research and Development#Circuit Imprinter|most]] of what you've researched. It can make things such from large beakers to microreactor batteries. [[Protolathe|Protolathes]] are mainly found at science but can (sometimes) be found in engineering or on salvage expeditions.
 
Note that for some machines (such as the Cloner), higher quality parts can be used to improve the quality of the machine. For example low quality components for a Cloner results in a 50% chance of failure to clone. A low-capacity power cell has less charge than a high-capacity power cell. Yet higher quality parts require better research and more materials.


A lot of the parts available in the Protolathe are used to craft something. Use the [[Construction|Craft hotkey to open the Craft dialog. By default this should be 'G']].
==== Miscellaneous (No research required) ====
 
Machine boards can be inserted into a [[Construction|Machine Frame]] whilst electronics can be inserted into computers or other machines built with [[Construction]].
 
==== Machine Parts ====
Every buildable machine requires some amount of machine parts to make. There are currently 3 different parts - '''Matter bins, Manipulators, and Capacitors'''. While the base versions of these components provide no benefit to their machines other than their base functions, higher tiers of parts can be researched and made, which give boosts to certain aspects of machines.
{| class="wikitable"
{| class="wikitable"
|-
|-
! Image !! Name !! Description
! Image !! Name !! Description !! Research
!Tier
|-
|-
|[[File:Matterbin.png|100px|center]]||Matter bin||Associated with material efficiency.
| [[File:Chemical analysis goggles-East-12328.png|alt=Chemical analysis goggles icon|frameless]]|| Chemical analysis goggles || Goggles that can scan the chemical composition of a puddle of liquid.
|None
|0
|-
|-
|[[File:Micromani.png|100px|center]]||Manipulator||Associated with machine speed.
|[[File:Dropper-East-12455.png|alt=Dropper icon]] || Dropper || Used to transfer small amounts of chemicals between containers. (5u)||None
|-
|0
|[[File:Capacitor.png|100px|center]]||Capacitor||Associated with power efficiency and other misc. improvements.
|-
|-
|[[File:Large beaker-East-12541.png|alt=Large Beaker icon]]|| Large beaker || Used to contain a large amount of chemicals. (100u)||None
|0
|}
|}


==== Power Cells ====
==== Industrial ====
Power cells are basically just batteries, required by certain devices to function, such as medical scanners and anomaly locator. Each battery has its own respective research node, except for potato batteries which can be made by botany(?)
{| class="wikitable"
{| class="wikitable"
|+
!Image
!Name
!Description
!Research
!Tier
|-
|-
! Image !! Type !! Charge Capacity (mAh)
|[[File:Mining drill-East-28985.png|alt=Mining drill equipment icon|frameless]]
|-|
|Mining drill
|[[File:Powercellpotato.png|center|50px]]|| Potato || 200
|
|Salvage Equipment
|1
|-
|-
|[[File:Powercellsmall.png|center|50px]]|| Small capacity || 360
|[[File:Grappling gun-East-29063.png|alt=Grappling gun equipment icon|frameless]]
|Grappling gun
|
|Salvage Equipment
|1
|-
|-
|[[File:Powercellmedium.png|center|50px]]|| Medium capacity || 720
|[[File:Welding gas mask-East-29162.png|alt=Welding gas mask icon|frameless]]
|Welding gas mask
|
|Salvage Equipment
|1
|-
|-
|[[File:Powercellhigh.png|center|50px]]|| High capacity || 1080
|[[File:Experimental welding tool-East-29469.png|alt=Experimental welding tool icon|frameless]]
|}
|Experimental welding tool
 
|
==== Tools ====
|Advanced Tools
Various tools which the protolathe can print.
|2
{| class="wikitable"
|-
|-
! Image !! Name !! Description !! Research
|[[File:Power drill-East-29542.png|alt=Power drill tool icon|frameless]]
|Power drill
|
|Advanced Tools
|2
|-
|-
|[[File:Scalpel.png]]|| Scalpel || Used to make precision cuts in the skin and tendons.||Advanced surgery
|[[File:Jaws of life-East-29594.png|alt=Jaws of life tool icon|frameless]]
|Jaws of life
|
|Advanced Tools
|2
|-
|-
|[[File:Drill.png]]|| Drill || Used to make precise holes in bone and cartilage.||Advanced surgery
|[[File:Ore bag of holding-East-29665.png|alt=Ore bag of holding icon|frameless]]
|Ore bag of holding
|
|Mass Excavation
|2
|-
|-
|[[File:Cautery.png]]|| Cautery || Used to cauterize open wounds.||Advanced surgery
|[[File:Diamond tipped mining drill-East-29780.png|alt=Diamond tipped mining drill icon|frameless]]
|Diamond tipped mining drill
|
|Mass Excavation
|2
|-
|-
|[[File:Retractor.png]]|| Retractor || Used to hold loose skin in place and hold incisions open.||Advanced surgery
|[[File:Handheld mass scanner-East-29969.png|alt=Handheld mass scanner icon|frameless]]
|Handheld mass scanner
|
|Space Scanning
|2
|-
|-
|[[File:Hemostat.png]]|| Hemostat || Used to clamp blood vessels and arteries shut.||Advanced surgery
|[[File:Holofan projector-East-30069.png|alt=Holofan projector tool icon|frameless]]
|Holofan projector
|
|Advanced Atmospherics
|2
|-
|-
|[[File:Saw.png]]|| Metal Saw || Used to saw bones and other hard structures.||Advanced surgery
|[[File:Bag of holding-East-30158.png|alt=Bag of holding icon|frameless]]
|Bag of holding
|
|Bluespace Storage
|3
|-
|-
| || Handheld crew monitor || A tool used by the Chief Medical Officer and other medical staff to see the coordinates and vitals of crew staff that have turned on the associated sensors in their jumpsuits.
|[[File:Satchel of holding-East-30237.png|alt=Satchel of holding icon|frameless]]
|Satchel of holding
|
|Bluespace Storage
|3
|-
|-
|[[File:Bottle.png]] || Bottle || A glass bottle container that can hold 30u of liquid. Used by a [[chemist]] to store chemicals. Can be drunk from. Does not shatter if dropped.||Chemistry technology
|[[File:Duffelbag of holding-East-30160.png|alt=Duffelbag of holding icon|frameless]]
|Duffelbag of holding
|
|Bluespace Storage
|3
|-
|-
|[[File:Syringe.png]]|| Syringe || A container that can hold up to 15u of liquid and can draw from / inject into people/animals.||Chemistry technology
|[[File:Powercellmicro.png|alt=Microreactor power cell icon|frameless]]
|Microreactor power cell
|
|Portable Fission
|3
|}
 
==== Arsenal ====
{| class="wikitable"
|+
!Image
!Name
!Description
!Research
!Tier
|-
|-
| || Dropper || A container that holds a tiny amount of liquid.||Chemistry technology
|
|Advanced remote signaller
|
|Explosive Technology
|1
|-
|-
| || Beaker || A fragile glass container than can hold 50u and shatters if dropped.||Chemistry technology
|
|Signal trigger
|
|Explosive Technology
|1
|-
|-
|  
|
[[File:Beaker.png]]
|Voice trigger
|| Large beaker || A container that can hold 100u of liquid used by a [[Chemist]] or [[Chef]] that shatters when dropped.||Chemistry technology
|
|Explosive Technology
|1
|-
|-
| || Cryostasis beaker || Can contain chemicals in low temperatures and ensure that they do not mix.||Chemistry technology
|
|Timer trigger
|
|Explosive Technology
|1
|-
|-
| || Node scanner || A tool used by scientists to determine the node of an [[Xenoarcheology|artifact]].||Anomaly technology
|
|Flash payload
|
|Explosive Technology
|1
|-
|-
|[[File:Anomscanner.png]]|| Anomaly scanner || A tool used by scientists to gather information on specific [[Anomalous Research|anomalies]].||Anomaly technology
|
|Explosive payload
|
|Explosive Technology
|1
|-
|-
| || Anomaly locator || A tool used by scientists to detect [[Anomalous Research|anomalies]]. Beeps faster the closer it is to an anomaly.||Anomaly technology
|
|Chemical payload
|
|Explosive Technology
|1
|-
|-
|[[File:Chimpbase.png]]|| CHIMP handcannon || An experimental firearm developed by R&D to contain [[Anomalous Research|anomalies]].||Anomaly technology
|
|Proto-kinetic accelerator
|
|Salvage Weapons
|1
|-
|-
|[[File:Hatchet.png]] || Hatchet || A tool used by [[Botanist|Botanists]] used to cut down trees such as apple / banana trees to harvest wood and fruit.||Biological technology
|
|-
|Svalinn laser pistol
|[[File:Scythe.png]] || Scythe || A tool used by [[Botanist|Botanists]] to harvest some types of plants from a hydroponics tray.||Biological technology
|
|-
|Experimental Battery Ammo
|[[File:Mini hoe.png]] || Minihoe || A tool used by [[Botanist|Botanists]] to dig weeds out of hydroponics trays.||Biological technology
|3
|-
|}
|[[File:Plant clippers.png]] || Plant clippers || A tool used by [[Botanist|Botanists]] to extract seeds from a growing plant.||Biological technology
 
|-
==== Experimental ====
|[[File:Spade.png]] || Spade || A tool used by [[Botanist|Botanists]] to harvest certain plants.||Biological technology
{| class="wikitable"
|-
|+
|[[File:Shovel.png]] || Shovel || A tool used by [[Botanist|Botanists]] to clear a hydroponics tray of its contents.||Biological technology
!Image
|-
!Name
| || Mining drill || A drill used by a [[Salvage Specialist]] to mine rocks faster than a pickaxe.||Salvage equipment
!Description
!Research
!Tier
|-
|-
| [[File:Pickaxe_mining.png]]|| Pickaxe || A tool used by [[Salvage Specialist|Salvage Specialists]] to dig through rock.||Salvage equipment
|[[File:Node scanner.png|alt=Node scanner equipment icon|frameless]]
|Node scanner
|
|Basic XenoArcheology
|1
|-
|-
|[[File:Bucket.png]] || Bucket || Can contain 250u of liquid that is spilled if you trip. You can drink out of a bucket using Alt+click and extract liquid into it from other containers 50u at a time. Cannot be inserted into machines like the ChemDispenser. Used by a [[Botanist]] or [[Janitor]].||Cleaning technology
|
|G.O.R.I.L.L.A gauntlet
|
|Anomaly Core Harnessing
|1
|-
|-
| || Mop || A tool used by a [[Janitor]] to mop up liquid spillages from floors.||Cleaning technology
|[[File:Anomaly locator-East-13058.png|alt=Anomaly locator icon|frameless]]
|Anomaly locator
|
|Basic Anomalous Research
|1
|-
|-
| || Advanced mop || A high-tech mop that soaks up spills faster and automatically generates water.||Cleaning technology
|[[File:Wide-spectrum anomaly locator-East-13064.png|alt=Wide-spectrum anomaly locator icon|frameless]]
|Wide-spectrum anomaly locator
|
|Basic Anomalous Research
|1
|-
|-
| || Spray bottle || Can hold a little liquid that can be sprayed onto a sentient or floor. Commonly used to hold space cleaner for a [[Janitor]] or weed killer for a [[Security Officer]]. A [[Chemist]] can fill this with the desired liquid. It sprays 5u of liquid at a time. Corrosive chemicals when sprayed on a person can eat through their gear and skin causing Caustic damage.||Cleaning technology
|
|Magboots
|
|Local Magnetism
|1
|-
|-
| || Kitchen knife || A knife used by a [[Chef]] but also a [[Weapons|Weapon]].||Food and beverage technology
|
|Moonboots
|
|Local Magnetism
|1
|-
|-
| || Cleaver || A tool that a [[Chef]] uses to butcher corpses for meat but also a [[Weapons|Weapon]].||Food and beverage technology
|
|Portable particle decelerator
|
|Deterrence Technologies
|2
|-
|-
| || Appraisal tool || A tool used by [[Cargo_Technician|Cargo Technicians]] to see how much each object can be sold for.
|
|C.H.I.M.P handcannon
|
|Advanced Anomaly Research
|2
|-
|-
| || RCD || Rapid Construction Device, used by [[Engineer|Engineers]] to instantly create walls and floors.|| RCD
|
|Quantum spin inverter
|
|Quantum Leaping
|3
|-
|-
| || Holofan projector || A tool capable of making a holobarrier which prevent the movement of gasses while allowing everything else to move through.
|
|Force gun
|
|Gravity Manipulation
|3
|-
|-
| || Flashlight || Provides a cone of light infront of the holder that is much more illuminating than a PDA. Uses charge from a power cell. Left click to turn on and off.||Industrial engineering
|
|-
|Tether gun
|[[File:Fire_extinguisher.png]] || Fire extinguisher || A device that sprays water to put out fires or used in [[Space Navigation]].||Industrial engineering
|
|Gravity Manipulation
|3
|}
|}


==== Other Items ====
==== Civilian Services ====
{| class="wikitable"
{| class="wikitable"
|+
!Image
!Name
!Description
!Research
!Tier
|-
|-
! Image !! Name !! Description || Required Research
|
|Synthesizer
|
|Advanced Entertainment
|1
|-
|-
| || Air Alarm Electronics||A component needed to make an air alarm.
|
|Advanced mop
|
|Advanced Cleaning
|2
|-
|-
| || APC Electronics||A component needed to make an APC (power unit).||Electromagnetic theory
|
|Mega spray bottle
|
|Advanced Cleaning
|2
|-
|-
| || Chemical Payload||A component needed to make a modular grenade.||Chemistry technology
|
|Spray nozzle
|
|Advanced Spray
|2
|-
|-
| || Conveyor Belt||When connected to a lever, it can be used to move objects in a single direction as dictated by the lever. Commonly used in Cargo and the Disposal -> Recycling circuit, but also used in certain cargo systems.||Industrial engineering
|
|Backpack water tank
|
|Advanced Spray
|2
|-
|-
| ||Drone||A tool-equipped autonomous drone, currently disabled due to trolling.||Robotics
|
|Astro-grass
|
|Faux Astro-Tiles
|2
|-
|-
| || Flourescent Light Tube||Light tube for lights on the walls of the station.||Electromagnetic theory
|
|Mowed astro-grass
|
|Faux Astro-Tiles
|2
|-
|-
| || Glass||Extract some glass from the machine.||Material sheet printing
|
|Jungle astro-grass
|
|Faux Astro-Tiles
|2
|-
|-
| || Holofan Projector electronics||A component needed to make a Holofan.
|
|Astro-ice
|
|Faux Astro-Tiles
|2
|-
|-
| || HV Cable Coil||High Voltage wire. Used to connect power generation to power storage by [[Station_Engineer|Engineers]].||Electromagnetic theory
|
|Astro-snow
|
|Faux Astro-Tiles
|2
|-
|-
| || Incandescent Light Bulb||Light bulb for lights on the walls of the station.||Electromagnetic theory
|
|Cryostasis beaker
|
|Biochemical Stasis
|2
|-
|-
| || Intercom Electronics||A component used to make intercom machines.||Industrial engineering
|
|Cryostasis syringe
|
|Biochemical Stasis
|2
|-
|-
| || Left Borg Arm||Used to create Bots such as the MedBot. Will have more uses in the future.||Robotics
|
|Speed boots
|
|Quantum Fiber Weaving
|3
|-
|-
| || LV Cable Coil||Low Voltage wire. Used to connect APC units to machines such as vending machines, chemistry machines, lights, auto-doors by [[Station_Engineer|Engineers]].||Electromagnetic theory
|
|-
|Bluespace beaker
| || Mailing Unit Electronics||A component used to create a mailing unit.
|
|-
|Bluespace Chemistry
|  || MV Cable Coil||Medium Voltage wire. Used to connect power storage to APC units by [[Station_Engineer|Engineers]].||Electromagnetic theory
|3
|-
|  || Pill Cannister||A container that can hold up to 9 pills and used by a [[Chemist]]||Chemistry technology
|-
|  || Plastic||Extract some plastic from the machine||Material Sheet Printing
|-
|  || RCD Ammo||Ammo for the RCD to create walls/floors
|-
|  || Reinforced Glass||Extract some reinforced glass from the machine||Material Sheet Printing
|-
|  || Remote Signaller|| Can be linked to a grenade to trigger it remotely. ||Electromagnetic theory
|-
|  || Right Borg Arm||Used to create Bots such as the MedBot.||Robotics
|-
|  || Signal Trigger||A type of trigger for a bomb / grenade ||Electromagnetic theory
|-
| || Steel||Extract some steel from the machine||Material Sheet Printing
|-
|  || Timer Trigger||A type of trigger for a bomb / grenade. The default timer is 5 seconds.||Electromagnetic theory
|-
|  || Voice Trigger||A type of trigger for a bomb / grenade ||Electromagnetic theory
|-
|-
|
|Bluespace syringe
|
|Bluespace Chemistry
|3
|}
|}


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The Circuit Imprinter is a machine capable of printing machine boards used for creating machines and computers. They require steel, glass and sometimes gold.
The Circuit Imprinter is a machine capable of printing machine boards used for creating machines and computers. They require steel, glass and sometimes gold.
Machine boards can be inserted into a [[Construction|Machine Frame]] whilst electronics can be inserted into computers or other machines built with [[Construction]].
{| class="wikitable"
{| class="wikitable"
|-
|-
! Name !!  Required Research
! Name !!  Required Research
|-
| Air Alarm Electronics ||Industrial engineering
|-
|-
| Autolathe Machine Board ||Industrial engineering  
| Autolathe Machine Board ||Industrial engineering  
|-
| APC electronics ||Electromagnetic theory
|-
|-
| Booze Dispenser Machine Board|| Food and beverage technology
| Booze Dispenser Machine Board|| Food and beverage technology

Revision as of 04:31, 14 August 2024

Research and Development

Research and Development (commonly called R&D or RnD) is the job of the Scientists. The department typically lies behind purple and grey doors. In the department typically exists a set of Lathe and R&D machines. Often you will see lockers with lab equipment in them.

R&D gameplay largely revolves around the acquisition and use of research points to gain new technologies for the station.

Point Generation

Research points can be acquired through a few different sources.

The most profitable form of point generation is Xenoarcheology, which is the process of analyzing and activating different randomly generated artifacts that can be found via events, salvage debris, and by ordering them from cargo. Most artifacts have more than one "Stimulus-Reaction" combination (known scientifically as Nodes), so make sure to scan and activate as many of them as you can before selling it to cargo, or keeping it around because its effects are cool enough to warrant keeping.

Another highly valuable source of research points is Anomalous Research. Most R&D departments come equipped with an Anomaly Generator, Anomalous Particle Emitters (A.P.E.) and Anomaly Vessels, which are used to spawn, interact with, and generate points from anomalies respectively. Anomalies can come in different forms, ranging from raging balls of pink-hot matter, to electrically-discharging motes of light, to radioactive gravity wells, so make sure to wear some protective gear while studying them.

Points can also be acquired through research disks, which can be found in maintenance, salvaged from space, or found on expeditions.

R&D System

The user interface of the R&D Console
The user interface of the R&D Console

In the R&D computer new technologies can be unlocked via points. To research a technology, click on it if it's in the Unlockable technologies column. Technologies in the Future technologies are locked behind others, requiring you to research a previous technology (in the Unlockable technologies column). Technologies in the Unlocked technologies section have already been researched.

Alternative Research

There is another method to research a technology, and that is using the Technology Disk Terminal. If there is no such console available within the station, it can be created after researching the Tier 1 Experimental Technology, "Alternative Research".

By spending 1000 research points, a technology disk would be dispensed, containing the recipe of a single random item (of any tier) for the lathes to fabricate. The random item ranges from a HAMTR Harness within the "Critter Mechs" technology, a redundant item you've already researched, to the highly-sought-after (and expensive) satchel of holding.

When used early into the round, it may reward the research department with end-tier items immediately at the cost of the primary research progress. This is essentially gambling with research points, so ensure that your department agrees with this plan. When used late into the round, it may grant the research department recipes of technologies that have been locked out of the direct research method of unlocking the technology.

Equipment

Autolathe

The Autolathe doesn't require any research but only makes a wide array of useful basic items. Materials must first be inserted into the machine and cannot be extracted.

Example recipes:

Image Name Description
Spray Painter A tool used to change the color and/or appearance of airlocks and pipes.
Crowbar A tool that is needed to pry open unpowered doors.
Gas Analyzer A tool that will tell you the temperature, pressure, and composition of the gasses within a room or pipe.
Global Positioning System A hand-held device used to see what the GPS coordinates ware of your position in the map.
LV cable coil A piece of wire that can be used to connect powerered objects to an APC. Refer to Power.
Multitool A tool that can be used for Hacking and Networking.
Pickaxe A tool that can be used by a Salvage Specialist for mining ore.
Screwdriver A tool that is needed to open/close panels of devices such as doors. It is also needed when building some items.
T-Ray Scanner A tool that shows underground wires and pipes.
Utility Belt A belt that stores tools and welding masks.
Welding Tool A tool that enables objects to be welded open/closed. Welded items must need a Welding Tool to be unwelded. It is also needed when building some items. Can be used to repair windows and other objects. (Wear a welding mask or you may become blind)
Wirecutter A tool that enables you to cut wires of powered devices such as doors and vending machines. Refer to Hacking. You may also need to cut wires of some objects as part of their deconstruction process.
Wrench A tool that enables you to anchor / unanchored objects. Anchored objects cannot be moved until unanchored. Unanchored objects are unpowered.

Protolathe

The Protolathe is a machine capable of printing most of what you've researched. It can make things such from large beakers to microreactor batteries. Protolathes are mainly found at science but can (sometimes) be found in engineering or on salvage expeditions.

Miscellaneous (No research required)

Image Name Description Research Tier
Chemical analysis goggles icon Chemical analysis goggles Goggles that can scan the chemical composition of a puddle of liquid. None 0
Dropper icon Dropper Used to transfer small amounts of chemicals between containers. (5u) None 0
Large Beaker icon Large beaker Used to contain a large amount of chemicals. (100u) None 0

Industrial

Image Name Description Research Tier
Mining drill equipment icon Mining drill Salvage Equipment 1
Grappling gun equipment icon Grappling gun Salvage Equipment 1
Welding gas mask icon Welding gas mask Salvage Equipment 1
Experimental welding tool icon Experimental welding tool Advanced Tools 2
Power drill tool icon Power drill Advanced Tools 2
Jaws of life tool icon Jaws of life Advanced Tools 2
Ore bag of holding icon Ore bag of holding Mass Excavation 2
Diamond tipped mining drill icon Diamond tipped mining drill Mass Excavation 2
Handheld mass scanner icon Handheld mass scanner Space Scanning 2
Holofan projector tool icon Holofan projector Advanced Atmospherics 2
Bag of holding icon Bag of holding Bluespace Storage 3
Satchel of holding icon Satchel of holding Bluespace Storage 3
Duffelbag of holding icon Duffelbag of holding Bluespace Storage 3
Microreactor power cell icon Microreactor power cell Portable Fission 3

Arsenal

Image Name Description Research Tier
Advanced remote signaller Explosive Technology 1
Signal trigger Explosive Technology 1
Voice trigger Explosive Technology 1
Timer trigger Explosive Technology 1
Flash payload Explosive Technology 1
Explosive payload Explosive Technology 1
Chemical payload Explosive Technology 1
Proto-kinetic accelerator Salvage Weapons 1
Svalinn laser pistol Experimental Battery Ammo 3

Experimental

Image Name Description Research Tier
Node scanner equipment icon Node scanner Basic XenoArcheology 1
G.O.R.I.L.L.A gauntlet Anomaly Core Harnessing 1
Anomaly locator icon Anomaly locator Basic Anomalous Research 1
Wide-spectrum anomaly locator icon Wide-spectrum anomaly locator Basic Anomalous Research 1
Magboots Local Magnetism 1
Moonboots Local Magnetism 1
Portable particle decelerator Deterrence Technologies 2
C.H.I.M.P handcannon Advanced Anomaly Research 2
Quantum spin inverter Quantum Leaping 3
Force gun Gravity Manipulation 3
Tether gun Gravity Manipulation 3

Civilian Services

Image Name Description Research Tier
Synthesizer Advanced Entertainment 1
Advanced mop Advanced Cleaning 2
Mega spray bottle Advanced Cleaning 2
Spray nozzle Advanced Spray 2
Backpack water tank Advanced Spray 2
Astro-grass Faux Astro-Tiles 2
Mowed astro-grass Faux Astro-Tiles 2
Jungle astro-grass Faux Astro-Tiles 2
Astro-ice Faux Astro-Tiles 2
Astro-snow Faux Astro-Tiles 2
Cryostasis beaker Biochemical Stasis 2
Cryostasis syringe Biochemical Stasis 2
Speed boots Quantum Fiber Weaving 3
Bluespace beaker Bluespace Chemistry 3
Bluespace syringe Bluespace Chemistry 3

Circuit Imprinter

The Circuit Imprinter is a machine capable of printing machine boards used for creating machines and computers. They require steel, glass and sometimes gold.

Machine boards can be inserted into a Machine Frame whilst electronics can be inserted into computers or other machines built with Construction.

Name Required Research
Autolathe Machine Board Industrial engineering
Booze Dispenser Machine Board Food and beverage technology
Circuit Imprinter Machine Board Industrial engineering
Door Electronics Industrial engineering
Fire Alarm Electronics Industrial engineering
Firelock Electronics Industrial engineering
Hotplate Machine Board Chemistry technology
Intercom Electronics Industrial engineering
Mailing Unit Electronics Industrial engineering
Microwave Machine Board Food and beverage technology
Movable Wireless Camera Board Surveillance technology
Ore Processor Machine Board Salvage Equipment
Protoloathe Machine Board Industrial engineering
Reagent Grinder Machine Board Chemistry technology
Substation Machine Board Electromagnetic theory
Surveillance Camera Monitor Board Surveillance technology
Surveillance Camera Router Board Surveillance technology
Surveillance Camera Wireless Router Board Surveillance technology
Surveillance Wireless Camera Monitor Board Surveillance technology
Soda Dispenser Machine Board Food and beverage technology
Technology Disk Terminal Board Scientific technology
Television Board Surveillance technology
Uniform Printer Machine Board Industrial engineering
Wireless Camera Board Surveillance technology

Plan of action

Your main priority at the start of the round is to use the RD computer to research medical machinery & basic parts manufacture , and then everything else. Then it's recommended that you build cloning pods for medbay, chemical dispensers and ChemMasters for chemistry or just hoard them and hand out tricord foam bombs to clowns.

Troubleshooting

"I can't get any points/I can't print anything"

The likely cause is that the RD Computer/Protolathe isn't synced up with the RD server.

To fix this in the RD Computer/Protolathe click Server list, click on ID x || RDSERVER and then exist the window. Now when you click Sync it should (hopefully) work.

This issue has (hopefully) been fixed on most stations.

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