Replicators

From TFC Galactopedia

Function

A replicator is a device that uses transporter technology to dematerialize quantities of matter and then rematerialize that matter in another form. It is also capable of inverting its function, thus disposing leftovers and dishes and storing the bulk material again.

However, as the replication takes place on the molecular and not quantum level, certain materials and substances cannot be properly replicated. Cortosis ore, for example, loses its energy sapping properties, rendering replicated ore nothing more than a hard but brittle metal.

The complexity of the item being replicated increases the pattern storage and power requirements exponentially, placing a practical limit on what can be replicated in a normal replicator. This limits the usefulness of replicators in the fabrication of such things as heavy weapons and starships. Complex components can be replicated by larger industrial replicators, but still need to be assembled, hence the need for shipyards and construction facilities.

List of materials that cannot be replicated

Bacta

Kolto

Cortosis Ore

Lightsabers*

Kaiburr and adegan crystals

Tibanna Gas

• Lightsabers cannot be replicated using Federation replicators because key components have been locked out of the system. As well, most of the naturally occuring crystals used in lightsaber construction cannot be accurately replicated.

TFC Canon

This area is still under revision. Please do not assume any technology information is Canon unless told otherwise by a tech admin/moderator"