Language Translator

From Traveller Wiki - Science-Fiction Adventure in the Far future

With the incredible diversity of cultures and languages found throughout the Imperium and neighboring regions, computer language translators (CLTs) have become a fundamental element of interstellar trade and communication. Dozens of models of various abilities, complexity, and price can be purchased on worlds throughout the Imperium of Tech level 9 or better.

The basis of all portable CLTs is a program package called a memclip. Each memclip contains programming for one language. Typically, these clips can be purchased with preloaded language programs for between Cr100 and Cr150. Blank memclip can be bought for CrlO and programmed by duplicating a preloaded program.

All CLTs work in the same manner. Two entities, each with a CLT and memclips for both his own and the other’s language, adjust their units until they share a common radio frequency. Each speaks in his own language and his words are translated by the other’s CLT and relayed to a detachable remote speaker worn in the receiving entity’s ear. With practice, anyone can learn to follow the translation as the other individual speaks.

More than 700 languages are on memclips. Programs even exist for non-aural languages. The CLT can be carried in a hip pouch or by hand. CLTs have two to eight receptacles for memclips, plus the remote speaker. Prices vary. A standard CLT can be purchased for Cr2000. More expensive units have program correction features, more complete handling of idiomatic phrases, smaller size, bone implant speakers, greater durability, and a large capacity for multilanguage conversations.

This article was copied or excerpted from the following copyrighted sources and used under license from Far Future Enterprises and by permission of the author.

– Imperial Encyclopedia

– Grand Census