 March 22, 2012 - 9:13am | I was tired of how all computers are all the same in SF, and how they don't mesh-up robot levels, so I made this houserule for CPU Levels. __________ CPU Levels: There are six levels for computers - along with the normal Computer Levels. A computer's Central Possessing Unit (CPU) level indicates how complex its proposers are. They work on the same principals as Robot Levels, as they are basically the same types of systems, but carried-over (or replaceable, as a houserule). Do to the wide margin of complexity and use of additional equipment, Function Points use and cost adjustments varies wildly between levels.
*May acquire skills levels. Level 1 (Basic Linear) CPUs can do only simple operations, and can get stressed if it has to process too much information at a time, or if the programs contradicts themselves. They are used on systems with a limited or specialized purpose. Given their simple, but elaborate operation codes, anyone with only a basic understanding of computer use (Computer Skill of 0) would have a hard time figuring-out its basic operations. On the other hand, skilled programers find these systems the easiest to program, then the more "user-friendly" CPUs. Level 2 (Standard Linear) CPUs are like basic (level 1) computers, but their additional processing-power allows them to be better at multitasking. These systems are akin to a modern computer, as they the most common type of CPU used in civilian computers: for work, entertainment and data storage. Level 3 (Advanced Linear) CPUs have basic quantum computers that allows them to be flexible, and to preform complicated tasks. This complexity also allows them to be "user-friendly" by being able to talk and follow verbal instructions. As such, unskilled users find them to be easy to work with, while skilled programers usually find them frustrating. If they are given instructions that disagree with their programming, they will ignore the orders. They are also used on self-guiding missiles and torpedoes. Level 4 (Basic AI) CPUs have simple, semi-independent A.I. (artificial intelligence) possessors. They are highly flexible, and can execute commands that can lead to different outcomes. While fairly sophisticated, and being able to communicate like a living person, they do not grasp even the basic emotions of a user. They are also used on drone Fighters (this makes a lot of sense, when you think about it). Level 5 (Standard AI) CPUs are true AIs, and can think independently. Most users find them to be the easiest to work with, because they usually have a user-interface in the form of a face (of whatever their owner desires), and can read the facial expressions and emotions of the user. Programers have a harder time with them, as their sophisticated neuro-network is hard to workout. The limitations of this system prevents them from developing on an emotional-level, and cannot emotionally relate to a user (like with androids of the same level, users tend to have a one-sided relationship with them). They are used to run spaceships and entire buildings or complexes. Level 6 (Advanced AI) CPUs have the most sophisticated A.I. possessors in the Frontier! They are self-programming and can develop on an emotional-level. Do to this, they are the most restricted. Their flexible nature allows them to foresee dangers and hazards, while also coordinating the working of a facility. They can also learn and gain skill levels, and even develop personality quarks. Do to this, they are the hardest to reprogram, as their neuro-networks are constantly shifting and able to ignore new programs. They are used on drone ships, as "think-tanks" in collages and academies, and are used to run whole cities or automated manufacturing plants. ___________ By the way - I forgot to ask - imagine how the principle of the above also relate to robots and androids. They still work and think the same, but the added details would really add to social aspects of the game. Hell, this would make spaceships like NPCs into themselves! (Hello... Dave.) So what do you all think about this? |
 March 23, 2012 - 5:29am | Terminology question; Why are the first three called Liners? Sounds like a great job but where did you say we had to go? |
March 23, 2012 - 8:32am | Terminology question; Why are the first three called Liners? Its more of a placeholder name to distinguish them from AIs, but I have been mulling it over. When I think of a basic computer, I think of a liner possess of binary (or even decimal) code, while an advanced computer would have a non-liner possess - working all at once. Although this is an error, as a level 3 PCU is non-liner - being a quantum computer - but is still largely limited to what its programed to do. AIs use a neuro-network that works like a living brain. Basically, the "liner" systems are non-AIs. |
 March 23, 2012 - 12:01pm | I think the word you mean to be using is 'linear' not 'liner'. My question was what do the various column values mean? The level column is obvious and I think that the 'Max PLs' column is the maximum program level that the computer can run but how do we interpret the other columns? Ad Astra Per Ardua! My blog - Expanding Frontier Webmaster - The Star Frontiers Network & this site Founding Editor - The Frontier Explorer Magazine Managing Editor - The Star Frontiersman Magazine |
March 23, 2012 - 1:58pm | Thanks for the heads-up on that. As for the chart: Function Points are the amount of Function Points a CPU takes-up. A Level 1 CPU is so simple, it frees up space! Cost Adj. is the overall adjustment to the (credit) cost of the computer. This is to make the more high-end computers out of the price range for most people, and to cut the price of simple, specialized computers with level 1 CPUs. Max PLs are the maximum Programs Level a CPU can handle. The logic behind this limit, is that a level 1 CPU is capable of doing "advanced algebra and calculus" (Analysis level 3), but "all know and theoretical math" (Analysis level 6) is way out of its league (although, I have been thinking about lowering thin limits by 1-point to make the level 1 CPU even more simple - nothing is finale here). |
