Data-font
More actions
A data-font is a form of optical computer interface used by Cylons to access information in their datastream, as well as control various other Cylon technologies. Humanoid Cylons need only to place their palm on the illuminated port to instantly access the data stream (TRS: "Exodus, Part I").
Caprica-Valerii performs a rough version of this technique with Colonial technology by inserting a fiber optic cable (which uses light as a data carrier) into an incision in her left arm to connect to Galactica's computer mainframe (TRS: "Flight of the Phoenix"). Another Eight interfaces with a Raptor's computer in the same manner (TRS: "The Face of the Enemy"). These abilities, including other observed interactions or reactions such as glowing spines[1] and photo-sensitive eyes[2] shows that many cells in their bodies are photo-sensitive and/or bio-luminescent.
Design and Function
editData-fonts are found on basestars in the ship's command and control center for data access and other ship functions. These data ports have a layer of water over the interface, which may have an aesthetic or functional purpose.
Water-Based Technology
editProduction designer Richard Hudolin explained that water serves as a communications conduit in Cylon technology, functioning as a transfer medium for data streams rather than relying on traditional switches and screens.[production 1] The data-fonts utilize screens made of monofilament with water droplets flowing down them, enabling image projection onto the liquid surface.[production 1] This technology also allows Cylons to project images directly onto themselves as a method of transferring data or communicating.[production 1]
These data-fonts (and the database circuitry used throughout the ship) are at least partially organic[3] in design, as they are damaged after an infection kills or shuts down almost every Cylon entity and device on the basestar (TRS: "A Measure of Salvation").
Access and Security
editModels can only access information to which they are privy to, e.g. Eights can not learn anything meant for the Sixes only.[4]
Notes
edit- The term "data-font" comes from Ron D. Moore, who calls these devices as this in a forum post on SCIFI.com [4]. It is also used by the Hybrid in the episode "Six of One".
- The Mirriam-Webster definition of font (aside from its modern usage as an element of a printed typeface) is a receptacle for baptismal water, such as those touched by members of the Roman Catholic church as they arrive and leave Mass.
References
edit- ↑ Caprica-Six in the Miniseries, Night 1 and Sharon "Athena" Agathon in "Six Degrees of Separation" show the glowing spines. Readers should note that this cinematic effect was discontinued by the writers after season 1.
- ↑ This occurs with Samuel Anders in "He That Believeth in Me."
- ↑ As Sharon "Athena" Agathon uses non-organic datacord salvaged from a Raptor to make repairs to a stricken baseship's FTL in "Faith," the full extent of organic technology throughout a baseship is not clear.
- ↑ 4.0 4.1 Q&A with Ron D. Moore (backup available on Archive.org) (in ). (5 November 2007). Retrieved on 11 April 2008.