Data-font

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The data-font is a device 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 port and they are able to instantly access the data stream (Exodus, Part I).

Caprica-Valerii attempts a rough version of this technique with Colonial technology by inserting a fiber optic cable into her arm, thus allowing her connectivity to Galactica's computer mainframe (Flight of the Phoenix).

Data-fonts are also used 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. These data-fonts (and the database circuitry used throughout the ship) are apparently organic in design, as they are damaged after an infection kills or shuts down almost every Cylon entity and device on the basestar (A Measure of Salvation).

Models can only access information to which they are privy to, e.g. Eights can not learn anything meant for the Sixes only.^[1]

Notes

• The term "data-font" comes from Ron D. Moore, who calls these devices as this in a forum post on SCIFI.com ^[1]. It is also used by the Hybrid in the episode "Six of One".
• That the humanoid Cylons can interface directly with a fiber-optical cable and light also plays a role in the physical interfaces, implies that some cells in their hands are photo-sensitive and bio-luminescent.
• 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