Post by magicmuggle01 on Aug 1, 2019 10:32:31 GMT
Tricorder
A tricorder was a multifunction hand-held device useful for data sensing, analysis, and recording, with many specialized abilities which made it an asset to crews aboard starships and space stations as well as on away missions. (TOS: "The Naked Time") The word itself is short for "tri-function recorder," since it essentially consisted of three systems: the sensor array previously mentioned, a computer for the said analyses, and a recorder to store the data thus gathered. Tricorders were often useful for recording entries in personal or official logs.
Data using "Mr. Tricorder"
"Mr. Tricorder" was a joke made by Data in 2371 during an away mission aboard the Amargosa observatory following the installation of his emotion chip. He used a tricorder like a hand puppet and talked to Geordi La Forge. (Star Trek Generations)
Subspace highway detector
A subspace highway detector is a type of sensor that looks for subspace corridors so that the ship finds faster ways when at warp speeds. However, such a device works best when linked to astrometrics and navigational equipment. The RIS Bouteina is equipped with a subspace highway detector whose improper installation ruptured a moisture control system on deck 19. (RIS Bouteina:"The Departure").
Scanner
A Starfleet hand scanner
A scanner was a hand-held sensory device. The word "scanner" was a generic term for such technology. Scanners were common during the mid-22nd century and used by a variety of space-faring cultures and institutions such as Starfleet, the Earth Sciences Institute, Ferengi privateers, the Suliban Cabal, and the Vulcan High Command.
Starfleet
22nd century
Earth Starfleet's hand scanner,
closed configuration
Internal circuitry of interface and
viewer section
Sometimes referred to as a hand scanner, the Starfleet scanner was common during the 2150s. Distinguished by a square-shaped body lined with black grips, this scanner featured a display and interface that could be closed, making the device more compact for storage. (ENT: "Broken Bow")
Capable of performing general sensory functions such as generating floor plan views, and locating bio-signs, these scanners were also equipped with quantum dating technology, yielding at least generally accurate results. (ENT: "Dead Stop", "The Expanse", "Carpenter Street")
Under certain circumstances, the scanner could be converted into a communications device, even transmitting through time, from the 31st to the 22nd century. (ENT: "Shockwave, Part II")
These devices were also capable of interfacing with and potentially overriding vastly different computer systems. Sent back to the 21st century, Starfleet Captain Jonathan Archer successfully tampered with a 2004 ATM and overrode the automatic locking mechanism of a Dodge Ram truck. (ENT: "Carpenter Street")
The hand scanner could also be used to deactivate explosive devices, though with varying results. (ENT: "The Forge")
Despite its versatility, the hand scanner was, at times, somewhat inaccurate. It sometimes could not separate Human (or even humanoid) bio-signs from that of other species. It was also susceptible to certain forms of temporal interference. (ENT: "Doctor's Orders", "Broken Bow")
A hand scanner detecting
lifesigns
When it did locate life signs, they were generally displayed as a blinking, red indicator. (ENT: "Carpenter Street")
The internal circuitry of the hand scanner could be accessed by removing both the back panel of the body, and by removing the interface viewer portion. (ENT: "Shockwave, Part II")
In 2153, Sim disassembled a hand scanner in the mess hall aboard Enterprise NX-01. (ENT: "Similitude")
It is not entirely clear, in the final version of the episode, that this is what Sim is doing, though the final draft script of "Similitude" specified that it is.
A small control PADD seen throughout Enterprise in the hands of Lieutenant Reed seems to have been made – at least by the prop makers – from the lower portion of the hand scanner, with added blue LED "blinkies". It can be clearly seen in such episodes as "Dead Stop" and "Regeneration", used to activate Reed's various explosives.
The hand scanner itself was among several all-new props made for the premiere of Enterprise, designed with a built-in pop-up function and blue LED "display". According to one Star Trek prop website, of four working scanners that were built for the series, only one survived until the end of season four.
Medical scanner
A medical scanner
Phlox using a medical scanner
Also in stock aboard Starfleet vessels such as the NX-class Enterprise, a small medical scanner was available during the 2150s.
This palm-sized scanner was distinguished by a large, blue-glowing display screen and interface, with two rows of blue-glowing lights opposite. The medical scanner was able to perform simple diagnostic functions, such as reading vital signs and internal scans. It could also be used much like the Starfleet hand scanner, used to scan a specific area for general bio-signs.
The medical scanner's range was generally close, though it could get accurate scans from the distance of a few feet. (ENT: "Broken Bow", "Dear Doctor", "Hatchery")
In 2151, Doctor Phlox used the medical scanner to identify the sickness of the Novan Nadet – lung cancer. He was also able to tell that Jamin was a relative of Nadet by using his scanner. (ENT: "Terra Nova")
In 2152, Doctor Phlox used a medical scanner to confirm that the Takret anatomy was immune to radiolytic isotopes. (ENT: "The Catwalk")
In the Enterprise season three episode "Similitude", Dr. Phlox refers to an off-screen piece of equipment as a medical tricorder. It's possible that he was talking about the above medical scanner, though it has never been given a specific or identifiable name.
Heavy scanner
A heavy scanner used during an EVA
Larger in size than either the hand or medical scanners, a heavy-duty model was also available aboard Earth starships during the 2150s.
Characterized by a thick, rectangular body held horizontally, this scanner also featured a metallic handle to the left of a rectangular display screen and control buttons. It could be used to view graphic representations of the inside of devices such as a Romulan mine that struck the NX-01 in 2152. (ENT: "Minefield")
Appearing only once during the run of Enterprise, it is not clear if this scanner had other functions or whether its role was specifically intended for EVA as depicted in the episode. In the episode's final draft script, it was referred to as merely a "large hand scanner". It was clearly constructed from an actual plasma screen monitor, about the same size as those mounted on the NX-01's command chair.
23rd century
Heavy scanner
Scott using scanning device to
detect ore contamination
Another version of a heavy scanning device was a large hand-held device, used for quick scans, was trigger activated device had a defined white sensor cap, red barrel, and dark grey read with display and adjustment knobs.
Montgomery Scott kept such a device in the transporter room of the USS Enterprise during the 2260s. He used it on Fisher to determine the properties of an unknown soft ores found on his uniform. With the device, he was able to determine that the ore had magnetic properties recommended that the uniform be decontaminated. (TOS: "The Enemy Within")
This device was an example of one of the many "Feinbergers" used in The Original Series, more specifically, a modified modern device, in this case a "Nuclear-Chicago Model 2586 "Cutie Pie" radiation detector" [2], used in futuristic context.
In the final draft of "The Enemy Within", it was described simply as "a scanning device" and "scanner".
This device also appeared in "The Naked Time", "The Doomsday Machine", and "Obsession".
Earth Sciences Institute
Scanner
An ESI scanner
Available to members of the Earth Sciences Institute, including researchers of the A-6 excavation team during the 2150s, was a small, angular scanner. Dominated by a large, rectangular, green-glowing display screen, this scanner included a long, irregularly shaped input area with a number of button controls.
The device could be used to identify technology buried beneath snow and could differentiate organic matter from inorganic matter. Researcher Rooney successfully identified a warp coil buried in a debris field at the Arctic Circle with the scanner, though the object was actually a Borg transwarp coil. (ENT: "Regeneration")
The generic scanner used by the A-6 excavation team was a reuse of the mold of the Cardassian PADD from TNG and DS9, with a large, now square, lighted display screen. It appeared again in the second season of Enterprise, repainted and in the hands of Klingons in "Bounty".
Medical scanner
An ESI medical scanner
Also utilized by the ESI and A-6 excavation team was a large, oval-shaped device used for medical scans.
Distinguished by a small, circular readout and several circular buttons lining the periphery of the device, this scanner could detect, among other things, changes in bio-functions.
The medical scanner used by researcher Moninger to scan the Borg "corpses" was a redress of Daniels' Temporal Observatory device from "Cold Front" and was one of the most distinct scanners portrayed on Enterprise.
Listed as "Bio-molecular PADD", this scanner was sold off on the It's A Wrap! sale and auction on eBay.
Andorian
An Andorian scanner
The Andorian scanner was utilized by the Andorians in the 22nd century.
A table-top piece of equipment featured a large display and a small section of buttons. In June of 2151, an Andorian commando of the Andorian Imperial Guard, led by Commander Thy'lek Shran, used such a scanner to locate the secret listening post of the Vulcans at the monastery at P'Jem. Keval, who operated the scanner, informed Shran about three new Human life signs suddenly appearing near the atrium. (ENT: "The Andorian Incident")
The prop Andorian scanner
The prop was identified as "Andorian scanner" in the props section of the call sheet. Captain Archer described it as a "scanning console" in the episode.
The item, which featured backlit display screen graphics designed by Geoffrey Mandel based on crop circle designs, was later sold at the 40 Years of Star Trek: The Collection at Christie's.
Ferengi
A Ferengi scanner
A small, brown, angular scanning device was utilized by citizens of the Ferengi Alliance or Ferengi privateers as early as 2151.
Characterized by a large, green, illuminated interface and display, this Ferengi scanner was capable of scanning through bulkheads and was key in the search for loot. (ENT: "Acquisition")
The Ferengi scanning device seen in only the aforementioned episode was a reuse of the Ferengi PADD from Star Trek: Deep Space Nine. Unlike the PADD, however, the scanner featured electronics to illuminate the display screen.
Hirogen
A Hirogen scanner
A small, metallic-orange device was used as a scanner by the Hirogen.
In 2374, the Alpha-Hirogen Idrin used this scanner on Seven of Nine to conclude about her verly long intestines. (VOY: "Hunters")
The device was identified as "Hirogen scanner" on the call sheet of the episode.
Malurian
A Malurian scanner
The Malurian scanner had a metallic ring surrounding an inner Malurian control surface, with green and yellow blinking lights on the outer ring. It could be used to scan DNA and to signal for a beam-up to a Malurian vessel. (ENT: "Civilization")
The call sheet is listing this device simply as "alien scanner" in the props requirement section.
Osaarian
The Osaarian scanner was a somewhat bulky device with a blue-colored screen on top. In 2153, Orgoth lifted one of these scanners onto a side station in Enterprise's engineering and tried to use it in an attempt to download Enterprise's database. (ENT: "Anomaly")
This device is not identified on screen. However, it was referred to as "a hand-held scanning device" and an "alien scanner" in the final draft script of "Anomaly". A close-up showing the screen of this scanner was also scripted to appear, though is not included in the final edit of the episode.
Suliban Cabal
A Suliban scanner
Also similar in design and shape to the Vulcan scanner, the hand-held sensing device utilized by members of the Suliban Cabal featured a rounded interface area, with an extended handle. Mottled-brown in color, this scanner also featured a purple readout.
Presumably along with a handful of other functions, the Suliban scanner was capable of locating an individual's distinct bio-signs and could detect temporal signatures. (ENT: "Shockwave, Part II")
Appearing only in "Shockwave, Part II", the Suliban scanner was likely created from the same mold as T'Pol's scanner, with an extended handle and a new paint scheme that looked more Suliban.
Tellarites
A mid-23rd century Tellarite bounty hunter called Tevrin Krit used a scanner in his work. ST: "The Escape Artist")
Vulcan High Command
20th century
Used by officers in service of the Vulcan High Command as early as 1957, the standard scanner used by Vulcans was a chrome-colored, dome-shaped device with a handle.
The device featured a purple-colored, lighted display screen and could be used to scan for life signs. (ENT: "Carbon Creek")
22nd century
A 22nd century Vulcan scanner
Standard scanner
Similar in shape and design as its 20th century counterpart, the scanner used by the Vulcans during the 2150s was also a dome-shaped sensor, with a triangular handle. This device, however, was distinguished by a silver-colored readout portion and a blue handle, with black grips. The viewer itself displayed readings in Vulcan script with a generally purple-color glow. The grip featured an array of button controls. (ENT: "Broken Bow", "Terra Nova", "Civilization", "Fortunate Son")
This scanner featured an imaging sensor. (ENT: "The Andorian Incident")
The Vulcan scanner possessed a maximum scanning radius of three kilometers and performed the same general function as the Earth Starfleet hand scanner. Vulcan sensors, however, were commonly known to be superior during that time. (ENT: "Carpenter Street", "Broken Bow")
Medical scanner
As early as 2153, Vulcan doctors in the service of the High Command were equipped with distinct medical scanners.
Featuring a similarly dome-shaped readout section, this scanner also featured a dome-shaped lower, control portion. It was also distinguished by yellow indicator lights on each side of the display screen.
It was used to scan for certain types of radiation and could, possibly, perform detailed brain scans. (ENT: "The Expanse")
Xindi
A dark-colored type of Xindi scanner was used on a Xindi-Arboreal colony during the 22nd century.
In 2153, Xindi-Arboreal technician Gralik Durr used a Xindi scanner to determine that a particular fragment of metallic debris was from the Xindi probe. (ENT: "The Shipment")
A "small Mazarite scanner" was scripted to appear in ENT: "Fallen Hero", though no device fitting this description appears in that episode.
Scanner on Rigel X
One type of scanner was used by the leader of a gang of aliens on Rigel X, upon examining a fake Tenebian amethyst that Shran and T'Pol had brought him in an effort to convince the aliens it was a real Tenebian amethyst. This alien scanner was a relatively narrow device and had a green light at its scanning head. (ENT: "These Are the Voyages...").
Bio-scanner
A bio-scanner was technology used to detect and scan biological entities. Bio-scanners were found in devices such as tricorders as well as starships themselves. The summary of the findings made by bioscanners were reported in a bioscanners report.
Earth Starfleet ships were equipped with bio-scanners since at least the mid-22nd century, though the technology was not perfect. In 2152, the bio-scanners aboard Enterprise NX-01 failed to detect a lymphatic virus brought on board along with canisters of deuterium. (ENT: "The Seventh")
24th century Starfleet tricorders were equipped with bio-scanners. In 2371, Neelix's tricorder picked up a single class 3 humanoid organism on a rogue planetoid that was thought to be uninhabited. (VOY: "Phage") Later that same year, the USS Voyager used its own bio-scanners to investigate new space-dwelling lifeforms discovered in the Delta Quadrant. (VOY: "Elogium")
The Nechani race had bio-scanners, and used them to detect a subdermal bioprobe implanted in Captain Kathryn Janeway during her visit to their homeworld. (VOY: "Sacred Ground")
The Nyrian biosphere vessel was equipped with bio-scanners, which Captain Janeway and Tuvok used to help locate other Voyager crewmembers that were being held captive. (VOY: "Displaced")
According to the script for TNG: "A Matter of Time", a "bioscanner" was one of the devices that time traveler Berlinghoff Rasmussen had stolen while on board the USS Enterprise-D, indicating that Federation bio-scanners may have existed as stand-alone devices, and not necessarily only as a function found in tricorders and starships.
Devore scanner
A Devore soldier uses a scanner
The Devore scanner was a scanner used by the Devore species.
It had two prongs on the front, a grill along the rounded bottom edge and a single screen the holder could monitor. It was capable of telling whether a person had telepathic abilities or not, so boarding parties were often equipped with them. Though this required the scanning of each crewman individually. (VOY: "Counterpoint")
The prop representing the Devore scanner was later used as Mobar's scanner and religious item in "Live Fast and Prosper".
Trident scanner
A lieutenant using a trident
scanner
Scotty repairing the Constellation
A trident scanner was a 23rd century piece of Federation technology that was used for repairing power relays. (DS9: "Trials and Tribble-ations")
Spock used a trident scanner while he attempted to examine the circuits aboard the Galileo, after the shuttlecraft had been brought down to Gamma Canaris N. The scanner, however, was short-circuited and destroyed by the Companion when Spock attempted to make physical contact with it. (TOS: "Metamorphosis")
In 2267, Ensign Harper used a trident scanner to connect the M-5 multitronic unit to the USS Enterprise's main power plant. He later attempted to disconnect M-5 with a trident scanner, but was vaporized by the advanced computer for his troubles. (TOS: "The Ultimate Computer")
The same year, Lieutenant Commander Montgomery Scott, leading a repair party aboard the USS Constellation, employed a trident scanner to cross-connect the warp drive control circuits to those of the impulse engines. (TOS: "The Doomsday Machine")
Another model of the trident scanner was used on the bridge aboard the USS Enterprise-A while it was undergoing repairs in 2287. (Star Trek V: The Final Frontier).
2268 model
2287 model
Starfleet tricorder
The Starfleet tricorder was the versatile, portable sensing device developed by Starfleet R&D specifically for use by Federation Starfleet personnel. Tricorders were outfitted with the latest cutting-edge sensory and emitter technology.
Varying models of the Starfleet tricorder were put into service, beginning as early as the 23rd century through the 24th century, possibly lasting well into the 29th century.
23rd century
2230s
Starfleet tricorder, 2233.
In service aboard the early 2230s ship the USS Kelvin, the tricorder was a large flat device resembling a briefcase, complete with a handle for carrying the device. In the alternate reality, one was used to monitor the heavily pregnant Winona Kirk's health during the Narada's attack. (Star Trek)
2260s
Starfleet tricorder, 2268
"I love classic twenty third century designs. Black finish, silver highlights."
– Jadzia Dax, 2268 ("Trials and Tribble-ations")
In service during the mid-2260s, the standard Starfleet tricorder incorporated a segmented design. This tricorder, a generally square-shaped device, utilized three sections: a pivoting upper portion containing the display readout and controls; a compartmented mid-section containing data chips; and an adaptable lower portion, sometimes containing a hand-held sensor as with the medical tricorder. The tricorder of the 2260s was mostly black with silver trim and featured a leather-like strap, allowing one to sling the tricorder over the shoulder when not in use. (TOS: "The Naked Time")
Yeomen serving aboard Starfleet starships (such as Janice Rand aboard the USS Enterprise) often carried tricorders in order to record and retrieve information for the starship captain. More often however, the tricorder was standard equipment included on away missions. (TOS: "The Man Trap", "Charlie X")
These devices could also be set to transmit an automatic distress call. (TOS: "That Which Survives")
One of the Dax hosts owned this version of the tricorder, remembered fondly by Jadzia Dax. (DS9: "Trials and Tribble-ations")
The original series tricorder was designed by Wah Chang. (Star Trek Encyclopedia (2nd ed., p. 522)) Unlike many licensed replicas of the TOS tricorder, the original prop featured a non-functional screen with graphics often matted into the device in post production. The 24th century Next Generation version also inspired several experimental scientific tools – one of which looked and functioned in a remarkably accurate manner the tricorders presented on-screen. Apparently, one of the test models wasn't accurate enough – it was given to a tester, who flipped it open and expressed disappointment that it didn't make any 'tricorder' noises.
Forward view
A heavier version of the tricorder was also used by landing parties and aboard ship. This configuration sported a pistol-grip and its controls were located on the top of the unit. It was used primarily to detect contamination caused by ores and gases, as well as to register radiation and atmospheric pressure. (TOS: "The Naked Time", "The Enemy Within", "The Doomsday Machine", "Obsession")
This sensor device was first seen in "The Enemy Within". In "The Naked Time", Scotty noted that Spock and Tormolen's tricorders failed to register any contamination or unusual elements. Both characters carried the typical tricorders, but Spock also used the larger unit. Contrarily, the standard tricorder was used in favor of the larger unit for scanning inside Garrovick's quarters. The prop itself was a modified Nuclear-Chicago Model 2586 "Cutie Pie" radiation detector.
2270s
Tricorder, 2270s
A tricorder in use aboard the refit
Enterprise in the 2270s
With the widespread redesign of many facets of Starfleet and Federation technology in the early 2270s, so too did the tricorder advance toward a new design.
Smaller than that of the 2260s, the new hand-held Starfleet tricorder was blue-gray in color and featured two grips on either side of the body. Controls and readout displays were located beneath a lid at the top of the device. (Star Trek: The Motion Picture)
This type of tricorder was still in use in the 2280s. (Star Trek IV: The Voyage Home)
Andrew Probert contributed designs for the The Motion Picture redesign of the tricorder. It appeared in the first and fourth Trek feature, but incorporated graphics that would later be echoed in the TNG-era tricorder.
2280s
As early as 2285, Starfleet personnel like those serving aboard the refit starship Enterprise had at their disposal at least two distinct versions of the Starfleet tricorder.
Type A
Heavy-duty tricorder
Among the options was a heavy-duty tricorder, often used during landing parties. Bulkier than previous designs, this tricorder featured a handle and a large head featuring a line of blinking indicator lights. (Star Trek II: The Wrath of Khan)
Not shown in close-up, this large tricorder may have been intended only for landing parties. It was seen in Star Trek II only - first carried by Chekov and Terrell during their visit to Ceti Alpha V, and again used by Saavik aboard Regula I. It was replaced in the next film by a more familiar design. This tricorder model was seen in "The Nth Degree" as part of Barclay's elaborate computer interface on the holodeck.
Type B
One tricorder option during the 2280s
Harking back to the designs of the 2260s, a second tricorder option in use during the mid-2280s featured a familiar square, black and silver design.
Much smaller than the heavy-duty version, this model featured a slide-up top studded with controls and indicator lights. Also incorporating a strap, the tricorder could be slung over the shoulder when not in use. Unlike its predecessors, this tricorder possessed control surfaces over much of the body of the instrument. (Star Trek III: The Search for Spock)
This third movie-era tricorder was designed by the effects team at Industrial Light & Magic, a likely homage to the Original Series model. It was the last 23rd century tricorder to be seen clearly on screen, except when we saw a glimpse of it in Star Trek V: The Final Frontier on Spock's use.
24th century
2360s
By the early 2360s, the Starfleet tricorder had taken on a more streamlined appearance, distinguished by a flip-open design maximizing both portability and interface surface availability.
Incorporating several sensor clusters, these tricorders featured multi-channel communications assemblies, and multiple databank modules. Encompassing visual displays and graphic touch pad interfaces, the tricorder of the 2360s provided easy means for on the spot archive retrieval, the recording of away mission events, and constant scientific measurements including biological, geographical or meteorological.
TR-560 Tricorder VI
Standard tricorder
The TR-560 in 2365
In service as early as 2361, the TR-560 Tricorder VI model sensing device was available to officers serving aboard such vessels as the USS Victory and the USS Enterprise-D.
With an array of sensors on the front of the device, this tricorder design flipped open to reveal a large number of control surfaces and a square display screen, roughly the same size as those utilized as early as the 2260s.
Equipped with a small hand sensor, stowed below the sensors, the TR-560 tricorder was capable of communicating with non-Starfleet computer systems, and were therefore vulnerable to some computer viruses, even capable of transmitting them to other systems.
Gray in color, these tricorders were constructed with a durable casing, but could easily be destroyed by a phaser set to "disintegrate". (TNG: "Identity Crisis", "Encounter at Farpoint", "Angel One", "Contagion")
This style of tricorder was designed by Rick Sternbach during preproduction of Star Trek: The Next Generation. In a series of sketches which were dated 6 February 1987 and which Probert prepared for construction bidders interested in building the props required for the show, a completed version of this tricorder design was shown. (Star Trek: The Next Generation Companion 3rd ed., p. 11) The TR-560 (as it was labeled on the lower door) was used in the first two seasons of TNG only, reappearing once in "Identity Crisis" during scenes taking place in 2361.
TR-580 Tricorder VII
Standard tricorder
The TR-580 in 2370
In service between 2366 and 2372, the Starfleet TR-580 Tricorder VII succeeded the TR-560 Tricorder VI. Retaining the same basic shape as the previous design, the TR-580s also incorporated hand sensors, but this feature was eventually phased out by 2370. (TNG: "Evolution"; DS9: "The Way of the Warrior")
TR-580s could be used for a variety of tasks, including recording time trials and playing holographic messages. This model featured a directory structure and built-in universal translator. This tricorder was also configured to perform proximity checks every two minutes and was able to emit a photoplasmic trail to help locate lost crewmembers. (TNG: "Chain of Command, Part I", "The Chase", "Booby Trap", "Attached"; DS9: "Move Along Home"; VOY: "Twisted")
One version of the TR-580 used by Jadzia Dax in 2370 featured a larger screen on the upper section. (DS9: "Blood Oath")
Data with a TR-580 he
nicknamed "Mr. Tricorder."
TR-580s were capable of detecting dampening fields and if doors were magnetically sealed. (TNG: "Chain of Command, Part I"; Star Trek Generations; VOY: "Phage")
To prevent interference with objects, the TR-580 could be set to perform a passive scan. The model could also be locked into a continuous scan, thereby recording data, even when stowed. Capable of communicating with non-Starfleet computer systems, the tricorder could be linked to other units, acting as a small computer network, easily relaying information to other locations. (TNG: "Schisms", "Brothers"; VOY: "Emanations", "Heroes and Demons")
Sensor emissions from TR-580s could cause unpredictable changes in certain temporal distortions, and sometimes included polaric fields, allowing a user to scan for subspace fractures caused by polaric detonation. (TNG: "Timescape"; VOY: "Time and Again")
TR-580s were stored in most equipment lockers aboard Federation starships though it was common for personnel to keep them in their quarters. (TNG: "Disaster", "The Game", "A Matter of Time")
Starfleet sometimes distributed TR-580 model tricorders to Federation allied worlds, including Bajoran personnel on space station Deep Space 9. They could also be used by civilians, and were shipped en masse to areas in need, such as disaster sites. (TNG: "True Q"; DS9: "Babel", "Tears of the Prophets")
The standard TR-580 could function as a makeshift medical tricorder if necessary, although not all medical personnel were happy to do this. (TNG: "Time's Arrow, Part II"; DS9: "Emissary"; VOY: "Caretaker")
Individuals were instructed in the use of the TR-580 by reading the tricorder operations manual. (VOY: "Phage")
This second-generation TNG tricorder was built by Ed Miarecki for the third season of that series, based upon Rick Sternbach's original design. It contained a more refined set of graphics and a number of additional blinking LEDs, especially active at the front of the unit. The model number "TR-580" was an in-joke tribute to the TRS-80, a 1980s home computer. The episode "Silicon Avatar" featured an odd tricorder-related blooper: in it Dr. Kila Marr holds her tricorder backwards, seemingly scanning herself. Gates McFadden, who played Dr. Beverly Crusher on Star Trek: the Next Generation, was a stickler for accuracy, so Rick Berman made her a tricorder guide to make sure that she always operated her medical equipment props in a correct and consistent manner. (Star Trek: The Next Generation Technical Manual, p. 120).
Red tricorder
A red tricorder in 2371
A variety of the standard tricorder appeared in USS Voyager's sickbay in the year 2371. Five tricorders of this type were included in little alcoves behind the three biobeds and to the left and right of the main entry to sickbay. (VOY: "Eye of the Needle") In 2372, these tricorders were replaced by PADDs. Similar tricorders were included in the same locations in sickbay aboard the USS Enterprise-E in 2373.
These tricorders were only seen in the first season of Star Trek: Voyager and in Star Trek: First Contact and were never seen in use. They were made out of wood and were removed from the set after the first season. Though they appeared in sickbay, they didn't feature the larger top section with the scanner normally associated with medical tricorders.
Medical tricorder
Medical TR-580 in 2369
A 2360s-era hand scanner
Medical TR-580s used were essentially similar in design to that of the standard TR-580, with the same available features and interface. The major difference was the addition of a deployable hand scanner. While some standard TR-580s also had removable scanners, the medical TR-580s were much more advanced and could provide detailed scans of an entire individual, or give focus to a single area. (TNG: "When The Bough Breaks") It was not necessary to use the scanner for the TR-580 to function. The scanner could be separated from the tricorder, either to feed data to another source or not be attached to the tricorder at all. (TNG: "Up The Long Ladder"; DS9: "Babel"; VOY: "Time and Again")
The medical sensor unit was also equipped with additional sensor ports. (TNG: "Transfigurations")
The TR-580 medical tricorder was capable of recording audio. (TNG: "Cause and Effect")
This medical tricorder is apparently incapable of performing accurate scans on deceased people. This can be learned during the first year of Starfleet Medical Academy. (DS9: "The Passenger")
The 24th century versions of the medical TR-580 were equipped with holographic imaging diodes. (TNG: "The Chase")
While the suite of sensors installed on medical TR-580s was advanced, it was generally no substitute for the advanced and specialized equipment in a sickbay facility. (TNG: "Genesis", "All Good Things...") Genetically-engineered microviruses were not generally detected by a standard medical TR-580 scan. (TNG: "The Vengeance Factor")
TR-580s could communicate with many Starfleet devices, including PADDs and starship library computers. They were also designed to work closely with the surgical support frames attached to biobeds. (TNG: "Identity Crisis", "Realm of Fear") In conjunction with a neural pad, a medical TR-580 could be used to link the nervous system of a healthy individual to that of an injured individual in order to stabilize the injured for transport. (TNG: "Transfigurations")
Medical TR-580s could be configured to briefly disrupt a force field. (TNG: "Attached")
2370s
TR-590 Tricorder X
Standard tricorder
The TR-590 Tricorder X
Succeeding the TR-580 Tricorder VII, the TR-590 Mark X tricorder featured nearly identical control interfaces. The entire unit, however, was streamlined and made much smaller, featuring a more angular design. (DS9: "The Way of the Warrior"; VOY: "Initiations")
Functioning very much like the previous model of Starfleet tricorder, the Mark Xs were stored in most equipment lockers on board Federation starships. (VOY: "Relativity")
The Mark X tricorder could upload data it acquired remotely to a Federation starship. (VOY: "Initiations", "Future's End", "Year of Hell", "Equinox", "Good Shepherd")
Discovered by the Maquis, the Mark X tricorder could be prevented from attaining credible readings when subjected to concentrated thoron particles. (VOY: "Basics, Part II")
The darker cased TR-590
tricorder in 2378
The Mark X tricorder was reportedly heavy for its size as indicated by B'Elanna Torres when she received a small gift from Tuvok during a holodeck generated baby shower. Torres asked if it was her child's first tricorder as the gift was small yet heavy. (VOY: "Human Error")
The Mark X tricorder could still function after being underwater. (DS9: "Rocks and Shoals"; Star Trek: Insurrection) It could also function in hostile environments such as temperatures of 500 Kelvin, (VOY: "Demon") the upper atmosphere of a planet, (VOY: "Rise") and planets suffering nuclear winter. (VOY: "Friendship One")
The upper component of the TR-590 was capable of interfacing with a Starfleet desktop monitor and projecting a recorded image from the tricorder onto the screen. (VOY: "Timeless") This tricorder was also able to access secured files on a 20th century computer. (VOY: "Future's End")
Despite being introduced in 2372, Mark X tricorders were already in use on board the USS Voyager during 2371. (VOY: "Relativity", "Fury", "Shattered")
First appearing at the beginning of Star Trek: Voyager season two and the beginning of DS9 season four, the Mark X tricorder was designed by HMS Studios. Like the previous evolution, it featured a number of additional LEDs along with a darker, more metallic coat of paint. Coinciding with a similar redesign of the phasers, this new tricorder inexplicably found its way into the hands of the Voyager crew, despite the fact that it was stranded in the Delta Quadrant. It is possible that Starfleet programmed replicators to replace older tricorders throughout Starfleet with preprogrammed and predesigned upgrades through an automated upgrade process, or it could be that Voyager and the Equinox were test vessels for the new tricorders and phasers in 2371, and were not distributed fleet-wide until 2372.
In the Star Trek: Deep Space Nine game The Fallen, the player is able to use a TR-590 tricorder for a variety of purposes, including scanning people and objects and to determine shield frequencies.
Medical tricorder
The Mark X medical tricorder
Introduced along with the Mark X standard tricorder, a medical tricorder variant was in use aboard Federation starships as early as 2373.
TR-590 medical tricorder in 2378
Generally identical to the standard tricorder, the medical featured a detachable hand scanner (as in previous models) that fit into the back of the unit. It was distinguished by blue ID indicator lights and a blue-glowing sensor surface. (Star Trek: First Contact; VOY: "Favorite Son", "Prey"; DS9: "Soldiers of the Empire")
The medical tricorder had duritanium casing, and measured 7.6 × 9.8 × 3.2 centimeters, and featured an alphanumeric display. (VOY: "Retrospect")
The Mark X medical tricorder first appeared in Star Trek: First Contact.
Wrist tricorder
A model of tricorder mounted in a arm/wrist brace was used in conjunction with holographic isolation suits during the Starfleet mission to the Ba'ku planet in 2375. (Star Trek: Insurrection)
Though not clearly seen or referenced in the film itself, the propmakers that helped construct the prop for the wrist tricorder confirm its presence and have produced replicas of the device.
2379
TR-590 Tricorder XI
The TR-590 Tricorder Mark XI was used concurrently with a new tricorder design that was also seen in 2379. (Star Trek Nemesis)
Although not clearly seen in the film, the label on the props can be read more clearly from the Christie's auction and other sources.
New tricorder
The Starfleet tricorder in 2379...
Introduced as late as 2379, yet another iteration of Starfleet tricorder departed from the distinct, flip-open style preceding it.
Distinguished by a slim, PADD-like appearance, the tricorder in use aboard such Starfleet vessels as the Enterprise-E in the late 2370s featured a large touchscreen interface. Silver in color, it was trimmed with black pads at the bottom and sides, with several buttons at the top. These buttons could be covered by a small hinged door, lined with indicator lights.
Among common data-gathering tasks, this version tricorder could be used to interface with starship systems including force field control.
The medical tricorder of the same make was identical. (Star Trek Nemesis)
Also used by the player in Star Trek: Elite Force II, this tricorder was never clearly identified by make or model. Clearly incorporating a small LCD screen, this tricorder was most likely created from a Palm Pilot-like device.
Alternate tricorders
Tricorders have appeared in various alternate timelines.
2258
In the alternate reality, the tricorder of the 2250s resembled its prime reality counterpart but was a smaller handheld device. Spock used the tricorder to activate a cold fusion device in the heart of a volcano on Nibiru in 2259. (Star Trek Into Darkness)
The medical tricorder in 2258 had a unique appearance consisting of a scanning rod and a handheld feedback monitor. (Star Trek) The following year, it had been redesigned to resemble a general tricorder but with an white oval-shaped scanner that could flip out to examine subjects. (Star Trek Into Darkness)
In Star Trek, the tricorder prop was used by Kirk as a communicator when marooned on Delta Vega.
2404
In a timeline erased due to the actions of Admiral Kathryn Janeway, a new version of the tricorder was in use by the year 2404.
An extension of the Mark X model, this tricorder featured the familiar hinged cover design, but contained more touch control surfaces in place of toggle switches. The casing was black or dark-gray.
The medical tricorder variant featured a small antenna scanner. (VOY: "Endgame").
2800s
The TR-890 Tricorder XV
During a possible version of the 29th century, the crew of the USS Relativity used a slim and sleek version of the tricorder, labeled a TR-890 Tricorder XV. Seven of Nine was given a TR-890 as she hunted for a temporal disruptor hidden on Voyager by Captain Braxton. (VOY: "Relativity")
In addition to the TR-890, a smaller, palm-sized device was in use during this period. Henry Starling found one aboard the Aeon and carried it with him at all times. He used it in an attempt to escape Voyager's transporter when the ship tried to retrieve the Aeon in 1996. (VOY: "Future's End, Part II")
As the timelines all of these tricorders were portrayed in were depicted in states of flux, none of these may represent "actual" future tricorder models.
Sensor
The term sensor, also referred to aboard starships as subspace sensors or sensor probes, was used to refer to any device that was used to scan, record, or otherwise observe any aspect of an environment surrounding a starship, space station, or person. This could be as simple a device as a manual camera or light sensor, or as complicated as the myriad devices designed to scan many aspects of the matter and energies of subspace, space, time, and stellar bodies that make up all of existence.
Sensor probe
The term "sensor probe" was used to indicate sensors used for probing. (TOS: "Mudd's Women", "For the World is Hollow and I Have Touched the Sky"; TNG: "Code of Honor") Lieutenant junior grade Worf conducted a routine deep sensor probe while the USS Enterprise-D traversed the Zed Lapis sector, which indicated "no obstacles or vessels within a range of three light years." (TNG: "Skin of Evil")
A sensor reading of Deep Space
9 with real-time output on a
Cardassian terminal
However, the term also referred to a specific type of automated probe, used by Starfleet. Such a probe was launched by the USS Enterprise to scan Delphi Ardu IV in 2364 and to monitor a convoy used as bait for the Maquis in 2370. (TNG: "The Last Outpost", "Preemptive Strike") The USS Valiant also used such a probe to study the Jem'Hadar battleship in 2374. (DS9: "Valiant")
Specifications
Sensors of various types played roles in almost every aspect of space travel. Every type of sensor, from navigational sensors to ARA sensors, created data to be interpreted by the vessels' computers and operators. In most situations, the sensor data revealed information that was not apparent through other data-collecting means, such as visual observations.(citation needed • edit) Galaxy-class starships were equipped with high-resolution, multi-spectral sensors. (TNG: "Encounter at Farpoint")
There were two basic types of sensor arrays employed: passive and active. A passive scan was less obtrusive than an active scan, and might not be detected by the subject being sensed. Sensors were divided further into short- and long-range types, and low- and high-energy types. (Star Trek: The Motion Picture; TNG: "Conspiracy")
The exact dividing point between short- and long-range sensors was not clearly established on screen. Long-range sensors picked up information about targets that were, on occasion, several hours' travel time distant from the sensing ship. Short-range sensors seemed to be restricted to a range consistent with the immediate environment of the sensing ship (the term "immediate" being relative), and were most often mentioned being used to scan the surface of planets from orbit or to target weapons fire. This uncertainty extends to the difference between low- and high-energy scans.
While there are many ways to mask a sensor scan, sensor screens were the most commonly used method. (TOS: "The Mark of Gideon") One could also mask a sensor scan with certain materials, or radiation. (TNG: "Who Watches The Watchers", "The Pegasus") Sensors can be disrupted by overloading them with information. (ENT: "Detained") Sensors and communications can also be disrupted by interference from a planet's troposphere and ionosphere. (Star Trek II: The Wrath of Khan; TNG: "The Dauphin"; Star Trek Generations) One could also move to a position in orbit at a planet's magnetic pole to confuse sensors. (TNG: "The Hunted") But to truly hide from a sensor scan, one would actually have to change one's molecular structure. (TOS: "Obsession")
Use on vessels
The Starfleet vessel Enterprise was equipped with a lateral sensor array. When Captain Jonathan Archer and Commander Charles Tucker III were inspecting the new prototype NX-class ship in an inspection pod during 2151, one of the components that Archer wanted to view was the lateral sensor array. (ENT: "Broken Bow")
Sensors were meanwhile used by the Vahklas, a Vahklas-type ship, which had left the planet Vulcan in approximately 2143. When Sub-Commander T'Pol was studying the Arachnid Nebula aboard the Vahklas in 2151, she was temporarily unable to scan the nebula's disodium layer, due to the fact that the transport ship's lateral sensors were out of alignment. (ENT: "Fusion")
Less than a year later, all sensors at Tandaran Detention Complex 26 were overly "occupied" by Hoshi Sato aboard Enterprise, who transmitted loads of data to the facility, thereby jamming the internment camp's frequencies. This disruption allowed Enterprise to conceal a transporter beam from the ship to the facility. (ENT: "Detained")
In the final draft script of "Detained", the disruption of the sensors at Detention Complex 26 was attributed, by Lieutenant Malcolm Reed, to Hoshi having "dumped" Enterprise's "entire movie database" to the facility's computer (though the particular documents that were contained in the influx of data, as established in the episode, were also largely referred to in the script, the only exception being the Vulcan database).
The final draft script of ENT: "Desert Crossing" established that Enterprise's sensors were used in an unsuccessful effort to localize the bio-signs of Archer and Tucker during a widespread assault in the Cygniai Expanse, in preparation for beaming them to the ship. In the script, after the attempt failed, Malcolm Reed exclaimed, "To hell with the sensors," before hatching a new plan. However, sensors are not referred to in the final version of this scene.
In 2364, prior to stardate 41775, the Federation starships USS Puget Sound and USS Ganymede were ordered, by a Starfleet admiral, not to scan a particular subsector with a high energy scan. (TNG: "Conspiracy")
In early 2368, when investigating the Phoenix Cluster, the lateral sensors of the USS Enterprise-D were booked solid for planetary observation. (TNG: "The Game")
In 2370, the Romulan warbird Terix performed a sensor scan of asteroid gamma 601 in the Devolin system with its lateral sensor array in hope to locate the USS Pegasus. (TNG: "The Pegasus")
USS Voyager's sensor readings
at various time indexes
An example of the accuracy of sensors was in the sensor data of the USS Voyager during one encounter with the Borg. Sensor readings from the ship's active scans recorded "random subspace energy fluctuations" at various time indexes in the sensor logs. Closer examination of this data revealed the detections were not random fluctuations but communications to Seven of Nine, one of Voyager's crew. (VOY: "Dark Frontier")
The enormous capability of the USS Voyager's sensors was demonstrated on one occasion when Captain Janeway requested that Harry Kim scan space for sporocystian life-forms. Moments later, Harry reported finding a "sporocystian energy burst, approximately ten light years distant." This implies that the sensors were able to scan and analyze a volume of more than 4,100 cubic light years in about six seconds. (VOY: "Cold Fire").
A tricorder was a multifunction hand-held device useful for data sensing, analysis, and recording, with many specialized abilities which made it an asset to crews aboard starships and space stations as well as on away missions. (TOS: "The Naked Time") The word itself is short for "tri-function recorder," since it essentially consisted of three systems: the sensor array previously mentioned, a computer for the said analyses, and a recorder to store the data thus gathered. Tricorders were often useful for recording entries in personal or official logs.
Data using "Mr. Tricorder"
"Mr. Tricorder" was a joke made by Data in 2371 during an away mission aboard the Amargosa observatory following the installation of his emotion chip. He used a tricorder like a hand puppet and talked to Geordi La Forge. (Star Trek Generations)
Subspace highway detector
A subspace highway detector is a type of sensor that looks for subspace corridors so that the ship finds faster ways when at warp speeds. However, such a device works best when linked to astrometrics and navigational equipment. The RIS Bouteina is equipped with a subspace highway detector whose improper installation ruptured a moisture control system on deck 19. (RIS Bouteina:"The Departure").
Scanner
A Starfleet hand scanner
A scanner was a hand-held sensory device. The word "scanner" was a generic term for such technology. Scanners were common during the mid-22nd century and used by a variety of space-faring cultures and institutions such as Starfleet, the Earth Sciences Institute, Ferengi privateers, the Suliban Cabal, and the Vulcan High Command.
Starfleet
22nd century
Earth Starfleet's hand scanner,
closed configuration
Internal circuitry of interface and
viewer section
Sometimes referred to as a hand scanner, the Starfleet scanner was common during the 2150s. Distinguished by a square-shaped body lined with black grips, this scanner featured a display and interface that could be closed, making the device more compact for storage. (ENT: "Broken Bow")
Capable of performing general sensory functions such as generating floor plan views, and locating bio-signs, these scanners were also equipped with quantum dating technology, yielding at least generally accurate results. (ENT: "Dead Stop", "The Expanse", "Carpenter Street")
Under certain circumstances, the scanner could be converted into a communications device, even transmitting through time, from the 31st to the 22nd century. (ENT: "Shockwave, Part II")
These devices were also capable of interfacing with and potentially overriding vastly different computer systems. Sent back to the 21st century, Starfleet Captain Jonathan Archer successfully tampered with a 2004 ATM and overrode the automatic locking mechanism of a Dodge Ram truck. (ENT: "Carpenter Street")
The hand scanner could also be used to deactivate explosive devices, though with varying results. (ENT: "The Forge")
Despite its versatility, the hand scanner was, at times, somewhat inaccurate. It sometimes could not separate Human (or even humanoid) bio-signs from that of other species. It was also susceptible to certain forms of temporal interference. (ENT: "Doctor's Orders", "Broken Bow")
A hand scanner detecting
lifesigns
When it did locate life signs, they were generally displayed as a blinking, red indicator. (ENT: "Carpenter Street")
The internal circuitry of the hand scanner could be accessed by removing both the back panel of the body, and by removing the interface viewer portion. (ENT: "Shockwave, Part II")
In 2153, Sim disassembled a hand scanner in the mess hall aboard Enterprise NX-01. (ENT: "Similitude")
It is not entirely clear, in the final version of the episode, that this is what Sim is doing, though the final draft script of "Similitude" specified that it is.
A small control PADD seen throughout Enterprise in the hands of Lieutenant Reed seems to have been made – at least by the prop makers – from the lower portion of the hand scanner, with added blue LED "blinkies". It can be clearly seen in such episodes as "Dead Stop" and "Regeneration", used to activate Reed's various explosives.
The hand scanner itself was among several all-new props made for the premiere of Enterprise, designed with a built-in pop-up function and blue LED "display". According to one Star Trek prop website, of four working scanners that were built for the series, only one survived until the end of season four.
Medical scanner
A medical scanner
Phlox using a medical scanner
Also in stock aboard Starfleet vessels such as the NX-class Enterprise, a small medical scanner was available during the 2150s.
This palm-sized scanner was distinguished by a large, blue-glowing display screen and interface, with two rows of blue-glowing lights opposite. The medical scanner was able to perform simple diagnostic functions, such as reading vital signs and internal scans. It could also be used much like the Starfleet hand scanner, used to scan a specific area for general bio-signs.
The medical scanner's range was generally close, though it could get accurate scans from the distance of a few feet. (ENT: "Broken Bow", "Dear Doctor", "Hatchery")
In 2151, Doctor Phlox used the medical scanner to identify the sickness of the Novan Nadet – lung cancer. He was also able to tell that Jamin was a relative of Nadet by using his scanner. (ENT: "Terra Nova")
In 2152, Doctor Phlox used a medical scanner to confirm that the Takret anatomy was immune to radiolytic isotopes. (ENT: "The Catwalk")
In the Enterprise season three episode "Similitude", Dr. Phlox refers to an off-screen piece of equipment as a medical tricorder. It's possible that he was talking about the above medical scanner, though it has never been given a specific or identifiable name.
Heavy scanner
A heavy scanner used during an EVA
Larger in size than either the hand or medical scanners, a heavy-duty model was also available aboard Earth starships during the 2150s.
Characterized by a thick, rectangular body held horizontally, this scanner also featured a metallic handle to the left of a rectangular display screen and control buttons. It could be used to view graphic representations of the inside of devices such as a Romulan mine that struck the NX-01 in 2152. (ENT: "Minefield")
Appearing only once during the run of Enterprise, it is not clear if this scanner had other functions or whether its role was specifically intended for EVA as depicted in the episode. In the episode's final draft script, it was referred to as merely a "large hand scanner". It was clearly constructed from an actual plasma screen monitor, about the same size as those mounted on the NX-01's command chair.
23rd century
Heavy scanner
Scott using scanning device to
detect ore contamination
Another version of a heavy scanning device was a large hand-held device, used for quick scans, was trigger activated device had a defined white sensor cap, red barrel, and dark grey read with display and adjustment knobs.
Montgomery Scott kept such a device in the transporter room of the USS Enterprise during the 2260s. He used it on Fisher to determine the properties of an unknown soft ores found on his uniform. With the device, he was able to determine that the ore had magnetic properties recommended that the uniform be decontaminated. (TOS: "The Enemy Within")
This device was an example of one of the many "Feinbergers" used in The Original Series, more specifically, a modified modern device, in this case a "Nuclear-Chicago Model 2586 "Cutie Pie" radiation detector" [2], used in futuristic context.
In the final draft of "The Enemy Within", it was described simply as "a scanning device" and "scanner".
This device also appeared in "The Naked Time", "The Doomsday Machine", and "Obsession".
Earth Sciences Institute
Scanner
An ESI scanner
Available to members of the Earth Sciences Institute, including researchers of the A-6 excavation team during the 2150s, was a small, angular scanner. Dominated by a large, rectangular, green-glowing display screen, this scanner included a long, irregularly shaped input area with a number of button controls.
The device could be used to identify technology buried beneath snow and could differentiate organic matter from inorganic matter. Researcher Rooney successfully identified a warp coil buried in a debris field at the Arctic Circle with the scanner, though the object was actually a Borg transwarp coil. (ENT: "Regeneration")
The generic scanner used by the A-6 excavation team was a reuse of the mold of the Cardassian PADD from TNG and DS9, with a large, now square, lighted display screen. It appeared again in the second season of Enterprise, repainted and in the hands of Klingons in "Bounty".
Medical scanner
An ESI medical scanner
Also utilized by the ESI and A-6 excavation team was a large, oval-shaped device used for medical scans.
Distinguished by a small, circular readout and several circular buttons lining the periphery of the device, this scanner could detect, among other things, changes in bio-functions.
The medical scanner used by researcher Moninger to scan the Borg "corpses" was a redress of Daniels' Temporal Observatory device from "Cold Front" and was one of the most distinct scanners portrayed on Enterprise.
Listed as "Bio-molecular PADD", this scanner was sold off on the It's A Wrap! sale and auction on eBay.
Andorian
An Andorian scanner
The Andorian scanner was utilized by the Andorians in the 22nd century.
A table-top piece of equipment featured a large display and a small section of buttons. In June of 2151, an Andorian commando of the Andorian Imperial Guard, led by Commander Thy'lek Shran, used such a scanner to locate the secret listening post of the Vulcans at the monastery at P'Jem. Keval, who operated the scanner, informed Shran about three new Human life signs suddenly appearing near the atrium. (ENT: "The Andorian Incident")
The prop Andorian scanner
The prop was identified as "Andorian scanner" in the props section of the call sheet. Captain Archer described it as a "scanning console" in the episode.
The item, which featured backlit display screen graphics designed by Geoffrey Mandel based on crop circle designs, was later sold at the 40 Years of Star Trek: The Collection at Christie's.
Ferengi
A Ferengi scanner
A small, brown, angular scanning device was utilized by citizens of the Ferengi Alliance or Ferengi privateers as early as 2151.
Characterized by a large, green, illuminated interface and display, this Ferengi scanner was capable of scanning through bulkheads and was key in the search for loot. (ENT: "Acquisition")
The Ferengi scanning device seen in only the aforementioned episode was a reuse of the Ferengi PADD from Star Trek: Deep Space Nine. Unlike the PADD, however, the scanner featured electronics to illuminate the display screen.
Hirogen
A Hirogen scanner
A small, metallic-orange device was used as a scanner by the Hirogen.
In 2374, the Alpha-Hirogen Idrin used this scanner on Seven of Nine to conclude about her verly long intestines. (VOY: "Hunters")
The device was identified as "Hirogen scanner" on the call sheet of the episode.
Malurian
A Malurian scanner
The Malurian scanner had a metallic ring surrounding an inner Malurian control surface, with green and yellow blinking lights on the outer ring. It could be used to scan DNA and to signal for a beam-up to a Malurian vessel. (ENT: "Civilization")
The call sheet is listing this device simply as "alien scanner" in the props requirement section.
Osaarian
The Osaarian scanner was a somewhat bulky device with a blue-colored screen on top. In 2153, Orgoth lifted one of these scanners onto a side station in Enterprise's engineering and tried to use it in an attempt to download Enterprise's database. (ENT: "Anomaly")
This device is not identified on screen. However, it was referred to as "a hand-held scanning device" and an "alien scanner" in the final draft script of "Anomaly". A close-up showing the screen of this scanner was also scripted to appear, though is not included in the final edit of the episode.
Suliban Cabal
A Suliban scanner
Also similar in design and shape to the Vulcan scanner, the hand-held sensing device utilized by members of the Suliban Cabal featured a rounded interface area, with an extended handle. Mottled-brown in color, this scanner also featured a purple readout.
Presumably along with a handful of other functions, the Suliban scanner was capable of locating an individual's distinct bio-signs and could detect temporal signatures. (ENT: "Shockwave, Part II")
Appearing only in "Shockwave, Part II", the Suliban scanner was likely created from the same mold as T'Pol's scanner, with an extended handle and a new paint scheme that looked more Suliban.
Tellarites
A mid-23rd century Tellarite bounty hunter called Tevrin Krit used a scanner in his work. ST: "The Escape Artist")
Vulcan High Command
20th century
Used by officers in service of the Vulcan High Command as early as 1957, the standard scanner used by Vulcans was a chrome-colored, dome-shaped device with a handle.
The device featured a purple-colored, lighted display screen and could be used to scan for life signs. (ENT: "Carbon Creek")
22nd century
A 22nd century Vulcan scanner
Standard scanner
Similar in shape and design as its 20th century counterpart, the scanner used by the Vulcans during the 2150s was also a dome-shaped sensor, with a triangular handle. This device, however, was distinguished by a silver-colored readout portion and a blue handle, with black grips. The viewer itself displayed readings in Vulcan script with a generally purple-color glow. The grip featured an array of button controls. (ENT: "Broken Bow", "Terra Nova", "Civilization", "Fortunate Son")
This scanner featured an imaging sensor. (ENT: "The Andorian Incident")
The Vulcan scanner possessed a maximum scanning radius of three kilometers and performed the same general function as the Earth Starfleet hand scanner. Vulcan sensors, however, were commonly known to be superior during that time. (ENT: "Carpenter Street", "Broken Bow")
Medical scanner
As early as 2153, Vulcan doctors in the service of the High Command were equipped with distinct medical scanners.
Featuring a similarly dome-shaped readout section, this scanner also featured a dome-shaped lower, control portion. It was also distinguished by yellow indicator lights on each side of the display screen.
It was used to scan for certain types of radiation and could, possibly, perform detailed brain scans. (ENT: "The Expanse")
Xindi
A dark-colored type of Xindi scanner was used on a Xindi-Arboreal colony during the 22nd century.
In 2153, Xindi-Arboreal technician Gralik Durr used a Xindi scanner to determine that a particular fragment of metallic debris was from the Xindi probe. (ENT: "The Shipment")
A "small Mazarite scanner" was scripted to appear in ENT: "Fallen Hero", though no device fitting this description appears in that episode.
Scanner on Rigel X
One type of scanner was used by the leader of a gang of aliens on Rigel X, upon examining a fake Tenebian amethyst that Shran and T'Pol had brought him in an effort to convince the aliens it was a real Tenebian amethyst. This alien scanner was a relatively narrow device and had a green light at its scanning head. (ENT: "These Are the Voyages...").
Bio-scanner
A bio-scanner was technology used to detect and scan biological entities. Bio-scanners were found in devices such as tricorders as well as starships themselves. The summary of the findings made by bioscanners were reported in a bioscanners report.
Earth Starfleet ships were equipped with bio-scanners since at least the mid-22nd century, though the technology was not perfect. In 2152, the bio-scanners aboard Enterprise NX-01 failed to detect a lymphatic virus brought on board along with canisters of deuterium. (ENT: "The Seventh")
24th century Starfleet tricorders were equipped with bio-scanners. In 2371, Neelix's tricorder picked up a single class 3 humanoid organism on a rogue planetoid that was thought to be uninhabited. (VOY: "Phage") Later that same year, the USS Voyager used its own bio-scanners to investigate new space-dwelling lifeforms discovered in the Delta Quadrant. (VOY: "Elogium")
The Nechani race had bio-scanners, and used them to detect a subdermal bioprobe implanted in Captain Kathryn Janeway during her visit to their homeworld. (VOY: "Sacred Ground")
The Nyrian biosphere vessel was equipped with bio-scanners, which Captain Janeway and Tuvok used to help locate other Voyager crewmembers that were being held captive. (VOY: "Displaced")
According to the script for TNG: "A Matter of Time", a "bioscanner" was one of the devices that time traveler Berlinghoff Rasmussen had stolen while on board the USS Enterprise-D, indicating that Federation bio-scanners may have existed as stand-alone devices, and not necessarily only as a function found in tricorders and starships.
Devore scanner
A Devore soldier uses a scanner
The Devore scanner was a scanner used by the Devore species.
It had two prongs on the front, a grill along the rounded bottom edge and a single screen the holder could monitor. It was capable of telling whether a person had telepathic abilities or not, so boarding parties were often equipped with them. Though this required the scanning of each crewman individually. (VOY: "Counterpoint")
The prop representing the Devore scanner was later used as Mobar's scanner and religious item in "Live Fast and Prosper".
Trident scanner
A lieutenant using a trident
scanner
Scotty repairing the Constellation
A trident scanner was a 23rd century piece of Federation technology that was used for repairing power relays. (DS9: "Trials and Tribble-ations")
Spock used a trident scanner while he attempted to examine the circuits aboard the Galileo, after the shuttlecraft had been brought down to Gamma Canaris N. The scanner, however, was short-circuited and destroyed by the Companion when Spock attempted to make physical contact with it. (TOS: "Metamorphosis")
In 2267, Ensign Harper used a trident scanner to connect the M-5 multitronic unit to the USS Enterprise's main power plant. He later attempted to disconnect M-5 with a trident scanner, but was vaporized by the advanced computer for his troubles. (TOS: "The Ultimate Computer")
The same year, Lieutenant Commander Montgomery Scott, leading a repair party aboard the USS Constellation, employed a trident scanner to cross-connect the warp drive control circuits to those of the impulse engines. (TOS: "The Doomsday Machine")
Another model of the trident scanner was used on the bridge aboard the USS Enterprise-A while it was undergoing repairs in 2287. (Star Trek V: The Final Frontier).
2268 model
2287 model
Starfleet tricorder
The Starfleet tricorder was the versatile, portable sensing device developed by Starfleet R&D specifically for use by Federation Starfleet personnel. Tricorders were outfitted with the latest cutting-edge sensory and emitter technology.
Varying models of the Starfleet tricorder were put into service, beginning as early as the 23rd century through the 24th century, possibly lasting well into the 29th century.
23rd century
2230s
Starfleet tricorder, 2233.
In service aboard the early 2230s ship the USS Kelvin, the tricorder was a large flat device resembling a briefcase, complete with a handle for carrying the device. In the alternate reality, one was used to monitor the heavily pregnant Winona Kirk's health during the Narada's attack. (Star Trek)
2260s
Starfleet tricorder, 2268
"I love classic twenty third century designs. Black finish, silver highlights."
– Jadzia Dax, 2268 ("Trials and Tribble-ations")
In service during the mid-2260s, the standard Starfleet tricorder incorporated a segmented design. This tricorder, a generally square-shaped device, utilized three sections: a pivoting upper portion containing the display readout and controls; a compartmented mid-section containing data chips; and an adaptable lower portion, sometimes containing a hand-held sensor as with the medical tricorder. The tricorder of the 2260s was mostly black with silver trim and featured a leather-like strap, allowing one to sling the tricorder over the shoulder when not in use. (TOS: "The Naked Time")
Yeomen serving aboard Starfleet starships (such as Janice Rand aboard the USS Enterprise) often carried tricorders in order to record and retrieve information for the starship captain. More often however, the tricorder was standard equipment included on away missions. (TOS: "The Man Trap", "Charlie X")
These devices could also be set to transmit an automatic distress call. (TOS: "That Which Survives")
One of the Dax hosts owned this version of the tricorder, remembered fondly by Jadzia Dax. (DS9: "Trials and Tribble-ations")
The original series tricorder was designed by Wah Chang. (Star Trek Encyclopedia (2nd ed., p. 522)) Unlike many licensed replicas of the TOS tricorder, the original prop featured a non-functional screen with graphics often matted into the device in post production. The 24th century Next Generation version also inspired several experimental scientific tools – one of which looked and functioned in a remarkably accurate manner the tricorders presented on-screen. Apparently, one of the test models wasn't accurate enough – it was given to a tester, who flipped it open and expressed disappointment that it didn't make any 'tricorder' noises.
Forward view
A heavier version of the tricorder was also used by landing parties and aboard ship. This configuration sported a pistol-grip and its controls were located on the top of the unit. It was used primarily to detect contamination caused by ores and gases, as well as to register radiation and atmospheric pressure. (TOS: "The Naked Time", "The Enemy Within", "The Doomsday Machine", "Obsession")
This sensor device was first seen in "The Enemy Within". In "The Naked Time", Scotty noted that Spock and Tormolen's tricorders failed to register any contamination or unusual elements. Both characters carried the typical tricorders, but Spock also used the larger unit. Contrarily, the standard tricorder was used in favor of the larger unit for scanning inside Garrovick's quarters. The prop itself was a modified Nuclear-Chicago Model 2586 "Cutie Pie" radiation detector.
2270s
Tricorder, 2270s
A tricorder in use aboard the refit
Enterprise in the 2270s
With the widespread redesign of many facets of Starfleet and Federation technology in the early 2270s, so too did the tricorder advance toward a new design.
Smaller than that of the 2260s, the new hand-held Starfleet tricorder was blue-gray in color and featured two grips on either side of the body. Controls and readout displays were located beneath a lid at the top of the device. (Star Trek: The Motion Picture)
This type of tricorder was still in use in the 2280s. (Star Trek IV: The Voyage Home)
Andrew Probert contributed designs for the The Motion Picture redesign of the tricorder. It appeared in the first and fourth Trek feature, but incorporated graphics that would later be echoed in the TNG-era tricorder.
2280s
As early as 2285, Starfleet personnel like those serving aboard the refit starship Enterprise had at their disposal at least two distinct versions of the Starfleet tricorder.
Type A
Heavy-duty tricorder
Among the options was a heavy-duty tricorder, often used during landing parties. Bulkier than previous designs, this tricorder featured a handle and a large head featuring a line of blinking indicator lights. (Star Trek II: The Wrath of Khan)
Not shown in close-up, this large tricorder may have been intended only for landing parties. It was seen in Star Trek II only - first carried by Chekov and Terrell during their visit to Ceti Alpha V, and again used by Saavik aboard Regula I. It was replaced in the next film by a more familiar design. This tricorder model was seen in "The Nth Degree" as part of Barclay's elaborate computer interface on the holodeck.
Type B
One tricorder option during the 2280s
Harking back to the designs of the 2260s, a second tricorder option in use during the mid-2280s featured a familiar square, black and silver design.
Much smaller than the heavy-duty version, this model featured a slide-up top studded with controls and indicator lights. Also incorporating a strap, the tricorder could be slung over the shoulder when not in use. Unlike its predecessors, this tricorder possessed control surfaces over much of the body of the instrument. (Star Trek III: The Search for Spock)
This third movie-era tricorder was designed by the effects team at Industrial Light & Magic, a likely homage to the Original Series model. It was the last 23rd century tricorder to be seen clearly on screen, except when we saw a glimpse of it in Star Trek V: The Final Frontier on Spock's use.
24th century
2360s
By the early 2360s, the Starfleet tricorder had taken on a more streamlined appearance, distinguished by a flip-open design maximizing both portability and interface surface availability.
Incorporating several sensor clusters, these tricorders featured multi-channel communications assemblies, and multiple databank modules. Encompassing visual displays and graphic touch pad interfaces, the tricorder of the 2360s provided easy means for on the spot archive retrieval, the recording of away mission events, and constant scientific measurements including biological, geographical or meteorological.
TR-560 Tricorder VI
Standard tricorder
The TR-560 in 2365
In service as early as 2361, the TR-560 Tricorder VI model sensing device was available to officers serving aboard such vessels as the USS Victory and the USS Enterprise-D.
With an array of sensors on the front of the device, this tricorder design flipped open to reveal a large number of control surfaces and a square display screen, roughly the same size as those utilized as early as the 2260s.
Equipped with a small hand sensor, stowed below the sensors, the TR-560 tricorder was capable of communicating with non-Starfleet computer systems, and were therefore vulnerable to some computer viruses, even capable of transmitting them to other systems.
Gray in color, these tricorders were constructed with a durable casing, but could easily be destroyed by a phaser set to "disintegrate". (TNG: "Identity Crisis", "Encounter at Farpoint", "Angel One", "Contagion")
This style of tricorder was designed by Rick Sternbach during preproduction of Star Trek: The Next Generation. In a series of sketches which were dated 6 February 1987 and which Probert prepared for construction bidders interested in building the props required for the show, a completed version of this tricorder design was shown. (Star Trek: The Next Generation Companion 3rd ed., p. 11) The TR-560 (as it was labeled on the lower door) was used in the first two seasons of TNG only, reappearing once in "Identity Crisis" during scenes taking place in 2361.
TR-580 Tricorder VII
Standard tricorder
The TR-580 in 2370
In service between 2366 and 2372, the Starfleet TR-580 Tricorder VII succeeded the TR-560 Tricorder VI. Retaining the same basic shape as the previous design, the TR-580s also incorporated hand sensors, but this feature was eventually phased out by 2370. (TNG: "Evolution"; DS9: "The Way of the Warrior")
TR-580s could be used for a variety of tasks, including recording time trials and playing holographic messages. This model featured a directory structure and built-in universal translator. This tricorder was also configured to perform proximity checks every two minutes and was able to emit a photoplasmic trail to help locate lost crewmembers. (TNG: "Chain of Command, Part I", "The Chase", "Booby Trap", "Attached"; DS9: "Move Along Home"; VOY: "Twisted")
One version of the TR-580 used by Jadzia Dax in 2370 featured a larger screen on the upper section. (DS9: "Blood Oath")
Data with a TR-580 he
nicknamed "Mr. Tricorder."
TR-580s were capable of detecting dampening fields and if doors were magnetically sealed. (TNG: "Chain of Command, Part I"; Star Trek Generations; VOY: "Phage")
To prevent interference with objects, the TR-580 could be set to perform a passive scan. The model could also be locked into a continuous scan, thereby recording data, even when stowed. Capable of communicating with non-Starfleet computer systems, the tricorder could be linked to other units, acting as a small computer network, easily relaying information to other locations. (TNG: "Schisms", "Brothers"; VOY: "Emanations", "Heroes and Demons")
Sensor emissions from TR-580s could cause unpredictable changes in certain temporal distortions, and sometimes included polaric fields, allowing a user to scan for subspace fractures caused by polaric detonation. (TNG: "Timescape"; VOY: "Time and Again")
TR-580s were stored in most equipment lockers aboard Federation starships though it was common for personnel to keep them in their quarters. (TNG: "Disaster", "The Game", "A Matter of Time")
Starfleet sometimes distributed TR-580 model tricorders to Federation allied worlds, including Bajoran personnel on space station Deep Space 9. They could also be used by civilians, and were shipped en masse to areas in need, such as disaster sites. (TNG: "True Q"; DS9: "Babel", "Tears of the Prophets")
The standard TR-580 could function as a makeshift medical tricorder if necessary, although not all medical personnel were happy to do this. (TNG: "Time's Arrow, Part II"; DS9: "Emissary"; VOY: "Caretaker")
Individuals were instructed in the use of the TR-580 by reading the tricorder operations manual. (VOY: "Phage")
This second-generation TNG tricorder was built by Ed Miarecki for the third season of that series, based upon Rick Sternbach's original design. It contained a more refined set of graphics and a number of additional blinking LEDs, especially active at the front of the unit. The model number "TR-580" was an in-joke tribute to the TRS-80, a 1980s home computer. The episode "Silicon Avatar" featured an odd tricorder-related blooper: in it Dr. Kila Marr holds her tricorder backwards, seemingly scanning herself. Gates McFadden, who played Dr. Beverly Crusher on Star Trek: the Next Generation, was a stickler for accuracy, so Rick Berman made her a tricorder guide to make sure that she always operated her medical equipment props in a correct and consistent manner. (Star Trek: The Next Generation Technical Manual, p. 120).
Red tricorder
A red tricorder in 2371
A variety of the standard tricorder appeared in USS Voyager's sickbay in the year 2371. Five tricorders of this type were included in little alcoves behind the three biobeds and to the left and right of the main entry to sickbay. (VOY: "Eye of the Needle") In 2372, these tricorders were replaced by PADDs. Similar tricorders were included in the same locations in sickbay aboard the USS Enterprise-E in 2373.
These tricorders were only seen in the first season of Star Trek: Voyager and in Star Trek: First Contact and were never seen in use. They were made out of wood and were removed from the set after the first season. Though they appeared in sickbay, they didn't feature the larger top section with the scanner normally associated with medical tricorders.
Medical tricorder
Medical TR-580 in 2369
A 2360s-era hand scanner
Medical TR-580s used were essentially similar in design to that of the standard TR-580, with the same available features and interface. The major difference was the addition of a deployable hand scanner. While some standard TR-580s also had removable scanners, the medical TR-580s were much more advanced and could provide detailed scans of an entire individual, or give focus to a single area. (TNG: "When The Bough Breaks") It was not necessary to use the scanner for the TR-580 to function. The scanner could be separated from the tricorder, either to feed data to another source or not be attached to the tricorder at all. (TNG: "Up The Long Ladder"; DS9: "Babel"; VOY: "Time and Again")
The medical sensor unit was also equipped with additional sensor ports. (TNG: "Transfigurations")
The TR-580 medical tricorder was capable of recording audio. (TNG: "Cause and Effect")
This medical tricorder is apparently incapable of performing accurate scans on deceased people. This can be learned during the first year of Starfleet Medical Academy. (DS9: "The Passenger")
The 24th century versions of the medical TR-580 were equipped with holographic imaging diodes. (TNG: "The Chase")
While the suite of sensors installed on medical TR-580s was advanced, it was generally no substitute for the advanced and specialized equipment in a sickbay facility. (TNG: "Genesis", "All Good Things...") Genetically-engineered microviruses were not generally detected by a standard medical TR-580 scan. (TNG: "The Vengeance Factor")
TR-580s could communicate with many Starfleet devices, including PADDs and starship library computers. They were also designed to work closely with the surgical support frames attached to biobeds. (TNG: "Identity Crisis", "Realm of Fear") In conjunction with a neural pad, a medical TR-580 could be used to link the nervous system of a healthy individual to that of an injured individual in order to stabilize the injured for transport. (TNG: "Transfigurations")
Medical TR-580s could be configured to briefly disrupt a force field. (TNG: "Attached")
2370s
TR-590 Tricorder X
Standard tricorder
The TR-590 Tricorder X
Succeeding the TR-580 Tricorder VII, the TR-590 Mark X tricorder featured nearly identical control interfaces. The entire unit, however, was streamlined and made much smaller, featuring a more angular design. (DS9: "The Way of the Warrior"; VOY: "Initiations")
Functioning very much like the previous model of Starfleet tricorder, the Mark Xs were stored in most equipment lockers on board Federation starships. (VOY: "Relativity")
The Mark X tricorder could upload data it acquired remotely to a Federation starship. (VOY: "Initiations", "Future's End", "Year of Hell", "Equinox", "Good Shepherd")
Discovered by the Maquis, the Mark X tricorder could be prevented from attaining credible readings when subjected to concentrated thoron particles. (VOY: "Basics, Part II")
The darker cased TR-590
tricorder in 2378
The Mark X tricorder was reportedly heavy for its size as indicated by B'Elanna Torres when she received a small gift from Tuvok during a holodeck generated baby shower. Torres asked if it was her child's first tricorder as the gift was small yet heavy. (VOY: "Human Error")
The Mark X tricorder could still function after being underwater. (DS9: "Rocks and Shoals"; Star Trek: Insurrection) It could also function in hostile environments such as temperatures of 500 Kelvin, (VOY: "Demon") the upper atmosphere of a planet, (VOY: "Rise") and planets suffering nuclear winter. (VOY: "Friendship One")
The upper component of the TR-590 was capable of interfacing with a Starfleet desktop monitor and projecting a recorded image from the tricorder onto the screen. (VOY: "Timeless") This tricorder was also able to access secured files on a 20th century computer. (VOY: "Future's End")
Despite being introduced in 2372, Mark X tricorders were already in use on board the USS Voyager during 2371. (VOY: "Relativity", "Fury", "Shattered")
First appearing at the beginning of Star Trek: Voyager season two and the beginning of DS9 season four, the Mark X tricorder was designed by HMS Studios. Like the previous evolution, it featured a number of additional LEDs along with a darker, more metallic coat of paint. Coinciding with a similar redesign of the phasers, this new tricorder inexplicably found its way into the hands of the Voyager crew, despite the fact that it was stranded in the Delta Quadrant. It is possible that Starfleet programmed replicators to replace older tricorders throughout Starfleet with preprogrammed and predesigned upgrades through an automated upgrade process, or it could be that Voyager and the Equinox were test vessels for the new tricorders and phasers in 2371, and were not distributed fleet-wide until 2372.
In the Star Trek: Deep Space Nine game The Fallen, the player is able to use a TR-590 tricorder for a variety of purposes, including scanning people and objects and to determine shield frequencies.
Medical tricorder
The Mark X medical tricorder
Introduced along with the Mark X standard tricorder, a medical tricorder variant was in use aboard Federation starships as early as 2373.
TR-590 medical tricorder in 2378
Generally identical to the standard tricorder, the medical featured a detachable hand scanner (as in previous models) that fit into the back of the unit. It was distinguished by blue ID indicator lights and a blue-glowing sensor surface. (Star Trek: First Contact; VOY: "Favorite Son", "Prey"; DS9: "Soldiers of the Empire")
The medical tricorder had duritanium casing, and measured 7.6 × 9.8 × 3.2 centimeters, and featured an alphanumeric display. (VOY: "Retrospect")
The Mark X medical tricorder first appeared in Star Trek: First Contact.
Wrist tricorder
A model of tricorder mounted in a arm/wrist brace was used in conjunction with holographic isolation suits during the Starfleet mission to the Ba'ku planet in 2375. (Star Trek: Insurrection)
Though not clearly seen or referenced in the film itself, the propmakers that helped construct the prop for the wrist tricorder confirm its presence and have produced replicas of the device.
2379
TR-590 Tricorder XI
The TR-590 Tricorder Mark XI was used concurrently with a new tricorder design that was also seen in 2379. (Star Trek Nemesis)
Although not clearly seen in the film, the label on the props can be read more clearly from the Christie's auction and other sources.
New tricorder
The Starfleet tricorder in 2379...
Introduced as late as 2379, yet another iteration of Starfleet tricorder departed from the distinct, flip-open style preceding it.
Distinguished by a slim, PADD-like appearance, the tricorder in use aboard such Starfleet vessels as the Enterprise-E in the late 2370s featured a large touchscreen interface. Silver in color, it was trimmed with black pads at the bottom and sides, with several buttons at the top. These buttons could be covered by a small hinged door, lined with indicator lights.
Among common data-gathering tasks, this version tricorder could be used to interface with starship systems including force field control.
The medical tricorder of the same make was identical. (Star Trek Nemesis)
Also used by the player in Star Trek: Elite Force II, this tricorder was never clearly identified by make or model. Clearly incorporating a small LCD screen, this tricorder was most likely created from a Palm Pilot-like device.
Alternate tricorders
Tricorders have appeared in various alternate timelines.
2258
In the alternate reality, the tricorder of the 2250s resembled its prime reality counterpart but was a smaller handheld device. Spock used the tricorder to activate a cold fusion device in the heart of a volcano on Nibiru in 2259. (Star Trek Into Darkness)
The medical tricorder in 2258 had a unique appearance consisting of a scanning rod and a handheld feedback monitor. (Star Trek) The following year, it had been redesigned to resemble a general tricorder but with an white oval-shaped scanner that could flip out to examine subjects. (Star Trek Into Darkness)
In Star Trek, the tricorder prop was used by Kirk as a communicator when marooned on Delta Vega.
2404
In a timeline erased due to the actions of Admiral Kathryn Janeway, a new version of the tricorder was in use by the year 2404.
An extension of the Mark X model, this tricorder featured the familiar hinged cover design, but contained more touch control surfaces in place of toggle switches. The casing was black or dark-gray.
The medical tricorder variant featured a small antenna scanner. (VOY: "Endgame").
2800s
The TR-890 Tricorder XV
During a possible version of the 29th century, the crew of the USS Relativity used a slim and sleek version of the tricorder, labeled a TR-890 Tricorder XV. Seven of Nine was given a TR-890 as she hunted for a temporal disruptor hidden on Voyager by Captain Braxton. (VOY: "Relativity")
In addition to the TR-890, a smaller, palm-sized device was in use during this period. Henry Starling found one aboard the Aeon and carried it with him at all times. He used it in an attempt to escape Voyager's transporter when the ship tried to retrieve the Aeon in 1996. (VOY: "Future's End, Part II")
As the timelines all of these tricorders were portrayed in were depicted in states of flux, none of these may represent "actual" future tricorder models.
Sensor
The term sensor, also referred to aboard starships as subspace sensors or sensor probes, was used to refer to any device that was used to scan, record, or otherwise observe any aspect of an environment surrounding a starship, space station, or person. This could be as simple a device as a manual camera or light sensor, or as complicated as the myriad devices designed to scan many aspects of the matter and energies of subspace, space, time, and stellar bodies that make up all of existence.
Sensor probe
The term "sensor probe" was used to indicate sensors used for probing. (TOS: "Mudd's Women", "For the World is Hollow and I Have Touched the Sky"; TNG: "Code of Honor") Lieutenant junior grade Worf conducted a routine deep sensor probe while the USS Enterprise-D traversed the Zed Lapis sector, which indicated "no obstacles or vessels within a range of three light years." (TNG: "Skin of Evil")
A sensor reading of Deep Space
9 with real-time output on a
Cardassian terminal
However, the term also referred to a specific type of automated probe, used by Starfleet. Such a probe was launched by the USS Enterprise to scan Delphi Ardu IV in 2364 and to monitor a convoy used as bait for the Maquis in 2370. (TNG: "The Last Outpost", "Preemptive Strike") The USS Valiant also used such a probe to study the Jem'Hadar battleship in 2374. (DS9: "Valiant")
Specifications
Sensors of various types played roles in almost every aspect of space travel. Every type of sensor, from navigational sensors to ARA sensors, created data to be interpreted by the vessels' computers and operators. In most situations, the sensor data revealed information that was not apparent through other data-collecting means, such as visual observations.(citation needed • edit) Galaxy-class starships were equipped with high-resolution, multi-spectral sensors. (TNG: "Encounter at Farpoint")
There were two basic types of sensor arrays employed: passive and active. A passive scan was less obtrusive than an active scan, and might not be detected by the subject being sensed. Sensors were divided further into short- and long-range types, and low- and high-energy types. (Star Trek: The Motion Picture; TNG: "Conspiracy")
The exact dividing point between short- and long-range sensors was not clearly established on screen. Long-range sensors picked up information about targets that were, on occasion, several hours' travel time distant from the sensing ship. Short-range sensors seemed to be restricted to a range consistent with the immediate environment of the sensing ship (the term "immediate" being relative), and were most often mentioned being used to scan the surface of planets from orbit or to target weapons fire. This uncertainty extends to the difference between low- and high-energy scans.
While there are many ways to mask a sensor scan, sensor screens were the most commonly used method. (TOS: "The Mark of Gideon") One could also mask a sensor scan with certain materials, or radiation. (TNG: "Who Watches The Watchers", "The Pegasus") Sensors can be disrupted by overloading them with information. (ENT: "Detained") Sensors and communications can also be disrupted by interference from a planet's troposphere and ionosphere. (Star Trek II: The Wrath of Khan; TNG: "The Dauphin"; Star Trek Generations) One could also move to a position in orbit at a planet's magnetic pole to confuse sensors. (TNG: "The Hunted") But to truly hide from a sensor scan, one would actually have to change one's molecular structure. (TOS: "Obsession")
Use on vessels
The Starfleet vessel Enterprise was equipped with a lateral sensor array. When Captain Jonathan Archer and Commander Charles Tucker III were inspecting the new prototype NX-class ship in an inspection pod during 2151, one of the components that Archer wanted to view was the lateral sensor array. (ENT: "Broken Bow")
Sensors were meanwhile used by the Vahklas, a Vahklas-type ship, which had left the planet Vulcan in approximately 2143. When Sub-Commander T'Pol was studying the Arachnid Nebula aboard the Vahklas in 2151, she was temporarily unable to scan the nebula's disodium layer, due to the fact that the transport ship's lateral sensors were out of alignment. (ENT: "Fusion")
Less than a year later, all sensors at Tandaran Detention Complex 26 were overly "occupied" by Hoshi Sato aboard Enterprise, who transmitted loads of data to the facility, thereby jamming the internment camp's frequencies. This disruption allowed Enterprise to conceal a transporter beam from the ship to the facility. (ENT: "Detained")
In the final draft script of "Detained", the disruption of the sensors at Detention Complex 26 was attributed, by Lieutenant Malcolm Reed, to Hoshi having "dumped" Enterprise's "entire movie database" to the facility's computer (though the particular documents that were contained in the influx of data, as established in the episode, were also largely referred to in the script, the only exception being the Vulcan database).
The final draft script of ENT: "Desert Crossing" established that Enterprise's sensors were used in an unsuccessful effort to localize the bio-signs of Archer and Tucker during a widespread assault in the Cygniai Expanse, in preparation for beaming them to the ship. In the script, after the attempt failed, Malcolm Reed exclaimed, "To hell with the sensors," before hatching a new plan. However, sensors are not referred to in the final version of this scene.
In 2364, prior to stardate 41775, the Federation starships USS Puget Sound and USS Ganymede were ordered, by a Starfleet admiral, not to scan a particular subsector with a high energy scan. (TNG: "Conspiracy")
In early 2368, when investigating the Phoenix Cluster, the lateral sensors of the USS Enterprise-D were booked solid for planetary observation. (TNG: "The Game")
In 2370, the Romulan warbird Terix performed a sensor scan of asteroid gamma 601 in the Devolin system with its lateral sensor array in hope to locate the USS Pegasus. (TNG: "The Pegasus")
USS Voyager's sensor readings
at various time indexes
An example of the accuracy of sensors was in the sensor data of the USS Voyager during one encounter with the Borg. Sensor readings from the ship's active scans recorded "random subspace energy fluctuations" at various time indexes in the sensor logs. Closer examination of this data revealed the detections were not random fluctuations but communications to Seven of Nine, one of Voyager's crew. (VOY: "Dark Frontier")
The enormous capability of the USS Voyager's sensors was demonstrated on one occasion when Captain Janeway requested that Harry Kim scan space for sporocystian life-forms. Moments later, Harry reported finding a "sporocystian energy burst, approximately ten light years distant." This implies that the sensors were able to scan and analyze a volume of more than 4,100 cubic light years in about six seconds. (VOY: "Cold Fire").
