Communication Grid (3.5e Equipment)

Communication Grid
A communications grid is a large flat screen about the size of a table which is attached to a vehicle or structure and allows communication with other communication grids. When turned on it defaults to passive mode, where it searches for incoming messages. As a standard action you can send a message of your own, either long or short range.

A short range message applies to communication grids within 1 mile. Communications are fast enough that creatures on the communications device can speak to each other in real time, with visuals as if the communications device was a window one could see through.

A long range message is of unlimited range, but takes time to get to its source and thus it is more akin to sending a letter in the mail than talking to someone. The message travels out 50 miles per minute (or 3000 mph) until it reaches its destination, and technically beyond that out to infinity. This form of communication is one-way, though a reply can be sent also using long range.

Communication grids can be attuned to speak to a specific communication grid you know about, or used to speak to all communication grids in an area. The latter is usually used with long range messages to send SOS emergancy messages to anyone in the area. It can be sent to repeat the last recorded message at repeated and pre-determined times, though it can only store one such contingent message at a time. Communication grids are most common for large vehicles like ships and boats which need to stay in contact with each other.

Moderate transmutation; CL 7th; Craft Wondrous Item, sending; Price Cost::3,000 gp.