Omni-Tools

Palman Omni-tools are handheld devices that combine a Photonic computer microframe, sensor analysis pack, and minifacturing fabricator. Versatile and reliable, an omni-tool can be used to analyze and adjust the functionality of most standard equipment, including weapons and armor, from a distance. Unlike other races Palman Omni-tools are capable of generating different color themes, however some races may have difficulty using some colors due to their race's optical configuration. The fabrication module can rapidly assemble small three-dimensional objects from common, reusable industrial plastics, ceramics, and light alloys. This allows for field repairs and modifications to most standard items, as well as the reuse of salvaged equipment. Although melee-combat applications for the omni-tool are almost as old as the device itself, the feature was largely unused across the galaxy. The Palmans however continued to develop the technology due to their constant warfare with their own created bio-monsters and the forces of darkness during the shadow wars or when fending off a invasion from the Profound darkness. The need to take on multiple armored opponents in close quarters forced the Imperium to develop ways to enhance the tool's offensive capability. The most common melee design is the "omni-blade," a disposable silicon-carbide weapon flash-forged by the tool's mini-fabricator. The transparent, nearly diamond-hard blade is created and suspended in a subspace field safely away from the user's skin. Warning lights illuminate the field so the searing-hot blade only burns what it is intended to: the opponent.

More technically adept soldiers frequently modify their omni-tools to maximize stopping power through electrical, kinetic, or thermal energy. Some troops integrate their weapon with their PSGs, transforming the omni-tool into a wrist-mounted bludgeon; others fabricate flammable gases, held in place by a subspace field and ignited upon impact. All prove deadly surprises for opponents who expect a disarmed Imperium warrior.

Omni-tools are standard issue for soldiers and first-in colonists.

New skill use:

Use Computer (int)

Activate tech module (trained only): You make a Use Computer check to use a Tech module. This use of the skill requires no action.

Activate static tech module: You activate a static tech module. This use of the skill requires no action, you do not need to be trained in Use Computer.

Using tech modules Only characters trained in Use Computers can use tech modules except Static modules which do not require training.

If undisturbed, a character may take 10 on a Use Computer check to activate a module.

New keywords

Four new keywords are introduced for tech modules: [ammo], [armor], [deployable] and [persistent].

A character may have only a single module of each keyword active at any given time.

[Ammo] modules modify the output of the gun the character is wielding to fire different types of ammo. Each ammo type has its own benefits and penalties.

A character can only benefit from a single ammo module at any given time. Only weapons that deal kinetic damage can benefit from ammo powers.

[Armor] modules form a field of protective holographic armor surrounding the user, which increase defensive or offensive capabilities. Armor modules last indefinitely, but some of them can be detonated as a swift action, granting various bonuses. Detonating an armor module ends the regular effect immediately and does not include a recharge period. While an [armor] module is active, all recharge times are increased by 2 rounds.

[Deployable] modules create autonomous drones, turrets and mines made from the Minifabricator.

They can be upgraded for both defense and offense. See the Omni-tool deployables stats section for more information on upgrades and statistics.

[Persistent] modules apply some longer lasting effect on the character or their omni-tool, such as activating a flamethrower or a cloaking device. Persistent modules do not apply their recharge immediately; once the module's effect ends the listed recharge period begins. A character may activate another module from the same omni-tool during a persistent effect, but the persistent module then ends immediately and begins its recharge period.

Omni-tool Modules under Development:

Biotoxin Injection Support/Debuff, Offensive Skill

Chroniton Jolt Buff (Self & Ally), Debuff (Enemy)

Crawler Swarm Offensive Skill

Crystalline Spike Offensive Skill

Gravimetric Traps Offensive Skill

Jam Subspace Transmissions Debuff (Enemy)

Mass Gravimetric Detonation Offensive Skill

Overcharge Turret Offensive Skill

Phasic Shroud Buff (Self)

Plasma Feedback Cascade Offensive Skill

Subspace Rift Support/Debuff, Offensive Skill

Notes about this list: Grenades+hyposprays become items instead of omnitool powers, Psionic modules need to become class abilities or stay as modules that require psionics to operate? Cronoton mines become an item, but mine barrier power becomes generic omni tool power. some of these modules would become a module family because of their similarity [Medical generator upgrading to nanite medical generator for example]