The localizer is a piece of cyberware that allows positions to be calculated from auditory information alone. The localizer is a passive system -- in order to determine position information, there must be some sort of sound or noise present in the area (wind, footsteps, raindrops hitting earth, etc). With complex algorithms and heavy signal processing, the source of any sound or the positions of people/large objects can be calculated.
Under normal circumstances, an unobstructed path must exist between the listener and some part of the object/person being located. With the use of a detailed mapsoft in an orientation system, however, it is possible to locate the source of any sound within hearing range. If the sound passes through some obstruction (for example, a wall or a door) before it reaches the listener, it can only be traced back as far as the obstruction. A perception test is required for all tracing attempts, obstructed or otherwise.
A localizer also has the ability to help with targeting. When used by itself, halve all visibility modifiers for combat purposes. If used in conjunction with an ultrasound system or any other system that specifically reduces visibility modifiers, the localizer only functions at half its ability (reduce visibility modifiers by an additional 25% instead of 50%). For those characters that also possess a tactical computer, the localizer helps in two ways. In addition to counting as an extra sense, the localizer can maintain a lock on targets that fall outside of the field of view of the character. It will not maintain a lock if there are obstructions between the character and target, though. Due to the great importance of auditory phase information, a damaged ear or the impairment of hearing will render a localizer completely useless.
|
Essence Cost |
Price |
|
0.75 |
21000 Y |
[I could use one of these
things. Put one of these together with a tactical computer and an orientation
system, and no one will ever sneak up on you again.]
Solace
[Why doesn't it work as well
when you're using ultrasound?]
Joe
[While auditory information
can go a long way in compensating for an unseen target, if ultrasound is
in use, it functions in a way that is very similar to a localizer. A localizer
is a passive system, while ultrasound is its complementary active system.
Some of the information provided by both systems overlap.]
Solace
[With or without an ultrasound
system, a localizer can be a great addition. You'll never be left in the
dark, so to speak.]
Wraith