In message: [email removed] Bertil Jonell writes:
>
>[email removed] writes:
>> [email removed] wrote:
>> >The Powerplant is heavily dependent by TL.. but it will be very small on
>> >an Xboat.
>>
>> Didn't the original Xboat design *not* have a power plant?
>
>Yes, but in MegaT every craft require a powerplant to power the computer
>sensors, lifesupport and lots of other small components.
Hmm. Yeah, as I recall, the powered systems on an Xboat were supposed
to sort of "parasitize" power off the jump drive (from the jump capacitors,
presumably). Nowadays, of course, that idea won't work (as per the Starship
Operator's Manual [Vol. I]). Sounds like the Xboat network needs some
overhaul... :-)
>> >(Hmm, Jump4+4, is that Rift capability?)
>>
>> Yup. At least one Rift-crossing route can be done by Jump 5 ships. If
>> a ship can cross eight parsecs on one load of fuel (even if it takes two
>> weeks), then it should be able to cross the Rift without too much trouble.
>
>It seems that the MegaT vehicle design system is incompatible with the
>Traveller Universe Background, at least when it comes to questions about
>Ships, Jumps and Rifts in various combinations.
>This looks to me like a major bug.
Why? The Rift is just a region of space where stars (and, hence the
important commodities, like planets, that can be found near them) are
unusually sparse. The J-5 route is simply a path across the Rift where
the worlds are "only" 5 parsecs apart. Many ships don't have jump drives
that good, and won't be carrying any extra fuel.
There are good reasons for not carrying that much fuel (enough for two
jumps, that is). For a commercial ship, more fuel means less cargo, therefore
less revenue. Remember, to a trader, not making money is a Bad Thing. From
the military viewpoint, well, having that much fuel (which is singularly
bulky--one metric ton of liquid hydrogen takes up 13.5 cubic meters; one metric
ton of *water* only takes up *one* cubic meter) means having fewer weapons
and smaller magazines--not good, especially in extended battle conditions.
Check the combat advantages of battleriders over battleships for an example.
- --
Brent
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