Neural Interfaces (also known as Mind-Machine interfaces) are a common-place technology within the Occhestan Republic in both the military and civilian sectors. These technologies exist in dozens, if not hundreds of different executions but they are all rated according to their method of connecting the operator with attached mechanical systems.

Type 1 neural interfaces are the simplest in appearance. T1 interfaces are intended for use by telepathic individuals. Devices using a T1 interface contain a transceiver and processing equipment to communicate with the pilot through their telepathy. T1 interfaces can have problems with interference both from other telepaths (including ones that would not normally have sufficient talent to use the interface) as well as local EM phenomena.

They are the least intrusive and easiest to use but require that the user have a meaningful telepathy. Due to the preponderance of telepathic individuals within the Republic Type 1 interfaces are the most common of the 3, despite their limitations. Note that individuals with greater telepathic talent can achieve higher data throughputs than those stated below.

• Data Throughput From User: Low
• Data Throughput To User: Low

Type 2 neural interfaces utilize high definition magnetic resonance imaging to “read” the users thoughts as well as transmit information back to the user. This requires that the user either wear a device containing the interfaces systems (frequently having the appearance of a tiara or simple crown) or sit in a specially made chair (which has the interface system built in). Simple T2 interfaces are only intended for controlling external devices (and are only capable of data output from the user, they cannot send any to the user) and are usually jut small patches worn at the base of the neck.

Type 2 interfaces require training on the part of the user (so that the interface can read their thoughts properly) and obviously require a physical connection between the interface and the user (although the interface may use a wireless connection to connect to its attached systems). They do have substantially higher data throughput that the T1 interface, particularly in regards to output from the user. They are the second most common neural interface type within the Republic, after the T1 interface.

• Data Throughput From User: Medium-High
• Data Throughput To User: Low-Medium

Type 3 connections are the oldest type and the one most easily recognizable for what is by lay persons. T3 connections consist of a cybernetic device implanted in to the user (either surgically or, more commonly, assembled in-place by micromachines) which directly interfaces with the users brain. Older models (now long since removed from use) required a direct connection between the user and any connected equipment but current generation models use a induction panel that is placed at the base of the neck over the implants transceiver array. Users that require extremely high data throughputs still use the direct connection method.

These interfaces have by the largest data throughput, both from and to the user. They are far more common amongst military personnel (and are in fact a required item for any persons wishing to serve in a front-line role; the Republic pays for the interface as part of the enlistment/commissioning).

• Data Throughput From User: Medium-High to Highest
• Data Throughput To User: Medium-High to Highest

The following is a list of what interface is used in what field, as a guideline.

• General Civilian Use: T1 and T2 are by far the most common types of neural interfaces used by the general populace.
• Civilian Pilots/ Data Analysis: Individuals in these (and related fields generally make use of T2 interface systems with the most demanding applications using T3 interfaces.
• Military Use: All neural interface methods are used by the military, depending on the demands of the application. All frontline personnel are required to have a Type 3 neural interface.