C3 command unit
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Intended for reconnaissance 'Mechs or vehicles, the C3 Command Unit, also known as C3 Master Computer, is the central hub of a C3 Network and allows linked units to share radar and targeting data on the lance or company levels.
Normally carried by the lance commander, the C3 Command Unit is the hub to which three C3 Slave Units on other friendly 'Mechs can connect. However C3 Command Units can also linked in this manner to expand the network, the command units of each of lance commanders can be connected to a second separate command unit carried by the company command 'Mech/vehicle. Due to complexity required to coordinate C3 networks, they can not be expanded beyond company size, or multiple companies linked together, even with the addition of extra command vehicles. The limitations in unit size are part of the reason for the ComStar developed Improved C3 Computer.
As well as serving to share the linked lance/companies targeting data, the C3 Command Unit also duplicates the function of Target Acquisition Gear and can designate a target for Arrow IV homing missiles and Semi-Guided LRMs.
A C3 Command Unit is typically carried by a heavy or assault 'Mech due to it's the larger size and weight, and it's importance as the hub of a C3 network. Outright destruction or interruption by ECM of a command unit is quickest way to bring down the portion of the C3 network it controls.
The C3 system was introduced in the year 3050 by the Draconis Combine.[1]
C3 Command Unit is manufactured on the following planets:
| Brand | Planet | Company |
|---|---|---|
| Kallon Sure-Shot C3-MU | Nanking | Kallon Industries |
| Tanadi Coordinator | Hachiman | Tanadi Computers |
C3 Boosted Master
Introduced by the Federated Suns in 3073, the C3 Boosted Master system is an experimental system that ignores all electronic warfare equipment, ECM suites, etc. Only the Angel ECM Suite can interfere with its signals.[2] The C3 Boosted Master can only be used with C3 Boosted Slave units; Standard C3 Slaves will not work.[3]
The additional hardware links and encryption equipment that allows the C3 Boosted Master to operate increased both the weight and bulk of the unit. The C3BM weighs 6 tons and occupies 6 critical hit slots. It also costs 3,000,000 C-Bills.[4]
References
- ↑ Tech Manual, pg. 209
- ↑ Tactical Operations, p. 298
- ↑ C3 Boosted, Standard C3, C3EM (Answered) posting in Errata forum of CBT.com
- ↑ Tactical Operations, p. 405