Replicator (Star Trek): Meaning (information, definition, explanation, facts)

This article is about replicators in the Star Trek universe. The article Stargate SG-1 discusses Replicators in that fictional universe. For other meanings, see replicator.

In the fictional Star Trek universe, a replicator is a machine capable of converting energy into matter and vice-versa.

Origins and Limitations

The replicator was introduced in installment of the series, being nonexistent on (and arguably, in the 23rd century). It can replicate any inanimate matter, as long as a molecular structure is on file, but it cannot create either a living organism of any kind, antimatter, or dilithium.

Theoretically, it works by rearranging subatomic particles, which are abundant anywhere in the universe, to form the molecules required by the formula at hand. The device then arranges the molecules in accordance with said formula to finally create the substance (e.g.: to materialize water, the replicator would first form hydrogen and oxygen molecules in immense quantities, and then arrange them according to the formula of water). The difficulty lies in that the number of calculations that a computer would have to perform in order to accomplish that is astounding, and at the rate of development of the computer industry, it is highly unlikely that even a 24th century computer would be capable of it (a similar dilemma concerns Transporter technology).

Probably the single most important piece of technology in the Star Trek universe, its primary use is food and water replication onboard starships, thus eliminating the necessity of stocking provisions. On , the creators of the show finally established that replication is also used for renewing breathable air on ships and starbases (supposedly also destroying the carbon dioxide exhaled by the crew), thus eliminating the necessity of air tanks and providing an endless supply of oxygen.

The technology is also used for producing spare parts in case of need, which makes it possible to repair most damage that might be inflicted on starships without the necessity of returning to a starbase and delaying missions.

Further applications include replication of Starfleet uniforms and every-day-objects, such as toys and souvenirs. Replication is also a key part of the Holodeck program, so that food, clothes and other objects belonging to a simulation can actually be used or consumed by the participants.

Starfleet's safety protocols prevents any unauthorized replication of dangerous objects such as poisonous substances and weapons. Replication of any medicine is restricted to medical personnel bearing a valid identification code.

When supplies are no longer needed, in certain cases, they can be "dissolved" back into their constituent components to be reused in the replicator.

When the USS Voyager was pulled to the Delta Quadrant, it became clear that replicator technology was unknown to the indigenous peoples of that region. Throughout the first series, the Kazon repeatedly tried to obtain this technology, as did other races. Captain Janeway feared that if this technology were acquired by a civilization before they were ready, disastrous consequences could ensue. For this reason, and because of the Prime Directive, Janeway refused to give away this technology at any price.