Magnetics

Magnetics upgrades are a pair of "gloves" that replace the palms and fingers, allowing the user to move and manipulate objects made of metal and some other inorganic substances. In their most basic form, they can be used for lifting large metal objects that could not be moved by hand, but with some training and certain class types, upgraded individuals can bend and manipulate a variety of metals with subtlety and ease. This upgrade is most readily installed in builders and laborers who require it to do their work, but may also be installed on recreational users who pass the proper mental and physical wellness tests.

Because the nature of these upgrades does not allow them to be switched off (doing so would paralyze synthetic fingers), it is technically possible to operate them without a license. Understandably, those who do so may incur severe penalties. Magnetics devices usually come with a license from the manufacturer, which must be renewed every few years. Even then, certain cities may prohibit the use of certain brands within their jurisdiction.

There are three major suppliers of magnetics equipment in Thaeta. Magnetics upgrades are composed of tiny magnetic plates on the lower side of the hand, connected to the organic nerves and/or synthetic fibers of the arm. The plates can change orientation and magnetic force at the will of the wearer, but increased accuracy and strength can only be achieved with practice. To reflect this, players with Magnetics upgrades may add the Magnetic Dexterity skill to the Agility column in their skill sheet.
 * Robotic Enterprises Inc. in Mourier produces most of the Magnetics upgrades required by Thaetan manufacturers for their employees. Though built on a reputation on Class One and strength upgrades, it is known best to supply any specialty for an affordable price.
 * The Lion Center in Singh specializes in Class Three upgrades, producing Magnetics devices with the highest ranges recorded. Known unofficially for repurposing black market devices, it is illegal to use LC Magnetics devices in Foxe and Nye.
 * The Vulcatorium in Foxe produces colorful and often customizable devices of most every flavor, specializing in Class Two upgrades. Perhaps because the precise programming of its devices is kept top secret, it is the only producer to develop successful and long-lived Class Four upgrades.

Some prototypes cover only the surface of organic fingers, but this most often causes too much stress on the bones and muscles to be practical. It is strongly suggested that those hoping to incorporate a Magnetics upgrade also choose to assimilate synthetic arms, or at least reinforce their arm muscles with synthetic fibers. Those who retain organic limbs have been known to suffer pain and cramping after prolonged use, especially those using the upgrades to amplify their strength.

The following are the types of classes available of Magnetics upgrades. The examples given in each description are just that; many devices can be installed in a variety of different people with proper reason and application.