The TARDIS:

Summary:

TARDIS'es are unique devices created by Gallifreyan engineers, which can travel throughout the known Space/Time continuum. The Doctor's particular TARDIS is an old Type 40, arguably a prototype. This model has long since been outmoded by newer, more reliable models, but the Doctor has modified his TARDIS in several areas, working out several inherent design flaws, and discovering a few more. The list of malfunctions is many, but it seems (as of the last few appearances of the TARDIS) that all but the Malfunctioning Chameleon Circuit have been repaired to some extent.

Construction:

TARDIS machines are not composed of matter in its usual sense. Its outer-plasmic shell (Real World Interface) is constructed by a type of complex mathematical Formulae called Block Transfer Computation. BTC's can be used to warp reality itself, creating an actual physical structure in Space/Time. It is by these means that a TARDIS is constructed.

Because a TARDIS isn't a normal physical object, it cannot be harmed by ordinary physical forces. Only the Real World interface contacts the normal universe, granting it what is termed Temporal Invulnerability. Due to this multi-dimensional nature, TARDIS machines are for all intents and purposes Indestructible. Certain types of massive energy discharges that transcend Space/Time (Such as the explosive force of a Cyberbomb, since they create ripples through the Space/Time vortex, or cosmic energy discharges on the scale of Hydrogen Inrush Event One, a.k.a.: The Big Bang.) can harm a TARDIS or it's occupants, but encounters of this type are rare in the extreme.

Power:

Chameleon Circut:

Most TARDIS machines are equipped with a type of Cloaking device called a Chameleon Circuit. This device can alter the exterior shape and appearance of a TARDIS into nearly anything. This is obviously useful for disguising the machine so that it blends in with its surroundings. Due to a malfunction with the Chameleon Circuit in the Doctor's TARDIS ( A common malfunction in the type 40.), his vessel is locked is the form of a British Police Call Box. The Doctor did, however, temporarily repair the Chameleon Circuit during his 6th Incarnation, which resulted in some interesting exterior forms before reverting back to its Police Box mode, and once again locking the shape down (Much to the Doctor's relief.).

The interior of a TARDIS is also similarly versatile. Its operator can move or change rooms to suit his/her needs. Not only can rooms be moved around, but they can also be deleted or have their appearances radically altered, by simply changing the mathematical formulae that compose them.

Travel:

Control and Computer Power

The TARDIS is run by a powerful computer which is a sentient organism in its own right. this computer forges a telepathic bond with its primary operator, and is thus made easier to operate in case of minor errors in computation. The link between the Doctor and his TARDIS is particularly strong, and without the aid of his vehicle, he would not have survived his first regeneration.

The main control interface for the TARDIS is a hexagonal console located at the center of the Main Control room. The panels are laid out as follows:

• Panel 1) Auxiliary Support Systems: Controls all life-support, and visual controls for the TARDIS scanner. Also, the control to operate the main doors of the Real World Interface is located on this panel. Located beneath the Life-Support panel is the extending keyboard that operates the defective Chameleon Circuit.
  
  
• Panel 2) Navigation: This station houses the controls for setting the Space/Time co-ordinates, controls necessary to keep the TARDIS on course, and a readout giving the exact location of the TARDIS in Space/Time.
  
  
• Panel 3) Central Computer Station: Most programming of the TARDIS' systems occurs here. This station allows computer control and access to all TARDIS functions. This panel also controls the Architectural Configuration System, allowing the operator to manipulate the TARDIS interior as necessary.
  
  
• Panel 4) Auxiliary Power: Assignment of Power resources can be controlled from here, diverted to any TARDIS system as needed.
  
  
• Panel 5) Master Computer Access: This houses the main computer display terminal. All files contained in the TARDIS library computer can be accessed here, and the terminal also displays sensor readings and damage repair status displays.
  
  
• panel 6) External Sensors: This station controls and monitors all external sensor devices. TARDIS defensive systems are also controlled from here.