Knowledge (Communications)

Knowledge (Communications) (Int; Trained Only)
The Knowledge (communications) skill represents the understanding of various technological devices used to communicate, as well as the appropriate knowledge of how to effectively and efficiently convey a situation through them. This skill is valuable for anyone seeking to operate advanced communications and scanning technologies.

Activate a Device (DC 10)
One of the simplest things one can do using this skill is to activate and use the basic functions of a communications device to send basic messages. Examples of this would be sending a text message, using a walkie-talkie, or sending an e-mail.

Use Scanning Equipment (DC Varies)
Using scanning equipment works the same as using Perception to detect hidden enemies, identify targets and details about foes based on the information, and other related, detection technology. Usually, the K. Communications roll is opposed by a Sleight of Hand check (for concealed objects) or Stealth (for hidden enemies), or can be used to identify anomalous things in the environment (low oxygen, abnormal temperatures, etc).

Encrypt a Signal (DC Varies)
Encrypting a communication requires a specific device depending on the object used to encrypt the signal. Creating an encryption using this device requires a K. Communications skill check, and is opposed by another K. Communications skill check (details below). This roll is usually done in secret, so a player does not know whether or not they succeeded/set a good encryption.

Decipher Encryption (DC Varies)
Deciphering an encryption requires a computer and the device used to receive the encrypted signal. This check is rolled in secret and opposes the encryption roll (details above). Success means the signal is completely deciphered. Failure by less than 5 results in a garbled but partially decipherable message, giving a few basic words or images. Failure by 10 or less results in a signal that is grossly misinterpreted (up to DM discretion). Failure by more than 10 results in a completely indecipherable message that is obviously encrypted. Having an encryption device identical to the one used to encrypt the signal adds a +5 to the check, and having the encryption key means that the signal is automatically unscrambled.

Action
Activating a device is usually a swift action unless otherwise mentioned, and Using scanning equipment is usually a standard action. Encrypting a signal usually requires an hour of work to set up the original encryption, and Deciphering an encryption is normally a similar amount of time.