Guide to power - Revision history

BeeLover66: /* SMES Charging and the Power Queue */ Removes inexistent images

2025-04-10T20:47:01Z

SMES Charging and the Power Queue: Removes inexistent images

← Older revision		Revision as of 20:47, 10 April 2025
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	The most visible effect of the power queue is that if there is not enough output power available on the grid because a component with higher rank is requesting it, then a lower rank component will not charge. For example, if the Backup SMESs are set to input 200 kW each from the grid and the APCs draw 150 kW, but the grid only provides 250 kW total, then the second Backup SMES will not charge and around two out of three APCs will go unpowered as well.		The most visible effect of the power queue is that if there is not enough output power available on the grid because a component with higher rank is requesting it, then a lower rank component will not charge. For example, if the Backup SMESs are set to input 200 kW each from the grid and the APCs draw 150 kW, but the grid only provides 250 kW total, then the second Backup SMES will not charge and around two out of three APCs will go unpowered as well.
	=== SMES Charging and the Power Queue ===		=== SMES Charging and the Power Queue ===
	~~[[File:SMES_Room_markup.png\|thumb\|right\|400px\|The three Singlo SMESs in the SMES Room.]]~~
	Similarly, if a higher rank component has a high enough output level to handle the station's power draw, then the station will draw all of its power from the higher rank component instead of splitting the draw with a lower rank component. This phenomenon is seen often when the singlo is set up. An unaware Engineer will purposefully set all three Singlo SMESs to output at a very high value, say 100 kW, or 300 kW, thinking that this will be more than enough to power the station. While this is technically correct, it isn't advised since it slows down the time it takes until all SMESs are completely full.		Similarly, if a higher rank component has a high enough output level to handle the station's power draw, then the station will draw all of its power from the higher rank component instead of splitting the draw with a lower rank component. This phenomenon is seen often when the singlo is set up. An unaware Engineer will purposefully set all three Singlo SMESs to output at a very high value, say 100 kW, or 300 kW, thinking that this will be more than enough to power the station. While this is technically correct, it isn't advised since it slows down the time it takes until all SMESs are completely full.

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	\|}		\|}
	A better way is to set output levels on Singlo SMESs #1 and #2 to a third of the total power draw of the station (here, 50 kW), while allowing the remainder (also, 50 kW) to draw from Singlo SMES #3, which would be set higher than that to account for power fluctuations. For the same case where the total draw was 150 kW, we would set SMES #1 and #2 to 50 kW and SMES #3 to something higher like 200 kW. This would have all three SMESs charged in 22.2 cycles -- 33% faster than the situation above.		A better way is to set output levels on Singlo SMESs #1 and #2 to a third of the total power draw of the station (here, 50 kW), while allowing the remainder (also, 50 kW) to draw from Singlo SMES #3, which would be set higher than that to account for power fluctuations. For the same case where the total draw was 150 kW, we would set SMES #1 and #2 to 50 kW and SMES #3 to something higher like 200 kW. This would have all three SMESs charged in 22.2 cycles -- 33% faster than the situation above.
	[[File:SMES_Output_v_Cycles_to_Full_v01.png\|thumb\|400px\|right\|The optimal number of cycles it takes to charge the singlo SMESs is dependent on both not outputting too little, and not outputting too much.]]
	{\| class="wikitable"		{\| class="wikitable"
	\|+ Singlo SMES Optimized Charging for 150 kW Power Draw		\|+ Singlo SMES Optimized Charging for 150 kW Power Draw
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	\|'''Total''' \|\| '''600 kW''' \|\| '''150 kW''' \|\| '''450 kW''' \|\| '''7.65 MW''' \|\| '''''9.99 MW'''''		\|'''Total''' \|\| '''600 kW''' \|\| '''150 kW''' \|\| '''450 kW''' \|\| '''7.65 MW''' \|\| '''''9.99 MW'''''
	\|}		\|}

	= ENGINEERING WHY ARE WE LOSING POWER =		= ENGINEERING WHY ARE WE LOSING POWER =
	Sooner or later, on every barely functional space station, the power will go out. This is where you - YES, YOU, YOU LAZY FUCK - come in and call out to recall that shuttle because you can fix it! Power can go out for many reasons. Your first port of call should be the Power Monitoring console in engineering, assuming it still exists. Then, ask yourself what's going on:		Sooner or later, on every barely functional space station, the power will go out. This is where you - YES, YOU, YOU LAZY FUCK - come in and call out to recall that shuttle because you can fix it! Power can go out for many reasons. Your first port of call should be the Power Monitoring console in engineering, assuming it still exists. Then, ask yourself what's going on:

RKz: Antimatter removal

2023-11-22T18:40:52Z

Antimatter removal

← Older revision		Revision as of 18:40, 22 November 2023
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	Typically the Station needs between 160-180 kW of power. More will be needed to charge the SMES and/or BSA.		Typically the Station needs between 160-180 kW of power. More will be needed to charge the SMES and/or BSA.
	= Power Sources =		= Power Sources =
	Station power can be confusing, if you are a beginner and not doing engineering at least learn how to set up '''solar~~''' and '''Antimatter~~''', see below.		Station power can be confusing, if you are a beginner and not doing engineering at least learn how to set up '''solar''', see below.

	== [[Supermatter\| Supermatter Engine]] ==		== [[Supermatter\| Supermatter Engine]] ==
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	Although it's usually the last power source set up on the station, it's the only power source that can be accessed by Atmospherics. Also, they're the only ones who can turn on and mix the gas feed needed to sustain the generator without the use of gas canisters. The exact gas mixture for optimal power generation is unknown at this point, but some Engineers have reported values as high as 100 kW and in typical Engineer fashion forgot to write down their recipe. Be prepared to field questions from <s>overprotective</s> proactive [[AI]]s who notice plasma in the mixtank.		Although it's usually the last power source set up on the station, it's the only power source that can be accessed by Atmospherics. Also, they're the only ones who can turn on and mix the gas feed needed to sustain the generator without the use of gas canisters. The exact gas mixture for optimal power generation is unknown at this point, but some Engineers have reported values as high as 100 kW and in typical Engineer fashion forgot to write down their recipe. Be prepared to field questions from <s>overprotective</s> proactive [[AI]]s who notice plasma in the mixtank.
	~~== Antimatter Engine ==~~
	~~''See: [[Guide to the Antimatter Engine]]''~~

	The antimatter is not available in engineering at round start and must be purchased at cargo with additional funds. Antimatter is one of the easier power sources that can be built. Almost essential whenever engineering is destroyed and neither solars nor turbines are set up.
	== Thermal-electric Generator ==		== Thermal-electric Generator ==
	See: [[Thermo-Electric Generator]]		See: [[Thermo-Electric Generator]]
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	*'''The smes'es cycle between getting power and not getting power for seemingly no reason''' Bug. admin help it. Can be fixed by admins by restarting the master controller.		*'''The smes'es cycle between getting power and not getting power for seemingly no reason''' Bug. admin help it. Can be fixed by admins by restarting the master controller.
	*'''Power isn't actually out?''' Either someone is crying wolf or something else has happened to make it ''look'' like power went out, most likely an [[Random_event#Electrical_Storm\|electrical storm]].		*'''Power isn't actually out?''' Either someone is crying wolf or something else has happened to make it ''look'' like power went out, most likely an [[Random_event#Electrical_Storm\|electrical storm]].
	Now that you know what's wrong with power, it's your job to [[Beyond the impossible\|fix it]]! If the singularity is about to be fucked, ''TURN OFF THE PA IMMEDIATELY'' (it may be worth asking the AI) and wire solars, if they aren't already wired. It might also be necessary to replace equipment. There is a PACMAN located in the SMES room and a spare SMES unit located in [[Electrical Maintenance]], both of which no one ever remembers. You could also rebuild everything. The tools to build a new SMES are located in [[Tech Storage]], and cargo can order new solar equipment, ~~antimatter~~ and even a new goddamn PA! ...Assuming they haven't already done so and pointed it your way, that is.		Now that you know what's wrong with power, it's your job to [[Beyond the impossible\|fix it]]! If the singularity is about to be fucked, ''TURN OFF THE PA IMMEDIATELY'' (it may be worth asking the AI) and wire solars, if they aren't already wired. It might also be necessary to replace equipment. There is a PACMAN located in the SMES room and a spare SMES unit located in [[Electrical Maintenance]], both of which no one ever remembers. You could also rebuild everything. The tools to build a new SMES are located in [[Tech Storage]], and cargo can order new solar equipment, and even a new goddamn PA! ...Assuming they haven't already done so and pointed it your way, that is.
	[[Category:Guides]]		[[Category:Guides]]

Williamcll: /* Power Sources */

2021-08-02T10:50:41Z

Power Sources

← Older revision		Revision as of 10:50, 2 August 2021
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	Typically the Station needs between 160-180 kW of power. More will be needed to charge the SMES and/or BSA.		Typically the Station needs between 160-180 kW of power. More will be needed to charge the SMES and/or BSA.
	= Power Sources =		= Power Sources =
			Station power can be confusing, if you are a beginner and not doing engineering at least learn how to set up '''solar''' and '''Antimatter''', see below.

	== [[Supermatter\| Supermatter Engine]] ==		== [[Supermatter\| Supermatter Engine]] ==
	The supermatter is a giant pile of exotic material capable of emitting both ionizing radiation and (flammable) gases. While the generation of these elements is normally rather low, the supermatter can be "activated" into releasing more by, well, most anything: even gasses can start the delamination process if they hold enough energy (heat, usually). You see where this is going? That's right, self-induced chain reactions. Your main job as an engineer will be to cool the supermatter down to prevent it from exploding (luckily a very easy job), while simultaneously exciting it to harvest radiation pulses. It's not an unforgiving engine, some would say it's even too stable to sabotage in a timely manner; read the [[Supermatter\| Guide]] carefully and it will be hard to mess it up.		The supermatter is a giant pile of exotic material capable of emitting both ionizing radiation and (flammable) gases. While the generation of these elements is normally rather low, the supermatter can be "activated" into releasing more by, well, most anything: even gasses can start the delamination process if they hold enough energy (heat, usually). You see where this is going? That's right, self-induced chain reactions. Your main job as an engineer will be to cool the supermatter down to prevent it from exploding (luckily a very easy job), while simultaneously exciting it to harvest radiation pulses. It's not an unforgiving engine, some would say it's even too stable to sabotage in a timely manner; read the [[Supermatter\| Guide]] carefully and it will be hard to mess it up.
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	The antimatter is not available in engineering at round start and must be purchased at cargo with additional funds. Antimatter is one of the easier power sources that can be built. Almost essential whenever engineering is destroyed and neither solars nor turbines are set up.		The antimatter is not available in engineering at round start and must be purchased at cargo with additional funds. Antimatter is one of the easier power sources that can be built. Almost essential whenever engineering is destroyed and neither solars nor turbines are set up.

	== Thermal-electric Generator ==		== Thermal-electric Generator ==
	See: [[Thermo-Electric Generator]]		See: [[Thermo-Electric Generator]]
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	If you use the basic SM setup to harvest Oxygen and plasma, burn it and feed it to the TEG it will generate 2-6 MW of power depending on how much cooling you have set up.		If you use the basic SM setup to harvest Oxygen and plasma, burn it and feed it to the TEG it will generate 2-6 MW of power depending on how much cooling you have set up.

	== Portable Generators ==		== Portable Generators ==
	Portable generators are failsafes when all other systems fail. They require fuel that is fed directly into the generator by hand. The type of fuel is dependent which type of generator is being used.		Portable generators are failsafes when all other systems fail. They require fuel that is fed directly into the generator by hand. The type of fuel is dependent which type of generator is being used.

Williamcll: /* Tesla Engine */

2021-08-02T10:38:35Z

Tesla Engine

← Older revision		Revision as of 10:38, 2 August 2021
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	{{Template:Needs revision \| reason=This is ported from the Yogstation wiki. Needs a once-over for inaccuracies between servers, plus missing power values, plus revision for the additional SMES in engineering. Also needs Tesla info}}
	= Introduction =		= Introduction =
	Understanding the intricacies of the power dynamic in the station is key to keeping the station in order. Many, especially the [[Head of Personnel\|HoP]], believe that the [[Captain]] is the seat of power on the station. This is untrue as having the Captain wired into the station's power grid provides minimal power at best.		Understanding the intricacies of the power dynamic in the station is key to keeping the station in order. Many, especially the [[Head of Personnel\|HoP]], believe that the [[Captain]] is the seat of power on the station. This is untrue as having the Captain wired into the station's power grid provides minimal power at best.

	The real source of power comes from [[Engineering]] because without [[Station Engineer]]s to set up the power sources at the beginning of a shift, the station would cease to function normally and devolve into a degenerative society with no more power than a uncivilized horde of lowly [[Assistant]]s, who, it should be noted, also provide even less power when wired directly to the grid.		The real source of power comes from [[Engineering]] because without [[Station Engineer]]s to set up the power sources at the beginning of a shift, the station would cease to function normally and devolve into a degenerative society with no more power than a uncivilized horde of lowly [[Assistant]]s, who, it should be noted, also provide even less power when wired directly to the grid.

			Typically the Station needs between 160-180 kW of power. More will be needed to charge the SMES and/or BSA.
	= Power Sources =		= Power Sources =
	== [[Supermatter\| Supermatter Engine]] ==		== [[Supermatter\| Supermatter Engine]] ==
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	The usable power emitted by a singularity takes the form of ionizing radiation pulses. These can interact with the mysterious substance called "plasma" so as to generate electricity. The more plasma available, and the stronger and more frequent the pulses, the more power is generated. The net power output can be measured directly by using a multitool on the collector's wire, checking the first SMES unit connected for available power, or by looking it up on a power monitoring console (though the latter will give skewed results if other power sources such as solars are connected).		The usable power emitted by a singularity takes the form of ionizing radiation pulses. These can interact with the mysterious substance called "plasma" so as to generate electricity. The more plasma available, and the stronger and more frequent the pulses, the more power is generated. The net power output can be measured directly by using a multitool on the collector's wire, checking the first SMES unit connected for available power, or by looking it up on a power monitoring console (though the latter will give skewed results if other power sources such as solars are connected).
	=== [[Tesla Engine]] ===		=== [[Tesla Engine]] ===
	This giant ball of incandescent energy regularly regurgitates power in the form of electric arcs. These arcs can be partially captured by tesla ~~generators~~, and will generally flow along the most conductive/least resisting path. Metal structures are prime target for its strikes, and grounding rods are the safest there is, drawing arcs to themselves and subsequently dissipating them into the whole station. The latter are regularly used to direct lighting through tesla ~~generators~~, and are best deployed between the engine and anything you hold dear.		This giant ball of incandescent energy regularly regurgitates power in the form of electric arcs. These arcs can be partially captured by tesla coils, and will generally flow along the most conductive/least resisting path. Metal structures are prime target for its strikes, and grounding rods are the safest there is, drawing arcs to themselves and subsequently dissipating them into the whole station. The latter are regularly used to direct lighting through tesla coils, and are best deployed between the engine and anything you hold dear. Don't forget to turn on the shield generators so the energy ball doesn't fly out of engineering.
	== Solar Arrays ==		== Solar Arrays ==
	[[File:Solars.png\|thumb\|300px]]		[[File:Solars.png\|thumb\|300px]]
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	Although it's usually the last power source set up on the station, it's the only power source that can be accessed by Atmospherics. Also, they're the only ones who can turn on and mix the gas feed needed to sustain the generator without the use of gas canisters. The exact gas mixture for optimal power generation is unknown at this point, but some Engineers have reported values as high as 100 kW and in typical Engineer fashion forgot to write down their recipe. Be prepared to field questions from <s>overprotective</s> proactive [[AI]]s who notice plasma in the mixtank.		Although it's usually the last power source set up on the station, it's the only power source that can be accessed by Atmospherics. Also, they're the only ones who can turn on and mix the gas feed needed to sustain the generator without the use of gas canisters. The exact gas mixture for optimal power generation is unknown at this point, but some Engineers have reported values as high as 100 kW and in typical Engineer fashion forgot to write down their recipe. Be prepared to field questions from <s>overprotective</s> proactive [[AI]]s who notice plasma in the mixtank.

	== Antimatter Engine ==		== Antimatter Engine ==
	''See: [[Guide to the Antimatter Engine]]''		''See: [[Guide to the Antimatter Engine]]''

	The antimatter is not available in engineering at round start and must be purchased at cargo with additional funds. Antimatter is one of the easier power sources that can be built. Almost essential whenever engineering is destroyed and neither solars nor turbines are set up.		The antimatter is not available in engineering at round start and must be purchased at cargo with additional funds. Antimatter is one of the easier power sources that can be built. Almost essential whenever engineering is destroyed and neither solars nor turbines are set up.

			== Thermal-electric Generator ==
			See: [[Thermo-Electric Generator]]

			The Thermal-Electric Generator has the potential to generate the most power for the station up to and over a '''TeraWatt'''. PubbyStation, CorgStation, MiniStation starts with a TEG and you can get their machine boards easily from an engineering protolathe. Setting up TEG requires some understanding of atmospherics: it requires hot and cold air piped in to generate power and will transfer heat between the two.

			If you use the basic SM setup to harvest Oxygen and plasma, burn it and feed it to the TEG it will generate 2-6 MW of power depending on how much cooling you have set up.

	== Portable Generators ==		== Portable Generators ==
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	\|}		\|}
	It is possible to power the entire station for around two hours with three SMES filled with Charged Slime core cells.		It is possible to power the entire station for around two hours with three SMES filled with Charged Slime core cells.

	= Power Distribution =		= Power Distribution =
	== Power Grid ==		== Power Grid ==
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	*'''The smes'es cycle between getting power and not getting power for seemingly no reason''' Bug. admin help it. Can be fixed by admins by restarting the master controller.		*'''The smes'es cycle between getting power and not getting power for seemingly no reason''' Bug. admin help it. Can be fixed by admins by restarting the master controller.
	*'''Power isn't actually out?''' Either someone is crying wolf or something else has happened to make it ''look'' like power went out, most likely an [[Random_event#Electrical_Storm\|electrical storm]].		*'''Power isn't actually out?''' Either someone is crying wolf or something else has happened to make it ''look'' like power went out, most likely an [[Random_event#Electrical_Storm\|electrical storm]].
	Now that you know what's wrong with power, it's your job to [[Beyond the impossible\|fix it]]! If the singularity is about to be fucked, ''TURN OFF THE PA IMMEDIATELY'' (it may be worth asking the AI) and wire solars, if they aren't already wired. It might also be necessary to replace equipment. There is a PACMAN located in the SMES room and a spare SMES unit located in [[Electrical Maintenance]], both of which no one ever remembers. You could also rebuild everything. The tools to build a new SMES are located in [[Tech Storage]], and cargo can order new solar equipment and even a new goddamn PA! ...Assuming they haven't already done so and pointed it your way, that is.		Now that you know what's wrong with power, it's your job to [[Beyond the impossible\|fix it]]! If the singularity is about to be fucked, ''TURN OFF THE PA IMMEDIATELY'' (it may be worth asking the AI) and wire solars, if they aren't already wired. It might also be necessary to replace equipment. There is a PACMAN located in the SMES room and a spare SMES unit located in [[Electrical Maintenance]], both of which no one ever remembers. You could also rebuild everything. The tools to build a new SMES are located in [[Tech Storage]], and cargo can order new solar equipment, antimatter and even a new goddamn PA! ...Assuming they haven't already done so and pointed it your way, that is.
	[[Category:Guides]]		[[Category:Guides]]

Williamcll: /* Power Cells */

2021-08-02T10:23:08Z

Power Cells

Show changes

Robohobbit: /* SMES Properties */ Removed outdated information about SMES input levels.

2020-05-30T22:33:57Z

SMES Properties: Removed outdated information about SMES input levels.

← Older revision		Revision as of 22:33, 30 May 2020
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	\|}		\|}

	~~SMESs will only charge when the input power is equal or higher to the input levels specified on the SMES settings panel.~~		SMESs will only output when the level of charge is above the output level specified on the SMES settings panel.

	~~Likewise,~~ SMESs will only output when the level of charge is above the output level specified on the SMES settings panel.

	== [[APC\|APCs]] ==		== [[APC\|APCs]] ==

Robohobbit: /* Distributing via SMESs */ Removed outdated information about SMES input levels.

2020-05-30T22:29:09Z

Distributing via SMESs: Removed outdated information about SMES input levels.

← Older revision		Revision as of 22:29, 30 May 2020
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	Distributing solar power through the SMESs is the generally preferred method of wiring the solars, mainly because it provides a steady power output and requires no extra wiring. One benefit of the pre-laid wiring to the SMES is that during a night cycle of the solar array the Engineer does not need insulated gloves to wire the solar array.		Distributing solar power through the SMESs is the generally preferred method of wiring the solars, mainly because it provides a steady power output and requires no extra wiring. One benefit of the pre-laid wiring to the SMES is that during a night cycle of the solar array the Engineer does not need insulated gloves to wire the solar array.

	~~While the~~ maximum power generation of a ~~given~~ solar array is 90 kW, it is advised to set SMES inputs to ~~slightly lower level to account for solar panels that might break during~~ the ~~course of the shift.~~		The maximum power generation of a typical solar array is 90 kW, and it is advised to set SMES inputs to the maximum 200 kW.
	~~For example, setting the SMES input levels to 85.5 kW may not collect all 90 kW produced by the array, but allows for the SMES to charge even when up to three panels get broken on the array.~~
	~~Otherwise, should the Engineer set SMES input levels to 90 kW and should a single panel get hit by space debris and break, the array will always produce less than 90 kW, so the SMES with a required 90~~ kW ~~input will not charge~~.

	The output on the SMES should be at most 50% of the ~~input level~~ due to the revolution of the station around the local star (percentage estimated but unconfirmed). Since the solar has to collect enough energy in the day cycle of the array to output for both day and night, it's usually good to round down a little more. Additionally, if the solar is initially wired during its day cycle, it typically won't be able to collect enough to keep it charged for the first night cycle, resulting in a little bit of lag in the output of the solars.		The output on the SMES should be at most 50% of the 90 kW generated by the cells due to the revolution of the station around the local star (percentage estimated but unconfirmed). Since the solar has to collect enough energy in the day cycle of the array to output for both day and night, it's usually good to round down a little more. Additionally, if the solar is initially wired during its day cycle, it typically won't be able to collect enough to keep it charged for the first night cycle, resulting in a little bit of lag in the output of the solars.
	For example, if the ~~input is set to~~ 85500 W (85.5 kW), the output shouldn't be bigger than 42750 W (42.75 kW). Typically, 40 kW is a good round number for long-term power output.		For example, if the solar cells generate 85500 W (85.5 kW), the output shouldn't be bigger than 42750 W (42.75 kW). Typically, 40 kW is a good round number for long-term power output.

	If more power storage is desired, say in the initial stage of the set-up, the engineer may want to reduce or even eliminate power output for the first few solar cycles, before setting the long-term power output.		If more power storage is desired, say in the initial stage of the set-up, the engineer may want to reduce or even eliminate power output for the first few solar cycles, before setting the long-term power output.
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	That being said, if unchecked, power sinks can drain the solar SMESs, which if depleted would need to go through a solar cycle again before being able to provide steady, adequate power to the station.		That being said, if unchecked, power sinks can drain the solar SMESs, which if depleted would need to go through a solar cycle again before being able to provide steady, adequate power to the station.

	The biggest failure of the Solar SMES system is more often the fault of the Engineer, not the power sink. A rookie Engineer usually ~~sets~~ input levels and output levels ~~too high or too low~~ to meaningfully sustain the station~~, and/or fails to re-set the SMESs to a more adequate output level after initially charging the SMES~~.		The biggest failure of the Solar SMES system is more often the fault of the Engineer, not the power sink. A rookie Engineer usually forgets to set input levels and output levels to meaningfully sustain the station.

	'''Pros:''' Steady power supply, no additional wiring necessary, stores power, modular, does not require insulated gloves.		'''Pros:''' Steady power supply, no additional wiring necessary, stores power, modular, does not require insulated gloves.

imported>Doerakpoes: /* APCs */ who wrote this?

2019-06-30T14:31:56Z

APCs: who wrote this?

← Older revision		Revision as of 14:31, 30 June 2019
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	[[File:APC2.gif]]		[[File:APC2.gif]]

	APCs, or Automated Power Controllers, are found in or, more likely, in maintenance just outside ~~every~~ room ~~with power~~. They can be used to ~~turn on or off~~ the room equipment, ~~lightning~~ and environmental (a.k.a. ventilation) systems.		APCs, or Automated Power Controllers, are found on the walls of the room they're powering or, more likely, in maintenance just outside the room. They can be used to toggle the room's equipment, lighting and environmental (a.k.a. ventilation) systems on and off.

	= Concepts =		= Concepts =

imported>Lolman360: Started fixing problems with first half of page, adding refrences to Tesla/SM.w

2018-03-08T01:11:37Z

Started fixing problems with first half of page, adding refrences to Tesla/SM.w

← Older revision		Revision as of 01:11, 8 March 2018
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	== [[Supermatter\| Supermatter Engine]] ==		== [[Supermatter\| Supermatter Engine]] ==
	The supermatter is a giant pile of exotic material capable of emitting both ionizing radiation and (flammable) ~~gasses~~. While the generation of these elements is normally rather low, the supermatter can be "activated" into releasing more by, well, most anything: even gasses can start the delamination process if they hold enough energy (heat, usually). You see where this is going? That's right, self-induced chain reactions. Your main job as an engineer will be to cool the supermatter down to prevent it from exploding (luckily a very easy job), while simultaneously exciting it to harvest radiation pulses. It's not an unforgiving engine, some would say it's even too stable to sabotage in a timely manner; read the [[Supermatter\| Guide]] carefully and it will be hard to mess it up.		The supermatter is a giant pile of exotic material capable of emitting both ionizing radiation and (flammable) gases. While the generation of these elements is normally rather low, the supermatter can be "activated" into releasing more by, well, most anything: even gasses can start the delamination process if they hold enough energy (heat, usually). You see where this is going? That's right, self-induced chain reactions. Your main job as an engineer will be to cool the supermatter down to prevent it from exploding (luckily a very easy job), while simultaneously exciting it to harvest radiation pulses. It's not an unforgiving engine, some would say it's even too stable to sabotage in a timely manner; read the [[Supermatter\| Guide]] carefully and it will be hard to mess it up.

	== Singularity/Tesla Engine ==		== Singularity/Tesla Engine ==
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	=== [[Singularity Engine]] ===		=== [[Singularity Engine]] ===
	The ~~harvestable~~ power emitted by a singularity takes the form of ionizing radiation pulses. These can interact with the ~~misterious~~ substance called "plasma" so as to generate electricity. The more plasma available, and the stronger and more frequent the pulses, the more power is generated. The net power output can be measured directly by using a multitool on the collector's wire, checking the first SMES unit connected for available power, or by looking it up on a power monitoring console (though the latter will give skewed results if other power sources such as solars are connected).		The usable power emitted by a singularity takes the form of ionizing radiation pulses. These can interact with the mysterious substance called "plasma" so as to generate electricity. The more plasma available, and the stronger and more frequent the pulses, the more power is generated. The net power output can be measured directly by using a multitool on the collector's wire, checking the first SMES unit connected for available power, or by looking it up on a power monitoring console (though the latter will give skewed results if other power sources such as solars are connected).

	=== [[Tesla Engine]] ===		=== [[Tesla Engine]] ===
	This giant ball of incandescent energy ~~regurarly~~ regurgitates power in the form of electric arcs. These arcs can be partially captured by tesla generators, and will generally flow along the most conductive/least resisting path. Metal structures are prime target for its strikes, and grounding rods are the safest there is, drawing arcs to themselves and subsequently dissipating them into the whole station. The latter are regularly used to direct lighting through tesla generators, and are best deployed between the engine and anything you hold dear.		This giant ball of incandescent energy regularly regurgitates power in the form of electric arcs. These arcs can be partially captured by tesla generators, and will generally flow along the most conductive/least resisting path. Metal structures are prime target for its strikes, and grounding rods are the safest there is, drawing arcs to themselves and subsequently dissipating them into the whole station. The latter are regularly used to direct lighting through tesla generators, and are best deployed between the engine and anything you hold dear.

	== Solar Arrays ==		== Solar Arrays ==
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	==== Wiring to the Grid ====		==== Wiring to the Grid ====

	Wiring the solar arrays directly to the grid is often used as a more straight-forward approach to hooking up the solars, which benefits the Engineer by bypassing the intricacies of the SMES and generating a generally larger power output but at the expense of a less steady, less modular electrical source. This is often helpful in the emergency ~~circumstance when~~ the ~~singlo is loose or otherwise not available~~, ~~effectively making~~ the ~~solar arrays~~ the ~~primary power source~~.		Wiring the solar arrays directly to the grid is often used as a more straight-forward approach to hooking up the solars, which benefits the Engineer by bypassing the intricacies of the SMES and generating a generally larger power output but at the expense of a less steady, less modular electrical source. This is often helpful in the emergency circumstances where the supermatter crystal has delaminated, taking out the whole of Engineering with it, or when the Singularity or Tesla gets loose.

	To achieve this, the Engineer usually just wires together the cable leading from the array directly to the cable leading out from the solar maintenance room. Typically, insulated gloves are a necessity since the Engineer will need to tap the solar power lines into the main power grid. However, as easy as that sounds, rookie Engineers tend to mangle the wiring so much that the array power lines never make it to the grid.		To achieve this, the Engineer usually just wires together the cable leading from the array directly to the cable leading out from the solar maintenance room. Typically, insulated gloves are a necessity since the Engineer will need to tap the solar power lines into the main power grid. However, as easy as that sounds, rookie Engineers tend to mangle the wiring so much that the array power lines never make it to the grid.
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	Initially, the Engineer would want to charge the SMESs enough to where they could give an adequate supply of power. Then, if the Engineer is skilled enough at wiring, both the SMES and the solar arrays can be wired to the grid at the same time. Since the station only draws about 150 kW, but the solars wired to grid produce 180 kW, there's a spare 30 kW to split between the Solar SMESs for recharging. Setting all four Solar SMESs to charge at 6 kW is feasible (reduced from 7.5 kW to account for broken solar panels). The output setting on the SMES can be any value so long as the station draws full power from the solars wired directly. This effectively makes the Solar SMESs a backup power source.		Initially, the Engineer would want to charge the SMESs enough to where they could give an adequate supply of power. Then, if the Engineer is skilled enough at wiring, both the SMES and the solar arrays can be wired to the grid at the same time. Since the station only draws about 150 kW, but the solars wired to grid produce 180 kW, there's a spare 30 kW to split between the Solar SMESs for recharging. Setting all four Solar SMESs to charge at 6 kW is feasible (reduced from 7.5 kW to account for broken solar panels). The output setting on the SMES can be any value so long as the station draws full power from the solars wired directly. This effectively makes the Solar SMESs a backup power source.

	The drawbacks though are that the Solar SMES input levels should not be put higher than 6 kW since a Solar SMES located at an array going through the night cycle will attempt to draw power from a Solar SMES higher upstream in the [[#power queue]], ~~cannibalistically draining~~ that SMES.		The drawbacks though are that the Solar SMES input levels should not be put higher than 6 kW since a Solar SMES located at an array going through the night cycle will attempt to draw power from a Solar SMES higher upstream in the [[#power queue]], cannibalizing the power from that SMES.

	Also, the 2 conventional Backup SMESs can't be charged for the same reason of the power queue. However, since the 4 Solar SMESs act as backups, this trade-off is in favor of the dual-wiring of the solars.		Also, the 2 conventional Backup SMESs can't be charged for the same reason of the power queue. However, since the 4 Solar SMESs act as backups, this trade-off is in favor of the dual-wiring of the solars.
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	\|}		\|}

	One PACMAN generator is located in the SMES room, with plasma located in secure storage, and it is suggested to use it while setting up the singularity to prevent early release.		One PACMAN generator is located in the SMES room, with plasma located in secure storage, and it is suggested to use it while setting up the singularity or tesla to prevent early release.

	== Power Cells ==		== Power Cells ==

imported>Somerandomguy: grammar fix

2018-02-20T14:19:49Z

grammar fix

← Older revision		Revision as of 14:19, 20 February 2018
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	*'''Power goes out everywhere, in under 10 seconds or so?''' This is most likely a power sink. Power sinks have the odd quirk of still powering the area they are placed in, so your best bet is to get searching for somewhere where the lights are still on, or if it's in maint, where you don't have to crowbar the doors.		*'''Power goes out everywhere, in under 10 seconds or so?''' This is most likely a power sink. Power sinks have the odd quirk of still powering the area they are placed in, so your best bet is to get searching for somewhere where the lights are still on, or if it's in maint, where you don't have to crowbar the doors.
	*'''Power goes out everywhere, but gradually, section by section?''' This means there's a problem in Engineering itself as the rest of the station is being topped up with charge. It'll be immediately obvious if the engine isn't on/has escaped. Your next port of call should be the SMES cells. Check they're outputting enough power to overcome the drain OR if no APCs are showing on the Power Monitoring computer, it means a wire has been cut either inside or immediately outside the Engineering area and is not being supplied to the rest of the station.		*'''Power goes out everywhere, but gradually, section by section?''' This means there's a problem in Engineering itself as the rest of the station is being topped up with charge. It'll be immediately obvious if the engine isn't on/has escaped. Your next port of call should be the SMES cells. Check they're outputting enough power to overcome the drain OR if no APCs are showing on the Power Monitoring computer, it means a wire has been cut either inside or immediately outside the Engineering area and is not being supplied to the rest of the station.
	*'''Power is out across a small area?''' This is most commonly a broken wire, the easiest way to find it is with familiarity with the power-net and using that in conjunction with the power monitoring computer. If an area has had all wires sending power to it snipped, its APCs will no longer show on the power monitoring computer. For example, if Medbay as a whole has lost power and isn't showing any of its APCs on the power monitor~~. The~~ wire cut is most likely in the maint tunnel behind Medbay. The more familiar you become with the power nets, the quicker you will be able to work out where the break is and be able to recognize common spots used.		*'''Power is out across a small area?''' This is most commonly a broken wire, the easiest way to find it is with familiarity with the power-net and using that in conjunction with the power monitoring computer. If an area has had all wires sending power to it snipped, its APCs will no longer show on the power monitoring computer. For example, if Medbay as a whole has lost power and isn't showing any of its APCs on the power monitor, the wire cut is most likely in the maint tunnel behind Medbay. The more familiar you become with the power nets, the quicker you will be able to work out where the break is and be able to recognize common spots used.
	*'''Power is out across 2 small rooms or in one room?''' This is most likely an APC that has been tampered with in some way. Either hacked by an AI/Saboteur, destroyed somehow or just had its cell ripped out. Again, if the APC doesn't show up on the Power Monitoring computer, it means it's been severed from the power net and wire either inside that room or very close to the APC has been cut.		*'''Power is out across 2 small rooms or in one room?''' This is most likely an APC that has been tampered with in some way. Either hacked by an AI/Saboteur, destroyed somehow or just had its cell ripped out. Again, if the APC doesn't show up on the Power Monitoring computer, it means it's been severed from the power net and wire either inside that room or very close to the APC has been cut.
	*'''Power is intermittent across the station. Stuff turns off for a while, starts working, then goes off again?''' Your SMES aren't outputting enough power to keep the APCs charged. This happens most often when the output is just under the drain so therefore some APCs get enough power, while others don't.		*'''Power is intermittent across the station. Stuff turns off for a while, starts working, then goes off again?''' Your SMES aren't outputting enough power to keep the APCs charged. This happens most often when the output is just under the drain so therefore some APCs get enough power, while others don't.