What polarity can we reverse today?

[Noble713]

quote:

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Originally posted by jimbob55:
Seems that the solution to all trek problems is to either reverse the polarity or run a level 3 diagnostic.
What the hell is a level 3 diagnostic? What happened to levels 1 and 2?
How do you reverse the polarity of a chronoton / tachyon burst? Which polarity are they reversing?

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Who knows why they reverse the polarity. It's Treknobabble, it doesn't matter if it makes sense or not. At least I don't think they've tried reversing the polarity of a neutron beam/wave/effect. That would be funny.

As for the Diagnostics (opens TNG Tech Manual):

Level 1 is a comprehensive diagnostic that requires the crew to physically verify system operations. This can require the complete shutdown of a system and can take several hours.

Level 2 is similar but less extensive, taking about half the time.

Level 3 only requires crew verification of mechanics and system readings, and can take less than 10 minutes.

Level 4 is an automated test that just kinda looks for trouble (like scanning your hard drive for a virus). Can take less than 30 seconds.

Level 5 is automated and is used to verify system performance. Usually done daily and takes 2.5 seconds.