Star Wars Jedi Council
Star Wars Jedi Council
Information
Home
Links
Awards
Humor
Scripts
Top Sites
Planets Guide
Weapons Guide
Aliens Guide
Technology Guide
Vehicles Guide
Droids Guide
Creatures Guide
News
George Lucas Interactive
Webrings
Sign Guestbook
View Guestbook
Polls
E-Mail Alex
E-Mail Danny
Multimedia
Pictures
Posters
Books
Sounds
Fan Art





Standing about one meter tall, astromech droids are utility robots designed to perform a large number of duties, most of them associated with mechanical devices and computer systems. These useful work droids are found throughout the galaxy and have been in use for many years. There are several models in production, but the basic design involves a cylindrical body topped by a domed swiveling head. Astromechs move about on two treaded roller legs, and a third, retractable leg is often included for stability. Although they can readily understand some of the common languages spoken throughout the galaxy they communicate verbally through a rapid series of beeps and tones. However, they can also, given the proper connection, produce an on-screen printout in any programmed language. The most common models, known as "R2" units, are equipped with a variety of tools and appendages, which can be interchanged for specific assignments. Common equipment includes a welder, a small circular saw, one or more retractable arms, and a holographic projector. The small robots are often used aboard starships, or "plugged in" to droid sockets on single-pilot fighters such as the Y-wing, the X-wing, or the N-1 Starfighter, where they perform in-flight adjustments and repairs to aid the pilot. Once interfaced with a ship's onboard computer, an astromech can also act as a co-pilot, and perform calculations necessary for a ship to travel through hyperspace.