- "Why deactivate your translation disk? This is no time for us to start keeping secrets from one another."
- — Reza Linberk to Castor.[1]
A translation disk (disc) or translator disk is a piece of technology used for translating spoken words to other languages.[2]
Overview
Translator disks use translation software to detect spoken words and then repeat them in another desired language so that individuals may speak that otherwise would be unable to.[1] These disks can be programmed with the capacity to understand and translate languages from multiple species.[3] The translated speech has an electronic undertone to it and can sound somewhat distorted.[1][2] Translation disks can be easily deactivated and reactivated and may be hung around a user's neck or secured high on one's breastplate.[1][4]
History of use
Translation disks were used by the Covenant and after its downfall they continued to be employed by Jiralhanae in the Keepers of the One Freedom. Notably, Castor, a leading dokab of the Keepers, kept one around his neck.[2] Orsun, his second-in-command, did likewise.[3] Arbiter Thel 'Vadam learned to speak English fluently so that he could communicate more naturally with his human allies, meaning that he didn't have to rely on a translation disk while speaking with Lieutenant Commander Amalea Petrov on Netherop. Although Kaidon Ghe 'Talot offered to go in his place, he didn't speak the human languages and nor did he think to put a translation disk aboard his Phantom.[5]
List of appearances
- Halo: Last Light (First appearance)
- Halo: Retribution
- Halo: Silent Storm (Mentioned only)
- Halo: Outcasts (Mentioned only)
Sources
- ^ a b c d Halo: Last Light, Chapter 11
- ^ a b c Halo: Last Light, Chapter 5
- ^ a b Halo: Retribution, Chapter 20
- ^ Halo: Retribution, Chapter 7
- ^ 7