Colonial Pact Common Power And Digital Link (CPDL)

See Also - Technologies and Standards Employed by the Colonial Pact Trade Alliance

A common method of both power interface and for general interface for both control and data exchange, the Common Power and Digital Link or CPDL standard is a mainstay among various pieces of Pact personal technology. Typically consisting of a metallic contact point or an inlay on a grip, it allows for either the passage of power, data, or in some cases both. It is a common feature on Colonial Pact infantry weapons to allow those with either the personal electronic suites or with cybernetics to directly interface with a weapon's systems. Also on these weapons it acts as a link between mounted systems, such as optics or underslung weapons, and the main weapon. Overall it allows for a seemless interface that allows for the manipulation of a system without the need to use buttons or various means of hardware, although these are typically present regardless.

• ID-Grip - A common addition to the CPDL is a ID-link between a weapon or piece of equipment and the user, effectively neither working if the proper code isn't exchanged between the operator and the system's control interface. While this can be a hassle in some situations, in others it can prevent a system from being turned against its owner and or operator.