Star Trek Tech: What Exactly Is A Tricorder?

I just love scanning for lifeforms. Life forms. You precious little life forms. Where are you!? - Data “Star Trek: Generations”

Where would Starfleet crews be without employing their trusty tech? And, of all tech toys, the tricorder is the most versatile and arguably the most powerful. This is the go to gadget for Starfleet explorers everywhere.

The classic device utilized by the original Starship Enterprise crew was designed by artist Wah Ming Chang. In later Trek shows, production staffer Rick Sternbach took the original and modified it for Star Trek: The Next Generation, Deep Space Nine and Voyager. C’mon. Let’s talk portable Starfleet sensor technology.

Classic Tricorder Design

Next Generation Tricorder Design