Cranial implant

Generally, a Cranial Implant is any bionic implant installed in a subject's cranium. More specifically, it refers to a type of Hemmoian-made computer implants that interlink with the user's brain and connect it to an artificial hivemind, the Collective Network.

Collective interlink implants

There are many different kinds of Cranial Implants for the purpose of connecting into the galaxy-spanning Collective Network. They typically consist of an onboard CPU, an array of various communications equipment necessary for maintaining the connection, as well as a neural interface that allows a direct connection to be formed between the CPU and an individual's brain.

For an example, the state-of-the-art Ambassadorial 339 contains a radio transceiver, a communications laser, a serial cable port, and a high-powered subspace transceiver, while the rudimentary DD-GOV-81A Jack only has a basic communications interface.

Other cranial implants

Other, non-Collective related cranial implants serve a specific augmentation purpose, such as making the subject's brain faster. Examples include the Cognitive Overcycler and the Head Implant.

Not all Cranial Implants are Hemmoian in origin, for an example the Antimaniacs have developed their own Brain Implant.