Target Interlock Circuit

A Target Interlock Circuit, alternately known as Targeting Interlock Circuit or simply TIC, is a control method of linking a BattleMech or aerospace fighter's weapon systems to fire simultaneously from a single trigger pull for maximum targeting benefit.

Description

Normally when firing a BattleMech's weapon systems, a MechWarrior can manually aim and fire each weapon system individually, however if desired the sophisticated battle computers of BattleMechs are capable of interlocking the Targeting and Tracking System circuits of each weapon to fire them simultaneously. Such Targeting Interlock Circuits are largely configured for specific roles, weapon types or range brackets, allowing MechWarriors to rapidly and easily shift between the most suitable weapons in the midst of combat.

By default 'Mechs will generally feature three such TIC linkages which are usually preconfigured prior to battle, but it is possible for MechWarriors to reconfigure them on the fly if required. The underlying systems of Targeting Interlock Circuits also account for the inherent delays in reloading and recharge times of different weapon systems as well as the different positions of each weapons on the same circuit, removing them from firing if the are not yet available or not located in the direction of the target the MechWarrior is aiming at, though most MechWarriors group weaponry with similar range and recharge rate under single TICs.

Notes

• Originally introduced as part of the expanded 'Mech Duel Rules introduced as part of the Solaris VII: The Game World box set and expanded upon under under the retooled Replaying 'Mech Combat rules for MechWarrior, Third Edition's MechWarrior's Guide to Solaris VII, Targeting Interlock Circuit allowed players to fire a group of weapon as a single simple action rather than a complex action. The concept of Targeting Interlock Circuit also replicates the style of the Weapon Groups of the MechWarrior video game series with MechWarrior: Destiny effectively using both terms interchangeably.

Bibliography

• D.R.T.
• Hunters of the Deep
• MechWarrior: Destiny
• MechWarrior's Guide to Solaris VII
• Solaris VII: The Game World