The encapsulated computer is an extremely compact and fast computer processing and memory core developed by the Engineering Arm of Solas Tempus.
Operation
This kind of core can operate at multiple orders of magnitude greater speeds than traditional computer cores. The core itself contains its own memory, processing, and power source leaving it entirely separated from the outside world other than its input / output interfaces.
Limitations
While this kind of core is exceptionally fast they cannot be chained together without an exponentially increased error rate between cores. Many attempts to chain cores together in series or parallel configurations have resulted in the same failures. It is unknown at this time why this happens. Some theories suggest that because of the nature of how an encapsulated core functions some kind of quantum level causality problems are occurring.
A core must be able to load an entire chunk of data into its internal memory through its I/O interface with the outside world before it can process it properly the transition from the outside world into the altered quantum state inside the core can take more time than other forms of data transfer depending on a variety of complex variables interacting at the subspace barrier encapsulating the core.
Currently the field can only be maintained for small sizes in normal space, devices are usually somewhere around 5 cm wide x 3 mm thick and cylindrical.
Construction
The cores primary electronics, memory, power source, and other components are first built in normal spacetime and then assembled. A complex process encases the core inside a bubble of spacetime that is then pushed closer to the barrier of quantum disruption. Inside the field the core's power system begins to then draw energy from the Zero Point state that drops as the field compresses its contents to a smaller state relative to the outside. Once enough Zero Point Energy is reached, the field becomes self-sustaining within the core.
Input / Output System
Once the core has achieved equilibrium with its surroundings inside and outside the field a specialized interface is attached and an encasement put around the core. The specialized interface allows data transmissions across something similar to a transporter subspace domain to allow for communication inside the core.
Oddities
Other than the limitations discussed previously, an encapsulated core has some other bizarre properties.
Power Transmission
One would generally think that drawing energy from the Zero Point State within the bubble could be used to produce energy outside the bubble. It cannot, attempts to do so have resulted in the core itself collapsing and (usually) exploding.
Repairs
The core cannot be repaired by conventional means. It is equipped with Nanites which can perform various repairs to some degree. However, matter cannot transition out of the altered quantum state inside the core making it impossible to reverse the process, repair the device, and then put it back into operation again. If the field collapses for any reason, the device explodes violently.