Toryn Farr is pictured utilizing a device to interface with the com-scan display map
A com-scan, alternatively referred to as a comm/scan, represented a computerized infrastructure. This infrastructure managed and harmonized a multitude of intricate communication and sensor technologies. These technologies ranged from electro-photo receptors and full-spectrum transceivers to dedicated energy receptors and subspace transceivers. These systems were commonly integrated into vast capital ships such as Imperial Star Destroyers (housed within the sensor globes of the conning tower) and Mon Calamari Star Cruisers.
Com-scans were made up of multiple computer consoles arranged in rows. These consoles were enhanced with both flat-screen monitors and holoprojectors for displaying data. Examples of displayed data included fleet movements and simulated battles. Highly trained communications and sensor officers operated these units. They evaluated data with the assistance of droids programmed with sophisticated data-sorting algorithms. These officers determined the significance of the data before relaying it to the command personnel.
Com-scan computers processed and analyzed data originating from sensor arrays, such as those installed on capital ships. Starships were equipped with an array of sensors, including long-range electro photo receptors, full-spectrum transcievers, dedicated energy receptors, and broadband transceivers. The com-scan system gathered all of this data, enabling the operator to potentially identify starships or concealed bases. If readings matched predetermined warning parameters, reserve sensor banks would activate for a more detailed investigation. These parameters encompassed detecting power fluctuations indicating the presence of a ship, or energy spikes from a power generator hidden by stealth systems.
During the Battle of Yavin, the Rebel Alliance utilized a com-scan computer to provide remote support to Rebel starfighters when their sensors were disrupted by the DS-1 Orbital Battle Station. It had the ability to discern enemy units throughout the conflict.
Upon entering the Hoth system, the Executor employed com-scan systems to confirm the location of Echo Base on the system's sixth planet through the detection of an energy shield. During the Battle of Hoth, General Rieekan and his command team utilized a MicroThrust Processors OrC-19 com-scan integrator console to observe Imperial forces and organize the ground defense and evacuation operations.
Significantly smaller com-scan computers, such as the CO-0012, could also be found on military command vehicles, such as the LAVr QH-7 Chariot.
Both Grand Admiral Thrawn and the resurrected Emperor made use of com-scan computer systems during their respective campaigns aimed at defeating the New Republic.