In Star Trucker, Universal Control Circuits (UCCs) play a critical role in the smooth operation of your Star-Hauler. These circuits ensure proper communication between your ship’s systems, making them indispensable for your daily hauls across the galaxy. In this Star Trucker UCC guide, I’ll explain what UCCs are, how to use them effectively, and tips for maintaining and replacing them.
Universal Control Circuits in Star Trucker
Universal Control Circuits, or UCCs, are the backbone of your Star-Hauler’s system communication. These circuits allow different systems in your ship to interact seamlessly, ensuring everything operates smoothly.
Every UCC in Star Trucker has the same functionality—there are no upgraded or more efficient variants. Their key stats include:
- Hit Points (HP): 100
- Base Price: $150
A critical note is that UCCs don’t have individual capacity measurements, as they all share the same hit points. Their value fluctuates based on the sector you’re in, which is important when buying or selling them.
Where to Obtain UCCs
Trading & Markets
UCCs can be found at almost every trading post throughout the galaxy. Auto Essentials stores regularly stock them, and they fall under the Electronics Category. However, their price can vary dramatically, especially in sectors like the Mineral Colonies where electronic goods tend to be more expensive due to their fragility. Shock-sensitive electronics are harder to transport in these areas, driving up their cost.
Salvaging
One of the most cost-effective ways to acquire UCCs is through salvaging. Not only can you find UCCs, but salvaging can also bring in other valuable resources, such as Power Cells. However, locating salvage points can be tricky unless you’re near one or have upgraded your Scanner. This method is ideal for players looking to save money, as it reduces the need to purchase new UCCs directly from traders.
Related: How to Make Money Fast in Star Trucker?
Servicing & Replacing UCCs
Power Cells vs. UCCs
As discussed in my previous guide, “Power Cells (and YOU!)”, docking into a station redirects power to your ship, which stops the depletion of Power Cells. Unfortunately, this doesn’t apply to UCCs. UCCs remain in constant use as soon as they are slotted into your ship, and their effectiveness decreases with time and damage.
Handling UCCs Safely
When handling UCCs, it’s essential to be careful. Dropping or damaging them will reduce their lifespan and limit their ability to manage your Star-Hauler’s systems efficiently. To prevent damage, it’s best to either move them carefully using a container or gently place them on a stable surface.
Replacing a UCC with Low Hit Points
Unlike other systems, you cannot monitor how close a UCC is to failing. This requires manual inspection, making it crucial to check on your UCCs regularly to avoid unexpected system failures.
Steps for Replacing a UCC
To replace a UCC, follow these steps:
- Locate the Breaker: The breaker for the UCC is located underneath the stairway, between your bed and the storage rack.
- Turn Off the Breaker: Before replacing the UCC, always turn off the breaker. Failing to do so could short-circuit your entire truck, leading to random system shutdowns.
- Swap the UCC: Once the breaker is off, you can safely replace the damaged UCC.
Replacing a Dead UCC
Some players prefer to wait until the UCC completely dies before replacing it. This is possible, but risky. On channel 3 of your Left Monitor, you can check the status of your UCCs. Here’s how to read the signals:
- [ONLINE]: Systems are operational.
- [OFFLINE]: The breaker switch is off.
- [ERROR]: There’s an issue, such as a depleted Power Cell or a malfunctioning UCC. Often, if your Suit Charger or Gravity Compensator fails, it’s because the UCC has worn out completely.
Important Note: UCCs do not manage Shock Shielding; that’s handled by Shock Pods.
If a UCC has completely run out of hit points, you can freely disconnect it and insert a new one without turning off the breaker. This makes the process quicker and more efficient, but you must be sure the UCC is fully depleted before attempting this.
Stockpiling UCCs
Depending on your budget, it’s a good idea to keep spare UCCs in case one fails during a long haul. Most systems in your Star-Hauler require four UCCs at a time, so having extras on hand can save you from being stranded or facing a system malfunction.
You can store spare UCCs in a single hard case, which should be more than enough. If you find yourself with more UCCs than you need, feel free to sell the excess at trading posts. Their prices can vary, so selling them in sectors where electronics are in high demand may earn you a tidy profit.
Final Notes
As mentioned in my Star Trucker UCC guide on Power Cells, UCCs and Power Cells often work together to power critical systems like the Suit Charger and Gravity Compensator. Keeping both in good condition is crucial for ensuring the smooth operation of your Star-Hauler during long hauls.