A conversation between the Moon and Earth is almost in real time. A call sent from the Inner Belt to Mars, however, would take 5 or 6 minutes to reach its destination. Any reply from Mars would take the same time to get back. Computers Data-processing machines have evolved the most of all electronic technologies. Once simple calculators, they are now capable of limited intelligence and problem solving.
Modern computers can often sound very human on the comm system.
The Edicts have placed limits on artificial intelligence developments, so there are no known self-aware computers in existence. Relying extensively on superconductive neural nets and complex expert system programs, they are used as virtual crewmembers on spaceships and as copilots in fighters and exo-armors. Each modern fighting vehicle carries a host of defensive electronic modules. Some break up their radar signature, while others interfere with the opponent's targeting equipment. These modules are built-in, and no combat vehicle would be designed without them.