Intergalactic Trading

The Cobra Mk III, designed primarily as a trading ship, combines combat efficiency and maneuverability with substantial cargo space (20 Tonne Canisters) and with scoop attachments for space debris, jettisoned cargo and space rock.

Most space stations have made the process of trading very simple, in order to facilitate a fast turnover in goods and ships. Import and export tariffs - which are high on some worlds - are automatically added or deducted and this is reflected in the prices shown. The auto-trader system, employed by the Cobra, does not allow for more specific trading deals to be performed. A selection of the more valuable alien items that are tradable is given in this manual, but the trader must deal with them in person. Once docked you are linked directly with the CorCom Trade System. At your request you can obtain a list of basic trade items available for purchase.

Slaves are measured by the tonne in galactic trading. They may seem a little strange, but it includes the cryogenic suspension system necessary to keep them alive during space travel. The slave trade, once almost eliminated by the Galactic Government is now returning, despite the efforts of the Galactic Police Force to suppress it.

Shown on this list are the quantities of each item available, and the current market price per unit. Most CorCom Trade Systems deal exclusively under blanket categories, including FOOD, MACHINERY, MINERALS and GEMSTONES.

The prices shown at the time of trading represent an offer to you and will be guaranteed while you are in Trading Mode.

The purchasing of items is almost instantaneous. You will be offered each in turn. If you do not wish to buy, merely indicate your decision by pressing RETURN.

f7 activates a list of basic trade items at current market prices. f9 offers an inventory of cargo, fuel and cash. f1 puts you in purchase mode. Press RETURN if you do not wish to purchase a particular item. f2 puts you in selling mode.

If you wish to buy, numerically indicate the amount you wish to purchase; autoSCAM modules will immediately load your purchase into the cargo bay. Your screen will indicate your remaining credit facility.

When all items for sale have been offered to you your cargo hold status will appear to confirm your purchase.

The Cobra trade ship must dock with a Coriolis space station before buying or selling cargo. It has no Free Space trade facility, apart from routine jettisoning of canisters.

Once docked, the selling process is automated, although there is no requirement to sell.

How To Trade

Buying Mode For Goods
f7 list of goods available on target planet. f9 inventory of your cargo. f7 to see again what is available. f1 you are now being asked (at the bottom of the screen) how much food you want to buy. Choose a number equal to the tonnage of food you wish to purchase, and press RETURN. You will then be asked, in turn, how much you want to buy of each item on the list of goods available. Press RETURN when you do not wish to purchase. You can buy only 20 tonnes in total, and no more of a commodity then there is available. Once you have gone through all the items, the trading computer will print up your inventory.

Selling Mode
f2 enters selling mode. This comprises a series of Y/N questions, the answers to which will concern the possible sale of all cargo including that just brought.