Astromech droid

Astromech droids were non-android robots featured in the Star Wars film franchise. They were characterized by their squat, cylindrical body types, domed heads and tripod legs.

Description
Astromech droids, also referred to as Astro droids, were highly functional computerized robots that were used for support functions on single-pilot starfighters. These droids specialized in astronomical/navigation programs and were equipped to duplicate the functions of a nav computer, commonly used on larger ships. Astromech droids were often used for plotting hyperspace coordinates, interfacing with larger computer systems and effecting minor mechanical repairs as needed. Most starfighters were equipped with an exterior housing socket where an astromech droid could be installed during flight missions. Astromechs were capble of independent action and movement, but were usually restricted by whatever programming was installed into the unit. Astromechs that had been placed into service for extended periods of time were even known for developing their own personalities. Unlike the more humanoid protocol droids, astromech droids were not programmed for inter-personal communication. In place of voice programming, astromechs communicated via a series of beeps, whistles and alarms. By and large, this string of sounds was indecipherable to human life forms, but more advanced astromechs could use these sounds to express intent, alarm, discontent, surprise and to some extents, even pain.