Data Term

The Data Term™, also known as a Dataterm or DT, is a type of computer terminal.

Background
Established in the 2020s, Data Terms are curbside modules and computer terminals mounted in very durable concrete pillars, providing access to public information of any kind. They also serve as cyber-access port connections to the Net.

Heavily armored, Data Terms are placed across most United States city street corners, linked by fiber-optic landlines connected to local computer databases. They charge for their use per minute.

By 2045, the amount of Data Term presence has been reduced to 30% of U.S. city streets, but these retain their functions, despite the Net being nearly wiped out. However, some Data Terms have been vandalized to take CredChips and other alternative forms of payment in order to access. Most Data Terms are patched into the local Data Pool, which allows them to continue functioning as public access terminals and providers of Screamsheets, at the same time as phone booths, messaging services, new readers, and Pop Media access points. Data Terms are mostly operated by Ziggurat or other local Data Term services, at a rate of approximately 10 eb per minute.

By 2077 data terms function as fast travel points throughout Night City and the Badlands.