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A shield generator (also known as a field generator) is a piece of equipment which generates some type of electromagnetic barrier or force field called a shield, designed to deflect kinetic or electromagnetic energy.

During the Second Battle of Deep Space 9, the Dominion destroyed Deep Space 9's shield generator. (DS9: "Call to Arms")

The shield generators on the USS Defiant (NCC-75633) were configured differently from those on its predecessor, in order to improve protection against the Breen energy dissipator. (DS9: "The Dogs of War")

The crew of the USS Equinox stole the field generator of the USS Voyager in an attempt to continue with their unique approach of getting back to the Alpha Quadrant. (VOY: "Equinox, Part II")

Although Voyager no longer had their field generator, the vessel still had the capability to raise their shields, thus implying that Voyager had multiple generators, or there is a difference between a field generator and a shield generator.

Shields can be modified to emmit different modulations to be more effective against the enemys weapons (i.e., adaptive shielding).

Types

Background

The phrase "Shields Up," which saw widespread use in Star Trek, probably had its origin in classical warfare, when infantry would raise their shields to defend against incoming arrows or other projectiles. The order would be given when it was time for the soldier to raise his shield from the carry position.

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