In the film's opening scene, Captain Picard is awakened from a disturbing nightmare by the insistent chimes of this device, as the display illuminates and tilts up to viewing angle. The urgent call from Admiral Hayes confirms what Picard suddenly realizes he already knows - that the Borg have begun their invasion of the Federation.
Custom-made, gunmetal grey hero comm station, with resin, fiberglass, acrylic and metal components; black pinstriping; and 3 gold Starfleet equipment stickers bearing classic TNG-era in-joke fine print. The display illuminates by pressing the large white button, and 'Incoming Transmission' begins slow relay-controlled flashing (as seen onscreen) shortly thereafter. Display elevation is simultaneously activated by pressing the white button, or separately by flipping a small discrete switch; the concealed motor, rack-and-pinion gear, and semi-concealed lever arm attached to the back of the display panel elevate it to 70 degrees, with automatic shutoff. The panel descends by flipping the toggle switch in the opposite direction. Powered by multiple concealed AA and 9V batteries.
From Profiles In History.
