Pip-Boy

The RobCo Pip-Boy (PIP stands for Personal Information Processor) is an electronic device manufactured by RobCo Industries, using ultra-modern super-deluxe resolution graphics, which coupled with its capability to store large amounts of information and transfer data to and from holodisks and from data tubes make it the obvious choice for the wandering explorer, the out-on-his-own newbie or the all-around survivalist expert.

The Pip-Boys were standard equipment issued to all Vault-Tec Vaults. Some Vaults received newer models of the device, while others got older versions.

The character who shows in images which illustrate all of the characteristics of the SPECIAL character system (Perks, Traits, Stats etc.) is often incorrectly called Pipboy (even in Fallout Tactics). His real name is Vault Boy.

Pip-Boy 2000
It displays information in bright green on its black 5" x 3" screen. It can record sound and video footage for later playback. It uses a simple but elegant form of sonar and satellite tracking (where available, which is far from everywhere in the post-apocalyptic world) to map out areas where its user travels. Though input is slow, a user can also hand-enter and edit text messages on their Pip Boy 2000s. The original Pip Boy 2000 was a hand-held device, though some very cumbersome models were made to be worn on the arm. These models were unofficially called Pip Boy 2000 Plus. The pip boy is locked on by a biometric lock.

Pip-Boy 3000
The 3000 model has a built-in radio and Geiger Counter. The screen can be toggled to emit a light that illuminates the area around the user, allowing them to see better in the dark. The light turns off if you go from inside to outside (even at night), but stays on if you go from outside to inside. The smart Vault Dweller turns on his light before going inside! (unless sneaking)

They apparently have uses besides those used in-game, because they are mandatory pieces of equipment for every single active member of Vault 101's community. In Fallout 3, any armor worn by the Player character will have the left sleeve cut off, in order to accommodate the Pip-Boy.

Lil' Pip 3000
A miniature version of the 3000 series exists, called the Lil' Pip 3000.

Appearances
The main characters in Fallout, Fallout 2, Fallout 3 and Fallout Tactics are all equipped with PIPBoys.

Van Buren characters such as the Prisoner, Symm, other Tibbets prisoners and Dr. Presper's party (Coleridge, Briggs, Davidson and Pierce) were also planned to be equipped with PIPboys.