Pip-Boy

The RobCo Pip-Boy is a personal information processor manufactured by RobCo Industries.

Background
Pip-Boys were standard equipment issued to all Vault-Tec Corporation Vaults. To register for such a device, residents would take part in an orientation seminar given by the Vault's Overseer to explain the functions and daily life enhancements provided by the Pip-Boy, along with filling out personal information in the Personal Information Processor Responsibility Form regarding such things as hand dominance, personal preferences, arm circumference, and vault jumpsuit measurements. Some Vaults received newer models of the device, while others were issued older versions. In addition, certain Pip-Boy models could support additions and equipment that other models could not.

The Vault Dweller's Survival Guide refers to "Pip" as an acronym (Personal Information Processor), though in-game models of the device use "Pip-Boy," not "PIP-Boy," as its capitalization.

Usage of Pip-Boy was not exclusive to Vault-Tec however. Members of the Free States were known to use them too, and the RobCo Auto-Caches were meant to require such devices too.

Characteristics
Using ultra-modern, super-deluxe resolution graphics in conjunction with its capability to store and transfer large amounts of information makes it the obvious choice for the wandering explorer, whether it be the out-on-his-own newbie or the all-around survivalist expert. Versions released outside of Vault circulation were an incredibly handy tool, so useful they even earned a reputation among specific circles as a crutch to lean on that no true expert in travel or survival would ever use. The Pip-Boy is powered by an internal Fission battery, and is also hardy enough to withstand any situation.

Pip-Boy 1.0


The Pip-Boy 1.0 featured a small display screen, a 16-button keyboard, a toggle switch, multiple indicator lights, and a dial with at least three settings. The components that made up the device were attached to a rudimentary metallic frame that surrounded a forearm-length cuff. Protruding cords and the overall bulkiness of the device may have precluded the addition of a protective outer casing as is found on newer Pip-Boy models. An archived photo of technical engineers working on the Pip-Boy 1.0 in the RobCo development laboratory sheds light on the prototype stages. 

Pip-Boy 2000


The Pip-Boy 2000 displays information on a black, 5" x 3", monochrome screen. It can record sound and video footage for later playback. Using a simple but elegant form of sonar and satellite tracking (where available), this model can 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 Pip-Boy 2000 was worn on the user's wrist. These models were, among others, owned by the Vault Dweller and Chosen One. A modified model stamped with B.E. was used by the Warrior.

Pip-Boy 2000 Mark VI


The Pip-Boy 2000 Mark VI represents a step forward in the development of more ergonomic versions of RobCo's flagship personal computing product. Each Vault Dweller leaving Vault 76 was issued a Mark VI to assist in their goal of rebuilding Appalachia 25 years after the Great War.

It is capable of tracking the wearer's status and any active or completed quests and also organizes the wearer's inventory. An overlay of the data is also available. In addition, the device features a radio upgrade module, Geiger counter, an advanced compass that displays discovered locations and nearby persons and creatures, and lighting functionality. A holotape player is mounted beneath the display.

Pip-Boy 3000


The 3000 model, like the 2000 model, displays its information on a black, monochrome screen. Like the 2000 model, it is capable of keeping tabs on the user's health condition, mapping out areas, and taking and storing notes. Unlike its predecessor though, it also comes with added features, such as a built-in radio, Geiger counter and Pip-Boy light, used to illuminate dark areas. There are several models of Pip-Boy 3000 that are designated by letter, i.e. Pip-Boy 3000A. which keep a similar appearance but contain different hardware. The major difference from the 2000 model is its need to be worn as a gauntlet, which seals with a biometric lock the 3000A is locked with bolts and can be removed wholesale, replaced, or temporarily displaced to allow for clothing to pass under it. In Fallout: New Vegas, the Courier is provided a Pip-Boy 3000 by Doc Mitchell, a former vault dweller.

Pimp-Boy 3 Billion


A hand-crafted modification of the standard Pip-Boy 3000A, the extravagant Pimp-Boy 3 Billion is solid gold and encrusted with diamonds. It can be obtained from Mick at Mick & Ralph's in Freeside as a reward for persuading the Omertas to return to Mick for their weapon needs. Mick will switch the user's Pip-Boy between the 3000A and the 3 Billion upon request. The Wild Wasteland trait causes disco music to play each time it is equipped.

Pip-Boy 3000 Mark IV


The Pip-Boy 3000 Mark IV is the fourth iteration of the Pip-Boy 3000 line and includes a number of design enhancements. The control dials were moved from the left side of the device to the right to improve accessibility and the biometric lock and glove were replaced by a simple latch, allowing for quick and easy removal. The Mark IV also utilized a revamped display interface with animated images and was capable of playing the latest video games, such as Atomic Command and Red Menace. The Mark IV, unlike their predecessors, are able to manually unlock the main vault door entrances.

The Pip-Boy 3000 Mark IV was distributed to vaults near Boston, including Vault 75, Vault 81, Vault 95, Vault 111 and Vault 114. Vault-Tec staff did not grant Pip-Boys to the residents of Vault 111 due to their placement in cryogenic stasis; the Sole Survivor of the vault was able to claim a Pip-Boy from the corpse of a long-dead Vault-Tec scientist.

Lil' Pip 3000


The 'Lil' Pip 3000 provides all of the functionality of the Pip-Boy 2000 Plus, but boasts a greatly reduced size made possible by the use of integrated circuits. Despite its advantages, the Lil' Pip remained less popular than its more durable predecessor.

Super Pip-Boy
The Super Pip-Boy is a unique Pip-Boy model worn by Victor Presper. It has a built-in health monitor, motion sensor, and program creation and editing tool.

Appearances
Pip-Boys appear in Fallout, Fallout 2, Fallout 3, Fallout Tactics, Fallout: New Vegas, Fallout 4, and Fallout 76.

Behind the scenes

 * The Pip-Boy is included as a promotional item for the Engineer in Team Fortress 2. A Pip-Boy appears in Valve Software's multiplayer FPS Team Fortress 2 as a promotional miscellaneous cosmetic item for the Engineer class. When equipped, it will change the Engineer's construction PDA display to a green-and-black display, and adds an image of the Engineer in the style of the Vault Boy art.
 * 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 Pip-Boys.