The theory behind the replicators as we know them today comes from the Dimensional Physics family, but owes also to late-Genetic Age quantum manipulation. A replicator is a device which main function is constructing things by converting energy directly into simple forms of matter, using huge datafiles as a reference for creating a specific output - that is, a particular item or substance. While usually too expensive and inefficient to be competitive in normal circumstances, this process gave a huge boost to space exploration, as ships were no longer required to stock supplies in large quantity. Replicators also greatly enhanced life on space stations and in other places with limited access to resources.