Data crystal chip

Data Crystal Chips are a form of file storage device used by the UNSC. These data crystal chips are used for transferring "hard" data, meaning data that cannot be transferred over Slipspace or through a transmission because of the data's sensitive or complex nature. Examples of such data include AI data, navigation data, weapon technological charts, ect.

Uses
The Data Crystal Chip can be utilized for many things. Here are a few of its uses:


 * Carrying the Riemann Matrix for an Artificial Intelligence Construct, like Cortana or Deja.
 * Carrying star charts, maps, and other navigation data. These chips must be destroyed if contact is ever made with the Covenant, as per the Cole Protocol. This did not happen aboard the Circumference during The Battle of Reach and Blue Team were sent to destroy its Data Crystal Chip.
 * Carrying sensitive data, such as intelligence. Dr. Catherine Halsey had compiled two of these with all known information on the Flood.

Upgades in technology seem to have made the chip obsolete, as the MJOLNIR armor Mark VI simply required contact with a compatible system, as seen many times in Halo 2.

Trivia

 * A Crystal Chip is seen on some of the Cafrtiria tables on the Pillar of Autumn