MediaWiki - User contributions [en]

Transformation

2008-04-01T23:53:29Z

72.80.38.224:

{{picsneeded|Exactly WHAT I dunno... but it needs some!}}

[[Image:OpTransformsSu.jpg|right|thumb|400px|You put your right leg out...]]

'''Transformation''' (or '''Transform''' if you failed English class) is the process by which a [[Transformer]] alters his form between modes. It should not be confused with [[reformatting]], a type of full-body upgrade.

The technical details of transformation, as well as the manner in which the art was introduced to the Transformers themselves, vary between [[continuities]]. When the issue is addressed at all, transformation is usually treated as an innovation from some point early in Cybertronian history rather than something that was literally always with them. The Transformers were, at the time of their genesis, simply Cybertronians -- mechanical life-forms -- and became "Transformers" only later. However, just as often in ''Transformers'' fiction the "origin" of transforming is simply not discussed.

In most continuities, transformation is not a trait limited to Cybertronians. Both sentient alien races (such as [[junkion|Junkions]] and some portrayals of the [[Lithone|Lithonians]]) and animals (such as the [[lipole]]s on Jupiter's moon [[Io]]) exhibit the same ability. The [[Quintesson]]s also incorporated transformation into some of their later creations including the [[Sharkticon]]s, [[Allicon]]s, and [[Overcharge]] drones. Some examples of transforming robotic aliens, however, can be traced to colonization in the distant past by Cybertronians. The G1 planet [[Paradron]], as well as the main planets in the [[Cybertron (franchise)|''Cybertron'' franchise]] are examples of this.

== Special transformation types ==

===High-speed transformation===
Some Transformers, specifically the Autobot [[Jumpstarter]]s and the Decepticon [[Battlecharger]]s, are specifically designed to transform much faster than ordinary Transformers, usually taking less than half of an Earth second to switch from robot to alt-mode or vice versa. How much this ability depends on physical versus mental capabilities is unknown. In the [[Dreamwave]] G1 continuity, [[Triple Changer]]s were also stated to have unusually fast transformations (roughly twice the normal speed, whatever that is).

===Multiple alternate modes===
Robots with multiple transformations (Triple Changers, et al.) are a special case. Though there seems to be some aspect of natural aptitude at play in one's ability to master multiple forms (for example [[Dreamwave]] comics referred to a "genetic potential" within the [[spark]]s of such robots), and of course the special physical construction granting those forms, the balance of the matter seems to be one of training. Most Six Changers are said to have mastered their plethora of transformations through rigorous study. The largest number of modes exhibited by any single individual to date is [[Megatron (RID)|RID Galvatron]], who had ten.

===Adaptable bodies===
Some groups of Transformers such as the [[Go-Bots (toyline)|Go-Bots]] use a process similar to reformatting to more radically alter their forms while transforming. This ability to start with one robot and alternate form and transform easily to entirely different variations without extensive mechanical work comes from [[Gobrillium|unique metals]] in the Go-Bots' bodies, and does not apply to most Transformers.

In the [[Movie (franchise)|Movie]] continuity family, Bumblebee seems to demonstrate this ability in the prequel novel [[Transformers: Ghosts of Yesterday]]. He descends to the desert planet in his cometary [[Transition form]] and transforms to robot mode. Upon realizing he needs to travel quickly, Bumblebee transforms into a very basic four-wheeled all-terrain vehicle. The narration explains that he created this altmode from an internal memory database of vehicle forms. The entire process seems to take practically no time at all, as if he were just transforming into his alt-mode as all Transformers do. The narration does not imply that this ability is only possessed by Bumblebee, and indeed the movie suggests that all Transformers in this continuity can switch altmodes almost at will.

===Transformation cogs===
[[Image:Transformation_cog.jpg|left|thumb|200px|MacGuffin du jour.]]
In the G1 animated series, the city Transformers [[Metroplex (G1)|Metroplex]] and [[Trypticon]] are both specifically stated to possess devices known as [[transformation cog]]s that somehow control their transformation processes, and are essential to allow them to transform at all. Such cogs are rarely mentioned elsewhere in the fiction -- even in other continuities -- so it is not clear if all Transformers require them, or Metroplex and Trypticon are special cases, perhaps because of their size. However, one other example is that [[Nitrostreak]] ("Unit One" of the [[Maximal Command Security Force]]) had his cog damaged in a firefight with [[Megatron (BW)|Megatron]]'s henchmen. {{storylink|Dawn of Future's Past}} Since this story takes place in an unknown ''Beast Wars'' setting, and the ''Beast Wars'' cartoon itself takes place in an amalgamated G1 universe, the larger significance of this event is up for debate.
{{-}}

==Fiction==
[[Image:OP transforms.gif|right|thumb|300px|Optimus Prime: Lord of the Dance.]]
===Generation One===
====Marvel comics====
''(Marvel UK comic additions in italics)''. [[Unicron]] was the first Transformer, fashioning his metal prison into a robotic semblance of his original form. [[Primus]], watching from a distance, was all like, "Oh ''snap'', robots that turn into things? Why didn't I think of that?" and quickly trained his own children to do the same thing.

Some accounts credit the development of transformation to Megatron and the Decepticons, with the Autobots later copying the technique. This, perhaps, implies that the potential for transformation instilled by Primus was dormant until Megatron realised it, or that it was forgotten and rediscovered at some point.

''It would appear that neglecting to transform between altmode and robot mode at least on occasion had physical feedback consequences: whilst battling [[Flame (UK comic)|Flame]], [[Emirate Xaaron]] was well aware that, having failed to transform for hundreds of years, the shock to his system upon transforming to combat mode had a good chance of killing him. Which just goes to show that Continuing Physical Exercise Is Important For Everyday Health.''

''Just as importantly, neglecting to have all one's body parts connected at the time of attempting transformation was also a very painful, if not impossible, process.''

====Animated series====
[[Image:Bumblebee_transforming.gif|thumb|left|250px|Just lying down is a transformation]]
Transformation was an [[Autobot]] innovation, developed during their first war with the [[Decepticon]]s when it became apparent that they could not match their firepower and strength. The art of transformation allowed the Autobots to disguise their forms, thereby allowing for stealthy attacks on their enemies. This strategy met with great success, and the Decepticons were defeated, allowing the era of peacetime known as the Golden Age of Cybertron to settle in. The Decepticons subsequently adopted transformation technology themselves, coupled with robot-mode flight powers, and re-ignited the civil war. (See "[[War Dawn]]".)

Transformers generally seem able to shift modes at will, although in cases where they have suffered severe physical injuries, transformation is sometimes a strain. In one case, and one case only, a Transformer indicated that staying in his altmode was too energy consumptive, and had to revert to his robot mode: [[Warpath]], when trapped in midieval England and low on fuel. {{storylink|A Decepticon Raider in King Arthur's Court|Decepticon Raider...}} This problem seems to almost never come up, even in cases where Transformers are very low on energy, so its significance is unknown. Perhaps walking is simply more energy efficient than moving his tank treads.

====Japanese animated series====

[[Image:Headmasters_tf_stuck.jpg|thumb|right|Ow.]]

With the introduction of the [[Headmaster]]s, transformation was established to be quite a rigorous task that, at least initially, required intense physical and mental concentration to accomplish, honed over a period of in-depth training. These small robots left Cybertron during the wars millions of years ago, but were so young that they had not actually learned how to transform yet. To survive the harsh climate of the [[Master (Headmasters)|planet]] they crash-landed on, they developed [[Transtector]]s - normal-sized Transformer bodies that they would be able to connect to - and underwent a period of prolonged, intensive training so that they could learn to transform and link up with them. Even the most promising candidates struggled when they first connected with their Transtectors, spasming and becoming stuck between modes as they attempted to trigger the conversion. {{storylink|The Four-Million-Year-Old Veil of Mystery}}

{{-}}

===''Beast Wars'' and ''Beast Machines''===
''Beast Wars''-era Transformers have their transformation sequences controlled by the same onboard computers which manage a variety of other body functions, such as [[stasis lock]]. Transformation is triggered by a command to this computer, usually done by voice, but sometimes with a thought. These computers may have been a part of the [[Great Upgrade]], and once activated they choreograph the shifting body parts, allowing the Transformer to continue to concentrate on other matters. This is in-line with the Japanese portrayal of transformation, in that it suggests transformation is a mentally rigorous task (at least in the sense that it requires a few seconds of concentration), which is now conveniently removed from the equation.

Post-reformatting, the new [[technorganic]] forms granted to Cybertron's inhabitants lacked on-board computers, requiring them to re-learn the mental disciplines involved. It may be that a technorganic transformation is more difficult even than a traditional transformation, as the reformatted Maximals often reverted to their beast modes upon losing their concentration or emotional "center". This notion that the transformed state requires constant effort may be related to Warpath's statement about his tank mode consuming more energy (mentioned above).

Due to their technorganic nature, the Maximals of Beast Machines do not transform via any recognized mechanical process. Rather, in many cases their limbs actually change shape via an unknown means, presumably part and parcel of their new condition. One of the most prominent examples of this is [[Savage/Noble|Noble]], who transforms between two extremely dissimilar and wholly organic forms.

===Movie continuity===
[[Image:Movie_OptimusPrime_highwaytransform1.jpg|right|thumb|150px|Cool to see, but it's a nightmare with regards to [[show accuracy|toy accuracy]].]]
Transformation requires an alternate mode which is [[Frenzy_%28Movie%29|generally]] of similar mass to the Transformer's robot mode. Once taking the form, however, the Transformer appears to be able to reorder his physical structure, causing some to the outward appearances of the vehicle mode to disappear. For example, Optimus Prime displays an incredibly complex Transformation where some of his alternate mode's appearances seem to be absorbed into his body or outright disappear. This may be due to Transformers being composed of highly dense collections of Nanomachines. Or it might not.
{{-}}

==The Noise==

===Technical Description===
Transformation is often accompanied by a [[Media:Tf_sound.ogg|distinct noise]]--an 8hz pulse, repeated five times, with each pulse lasting a roughly equal amount of time, whose pitch can be represented by the absolute value of a declining (for alt-mode to robot mode) or increasing (for robot mode to alt-mode) sine wave. As a rule of thumb, the larger the robot, the deeper the pitch of the sound, and the longer the duration of the pulses. There is no general consensus as to what onomatopoeia should be used to represent this sound.

===Continuity Locations===
Within the early years of the [[Generation 1 (cartoon)|G1 Cartoon]], almost all transformations were accompanied by the Noise in some manner, generally lasting the duration of the transformation sequence and being the only noise made by transformations. ''[[Masterforce]]'' still used the sound for the [[Pretender]]s' transformations in robot mode, but the [[Headmaster Junior]]s and [[Godmaster]]s had new sounds. By the era of the [[Beast Wars (cartoon)|Beast Wars]], however, most characters made more complicated mechanical-sounding noises when transforming. In spite of this, the rebuilt [[Ravage#Beast Wars 2|Ravage]] still made only the Noise when transforming.

The Noise was shown to similarly occur during television commercials throughout late [[Generation 1 (toyline)|G1]] and all the way through [[Generation 2 (toyline)|G2]]. It appeared in the first commercials for the [[Beast Wars (toyline)|Beast Wars]] toyline, featuring a CG clip of [[Optimus Primal#Beast Wars 2|Optimus Primal (bat) vs Megatron (alligator) two-pack]], but was dropped once the commercials started using footage from the [[Beast Wars (cartoon)|Beast Wars cartoon]].

The Noise did not appear again until ''[[Robots in Disguise (cartoon)|Robots in Disguise]]'', where the Noise was heard uniformly among all Transformers at the very beginning of transformation sequences, rather than lasting the duration of the transformation like in the past.

Two new versions of the Noise were heard in ''[[Armada (cartoon)|Armada]]'', and then the second version of the ''Armada'' Noise was used in''[[Energon (cartoon)|Energon]]'' (though not in ''[[Cybertron (cartoon)|Cybertron]]''). As with RiD, the timing of the Noise did not seem to correspond to the transformation sequence, instead playing at a random point during the sequence.

In the [[Transformers (2007)|2007 movie]], the original Noise could be heard accompanying a portion of both [[Blackout (Movie)|Blackout]]'s first transformation, and the conversion of the [[Nokia robot]], though in both instances, a foreground object blocked the view of the robot at that instant, leaving it unclear if the Noise corresponded with any specific moving parts. The Noise could be heard during Bumblebee's off-screen transformation as he saves the kids while escaping Sector Seven, and a new, mixed and appropriately slowed version of the Noise also accompanied [[Ironhide (Movie)|Ironhide]]'s later slow-motion transformation.

The Noise appears accompanies most or all transformation sequences in ''[[Transformers Animated (cartoon)|Transformers Animated]]'', even minor ones including battle masks, [[Bumblebee (Animated)|Bumblebee]]'s "stinger" pop-out weapons, Blitzwing's changing of faces, Ratchet's magnets, and [[Sari Sumdac|Sari's]] shape-shifting Key. In the case of smaller, specific parts, the Noise is sometimes played sped-up or higher pitched.

===Function===
At this time, neither the cause of the Noise nor its relationship to a Transformer's ability to transform is known. It may just be a side effect to the transformation process, akin to scraping fingernails on a chalkboard.

=="Transform" as a verb==
For reasons relating to intellectual property law, and the need to preserve "Transformers" as a [[trademark]], [[HasTak]] does not use "transform" as a verb to describe this ability of Transformers in printed materials describing products. Instead synonyms such as "convert" and "morph" are used. This does not extend to in-fiction dialog, however.

==See Also==
*[[Transformation (toys)]]
*[[Transformation (role in fiction)]]

[[Category:Technology]]
[[Category:Transformer culture]]
[[Category:Biology]]<div id="wikia-credits"><br /><br /><small>From [http://transformers.wikia.com Teletraan I: The Transformers Wiki], a [http://www.wikia.com Wikia] wiki.</small></div>

Transformation

2008-04-01T23:52:23Z

72.80.38.224:

{{picsneeded|Exactly WHAT I dunno... but it needs some!}}

[[Image:OpTransformsSu.jpg|right|thumb|400px|You put your right leg out...]]

'''Transformation''' (or '''Transform''' if you failed English class) is the process by which a [[Transformer]] alters his form between modes. It should not be confused with [[reformatting]], a type of full-body upgrade.

The technical details of transformation, as well as the manner in which the art was introduced to the Transformers themselves, vary between [[continuities]]. When the issue is addressed at all, transformation is usually treated as an innovation from some point early in Cybertronian history rather than something that was literally always with them. The Transformers were, at the time of their genesis, simply Cybertronians -- mechanical life-forms -- and became "Transformers" only later. However, just as often in ''Transformers'' fiction the "origin" of transforming is simply not discussed.

In most continuities, transformation is not a trait limited to Cybertronians. Both sentient alien races (such as [[junkion|Junkions]] and some portrayals of the [[Lithone|Lithonians]]) and animals (such as the [[lipole]]s on Jupiter's moon [[Io]]) exhibit the same ability. The [[Quintesson]]s also incorporated transformation into some of their later creations including the [[Sharkticon]]s, [[Allicon]]s, and [[Overcharge]] drones. Some examples of transforming robotic aliens, however, can be traced to colonization in the distant past by Cybertronians. The G1 planet [[Paradron]], as well as the main planets in the [[Cybertron (franchise)|''Cybertron'' franchise]] are examples of this.

== Special transformation types ==

===High-speed transformation===
Some Transformers, specifically the Autobot [[Jumpstarter]]s and the Decepticon [[Battlecharger]]s, are specifically designed to transform much faster than ordinary Transformers, usually taking less than half of an Earth second to switch from robot to alt-mode or vice versa. How much this ability depends on physical versus mental capabilities is unknown. In the [[Dreamwave]] G1 continuity, [[Triple Changer]]s were also stated to have unusually fast transformations (roughly twice the normal speed, whatever that is).

===Multiple alternate modes===
Robots with multiple transformations (Triple Changers, et al.) are a special case. Though there seems to be some aspect of natural aptitude at play in one's ability to master multiple forms (for example [[Dreamwave]] comics referred to a "genetic potential" within the [[spark]]s of such robots), and of course the special physical construction granting those forms, the balance of the matter seems to be one of training. Most Six Changers are said to have mastered their plethora of transformations through rigorous study. The largest number of modes exhibited by any single individual to date is [[Megatron (RID)|RID Galvatron]], who had ten.

===Adaptable bodies===
Some groups of Transformers such as the [[Go-Bots (toyline)|Go-Bots]] use a process similar to reformatting to more radically alter their forms while transforming. This ability to start with one robot and alternate form and transform easily to entirely different variations without extensive mechanical work comes from [[Gobrillium|unique metals]] in the Go-Bots' bodies, and does not apply to most Transformers.

In the [[Movie (franchise)|Movie]] continuity family, Bumblebee seems to demonstrate this ability in the prequel novel [[Transformers: Ghosts of Yesterday]]. He descends to the desert planet in his cometary [[Transition form]] and transforms to robot mode. Upon realizing he needs to travel quickly, Bumblebee transforms into a very basic four-wheeled all-terrain vehicle. The narration explains that he created this altmode from an internal memory database of vehicle forms. The entire process seems to take practically no time at all, as if he were just transforming into his alt-mode as all Transformers do. The narration does not imply that this ability is only possessed by Bumblebee, and indeed the movie suggests that all Transformers in this continuity can switch altmodes almost at will.

===Transformation cogs===
[[Image:Transformation_cog.jpg|left|thumb|200px|MacGuffin du jour.]]
In the G1 animated series, the city Transformers [[Metroplex (G1)|Metroplex]] and [[Trypticon]] are both specifically stated to possess devices known as [[transformation cog]]s that somehow control their transformation processes, and are essential to allow them to transform at all. Such cogs are rarely mentioned elsewhere in the fiction -- even in other continuities -- so it is not clear if all Transformers require them, or Metroplex and Trypticon are special cases, perhaps because of their size. However, one other example is that [[Nitrostreak]] ("Unit One" of the [[Maximal Command Security Force]]) had his cog damaged in a firefight with [[Megatron (BW)|Megatron]]'s henchmen. {{storylink|Dawn of Future's Past}} Since this story takes place in an unknown ''Beast Wars'' setting, and the ''Beast Wars'' cartoon itself takes place in an amalgamated G1 universe, the larger significance of this event is up for debate.
{{-}}

==Fiction==
[[Image:OP transforms.gif|right|thumb|300px|Optimus Prime: Lord of the Dance.]]
===Generation One===
====Marvel comics====
''(Marvel UK comic additions in italics)''. [[Unicron]] was the first Transformer, fashioning his metal prison into a robotic semblance of his original form. [[Primus]], watching from a distance, was all like, "Oh ''snap'', robots that turn into things? Why didn't I think of that?" and quickly trained his own children to do the same thing.

Some accounts credit the development of transformation to Megatron and the Decepticons, with the Autobots later copying the technique. This, perhaps, implies that the potential for transformation instilled by Primus was dormant until Megatron realised it, or that it was forgotten and rediscovered at some point.

''It would appear that neglecting to transform between altmode and robot mode at least on occasion had physical feedback consequences: whilst battling [[Flame (UK comic)|Flame]], [[Emirate Xaaron]] was well aware that, having failed to transform for hundreds of years, the shock to his system upon transforming to combat mode had a good chance of killing him. Which just goes to show that Continuing Physical Exercise Is Important For Everyday Health.''

''Just as importantly, neglecting to have all one's body parts connected at the time of attempting transformation was also a very painful, if not impossible, process.''

====Animated series====
[[Image:Bumblebee_transforming.gif|thumb|left|250px|Just lying down is a transformation]]
Transformation was an [[Autobot]] innovation, developed during their first war with the [[Decepticon]]s when it became apparent that they could not match their firepower and strength. The art of transformation allowed the Autobots to disguise their forms, thereby allowing for stealthy attacks on their enemies. This strategy met with great success, and the Decepticons were defeated, allowing the era of peacetime known as the Golden Age of Cybertron to settle in. The Decepticons subsequently adopted transformation technology themselves, coupled with robot-mode flight powers, and re-ignited the civil war. (See "[[War Dawn]]".)

Transformers generally seem able to shift modes at will, although in cases where they have suffered severe physical injuries, transformation is sometimes a strain. In one case, and one case only, a Transformer indicated that staying in his altmode was too energy consumptive, and had to revert to his robot mode: [[Warpath]], when trapped in midieval England and low on fuel. {{storylink|A Decepticon Raider in King Arthur's Court|Decepticon Raider...}} This problem seems to almost never come up, even in cases where Transformers are very low on energy, so its significance is unknown. Perhaps walking is simply more energy efficient than moving his tank treads.

====Japanese animated series====

[[Image:Headmasters_tf_stuck.jpg|thumb|right|Ow.]]

With the introduction of the [[Headmaster]]s, transformation was established to be quite a rigorous task that, at least initially, required intense physical and mental concentration to accomplish, honed over a period of in-depth training. These small robots left Cybertron during the wars millions of years ago, but were so young that they had not actually learned how to transform yet. To survive the harsh climate of the [[Master (Headmasters)|planet]] they crash-landed on, they developed [[Transtector]]s - normal-sized Transformer bodies that they would be able to connect to - and underwent a period of prolonged, intensive training so that they could learn to transform and link up with them. Even the most promising candidates struggled when they first connected with their Transtectors, spasming and becoming stuck between modes as they attempted to trigger the conversion. {{storylink|The Four-Million-Year-Old Veil of Mystery}}

{{-}}

===''Beast Wars'' and ''Beast Machines''===
''Beast Wars''-era Transformers have their transformation sequences controlled by the same onboard computers which manage a variety of other body functions, such as [[stasis lock]]. Transformation is triggered by a command to this computer, usually done by voice, but sometimes with a thought. These computers may have been a part of the [[Great Upgrade]], and once activated they choreograph the shifting body parts, allowing the Transformer to continue to concentrate on other matters. This is in-line with the Japanese portrayal of transformation, in that it suggests transformation is a mentally rigorous task (at least in the sense that it requires a few seconds of concentration), which is now conveniently removed from the equation.

Post-reformatting, the new [[technorganic]] forms granted to Cybertron's inhabitants lacked on-board computers, requiring them to re-learn the mental disciplines involved. It may be that a technorganic transformation is more difficult even than a traditional transformation, as the reformatted Maximals often reverted to their beast modes upon losing their concentration or emotional "center". This notion that the transformed state requires constant effort may be related to Warpath's statement about his tank mode consuming more energy (mentioned above).

Due to their technorganic nature, the Maximals of Beast Machines do not transform via any recognized mechanical process. Rather, in many cases their limbs actually change shape via an unknown means, presumably part and parcel of their new condition. One of the most prominent examples of this is [[Savage/Noble|Noble]], who transforms between two extremely dissimilar and wholly organic forms.

===Movie continuity===
[[Image:Movie_OptimusPrime_highwaytransform1.jpg|right|thumb|150px|Cool to see, but it's a nightmare with regards to [[show accuracy|toy accuracy]].]]
Transformation requires an alternate mode which is [[Frenzy_%28Movie%29|generally]] of similar mass to the Transformer's robot mode. Once taking the form, however, the Transformer appears to be able to reorder his physical structure, causing some to the outward appearances of the vehicle mode to disappear. For example, Optimus Prime displays an incredibly complex Transformation where some of his alternate mode's appearances seem to be absorbed into his body or outright disappear. This may be due to Transformers being composed of highly dense collections of Nanomachines. Or it might not.
{{-}}

==The Noise==

===Technical Description===
Transformation is often accompanied by a [[Media:Tf_sound.ogg|distinct noise]]--an 8hz pulse, repeated five times, with each pulse lasting a roughly equal amount of time, whose pitch can be represented by the absolute value of a declining (for alt-mode to robot mode) or increasing (for robot mode to alt-mode) sine wave. As a rule of thumb, the larger the robot, the deeper the pitch of the sound, and the longer the duration of the pulses. There is no general consensus as to what onomatopoeia should be used to represent this sound.

===Continuity Locations===
Within the early years of the [[Generation 1 (cartoon)|G1 Cartoon]], almost all transformations were accompanied by the Noise in some manner, generally lasting the duration of the transformation sequence and being the only noise made by transformations. ''[[Masterforce]]'' still used the sound for the [[Pretender]]s' transformations in robot mode, but the [[Headmaster Junior]]s and [[Godmaster]]s had new sounds. By the era of the [[Beast Wars (cartoon)|Beast Wars]], however, most characters made more complicated mechanical-sounding noises when transforming. In spite of this, the rebuilt [[Ravage#Beast Wars 2|Ravage]] still made only the Noise when transforming.

The Noise was shown to similarly occur during television commercials throughout late [[Generation 1 (toyline)|G1]] and all the way through [[Generation 2 (toyline)|G2]]. It appeared in the first commercials for the [[Beast Wars (toyline)|Beast Wars]] toyline, featuring a CG clip of [[Optimus Primal#Beast Wars 2|Optimus Primal (bat) vs Megatron (alligator) two-pack]], but was dropped once the commercials started using footage from the [[Beast Wars (cartoon)|Beast Wars cartoon]].

The Noise did not appear again until ''[[Robots in Disguise (cartoon)|Robots in Disguise]]'', where the Noise was heard uniformly among all Transformers at the very beginning of transformation sequences, rather than lasting the duration of the transformation like in the past.

Two new versions of the Noise were heard in ''[[Armada (cartoon)|Armada]]'', and then the second version of the ''Armada'' Noise was used in''[[Energon (cartoon)|Energon]]'' (though not in ''[[Cybertron (cartoon)|Cybertron]]''). As with RiD, the timing of the Noise did not seem to correspond to the transformation sequence, instead playing at a random point during the sequence.

In the [[Transformers (2007)|2007 movie]], the original Noise could be heard accompanying a portion of both [[Blackout (Movie)|Blackout]]'s first transformation, and the conversion of the [[Nokia robot]], though in both instances, a foreground object blocked the view of the robot at that instant, leaving it unclear if the Noise corresponded with any specific moving parts. The Noise could be heard during Bumblebee's off-screen transformation as he saves the kids while escaping Sector Seven, and a new, mixed and appropriately slowed version of the Noise also accompanied [[Ironhide (Movie)|Ironhide]]'s later slow-motion transformation.

The Noise appears accompanies most or all transformation sequences in ''[[Transformers Animated (cartoon)|Transformers Animated]]'', even minor ones including battle masks, [[Bumblebee (Animated)|Bumblebee]]' "stinger" pop-out weapons, Blitzwing's changing of faces, and [[Sari Sumdac|Sari's]] shape-shifting Key. In the case of smaller, specific parts, the Noise is sometimes played sped-up or higher pitched.

===Function===
At this time, neither the cause of the Noise nor its relationship to a Transformer's ability to transform is known. It may just be a side effect to the transformation process, akin to scraping fingernails on a chalkboard.

=="Transform" as a verb==
For reasons relating to intellectual property law, and the need to preserve "Transformers" as a [[trademark]], [[HasTak]] does not use "transform" as a verb to describe this ability of Transformers in printed materials describing products. Instead synonyms such as "convert" and "morph" are used. This does not extend to in-fiction dialog, however.

==See Also==
*[[Transformation (toys)]]
*[[Transformation (role in fiction)]]

[[Category:Technology]]
[[Category:Transformer culture]]
[[Category:Biology]]<div id="wikia-credits"><br /><br /><small>From [http://transformers.wikia.com Teletraan I: The Transformers Wiki], a [http://www.wikia.com Wikia] wiki.</small></div>

Powerglide (G1)

2008-03-31T00:46:01Z

72.80.38.224: /* Universe (2008) */

:''Powerglide is an [[Autobot]] in the [[Generation 1]] continuity family.''

[[Image:MTMTEPowerglide.jpg|right|thumb|350px|He's sick of getting the bronze medal in the Ego Olympics. Sunstreaker and Tracks never let him live it down.]]

'''Powerglide''', unlike most Autobots, can fly under his own power, and it goes straight to his pointy head. Give him any excuse and awaa-aa-aay he goes, dashing off into the stratosphere at 500 mph -- but not in a straight line. No, Powerglide is an aerial acrobat, able to perform stunts other Transformer planes would never dream of. Barrel rolls, tail stands, death spirals, screaming 3200-mph powerdives: none of these are too tough for this Autobot barnstormer, and if he has an audience, be they friendly or enemy, he is guaranteed to put on the air show of their lives.

Yet this seeming frivolity has saved his life countless times in combat. Powerglide is lightly armed with small concussion bombs and a nose-mounted thermal beam, and the former is practically useless in the air. Furthermore, his speed and power, impressive as they are, are vastly outclassed by most [[Seeker|aerial Decepticon]]s. Like the flying aces of World War I, Powerglide resorts to dogfighting maneuvers, using his flying skills to confuse and evade the enemy. This tactic works very well.

In fact, Powerglide's skill only aggravates his greatest weakness. He is good, and he knows it, and he misses no chance to show it. If this means he will seek out ever tougher foes to prove his mettle -- then he'll do that, even if it kills him. Some day, it might.

{{quote|And awaa-aa-aay we go!|Powerglide, pretty much all the time|"[[The Girl Who Loved Powerglide]]"}}

:''Greek name:'' '''Keravnos''' (Κεραυνός)<br>
:''French-Canadian name:'' '''Survolo'''<br>
:''Italian name:'' '''Jumbo'''
:''Hungarian name'': '''Motorszárny''' (Motorwing)

==Fiction==
===Cartoon continuity===
:''Voice actor:'' [[Michael Chain]] (US), [[Hirotaka Suzuoki]] (Japan)
[[Image:Hoist Goes Hollywood Autobots director.JPG|left|250px|thumb|"Hey, [[human]], when I'm in jet mode, you [[scale|fit in my head]]."]]

Powerglide was a brash barnstormer with a penchant for spouting gung-ho sayings like "And awaaa-aaa-aay we go!". He literally appeared out of ''nowhere'' to save [[Spike Witwicky]] when the boy had been thrown overboard [[Megatron (G1)|Megatron]]'s spaceship, after the latter's plan to use a clone of Optimus Prime to destroy the Autobots failed. {{Storylink|A Prime Problem}}

Bumblebee and Powerglide were sent on reconnaissance mission to investigate some strange energy readings out at sea. Inside the temporal anomaly, they discovered a prehistoric island inhabited by dinosaurs. Powerglide had to save Bumblebee from an aggressive pterodactyl then attempted to repair Bumblebee's damaged jetpack, before abandoning it and flying Bumblebee off the island. Later, after it was decided that the [[Dinobot (G1)|Dinobots]] should be relocated to the island, Powerglide led the large brutes and Spike to the island. After Spike unwittingly got himself into several dangerous situations, Powerglide flew him back home. {{Storylink|Dinobot Island, Part 1}}

After Megatron demanded Optimus Prime's surrender in exchange for [[Elita One (G1)|Elita One]], Powerglide was among the Autobots who followed him to Cybertron. Once there, he was disbelieving of Starscream's claim that Optimus Prime had been destroyed. During their vengeful attack on the Decepticons, Powerglide met up with his girlfriend, [[Moonracer]], who thought Powergide was awesome. {{Storylink|The Search for Alpha Trion}}
[[Image:Pgalove.jpg|thumb|150px|right|He's cheating on [[Moonracer]]!]]
Soon after hooking up with Moonracer, he was somewhat smitten with the fleshling female [[Astoria Carlton-Ritz]] after saving her from the Decepticons. They went on a date or two, but (fortunately) the only lasting result was a series of flashing lights under his chestplate in the form of a stylized heart. What purpose this served (other than being disturbing) is not immediately clear. {{Storylink|The Girl Who Loved Powerglide}}

After thoroughly embarrassing himself by accidentally destroying several sets and props in an attempt to show off, Powerglide was among [[Sunstreaker|several]] [[Tracks|egotistical]] [[Warpath|Autobots]] who demanded to be given a role in a movie that [[Hoist (G1)|Hoist]] was starring in. Initially, his "role" amounted to crashing into a STORE while in jet mode (supposedly to stop "the crooks"). Soon afterwards, Powerglide and the other would-be-actor Autobots asked Hoist to talk to the [[Director]] to get them some "real" acting roles. After reworking the movie into ''Attack of the Evil Alien Robots'', the Director had the Autobots given cheesy alien face masks. Powerglide remarked that the role was "the pits", and that he would rather do the stunt crashes. In a later scene, Powerglide demonstrated his rather wooden acting "skills". Guess he was better suited for stunts. {{Storylink|Hoist Goes Hollywood}}

Powerglide appeared to have been destroyed during a disastrous Autobot attack on the [[Quintesson]]s led by a resurrected, reprogrammed Optimus Prime. {{Storylink|Dark Awakening}} However, he was later among the Autobots who attempted to stop [[Scourge (G1)|Scourge]] and [[Starscream (G1)|Starscream]]'s [[spark|ghost]] from stealing [[Metroplex (G1)|Metroplex]]'s [[Sensors#Optics|eyes]], so he must have gotten better. Unfortunately, a blind Metroplex accidentally shot him down, but [[Warpath]] saved him. {{storylink|Ghost in the Machine}}

{{Note|The above appearance in "Dark Awakening" is likely a result of a careless animation team using the animation model of Powerglide to represent an Autobot spaceship rather than Powerglide himself, as the footage of "his" destruction is used twice during the battle sequence.}}

{{-}}

===Marvel Comics continuity===
{{noteukonly}}
[[Image:Powerglidereadytoblastoffrightnow.jpg|left|thumb|250px|We bet you are. Don't be crude, Powerglide.]]
Powerglide was a member of [[Perceptor (G1)|Perceptor's]] resistance cell on [[Cybertron (planet)|Cybertron]] during the reign of [[Straxus]]. Like most of his comrades, he found more inspiration in [[Blaster]]'s bravado than the calculated caution of Perceptor. When their untrustworthy scout, [[Scrounge]] went missing, Powerglide and his peers fell in line with Blaster's plan to find and rescue him, overruling Perceptor. After much searching, all but Blaster had given up on Scrounge, but Powerglide had stayed to secretly shadow Blaster, allowing the air-capable Autobot to deliver him to safety out of the [[smelting pool]] (regrettably leaving [[Scrounge]] behind). This act gave Perceptor's small group of Autobots the first good news they had heard in eons, for Scrounge had handed them evidence that [[Optimus Prime (G1)|Optimus Prime]] lived. {{storylink|The Smelting Pool!}}

[[Image:Powerglideblastercybertronic.jpg|right|thumb|180px|Cybertronic [[altmode]]: paper airplane]]
Further reconnaissance by Blaster and Powerglide revealed startling news -- the Decepticons were building a [[Space Bridge]]! As this would spell certain doom for both Cybertron and [[Earth]], a desperate raid on Straxus's [[Darkmount]] fortress was launched. This attack was mostly successful, as it leveled Darkmount and ended in Straxus's destruction, but he and the rest of his Autobot comrades had to retreat to Earth over the [[Space Bridge]] as it self-destructed. Here they were greeted immediately by a group of humans. {{Storylink|The Bridge to Nowhere!}}

However, the humans, belonging to the anti-robot attack team, [[RAAT]], captured Powerglide and the others with the help of [[Circuit Breaker]]. Disassembled, the Autobots were only released after Circuit Breaker was forced to elicit their aid to defeat the [[Battlecharger]]s. {{Storylink|Decepticon Graffiti!}}

''Following [[Skids (G1)|Skids]] back to the [[Ark]], Powerglide and the others got lost after their guide spontaneously vanished into [[limbo]]. Even worse was the reason for the disappearance -- [[Galvatron (G1)|Galvatron]] had returned to the present. Unlike most of his fellows, Powerglide actually managed to get a good shot in before Galvatron knocked the circuits out of him. {{Storylink|Fallen Angel}} After Galvatron was forced into retreat by the vagrant [[Dinobot (G1)|Dinobots]], Perceptor's team finally managed to reach the Ark, where they learned of [[Optimus Prime (G1)|Optimus Prime]] apparent demise at the hands of the [[Predacon (G1)|Predacons]]. {{storylink|Resurrection!, Part 2}} Powerglide attended Prime's funeral and assimilated into Earth's depleted Autobot forces, though it was soon revealed that Prime's death was a ruse. {{storylink|Resurrection!, Part 3}} ''

[[Image:Blasterbeourleaderplease.jpg|300px|left|thumb|"Is this the line for the mutiny?"]]When Optimus Prime died ''(for real)'' after a digital battle with [[Megatron (G1)|Megatron]], Powerglide observed with the other Autobots as [[Ratchet (G1)|Ratchet]] failed to successfully repair their fallen leader. After attending Prime's ''(real)'' funeral, a criminal known as the [[Mechanic]] turned the [[Ark (G1)|Ark]]'s new security systems on the mourning Autobots, with devastating results. {{storylink|Funeral for a Friend!}} After Grimlock, Prime's successor, turned out to be a self-interested tyrant, Powerglide was among the Autobots who begged the Blaster to overthrow him, but the mutiny didn't pan out. {{Storylink|Spacehikers!}} Later, Blaster and Grimlock battled for supremacy on Earth's [[Moon (moon)|Moon]], as Perceptor and the other Autobots cheered Blaster on. {{storylink|Totaled!}}

Some time after Optimus Prime's return, Powerglide was among several Autobots who responded to [[Buster Witwicky]]'s distress call near the Decepticons' [[Club Con|arctic base]]. However, this was a trap, and Powerglide was shot down in battle by some Decepticon aerial aces, including the ever-frightening [[Buzzsaw (G1)|Buzzsaw]]. {{Storylink|Dark Star!}} He was identified as deactivated several weeks later. {{storylink|Yesterday's Heroes!}}

===Dreamwave comics continuity===
[[Image:Powerglideoutbackwarwithin.jpg|right|thumb|100px|The paper-airplaneness of his [[Dreamwave]] Cybertronic altmode is unknown.]]
Powerglide was operational during the early days of the war, and was seen in [[Iacon]] shortly after [[Sentinel Prime (G1)|Sentinel Prime]]'s demise. {{Storylink|The War Within, Part 2}}

[[Image:Powerglidenightofthecombaticons.jpg|left|thumb|220px|Bumblebee needs a smaller command chair.]]
In the modern era, Powerglide was a member of one of the later-formed Autobot resistance cells on Cybertron, in communication with [[Smokescreen (G1)|Smokescreen]] and [[Tracks]] along with several other [[Mini Vehicle|Minibots]]. {{Storylink|Countdown to Extinction (comic issue)|Countdown to Extinction}} He participated in the final insurrection which threw [[Shockwave (G1)|Shockwave]] and his Decepticons out of power on Cybertron. Afterwards, he was assigned to [[Bumblebee (G1)|Bumblebee]]'s command and traveled to Earth on a supply run aboard the starship ''[[Orion]]''. {{Storylink|Night of the Combaticons}} Their simple supply mission ended with heavy combat against the amazingly-powerful clone, [[Sunstorm (G1)|Sunstorm]]. The Autobots, in a fit of temporary insanity, decided to ally themselves with [[Starscream (G1)|Starscream]] in order to deal with this threat. Powerglide might have raised a complaint to being assigned to guard their new "partner", but Starscream betrayed them and deactivated Powerglide's unit so fast, it's hard to be sure he even had a chance to speak up. {{Storylink|The Omega Effect}}

[[Ratchet (G1)|Ratchet]] presumably got him back online in time to help with the construction of [[Autobot City]].

{{-}}

==Toys==
===Generation 1===
*'''Powerglide''' (Mini-Vehicle, 1985)
:''Japanese ID number:'' '''C-62'''
[[Image:G1Powerglide_toy.jpg|right|thumb|200px|The first Transformers toy that can stand with his arms [[wikipedia:akimbo|akimbo]]. Appropriate!]]

: Powerglide transforms into an [[Popular_Earth_vehicle_alternate_modes#A-10_Thunderbolt_II|A-10 Thunderbolt]] ground-strike plane. He is notable for being one of the earliest Autobots with an aerial alt-mode. Due to his transformation, Powerglide has more robot-mode articulation than any other [[Mini Vehicle]]. His head can turn, his shoulders have what amounts to universal joints, and his elbows bend.

*'''Minibot Team''' (Multi-pack, 2004)
: ''Japanese ID number:'' '''TFC-12'''

: Powerglide was reissued in a "[[Transformers Collection]]" six-pack with [[Bumblebee (G1)|Bumblebee]], [[Cosmos]], [[Gears]], [[Huffer]] and [[Warpath]]. With the exception of an added faction sigil sticker, there are no notable differences between the original and the reissue versions.

: This entire set was redecoed to make the [[G1 GoBots]] set: Powerglide was used to make [[Bad Boy]].

===Universe (2008)===
*'''Powerglide''' (Ultra, 2008)
[[Image:Powerglideuniversetoy.jpg|left|thumb|300px|Someone's been eating their Wheaties.]]

:Though now an Ultra class toy with electronics, ''Universe'' Powerglide still transforms into an A-10 (though the nose looks more like that of its canceled counterpart, the Northrop YA-9). This time, he's mostly an off-white color with red trim in order to preserve some semblence of realism in [[altmode]]. In robot mode, the vehicle's primary weapon becomes a handheld missile launcher.

:Powerglide is now bigger than [[Jetfire (G1)|Jetfire]]. Not bad for a minibot.
{{comingsoontoy}}

{{-}}

==Trivia==
[[Image:NowIKnow.jpg|right|thumb|150px|We need an adult!]]

* ''[[Classics (2006)|Classics]]'' [[Fireflight (G1)|Fireflight]], a [[redeco]] of ''[[Legends of Cybertron]]'' [[Jetfire (Armada)|Jetfire]], was originally intended to be Powerglide, but Hasbro apparently could not secure the name.
* Powerglide makes an appearance in one of the five Transformers [[public service announcements]], speaking out against gender discrimination.

{{-}}

==External links==
*[http://www.tfu.info/1985/Autobot/Powerglide/powerglide.htm Powerglide at TFU.info]
*[http://ntfa.net/universe/english/index.php?act=view&char=Powerglide Powerglide's Universe profile at NTFA.net]

[[Category: Autobots]]
[[Category: Classics characters]]
[[Category: Generation 1 characters]]
[[Category: Mini Vehicles]]
[[Category: Universe (2008)]]<div id="wikia-credits"><br /><br /><small>From [http://transformers.wikia.com Teletraan I: The Transformers Wiki], a [http://www.wikia.com Wikia] wiki.</small></div>

Fusion cannon

2008-03-30T00:41:00Z

72.80.38.224: /* Animated */

{{disambig3|Cannon}}

[[Image:MTMtE Part3 ExtinctiontoallTraitors.jpg|right|thumb|250px|A release of lubricant is quite common when seeing this.]]
The '''Fusion Cannon''' is [[Megatron (G1)|Megatron]]'s ultimate weapon. It is attached to his right arm and is devastatingly powerful, as demonstrated by its sudden removal of [[Ironhide (G1)|Ironhide]]'s head. (It's at least as powerful as [[Fortress Maximus (G1)|Fortress Maximus]]'s [[Media:Fortmaxgiveshead.jpg|hands]], then.) It strikes fear into the [[spark]]s of both the [[Autobot]]s and the [[Decepticon]]s, for any who challenge it will surely fail.

Except [[Optimus Prime (G1)|Optimus Prime]]. Only he appears to be able to survive a shot from the fusion cannon, considering how many times Megatron has shot Prime.

==Fiction==
===Generation 1===
====Marvel Comics====
Presumably, this cannon is powered by some sort of <strike>nukular</strike> nuclear fusion reaction. Sometimes Megatron has been able to link up extradimensionally to a black hole to augment this power, increasing it astronomically, and making him look real cool and [[Ripped Up Space|space-rippy]] in the process. Most bodacious!

[[Galvatron (G1)|Galvatron]] had a big cannon, too, but it didn't work by fusion.

=====Generation 2=====
As part of an agreement with [[Cobra]], Megatron's body was rebuilt to resemble a human tank, with his fusion cannon being replaced with a magnetic rail gun.

====Generation 1 cartoon====
Megatron could remove his cannon from his main body. One time, [[Brawn]] stole it from him and used it against him. Megatron was not amused. {{storylink|Fire in the Sky}}

Fusion cannons are also oddly useful when you just wanna kick [[Starscream (G1)|your lieutenant]] for shooting you in the back but don't want to have to walk over to him...yeah, we don't question that. {{storylink|More Than Meets the Eye, Part 3}}

====IDW====
The fusion cannon was a gift from Starscream {{storylink|Megatron Origin issue 4}}. How ironic how Megatron decided to pay him back a few hundred years later by blowing him to bits {{storylink|Infiltration issue 6}}.

===Beast Wars===
Megatron loved his fusion cannon so much, he had another fusion cannon installed on the ''[[Nemesis (G1)|Nemesis]]''. The blast radius from the weapon is massive. Most kickass. It requires a power up time to fire again. Less kickass. {{storylink|Nemesis Part 2}}

===Beast Machines===
[[Megatron (BW)|Megatron]]'s personal chariot, [[Mechatron]], comes equipped with a fusion cannon to nullify any accursed Maximal that comes across.

===Transformers (2007 Film)===
[[Megatron (Movie)|Megatron]]'s cannon is presumably telescopic, as he keeps it stored in his left arm when not in use. Its powerful blast is enough to knock [[Optimus Prime (Movie)|Optimus Prime]] back three city blocks and requires Megatron to use both arms to steady the aim. Because Megatron is always concerned about collateral damage. {{storylink|Transformers (2007)|Transformers}}

===Animated===
[[Megatron (Animated) |Megatron]]'s iconic cannon has yet to be seen fired in anger, though it served admirably as a cutting torch when Megatron sought to gain access to the Autobots' ship. <ref>Use of sound-effects from the original cartoon only served to enhance the weapon's coolness.</ref> {{storylink|Transform and Roll Out!}} His fusion cannon converts into a sword. <ref>According to the packaging text for Megatron's Cybertronian "fusion fighter" mode.</ref> This has not been seen on-screen, and perhaps it's just as well.

==References==
{{reflist}}

[[Category: Weapons]]<div id="wikia-credits"><br /><br /><small>From [http://transformers.wikia.com Teletraan I: The Transformers Wiki], a [http://www.wikia.com Wikia] wiki.</small></div>