Tutorial: D-Scanning and Watching for Enemies in Eve Online

In Eve Online, situational awareness is crucial to survival, especially in dangerous spaces or during PvP encounters. D-Scanning and watching for potential enemies are essential skills to master if you want to stay safe and be prepared for threats. This tutorial will guide you through the basics of D-Scanning and provide tips on how to watch for potential hostiles.

1. Understanding Directional Scan (D-Scan):

D-Scan is an in-game tool that allows you to scan your surroundings without the need for probes. It helps you detect ships, structures, and cosmic signatures within a specific range and angle. To use D-Scan:

Open the "Scanner" window by clicking on the telescope icon in the Neocom menu or using the shortcut ALT+D.

In the "Scanner" window, click on the "Directional Scan" tab.

2. Adjusting D-Scan Settings:

Before scanning, customize your D-Scan settings for optimal results:

Set the range: Choose the scanning range according to your needs. Shorter ranges help identify nearby threats, while longer ranges allow you to scan more extensive areas. A common setting is 360 degrees with a range of 14.3 AU, but adjust as needed.

Filter results: Use filters to narrow down the results. For example, you can filter by ship type, alliance, or corporation. This can be especially useful when looking for specific threats.

3. Executing a D-Scan:

Once your settings are adjusted, follow these steps to execute a D-Scan:

Position your camera in the direction you want to scan. This will determine the angle covered by the scan.

Click the "Scan" button in the "Directional Scan" tab. The scan will show you a list of objects within the range and angle you specified.

4. Watching for Potential Enemies:

In addition to using D-Scan, you should develop the habit of watching for potential enemies in various situations:

In Safe Locations: While docked in a station or tethered at a structure, use D-Scan to check for potential threats in the vicinity. It helps ensure your safety before undocking or un-tethering.

In Space: Whenever you are in space, make it a habit to perform periodic D-Scans. Monitor your overview for any new and unfamiliar ships or potential hostiles entering the area.

During Activities: When engaged in activities such as mining, exploration, or missions, remain vigilant. Keep your D-Scan open and check for potential threats at regular intervals.

Warping: When warping between locations, perform a D-Scan before dropping out of warp to check for potential ambushes or gate camps.

Gate Jumping: Before jumping through a stargate, use D-Scan to assess the situation on the other side, especially if you are moving from low-security to high-security space or vice versa.

5. Staying Informed:

Keep an eye on local chat, especially in low-security or null-security space. Players often report potential hostiles or active threats in the local chat channel. Paying attention to intel channels within your corporation or alliance can also provide critical information about enemy movements.

Remember that mastering D-Scanning and staying vigilant requires practice and experience. Over time, you'll develop a better sense of potential threats and improve your ability to stay safe in the unpredictable universe of Eve Online. Always be cautious and prepared for unexpected encounters.