Prototype
A prototype was the common designation for a first working model of a new invention, used for trial runs.

History 
In 2371, the Obsidian Order tested a prototype quantum stasis field, which prevented a Changeling from altering its biomolecular structure. ()

In 2373, Starfleet Science developed a prototype of a device called a polaron emitter, designed to expose Changelings by rendering them unable to maintain solid form. The untested nature and the complicated means of placement and activation made Miles O'Brien remark: "I hate prototypes". ()

Concerning starships, Starfleet prototypes had an "NX" prefix in the registry number, as opposed to the normal "NCC" prefix, and which were typically the first vessels in their class. (; ; ) Once certified for operational status, however, these prototype vessels usually reverted to a more standard NCC prefix. (; ; )

Prototype ships

Andorian Imperial Guard
 Kumari (2140s)

Earth 
 Enterprise (OV-101) (20th century)
 Phoenix (2063)
  (2069)

Klingon Defense Force
Advanced Bird-of-Prey (2293)
 (2370s)

Romulan military
 Romulan drone ship (2154)
 Scimitar (Reman) (2379)

Starfleet

22nd century 
 NX-Alpha 
 NX-Beta 
 NX-Delta

23rd century 
   
  ("The Great Experiment")

24th century 
  
  (actually an alien vessel in disguise)
 
  (shuttlecraft)
 
 
 
  (runabout; existed in an alternate timeline)

Appendices

Background information 
During production of , Star Trek: Phase II, and , several prototypes of the , both in her original and refit configurations, were built.

During production of , several USS Excelsior prototypes were built.

During production of , a USS Voyager prototype mock-up model was built.

See also 
Demonstration model

External link 
 
 

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Technology