The communicator is typically depicted as a compact, rectangular device with rounded edges. It has a flip-open design, much like a clamshell, with a hinge at one end. The top part of the communicator, when flipped open, reveals a distinctive gold-colored antenna grid. This grid is often intricately detailed with a mesh pattern, capturing the look of the original prop. Below the antenna grid, the communicator features a control panel with several buttons and a small screen.
