How does one differentiate players from npcs?

[Walter]

Oh and the difference between A rated sensors and D rated is like 450m, maybe 600m.

If a target is running really hot though he will show up from like 8km regardless.

That's right, the running temperature is a factor - some ships run cooler than others and will have to be closer to show up distinctly - and a silent running ship may not show at all.

But the optimal range difference between A- and D-rated sensors is at least 1000m and is 2000m for the larger units: http://elite-dangerous.wikia.com/wiki/Sensors - or see any outfitting bay.

[TorTorden]

Oh and the difference between A rated sensors and D rated is like 450m, maybe 600m.

If a target is running really hot though he will show up from like 8km regardless.

That's right, the running temperature is a factor - some ships run cooler than others and will have to be closer to show up distinctly - and a silent running ship may not show at all.

But the optimal range difference between A- and D-rated sensors is at least 1000m and is 2000m for the larger units: http://elite-dangerous.wikia.com/wiki/Sensors - or see any outfitting bay.

That's what the brochure tells you.
It lies.

And those numbers are old, they changed it them 1.4.

But seriously, it doesn't matter much.
I have flown with d rated (to save weight and power) and a rated just because, and during a combat\hunt sessions I can't tell the difference at all.

The various targets heat management is way way more important than the optimal range ever is.
Doesn't matter wether they are a rated sensors on my vette or d rated on my vulture.
I see a diamondback when I crash into it, clippers sometimes 2+km outside of normal sensor range.

[Walter]

That's what the brochure tells you.
It lies.

A lot!

[Cmdr Kharma]

At this point I would like to publically apologise to wing icon 3 for strafing him with both my Multis the other night.....

[Walter]

That's what the brochure tells you.
It lies.

A lot!

However, I've just checked in an outfitting bay - this is the first time I've looked at sensors in the new shop and there are refinements.

I'm now told that all sensors level 6 have a max. range of 8km and my 6D sensors have a typical emission range of 5.45km. I'm guessing that anything between the two figures would account for the flickering of an unresolved target.

The 6A sensors have a typical emission range of 7.20km.

The full range is:
- 6A: 7.20km
- 6B: 6.60km
- 6C: 6.00km
- 6D: 5.45km
- 6E: 4.80km

[Knowbeard]

I just assumed I would find out when I get banned from the group.

Just joined up, instant laughs, fantastic.

Thanks for the advice everyone, was wondering the same thing.