Tech 2 (T2) production in EVE Online is a lucrative but complex endeavor that involves several steps beyond basic manufacturing. Producing T2 items, which are advanced versions of their Tech 1 counterparts, requires specialized materials, blueprints, and a deep understanding of the game’s industry mechanics. Here’s a comprehensive guide to get you started with T2 production:

1. Understanding Invention:

The first step in T2 production is acquiring a Tech 2 Blueprint Copy (BPC), which is typically done through the process of invention. Invention is the act of transforming a Tech 1 Blueprint Copy (BPC) into a T2 BPC.

• Skills Needed for Invention:
  • Skills specific to the item you’re inventing (e.g., Frigate Construction for frigates)
  • Datacore skills related to the item’s field (e.g., Mechanical Engineering, Electronic Engineering)
  • The skill «Invention» itself
• Materials Needed for Invention:
  • A Tech 1 BPC of the item you wish to invent into T2
  • Datacores specific to the blueprint being invented
  • An optional decryptor to modify invention chance, attributes of the resultant BPC, such as ME/TE levels, and number of runs

2. Gathering Materials:

T2 manufacturing requires specific materials not used in T1 production. These include:

• Moon Materials: Obtained through moon mining operations.
• Planetary Interaction (PI) Materials: Produced from planets.
• Salvaged Materials: Obtained by salvaging wrecks.
• Advanced Components: These are crafted from the materials listed above and are used directly in T2 production.

3. Manufacturing Advanced Components:

Before you can produce a T2 item, you need to manufacture the advanced components listed in the T2 BPC. This process is similar to standard manufacturing, requiring you to have the appropriate component blueprints and materials.

4. Tech 2 Production:

Once you have a T2 BPC and the required materials and components, you can start the manufacturing process. This is done at industry facilities, with certain stations and player-owned structures offering bonuses to T2 production.

• Selecting the Right Facility: Look for facilities that offer material efficiency bonuses for T2 manufacturing to minimize material costs.
• Skills for T2 Production: Specific skills can reduce the time and cost of T2 production, such as Advanced Mass Production for additional manufacturing slots and Advanced Industry for overall efficiency.

5. Optimizing Your Production:

• Research Your Market: T2 items can be very profitable, but market demand fluctuates. Research which items are in demand and can be produced profitably.
• Streamline Your Supply Chain: Since T2 production involves many components, having an efficient supply chain for gathering materials can significantly impact your profitability.
• Consider Invention and Manufacturing in Bulk: To maximize efficiency, invent and produce in bulk where possible, but be mindful of market saturation.

6. Additional Tips:

• Keep an Eye on Patch Notes: Game updates can affect the demand and materials required for T2 items.
• Network with Other Players: Collaborating with other players for materials, especially moon materials and advanced components, can help streamline your production process.
• Use Third-Party Tools: Tools like EVE Isk per Hour and various spreadsheets designed by the community can help you calculate costs, profits, and efficiency.

Tech 2 production is a rewarding activity in EVE Online that not only offers financial benefits but also contributes significantly to the in-game economy and warfare. By understanding the steps involved and optimizing your approach, you can become a successful T2 producer in New Eden.