Cerebro is a device that detects and analyses alpha waves ("thought waves"). It was originally designed by Professor Charles Xavier for the purpose of detecting mutant human beings, which it does by detecting the unusual alpha wave properties generated by the "mutant gene". Alpha waves convey not just an individual's active thoughts but also their genetic makeup. Cerebro's computer system can roughly measure the amount of superhuman power possessed by a mutant, identify a person's geographic location, and specify the identify of a person if they have an existing record in the database.
As well as passively recording alpha wave signals, Cerebro can be used to actively seek out individuals. Anyone can be taught to use Cerebro for this purpose, but it is most effective when used by a telepath. The user wears a special headset that is directly connected to Cerebro.
For reasons still to be determined, neo-mutants (that is, mutants whose powers are about to or have recently manifested) generate alpha waves with a more intense "mutant gene" signal. Characters receive a +3 bonus to find a neo-mutant mind when using Cerebro.
| Powers | Cost |
| Sense Minds, ranged, discriminatory, targeting, takes Mind Scan penalties (+0.25) |
34
|
| +6 vs Mind Scan penalties, usable by one other (+0.25) |
15
|
| +6 Mind Scan, no endurance cost (+0.25), usable by one other (+0.25) |
45
|
| +6 Passive Telepathy, no endurance cost (+0.25), usable by one other (+0.25) |
45
|
| TOTAL |
139
|
Mini-Cerebros are small, handheld versions of Cerebro that can be programmed to detect an alpha wave pattern that the Exemplars have on file. The programmed pattern can only be changed in a laboratory with access to the Exemplars' alpha wave records. There is no facility for the operator to actively search for or analyse alpha waves.