The Omnitrix integrates different alien DNA with the wearer’s DNA, transforming the wearer into that species. The transformation can occur gradually or quickly. The transformation is temporary, limited to only 10 minutes, preventing the alien DNA from overwhelming the user’s DNA structure. The Omnitrix can transform the user several times in succession but then must shut down to recharge.
The user wears the Omnitrix like a wristwatch, and the device can become smaller and lighter to fit its wearer. The Omnitrix has a wide, black and gray band and a green face. During recharge, however, the face turns red, and when absorbing DNA it turns yellow. There are four buttons around the face, which Ben can use in combination to unlock different functions of the Omnitrix. To select an alien DNA, he turns and depresses the face. Under special conditions, the face may be separated from the device. According to the official fan site for “Ben 10,” only the silhouettes of available aliens were shown for selection in the original series but by the time of “Ben 10: Alien Force,” alien forms were shown on a holographic display. Omnitrix is an organic machine and is able to grow and develop as any other life form would; it may age, change shape and expand, though this may have been the result of artificial modification.
The power supply and DNA samples are distributed throughout the device. After about 10 minutes of use, the Omnitrix flashes red and beeps in warning before shutting down to recharge. The recharge time is variable, ranging anywhere between two and 15 minutes, and has been known to recharge instantly in threatening situations.
Once put on and used, the Omnitrix is nearly impossible to remove. Furthermore, the device might transform the wearer into an alien other than the one selected, or it might even refuse to activate. When damaged, it can malfunction, causing strange mutations in the alien forms. The transformation into an alien species also permanently affects the user’s personality: the user’s personality mixes with the distinctive personalities of the aliens, and remains affected even after transforming back to his original form.
The Omnitrix is an organic entity. It can, and will, defend itself in situations where it feels threatened. If someone tries to remove the device forcefully, it generates a strong burst of energy to repel the attacker. On the other hand, if someone other than the wearer knows how to operate the Omnitrix, he may do so, even without the wearer’s consent. The Omnitrix can repair itself if it suffers genetic damage as a result of some type of mutation. The device also contains a powerful self-destruct mechanism to keep it from falling into the wrong hands: According to Ben 10 Wiki Planet, the resulting energy ripple not only destroys the device but the universe as well.