Drone questions, Seeking clarity based on Archetypes Options

[Alphastream]

Hi everyone,

I recently made an SR4 rigger-smuggler. I basically took the two archetypes and combined them in various ways. I did find a few things that confused me when it came time to finish up the PC, especially around gear:

1. Autosofts: The archetypes have 1 autosoft of several types. Does a rigger only need one autosoft for all their drones, or do they actually need one for each drone (my take). I was confused by the archetypes having 1 command for several drones. If I need to copy them, can I use the normal copying software rules?

2. Programs: The archetypes have Command, ECCM, Encrypt, Scan, Stealth. Command is very useful, Stealth would help hide from Analyze, but then I am not sure what Scan and Encrypt do for Riggers. It also sounds like Analyze is needed for the Matrix Perception test (to be able to steal drones), and Spoof to take them over. Maybe also Track for finding an enemy rigger's location. What do others think?

3. Sniffer program: Electronic Warfare and Sniffer are used to intercept a wireless link. What does the use of the program really do? Can I cut off an enemy drone from a rigger? How does using this skill play out?

4. Commlink: I found it hard to figure out how costs are done for the commlinks the archetypes have. Is it best to start with the base of the highest-rated comm + OS? And then, how do you correctly add the upgrades to level 5? The gear section lists prices, but I'm not clear if those are upgrades (and each rating is paid for) or if that is for custom new commlinks (commlink cost 0, then add in total rating). Very confused!

5. Reality Filter: Does this apply to drones? (Seems like it should, since they are devices).

6. Rigger Adaptation: How exactly does a rigger add this to a vehicle they find? p.238 SR4 suggests some technical skill. Which, and what kind of threshold and cost?

7. Drone purchase: How do I calculate the cost for modifying the drones to make them better like the archetypes did?

Thanks!