The basic exoskeleton was first mass produced for use by military organizations of ancient Terra. Used to improve endurance and strength of their soldiers, they were also often layered with extra armor to make them harder to kill. In only a matter of a few years, they entered service with the civilian industries, especially in cargo loading applications, and as a species we have never looked back. By today's standards these suits were hopelessly archaic, but they were simply one more application of the "mechanical enhancement" process to make us stronger, faster, and sometimes even smarter.
         The basic exoskeleton is a suit of mechanical and hydraulic (or myomer) hardware that is worn around the body of the operator. Various sensors detect the motion of the user and translate the motion into computer signals, which are fed into the exoskeleton's computer. The computer relays the signals back to the exoskeleton's limbs, which then move in tandem with the operator's limbs. The limbs of most modern exoskeletons are myomer-actuated, similar to 'Mechs, though before the creation of those artificial muscles they used hydraulics.
         The light exoskeleton is a small and light version that allows the user normal movement and manipulative abilities. It is mostly a series of supports, struts, and hydraulic systems that the user slips on like normal clothing. In contrast to most other exoskeletons, the light model allows the user to perform more delicate operations.