Matter stream

From Memory Alpha, the free Star Trek reference.

A matter stream was used for the transmission of matter via a transporter system.

A matter stream was used to transport objects by dissolving them into energy; this energy was transported via the matter stream and reassembled into the object again onto the transporter platform.

Normal spatial relationships within the stream were distorted, making things look bigger as they really were, especially when there were ionic fluctuations. A person could even see his own microbes in the matter stream. Although it was possible to move within the matter stream, it was advisable to remain still.

If a person was in the matter stream too long, his or her pattern would degrade to the point rematerialization was no longer possible. Therefore, the signal resolution needed to be kept above fifty percent.

The matter stream was contained in the pattern buffer before rematerialization occurred. (TNG: "Realm of Fear")

When the object to be transported was surrounded with victurium alloy, like when a person was lying under a collapsed bulkhead, resolving the matter stream was not possible and the person needed to be moved to another location or the victurium needed to be removed. (TNG: "Hero Worship")