Knowing where every DCON terminal sits on the map is one of those small advantages that separates runners who consistently finish contracts from those who scramble at the last second. These deposit stations are tied directly to faction contract objectives, and some missions give you a hard time limit to reach one. Whether you're delivering a Self-Erasing Data Drive or dropping off Unstable Gunmetal, this guide has every terminal location across all three maps so you can plan your routes before you drop in.
What Are DCON Terminals in Marathon?
DCON terminals are fixed deposit stations scattered across Marathon's maps that function as quest delivery points for specific faction contracts. Visually, they look like small crates fitted with antennas and are typically positioned on rooftops or just outside building entrances. When a contract requires you to deliver an item to a DCON, you bring the item to the terminal, interact with it, and the system automatically transmits the item to the issuing faction. The contract step completes immediately, meaning you do not need to extract afterward to secure that progress.
DCON terminals only activate after roughly 6 minutes into a match. If you arrive early and can't interact, wait it out rather than loitering in a vulnerable spot.
This is a meaningful distinction from standard extraction. Even if another runner wipes you after the deposit, the objective is already counted. That said, one source (Rock Paper Shotgun) notes that when a contract is active, some DCONs also allow you to deposit items to your vault, which means anything stored there survives a death. Cross-referencing this with other sources suggests this vault deposit function may depend on contract state, so treat it as a bonus rather than a guaranteed feature.
How Do You Use a DCON Terminal?
The process is straightforward once you're standing in front of one:
- Carry the required quest item in your inventory.
- Approach the DCON terminal until the interaction prompt appears.
- Open the terminal's inventory interface.
- Transfer the quest item into the terminal's slots (each terminal holds up to 8 slots).
- Close the interface to trigger the automatic transmission.
You are fully exposed while interacting with a DCON. Other players know these locations too, and ambushes here are common. Always clear the surrounding area before you start the deposit.
Once the item transmits, the contract step registers as complete regardless of what happens to your runner afterward.
All DCON Locations on Perimeter
Perimeter has the most generous DCON coverage of any map, with four terminals spread across its outer edges. Starting contract runs from central points of interest like Hauler or Station means you're rarely more than a short sprint from a drop-off point.
All Perimeter DCON spots
Run with your knife out when sprinting between points of interest and DCON terminals. Switch back to your primary weapon before entering any open area or approaching a building.
All DCON Locations on Dire Marsh
Dire Marsh has only three terminals, and they tend to sit in more exposed positions than Perimeter's rooftop placements. Approaching these carefully is critical since the open sightlines give campers a natural advantage.
Dire Marsh DCON terminal
All DCON Locations on Outpost
Outpost also has three DCON terminals, but this map introduces additional complications. The Heat Cascade mechanic creates environmental pressure while you're moving between objectives, and there are no Crew exfils available. Reaching a Restricted exfil requires defeating the area boss, collecting their Master Clearance Code, and using it to unlock the exit.
The TCIV Resist upgrade in the NuCaloric upgrade tree reduces Heat Cascade damage on Outpost, making DCON runs significantly more survivable on that map.
Which Contracts Require DCON Terminals?
Several faction contracts in Marathon specifically route you through DCON terminals rather than standard extraction. Knowing which missions require them helps you pre-plan your route before the match starts.
- Equitable Distribution (Traxus): Retrieve a data drive from the Hauler area and deliver it to a DCON within a time limit.
- Deconstructed I: Requires item delivery via terminal.
- Nano Metrics I: Terminal delivery objective.
- Inventory Control I: Terminal delivery objective.
- Cutthroat Competition: One of the stricter timed contracts, requiring you to reach a DCON within 4 to 5 minutes.
For timed contracts like Cutthroat Competition, memorizing the nearest DCON to your starting position is not optional. Check the map before you move and pick the shortest viable route.
Tips for Reaching DCON Terminals Safely
Fixed terminal locations create predictable player behavior, which means other runners know exactly where to set up. A few habits go a long way toward keeping your delivery runs clean.
- Scout before interacting. Take a moment to check corners and rooftops near the terminal before you commit to the deposit animation.
- Watch for Claymores. Ground-floor approaches to DCON buildings on Perimeter in particular have been reported to have Claymores planted in corners near the base of the building.
- Deposit quickly. The interaction window leaves you vulnerable. Have your item ready before you approach so there's no fumbling in the menu.
- Time your approach. DCON terminals don't become active until about 6 minutes into a match. Use that window to clear nearby enemies or reposition rather than waiting in the open.
- Avoid late-match deliveries. PvP activity concentrates around objectives as the match progresses. Completing DCON deliveries early reduces the chance of a contested handoff.
- Plan your route from spawn. On Dire Marsh and Outpost, the three-terminal spread means a wrong turn adds significant travel time. Know your nearest option before you pick up the quest item.
For more Marathon, check out GAMESGG guides below: