Tiptup, regarding number 3 on your list, lightsabers and how they work was explained in the OT Visual Dictionary. They use 2 crystals to control plasma and force it into a controled rod state. All they are is controlled plasma. The Visual Dictionary also said that when building a lightsaber if the crystals are not properly placed inside the handle the plasma energy will become unstable upon activation, and blow up and disintegrate the jedi who was building it. You have to be force sensitive to build one, because the force guides them and tells them where to place the crystals. It does not matter who uses it.