I think I might be the only person with an ansew for this. LMAO!
Anyways, the chest plate (as said by the STAR WARS INSIDER issue 81, the only issue I own.) is Vader's life systems computer. The silver bands that branket both sides of the box are life functions sensor arrays that constantly monitor Vader's health.
THe "coin slots" lining the left-hand side use color-coded lights to display the status of pulmonary systems, respiratory systems, and neural systems.
The colored squares to the right of the slots are the command override switch, the auto/manual switch, and the system reset switch. Underneath these is a row of four programming touchplates.
also on those belt boxes are a temperture regulation system and a respitory sensor matrix. The electromagnetic belt buckle itself contains an audio enhancement unit, since Vader's lungs are bascially non-existant.
Now, I know someone said something about why Luke didn't just press all the buttons to kill Vader. Well, the buttons actually don't work with a simple touch. The control activator is housed on one of those "garage door openers" - only when this button is touched will the chest plate controls work.
But then again, it could just be a Sith Lord Smoothis maker...
馃槅
RE: What do the buttons on Vaders chest do?
Switch no.1 Make him die an agonizing death by fire
Switch no.2 Make him die an agonizing death by subjecting him to Vanilla Ice
Switch no.3 Make him die an agonizing death by subjecting him to the best of Michael Bolton.
I think Vader likes Goth or Acid. Oh well hope he dies soon.