Are we able to switch consoles, specifically items, during battle? Like, the Photonic console at one point then switch it with something else?

Nope. You cannot change anything while under Red Alert.

I found that out once a long time ago. I forgot that I uninstalled my Photon Torpedoes for something, then when I engaged the enemies, I didnt have any torpedoes!

"Captain, we don't have any torpedoes." "Don't tell me... Tuesday?"

You can't switch any ship parts during battle. You can add/remove devices if you want.

Edit: Beaten to the punch.

In case, if you manage to get rid of the red alert condition, then yes. Otherwise not.

I seem to have forgotten which episode and character the "arrives on Tuesday" line comes from. Anyone care to enlighten me?

Star Trek VII - Generations

Nope, I remember finding out the hard way about assigning BOffs too before battle.. I had just switched ship, was happily flying to my mission, entered it and was immediately in battle only to find all my BOff powers not on my trays! I survived long enough to find out I forgot to reassign them when switching ship so while I was in the screen, trying to hurriedly reassign them.. I found I could not and then shortly after closing the screen, in an attempt to flee, I was blown to pieces!

I rarely forget now. Fun times.

hahaha good one