display – play – control

Star Trek: The Original Series

Phaser Universal Remote Control Prop Replica

Star Trek: The Original Series

Phaser Universal Remote Control Prop Replica

Please note that the Star Trek Phaser is no longer in production and no retailers have any remaining stock. We currently have no plans to resume production, although that may change at some point in the future.

Our Star Trek: The Original Series Phaser Universal Remote Control is an exceptionally accurate and highly detailed working replica that we launched at San Diego Comic-Con in July 2014. It is also a gesture-based remote control compatible with most home entertainment equipment that use infrared remote controls.

Highly accurate: Created from 3D laser scans of the last known hero prop

Guided Setup: Teaches you how to use it with spoken prompts

FX Mode: Authentic special FX sounds from the Star Trek universe at the pull of a trigger

Built in rechargeable battery: USB charging cable included

Advanced gesture recognition: Nine gestures in four memory banks means that 36 remote control codes can be stored

Any-TV-Off mode: Easily turn off TVs without the need for programming

Hand-polished metal parts: nickel and brass-plated die-cast details

beautifully presented
Star Trek The original Series Phaser in transit case

The phaser prop replica is protected from damage and kept in pristine condition (when not on display) in a high quality, moulded-foam-lined presentation case. Manufactured in hardwearing engineering-grade ABS, the case is also designed to stack as if from the original Enterprise armoury.

quality materials
Die cast magnetic display stand

Hand polished, matt nickel plated die castings, painted and lacquered parts and an authentic mixture of rubber, plastic and metal components are all brought together to create an exceptionally well-finished Phaser replica that looks and feels like it means business.

the ultimate collectible
The Original Series Start Trek Phaser on its stand

Whether you have just discovered Star Trek or have been hooked since you were a kid, this Phaser is something that you just have to own. Researched, designed and built with fanatical attention to detail, the simplicity of its embossed nickel-plated magnetic stand presents this iconic piece perfectly.

the fantasy made real
3D laser scanner scans the Original Series hero prop Phaser

Designed from the first 3D laser scans of the last known hero Phaser, this amazing prop replica boasts a host of exciting features such as tactile feedback, multi colour light up nozzle, 10 authentic phaser firing sounds, a removable Phaser I and grip, while also being a fully-functional gesture based universal remote control.

The Wand Company’s unique gesture-based remote control technology brings the fantasy to life

Controling an iPod dock with a pahser

This Original Series Phaser Universal Remote Control is not a toy: it is an advanced, gesture based universal remote control, designed to control almost all home entertainment equipment worldwide such as TVs, DVD players, Blu-ray players and iPod docks, using infrared codes learned from conventional remote controls by the means of gestures rather than by pressing buttons. A total of nine different gestures and four separate memory banks enable the Phaser to learn up to 36 remote control functions. At the press of the trigger button, the Phaser pulses and produces one of ten different Phaser firing sounds (depending on the setting of the Phaser II dial), and has the power to instantly stun almost any TV without any setup required.

The removable Phaser I is a fully functioning remote control in its own right and may be used when not docked to the Phaser II. It has a built-in rechargeable lithium power cell that is charged from any USB socket via the included cable.

Programming the Phaser by learning the codes from a standard remote control is easy

To program the Phaser, enter Programming Mode and perform the desired gesture; the Phaser will say which gesture has been done, then the emitter will glow yellow to signify that it is waiting to receive the IR code (button press) from a normal remote control. Hold a normal remote control about 1” (2.5cm) from the beam emitter of the Phaser I while it is glowing, and briefly press and release the normal remote control button for the function you want to program on to that gesture. It’s that easy!

What the Press and customers are saying about our Original Series Phaser

The Press

T3: Boy this will take you to geek heaven

If you’re a massive Star Trek fan, then get ready to hide your wallet away.

Remote control specialists, the Wand Company has unveiled its Star Trek: The Original Series Phaser Universal remote control for your TV. And boy, will this take you to geek heaven.

ABC News: One of this year’s coolest devices

Each year companies use Comic-Con International in San Diego to showcase new products that appeal to genre audiences.

One of this year’s coolest devices has to be a remote control that is in the shape of a ‘Star Trek’ original series phaser.

The pistol design is so unique because of the care and love The Wand Company took to create it.

The British firm previously made two ‘Doctor Who’ remote control devices in the shape of sonic screwdrivers. Those remotes got them some well-deserved attention.

Reviewify: A brilliant replica that can be easily displayed

Before looking at the Phaser itself a word on the presentation. Arriving in a cardboard box you might wonder what’s so large inside, after all the Phaser is a handgun. Brilliantly The Wand Company have taken that idea and run with it, creating a Starfleet issue case for the Phaser, the sort you see assassins and spy types making use of in films.
Opening the case you’ll see a disassembled Phaser laid out into it’s key components, it’s a brilliant introduction that shows the level of details they’ve put into this…

… If there is one thing you can count on with The Wand Company it’s that they put a lot of effort into the details. It doesn’t stop at the excellent packaging, the Phaser itself looks fantastic and you can even take a look at the dilithium chamber ‘powering’ the Phaser by glowing and throbbing away whenever the trigger is pulled.

It would’ve been enough to pull the trigger and have the classic Phaser sound play, instead of leaving it at that you actually get a multitude of sound effects accessed via the stun setting. A nice touch is that the detachable Phaser 1 carries over the SFX you’ve selected on Phaser 2.
It’s another ‘stunning’ (sorry, had to get one pun in!) remote from The Wand Company. A brilliant replica that can be easily displayed which also just happens to be an IR remote, the presentation case makes this a fantastic present idea for the special Trek fan in your life.

CNET: Turn it up Scotty

Turn it up Scotty: with the “Star Trek: The Original Series” Phaser Universal Remote Control you’re in the Captain’s seat every time you watch TV.

The Phaser remote is built by the Wand Company, the people behind the “Harry Potter” wand and “Doctor Who” Sonic Screwdriver remotes that change channels with a flick of the wrist…

Previously, CBS and Toshiba gave away a phaser-shaped remote with a “Star Trek” HD-DVD box set way back in 2007. That design made some compromises, with standard remote control buttons on the top, but this one is a much more accurate rendition.

Gizmodo: Wonderfully-detailed phaser prop

The only thing more satisfying for Star Trek fans than fast-forwarding through Enterprise’s awful opening credits would be doing it with this wonderfully-detailed phaser prop universal remote.

Daily Star: As close as it gets to wielding the real thing

This TV remote is a bit of a stunner.

The Phaser has just been launched by gadget website Firebox and if you are a Star Trek fan you’re going to love this. It’s been painstakingly 3D scanned from the last remaining Phaser prop in existence, used nearly 50 years ago by Star Trek hero William Shatner.

This ridiculously detailed replica is as close as it gets to wielding the real thing. And it won’t just change your TV channels but also your music devices and DVD players. It’s even packed with sound effects for the full Trekkie experience.

The only thing it won’t do is vapourise members of your family when they won’t be quiet during the football..

Geekstronomy: It is truly a thing of beauty

Now the next stage of phaser evolution has come and it is truly a thing of beauty. Produced by The Wand Company and distributed by Thinkgeek, the original series phaser remote kicked up the coolness factor to 11. This phaser was constructed using 3-D scans of the last surviving “hero” prop from the 1960’s. For those of you who do not know what a hero prop is; it is usually a functional and very highly detailed prop for use in close-ups. Holding this remote is the closest most of us will ever get to touch an original phaser.

When it comes to talking about the phaser remote I can honestly say I don’t know where to begin. While the Star Trek Original Series Phaser Universal Remote will change your channels, that is just the beginning. The Star Trek Original Series Phaser Universal Remote has a play setting where you can pretend to stun your friends, kill your enemies or you can set it to overload.

Mashable: A perfect replica phaser

Star Trek fans have always dreamed of having a trusty phaser at their sides, but thankfully, there’s not quite a need in everyday life to stun hostile alien lifeforms.

Now, Trekkies can now experience a perfect replica phaser — that powers on your TV.

Space.com: Retro Future Winner

Winner: This super-fun remote is actually modeled after one of the last known prop phasers from “Star Trek.” Just like the original phaser, the remote comes complete with a light-up dilithium crystal. You can program the phaser to any IR remote, and it actually senses your motions, meaning that you can program it in fun ways. For example, you can turn the volume on your TV up by moving the remote up above your head.
What we love about it: This toy takes itself seriously. The phaser makes real “Star Trek” sounds and, simply put, it makes something as mundane as changing the channel on your TV fun. Plus, it’s the perfect gift for any “Star Trek” super-fan in your life.

Customers

All I can say is wow!

All I can say is wow! This phaser has all the bells and whistles from the look of it to the weight. It has more sound effects than the master replicas version through the Phaser II but the Phaser I can do all of them just one at a time. The wand company just makes a great product (I have both sonic screwdrivers). Oh and did I mention the remote function works great with a little practice.

The detail is second to none and the features are brilliant

When I’d finished ‘playing’ with my Phaser I had to email The Wand Company directly and congratulate them on making such a fantastic ‘toy’. It is remarkable. The detail is second to none and the features are brilliant. Although I’m too lazy to fully utilise its capabilities as yet I have had much fun zapping anything that moves, disabling any TV or remote controlled gadget that gets in my way. (It is, of course, a fully functioning remote control).

The amount of effects for the Phaser is good too. They range from a single pulse all the way through to self-destruct. I learned a few tips from YouTube on how to use it most effectively. There are a couple of ‘Easter Eggs’ you may want to know about.

One small thing I would like to point out is the cover to the dilithium crystal. It can work a little loose. This is easily fixable with a blob of BluTak placed inside the cover. This connects the cover to the crystal giving it stability and is unseen. (A very small problem that is easily fixed and you don’t lose the cover).

Lastly, if you are hesitating about buying one of these Phasers, don’t. It is now one of my most prized possessions and the envy of my fellow 50 year+ mates. It is sitting proudly on its magnetic stand on my bookcase.

It is the absolute best prop replica I have ever seen

This is far, far more than a novelty TV remote. It is the absolute best prop replica I have ever seen (and I’ve owned quite a few!). Clearly designed by passionate Star Trek fans, the detail is breathtaking. It is light years ahead of other great models from companies like Master Replicas or Franklin Mint. Every collector should have one of these, it is truly awesome.

I would recommend 100%

Great original phaser. Fantastic attention to detail, & the sound on the various settings are so like the original phaser, used by Captain Kirk, Spock etc. I was very causious at first, but am so pleased I bought it. If you are thinking of buying one of these magnificent phaser weapons do not think twice about it. Great product, & quite heavy. I would recommend 100%

Absolutely love this phaser

Absolutely love this phaser, I am a fan of the original series and having this phaser is as close as you are going to the actual prop at a reasonable price is great. Works out of the box just charge it up then follow the instructions and away you go.

Just to add my 7 year old lost the crystal cover from the side of the phaser, I contacted the Wand Company and asked if I could get a replacement. The next day FOC it was in the post, very good customer service 10/10

The quintessential one to own!

Of all the phaser props, toys, and models released over the years, this one, hands down, is the quintessential one to own! The look, the weight, the sounds effects are spot on! You can’t go wrong with this one! It is well worth the price, I myself have two of them! Do yourself a favor, if you are a Star Trek fan, or know one, it’s the perfect gift!

It is OUTSTANDING in every way!

To the team that designed and built this item – it is OUTSTANDING in every way! Your attention to detail is so dead on, it’s scary. I doubt that I will ever change a TV channel with it, but all the other fun functions only serve to enhance the superb quality of this prop. So glad that I bought one. Now you guys have a new challenge – a Tricorder and Communicator made with the same level of care. And, if you can work with one of the cell phone companies (even some of those back-water Chinese firms) to make a functioning mobile phone device, all the better. I am NOT easily impressed, but your work here really knocked my socks off. As stated before, OUTSTANDING!

It is right up there with the high end replicas

Just got mine, this thing is flawless. it is right up there with the high end replicas, yet has so many more features.
This thing even talks you through the functions. The detail is awesome, every detail is perfect, right down to the rubber bushing to protect the nose section of the Phaser 1, when cradled. It blows my mind that they can offer it so cheap considering the level of detail and the great storage case that comes with the unit. Very pleased.

The Best I've seen on the market

This puppy is truly remarkable. Accurate, hefty, functional (ok, it doesn’t actually phase things out of existence…but the sound and lights are superb). The Best I’ve seen on the market.

The Phaser is packed with features that enrich the owning experience, making it perfect for any Sci-Fi fan

Setting the Phaser II dial selects one of ten authentic Phaser firing sounds that play when the Phaser’s trigger button is pressed. Rolling the thumbwheel lifts the aspirator grille and sight in a single smooth action. Pressing the multicolour illuminated mode indicator switches between Practice, Control and FX Mode to give you easy access to all the Phaser’s features.

Assemble the Phaser as if you are a member of the Enterprise crew: slot the grip neatly into the sockets on the underside of the Phaser II and tighten the securing bolt with the special screwdriver supplied. Dock the Phaser I and feel it snap positively into place. Unscrew the dilithium chamber door to inspect the glowing dilithium crystal.

Gallery

Where you can buy a Phaser

Unfortunately, the Star Trek Phaser is no longer in production and no retailers have any remaining stock. At present, we have no plans to make any more phasers, however, that may change in the future.

Frequently-asked questions

Look down this list of frequently-asked questions to find answers that will help you if you are thinking of buying a Phaser and want to learn more about how it works or how accurate it is. Click on the question and the answer will be displayed here.

You might also like to download an easy-print PDF copy of the user manual, or go to a web version of the manual by clicking here.

Will the Phaser work with my equipment?

The Phaser is compatible with almost all makes of home audio-visual equipment around the world, such as TVs, DVD players, hi-fis and set-top boxes. Please note that the Phaser only works with infra-red (IR) remote controls, not radio-frequency (RF) remotes, and that the Phaser is not compatible with Bang & Olufsen equipment.

Can the Phaser perform all functions of my remote control?

No, the Phaser is not a full replacement for your standard remote control. However it can learn the infra-red (IR) codes from 36 of the buttons on your existing remote controls. This is enough for you to have some fun performing controlling your home entertainment equipment. You can over-write any of the 36 functions with new IR codes at any time, if you change your mind about the functions that you want the Phaser to perform.

Is the Phaser easy to use?

Like any sensitive instrument, it takes a bit of practice to master the Phaser. Some people seem to be natural members of the Enterprise crew and can stun TVs and iPod docks into silence with it straight away, but for most Starfleet trainee officers, about ten minutes’ practice is required to get the hang of the different movement gestures. Please note that the Phaser does require quite precise hand movements to perform the gestures, so we do not recommend it as a remote control for the elderly or infirm.

What batteries does the Phaser use?

The Phaser I has a built-in rechargeable lithium power cell that is recharged via the USB cable supplied with the Phaser. (Any good quality micro USB cable may also be used). The Phaser II does not have a battery but takes its power from the Phaser I when they are docked together. The power cell in the Phaser I cannot be changed and will last the lifetime of the product.

Note that the battery should be looked after as lithium polymer batteries can become damaged and fail if not regularly charged. The Phaser should be fully charged at least once every six months to make sure that the battery remains in good condition.

Is the Phaser a “screen-accurate” replica?

For most users the answer is a definite “Yes!”. We have spent thousands of hours and taken great care to make this Phaser replica as accurate as possible to the actual last known screen-used hero prop that Shatner and Nimoy used in the original series of Star Trek. This has included taking the first 3D laser scans of the original hero prop, under the watchful eye of Academy Award-nominated prop maker and Star Trek authority, Greg Jein, who owns the original prop and kindly allowed us access to study it. We weighed the parts of the original prop, so as to be able to tune the weight of the replica to get it as close as possible to that of the original, and assessed the colour and lustre of the various parts of the original prop under a variety of lighting conditions to make sure that our Phaser replica was the closest possible match for both colour and surface finish. To complement the scans we took detailed micrometer measurements and numerous photographs, and discussed the provenance of the original hero prop at length with Greg Jein to make sure that our Phaser not only followed the data of the original accurately, but also captured the nuances of the original prop’s intention.
However, in order to make the Phaser manufacturable and more affordable, and to iron out some of the original’s inconsistencies, we have had to make some slight changes, and as such, this replica may be considered to be an idealised version of the original hero prop.

Materials

The hero prop is made from a range of different materials including fibreglass, brass, aluminium, resin and acrylic. In order to keep the cost as reasonable as possible we have used the nearest equivalent material that is suitable for modern manufacturing methods. Generally, where metal has been used in the construction of the hero prop, we have used metal in the Phaser replica. In the hero prop, where aluminium is used for the muzzle, side door, heat sink, side rails, thumbwheel, and selector dial, we have used hand-polished, nickel-plated, die cast zinc. The grip of the original is made from hand painted brass tube embellished with popsicle sticks – our replica is also painted, but is made from die cast zinc. The original Phaser I and II bodies are made in fibreglass and have been painted (a number of times through the prop’s history), and we have replicated these parts as closely as possible in lacquer coated, injection moulded ABS. Finally, where the original hero prop uses cast resin or acrylic for the transparent elements, such as the nozzles and lens covers, we have used acrylic and a water-clear co-polyester called Tritan, to achieve the best optical clarity and mouldablity.

Symmetry

The original hero prop is not symmetrical. The parting line separating the two halves doesn’t run down the centreline of the Phaser II body, and even taking this into account, the two halves of the Phaser II body do not have symmetrical curves and features. The two halves of the body are held together with an off-centre screw on the underside of the Phaser in front of the trigger. When designing our Phaser replica, we decided to straighten out the Phaser II body, make the parting line run along the centreline and remove the fixing screw. The sweep of the sides in the plan view was a best-fit average of the left and right side 3D scan data.
The original Phaser I only has a metal side rail on its right hand-side. On the left-hand side of the Phaser I, the side rail is replaced with a strip of black hook and eye (Velcro®) fastener, onto which a silver line is drawn. This was used to attach the Phaser to the actors’ costumes on set, and while this might have been acceptable for filming, in reality it doesn’t look very good, so we replaced the fastening strip with a metal side rail to match the right-hand side.
In every other respect we have attempted to make the Phaser replica as close as possible to the exact dimensions of the original using the 3D scans in conjunction with detailed and accurate measurements we took of the original.

Functional differences

In order to improve infrared transmission reliability, the Phaser replica uses a rod of solid acrylic as a light guide, rather than a drilled-out tube that the original prop used for its Phaser I emitter tip. Our emitter tip is fixed so that it cannot extend and retract when the sight is raised and lowered.
On the original prop, the indicator lens on top of the Phaser I is a simple piece of clear cast resin glued to the top housing over a numerical scale printed on paper. The Phaser prop replica is a complex piece of equipment and its indicator lens is put to good use as a functional mode selection button. As a result the lens is illuminated and instead of numbers, displays the letters, P, C and Fx, relating to the different modes (Practice, Control and FX modes).
The original prop’s grip twists into place using curved pins that also form an electrical connection between the battery compartment (in the grip) and the Phaser II main body emitter lamp. Over time, this mechanical joint has been subjected to stress and wear and has become very weak. In the design of the Phaser replica we have addressed this issue. The replica grip pushes on to the Phaser II main body in a similar way to the original, but the grip is securely held in place using a long bolt that is positioned to resemble the nut that holds the battery door onto the base of the grip in the original.
In the original prop there is no electrical connection between the Phaser I and II. However, in the replica, when the Phaser I and II are docked together there is a constant stream of information going between their respective microcontrollers. In addition, the battery power for the assembled Phaser comes from a lithium battery in the Phaser I. As a result there is an array of connector pins on the top surface of the Phaser II docking recess, which mate with matching gold pads on the underside of the Phaser I.
The original Phaser hero prop has a large recess in its end face for the locking catch that holds it in place when it is docked, In the Phaser I replica, this recess is partially filled with a micro USB charging socket.
Sound is an important part of the apparent function of any prop. Yet when making TV shows and films, the sound effects are almost always added afterwards in post-production, and it is unusual for props to make any sound. However, to make our replica as engaging as possible we decided that it should make an appropriate range of Phaser firing sounds. The Phaser I replica has a speaker mounted under the grille, which instead of being a thin sheet of pressed foil, is a nickel plated die casting which has been made with tiny holes in it to let the sound out. The shape and pattern of the replica grille’s surface features have been carefully matched to those of the original prop.

Cosmetic

Over the years of filming, the original Phaser was naturally subjected to rough handling and needed to be repaired and repainted on occasion. Over successive repairs, the reeding on the top surface at the back of the Phaser II body became damaged. The Phaser replica has perfect reeding as it was originally created.
On the Phaser replica, the circular knob/door feature on the front left-hand side of the Phaser II has been made removable so that it can be opened to reveal a glowing dilithium crystal inside the main body. In the original prop, this feature was not removable.

Can I charge the Phaser with any micro USB cable?

Yes. The Phaser is supplied with with a USB charging cable, but any good quality micro USB cable may be used to charge the Phaser.

Will the Phaser forget the programmed codes if I let the battery completely run down?

No, the codes are not erased when the Phaser runs out of charge. The Phaser will retain the remote control codes it has learned even if it is not charged for a long period. However, to maintain the condition of the battery, it is recommended that the Phaser be charged at least once every six months.

Where can I buy a Phaser?

The Phaser is no longer in production and unfortunately, all retailers that once stocked the phaser have sold through.

Frequently-asked questions

Look down this list of frequently-asked questions to find answers that will help you if you are thinking of buying a Phaser and want to learn more about how it works or how accurate it is. Click on the question and the answer will be displayed here.

You might also like to download an easy-print PDF copy of the user manual, or go to a web version of the manual by clicking here.

Will the Phaser work with my equipment?

The Phaser is compatible with almost all makes of home audio-visual equipment around the world, such as TVs, DVD players, hi-fis and set-top boxes. Please note that the Phaser only works with infra-red (IR) remote controls, not radio-frequency (RF) remotes, and that the Phaser is not compatible with Bang & Olufsen equipment.

Can the Phaser perform all functions of my remote control?

No, the Phaser is not a full replacement for your standard remote control. However it can learn the infra-red (IR) codes from 36 of the buttons on your existing remote controls. This is enough for you to have some fun performing controlling your home entertainment equipment. You can over-write any of the 36 functions with new IR codes at any time, if you change your mind about the functions that you want the Phaser to perform.

Is the Phaser easy to use?

Like any sensitive instrument, it takes a bit of practice to master the Phaser. Some people seem to be natural members of the Enterprise crew and can stun TVs and iPod docks into silence with it straight away, but for most Starfleet trainee officers, about ten minutes’ practice is required to get the hang of the different movement gestures. Please note that the Phaser does require quite precise hand movements to perform the gestures, so we do not recommend it as a remote control for the elderly or infirm.

What batteries does the Phaser use?

The Phaser I has a built-in rechargeable lithium power cell that is recharged via the USB cable supplied with the Phaser. (Any good quality USB to micro USB cable may also be used). The Phaser II does not have a battery, but takes its power from the Phaser I when they are docked together. The power cell in the Phaser I cannot be changed and will last the lifetime of the product.

Note that the battery should be looked after as lithium polymer batteries can become damaged and fail if not regularly charged. The Phaser should be fully charged at least once every six months to make sure that the battery remains in good condition.

Is the Phaser a “screen-accurate” replica?

For most users the answer is a definite “Yes!”. We have spent thousands of hours and taken great care to make this Phaser replica as accurate as possible to the actual last known screen-used hero prop that Shatner and Nimoy used in the original series of Star Trek. This has included taking the first 3D laser scans of the original hero prop, under the watchful eye of Academy Award-nominated prop maker  and Star Trek authority, Greg Jein, who owns the original prop and kindly allowed us access to study it. We weighed the parts of the original prop, so as to be able to tune the weight of the replica to get it as close as possible to that of the original, and assessed the colour and lustre of the various parts of the original prop under a variety of lighting conditions to make sure that our Phaser replica was the closest possible match for both colour and surface finish. To complement the scans we took detailed micrometer measurements and numerous photographs, and discussed the provenance of the original hero prop at length with Greg Jein to make sure that our Phaser not only followed the data of the original accurately, but also captured the nuances of the original prop’s intention.

However, in order to make the Phaser manufacturable and more affordable, and to iron out some of the original’s inconsistencies, we have had to make some slight changes, and as such, this replica may be considered to be an idealised version of the original hero prop.

Materials

The hero prop is made from a range of different materials including fibreglass, brass, aluminium, resin and acrylic. In order to keep the cost as reasonable as possible we have used the nearest equivalent material that is suitable for modern manufacturing methods. Generally, where metal has been used in the construction of the hero prop, we have used metal in the Phaser replica. In the hero prop, where aluminium is used for the muzzle, side door, heat sink, side rails, thumbwheel, and selector dial, we have used hand-polished, nickel-plated, die cast zinc. The grip of the original is made from hand painted brass tube embellished with popsicle sticks – our  replica is also painted, but is made from die cast zinc. The original Phaser I and II bodies are made in fibreglass and have been painted (a number of times through the prop’s history), and we have replicated these parts as closely as possible in lacquer coated, injection moulded ABS. Finally, where the original hero prop uses cast resin or acrylic for the transparent elements, such as the nozzles and lens covers, we have used acrylic and a water-clear co-polyester called Tritan, to achieve the best optical clarity and mouldablity.

Symmetry

The original hero prop is not symmetrical. The parting line separating the two halves doesn’t run down the centreline of the Phaser II body, and even taking this into account, the two halves of the Phaser II body do not have symmetrical curves and features. The two halves of the body are held together with an off-centre screw on the underside of the Phaser in front of the trigger. When designing our Phaser replica, we decided to straighten out the Phaser II body, make the parting line run along the centreline and remove the fixing screw. The sweep of the sides in the plan view was a best-fit average of the left and right side 3D scan data.

The original Phaser I only has a metal side rail on its right hand-side. On the left-hand side of the Phaser I, the side rail is replaced with a strip of black hook and eye (Velcro®) fastener, onto which a silver line is drawn. This was used to attach the Phaser to the actors’ costumes on set, and while this might have been acceptable for filming, in reality it doesn’t look very good, so we replaced the fastening strip with a metal side rail to match the right-hand side.

In every other respect we have attempted to make the Phaser replica as close as possible to the exact dimensions of the original using the 3D scans in conjunction with detailed and accurate measurements we took of the original.

Functional differences

In order to improve infrared transmission reliability, the Phaser replica uses a rod of solid acrylic as a light guide, rather than a drilled-out tube that the original prop used for its Phaser I emitter tip. Our emitter tip is fixed so that it cannot extend and retract when the sight is raised and lowered.

On the original prop, the indicator lens on top of the Phaser I is a simple piece of clear cast resin glued to the top housing over a numerical scale printed on paper. The Phaser prop replica is a complex piece of equipment and its indicator  lens is put to good use as a functional mode selection button. As a result the lens is illuminated and instead of numbers,  displays the letters, P, C and Fx, relating to the different modes (Practice, Control and FX modes).

The original prop’s grip twists into place using curved pins that also form an electrical connection between the battery compartment (in the grip) and the Phaser II main body emitter lamp. Over time, this mechanical joint has been subjected to stress and wear and has become very weak. In the design of the Phaser replica we have addressed this issue. The replica grip pushes on to the Phaser II main body in a similar way to the original, but the grip is securely held in place using a long bolt that is positioned to resemble the nut that holds the battery door onto the base of the grip in the original.

In the original prop there is no electrical connection between the Phaser I and II. However, in the replica, when the Phaser I and II are docked together there is a constant stream of information going between their respective microcontrollers. In addition, the battery power for the assembled Phaser comes from a lithium battery in the Phaser I. As a result there is an array of connector pins on the top surface of the Phaser II docking recess, which mate with matching gold pads on the underside of the Phaser I.

The original Phaser hero prop has a large recess in its end face for the locking catch that holds it in place when it is docked, In the Phaser I replica, this recess is partially filled with a micro USB charging socket.

Sound is an important part of the apparent function of any prop. Yet when making TV shows and films, the sound effects are almost always added afterwards in post-production, and it is unusual for props to make any sound. However, to make our replica as engaging as possible we decided that it should make an appropriate range of Phaser firing sounds. The Phaser I replica has a speaker mounted under the grille, which instead of being a thin sheet of pressed foil, is a nickel plated die casting which has been made with tiny holes in it to let the sound out. The shape and pattern of the replica grille’s surface features have been carefully matched to those of the original prop.

Cosmetic

Over the years of filming, the original Phaser was naturally subjected to rough handling and needed to be repaired and repainted on occasion. Over successive repairs, the reeding on the top surface at the back of the Phaser II body became damaged. The Phaser replica has perfect reeding as it was originally created.

On the Phaser replica, the circular knob/door feature on the front left-hand side of the Phaser II has been made removable so that it can be opened to reveal a glowing dilithium crystal inside the main body. In the original prop, this feature was not removable.

Can I charge the Phaser with any micro-USB cable?

Yes. The Phaser is supplied with with a USB charging cable, but any good quality micro USB cable may be used to charge the Phaser.

Will the Phaser forget the programmed codes if I let the battery completely run down?

No, the codes are not erased when the Phaser runs out of charge. The Phaser will retain the remote control codes it has learned even if it is not charged for a long period. However, to maintain the condition of the battery, it is recommended that the Phaser be charged at least once every six months.

Where can I buy a Phaser?

The Phaser is no longer in production and unfortunately, all retailers that once stocked the phaser have sold through.

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