display – play – control

Doctor Who Sonic Screwdriver

Tenth Doctor’s Sonic Screwdriver universal remote prop replica

(This product is no longer in production)

The Wand Company’s Tenth Doctor’s Sonic Screwdriver universal remote control is a beautifully designed and highly detailed working prop replica of the David Tennant’s iconic gadget. It has been carefully fabricated from a mix of machined aerospace grade aluminium and precision moulded engineering plastics to give a truly realistic product while mimicking the original prop down to the fines detail of the surface crackle glaze.

Its seamless construction mimics that of The tenth Doctor’s own hero prop and the slide-to-extend action opens the Sonic Screwdriver with the most authentically satisfying operation. Press the slide mounted button for instant action in FX Mode, and access 10 different sonic buzzes, beeps and scanning sounds from the universe of Doctor Who.

The Sonic Screwdriver comes in a moulded-foam lined protective instrument case, which also houses the charging cable, manual and die cast metal display stand.

Our Tenth Doctor’s Sonic Screwdriver prop replica is also an advanced gesture-based remote control that is compatible with almost all home entertainment equipment worldwide, such as iPod docks, TVs and Blu-ray players.

Extending: Authentic sliding action extends sonic to reveal the clear inner tube

Anodised aluminium: CNC machined aerospace aluminium components for authenticity

Guided Setup: Speech Teach, tells you how to use it with spoken prompts

FX Mode: Authentic special FX sounds from the Whoniverse at the press of a button

Advanced gesture recognition: 13 gestures in three memory banks means that 39 remote control codes can be stored

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

Stand and blueprint manual: Die-cast metal stand with secret magnetic catch for stunning display

Instrument case: moulded-foam lined transit case

Rechargeable power cell: micro USB charging cable supplied

attention to detail

10th Doctors Sonic slider button

The Sonic Screwdriver is packed with exciting features. In FX Mode there are 10 sonic and scanning sounds from the universe of Doctor Who to explore, 10 new Morse coded Tenth Doctor phrases broadcast at the press of the button, and its über cool slider-button-activated Any-TV-Off to really help you feel like the Doctor.

quality materials

10th Doctors Sonic emitter

CNC machined aerospace aluminium emitter head, top collar and tail piece, accurately reproduced glaze cracks and dark glossy dark blue tip are brought together to create an exceptionally accurate Tennant era replica that not only looks great, but really feels like it means business.

the ultimate collectible

10th Doctor's Sonic on stand

Whether you have just discovered Doctor Who or have been hooked since you were a kid, this Sonic Screwdriver is something that you just have to own. Researched, designed and built with fanatical attention to detail, the simplicity of its die-cast Gallifreyan stand presents this iconic piece perfectly.

the fantasy made real

10th Doctor's instrument case foam insert

The Wand Company Tenth Doctor’s Sonic screwdriver is not only a truly accurate replica of the famous hero prop, it’s packed with high technology and fun features that put the power of The Doctor in your hand. What’s more, it comes packed into its own high-quality, foam-lined instrument case.

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

This Tenth Doctor’s Sonic Screwdriver 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 13 different gestures and three separate memory banks enable this Sonic Screwdriver to learn up to 39 remote control functions. At the press of the slider-mounted button, the Sonic’s tip illuminates and the Sonic produces one of ten different Sonic beeps, buzzes and scanning sounds from the universe of Doctor Who, and has the power to instantly turn off any TV without any programming or code learning required.

The authentic flicking action allows the Sonic to be used in exactly the same way the Doctor uses it. The Sonic is powered by a lithium polymer rechargeable battery which is easily recharged using the micro USB cable supplied.

Controlling stuff using the tenth Doctor's Sonic Screwdriver

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

To program the Tenth Doctor’s Sonic Screwdriver, enter Programming Mode and perform the desired gesture; the Sonic Screwdriver will say which gesture has been done, then the emitter will glow steady blue 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 tip of the Sonic Screwdriver while it is glowing blue, 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!

programming the tenth sonic

What the press and our customers say about our Tenth Doctor’s Sonic Screwdriver

Press

Pocket-lint: We were impressed with the quality feel of it

In the hand, there’s no mistaking this £69.95 remote for the toy equivalents. For starters, the parts that are supposed to be metal, are, so it feels solid and weighty. Adding to the weight is the internal lithium polymer battery, which is charged via Micro-USB, hidden under the black cap on the bottom.

There’s a button on the slider that activates the remote, which otherwise uses gestures to control your devices. There are a number of different modes, including a practise mode that will tell you what you’ve just done so you know you’re getting it right.

Of course we didn’t have the chance to go through the full set-up procedure for the new Sonic Screwdriver, but we were impressed with the quality feel of it.

As a little bonus, there’s a magnet in the base, so you can stand it up using the metal plate supplied! The Tenth Doctor’s Sonic Screwdriver will be available in October from stores such as Forbidden Planet, Firebox and the BBC Shop.

Nerdist: Altogether awesome bit of electronics

Tenth Doctor Sonic Screwdriver Universal Remote – The Eleventh Doctor one was so cool, how about a Tenth? This lightweight, but altogether awesome bit of electronics was sculpted based on a scan of David Tennant’s personal sonic screwdriver prop. It works as both a remote (with programmable movements) and a screen-accurate cosplay piece or displayable item.

Following the Nerd: Crammed full of technology

Following the huge popularity of the Eleventh Doctor range, The Wand Company have created an authentic Tenth Doctor Sonic Screwdriver Remote Control.

Painstakingly 3D scanned from the original screen-used prop, kindly loaned to The Wand Company by David Tennant himself (see picture below), this Tenth Doctor’s Sonic Screwdriver is a faithful clone, CNC machined from aluminium, crammed full of technology and is a fully functioning gesture-based universal remote control that looks, feels and works just like the real prop – utilising sound effects from the BBC archives.

The Gallifrey Times: Simply show off the remote and bask in its brilliance

Following the success of the 11th Doctor Sonic remote, The Wand Company have created another gem. The Tenth Doctor Sonic Screwdriver Universal Remote Control is a 1:1 scale replica of the sonic used by David Tennant’s 10th Doctor.

The remote has a number of impressive features, including an audio guide for setup, FX sounds from the show and an illuminating tip. The sonic works using advanced gesture recognition technology, which stores up to 39 gestures. The remote comes with a die cast metal stand for when you want to simply show off the remote and bask in its brilliance.

Blogtor Who: A must-have for aspiring Time Lords everywhere

The [Wand Company’s] Tenth Doctor’s Sonic Screwdriver Universal Remote Control may not sink ships or triangulate the source of ghoulish ghosts, but it is a fully functioning replica and a must-have for aspiring Time Lords everywhere.

Painstakingly 3D scanned from the original screen-used prop, actually loaned by David Tennant himself, the Tenth Doctor’s Sonic Screwdriver Remote Control is a faithful clone. Featuring genuine extending action, made using the highest-grade materials and sizing up as a complete 1:1 replica, it looks, feels and works just like the real thing. This advanced, gesture-based universal remote control can be quickly and easily programmed utilising infrared technology to control almost all home entertainment equipment. From iPod docks, TVs and DVD & Blu-ray players this will gain complete control with a simple flick, twist or tap of the device.

The FX mode plays authentic special effect sounds from the BBC archives of Doctor Who and the bright illuminating tip will light the way no matter which corner of the universe you find yourself in. A die cast metal stand is also included, complete with Gallifreyan text inscription which doubles as a magnet making it the perfect, upright display platform. It also comes in an exquisite protective case to ensure its safe-passage through time and space.

Reviewify: The Sonic certainly looks the business

In a move welcomed by many fans (well this fan at least) The Wand Company have released the 10th Doctor’s Sonic Screwdriver as a universal remote control. Last year’s 11th Doctor sonic was an impressive release, giving you not just a programmable IR remote, but also a solid feeling replica of Matt Smith’s sonic screwdriver. This year sees the release of David Tennant’s Sonic, a replica based on 3D scanning the actual sonic used in the TV show.

If there’s one thing The Wand Company gets spot on it’s the presentation. The 10th Doctor’s Sonic Screwdriver comes well packaged in a simple cardboard box, the perfect shape for wrapping up as a gift. Open the outer box and you’re presented with a nice plastic case with a Sonic icon etched into the plastic…

…Normally when you get instructions with some electronic device you immediately ignore them for the dull booklet they are; not so with the Sonic, The Wand Company attention to detail strikes again and they unfold into a large sheet with clearly written instructions on how to use the Sonic on one side and a blueprint style poster on the other…

…The Sonic certainly looks the business, you can extend and retract the top section with a simple slide.  However, if there is one area that lets down the overall package it’s in the materials used.  Give the price this feels too light, it feels more like a toy than a replica and it’s somewhat disappointing when you first lift it out of the case to find it so lightweight.  The primary material used is plastic, and it seems like an usual decision when last years 11th Doctor Sonic felt well weighted and like you were holding the actual Sonic prop from the show.

Included with the Sonic is a display stand.  Looking like a small coaster you might not initially realise what this is until you read the manual.  The display stand has a magnetic sweet spot, which allows you to stand the Sonic vertically upright, and it looks brilliant.  Being vertical is not only eye catching, it also means the Sonic takes up very little space to put on display.

Geeklife The Digital Fix: Looks, feels and works just like the real thing

Following the success of the 11th Doctor Sonic Screwdriver Universal Remote, The Wand Company are releasing a follow up in the form of the 10th Doctor’s Sonic Screwdriver! Recently previewed at San Diego Comic Con, the new 10th Doctor Sonic Screwdriver Universal Remote has been painstakingly 3D scanned from the original prop, kindly loaned to The Wand Company by David Tennant himself, and is crammed full of technology, and looks, feels and works just like the real thing.

Customers

My Kids think it's a real Sonic Screwdriver

Received mine a few days ago, absolutely love this sonic. My kids think it’s a real sonic screwdriver, and turning on any of our electronics with it only cements their beliefs. I plan on buying the 11th doctors sonic as well in the future, just to add to my collection now.

The motions were not difficult to learn, and programing was easy. Silent mode is handy to still be able to play with it, operating it as a remote… but, not wanting to wake up the whole house as well.

An amazingly accurate recreation of the tenth Doctor's sonic screwdriver

This device is an amazingly accurate recreation of the tenth Doctor’s sonic screwdriver, and it works amazingly. Learning how to program and use this product is quick and easy, and the looks on my Whovian friends’ faces when I turn on their TVs with it is priceless. Overall, I’m very happy with my purchase, I think the usefulness of the product is well worth the price, and I will happily recommend this product to any Whovian.

This is an awesome replica!

This is an awesome replica! Not only only does it look like the prop we all see on the TV show its also the most creative TV remote I’ve used!

The build quality it second to none! High grade polished aluminum is used on this piece, Along with it’s unique display base it makes a very nice display on anyones desk! This is a very affordable Doctor Who Sonic Screwdriver.

Great gift for someone who loves Doctor Who

Great gift for someone who loves Doctor Who. I was surprised of how well made this was and how well it works. Definitely worth the price and would buy again for someone as a gift. It also speaks to you to let you know what mode you are in or to help you train the motions.

My fiancee loved this!

My fiancee loved this! I got it for him for a Christmas, but I was so excited when it came in, that I gave it to him anyway. At first, he thought it was a just a Sonic Screwdriver, which he was perfectly happy with. But once he felt the box and how heavy it was, he realized it was something much better. The magnetic stand in the case makes the box heavy. The screwdriver, itself, is very light in that expensive metals kind of way. It works great! After charging it, the sound effects are fun to play with. We’ve programmed it to so many things. He looks like he has so much fun goofing off with it. Worth the price!

Love, love, love mine!

Love, love, love mine! I received it last Christmas as a gift, and use it pretty regularly. It can be a little finicky at times with certain motions (side tap, for instance, which it sometimes mistakes for a flick to the opposite side), but overall I’m very pleased with it. I primarily use it to turn the TV on and off, switch video source, and play DVDs. I also have it programmed to control the cable box, but since my favorite station (BBCA, of course) is way up at channel 1278, it’s a lot faster to just use the cable remote for that. I still haven’t had an excuse to take it out to a waiting room with a TV, but next time I do, I’ll be sure to bring it so I turn off those annoying daytime shows. (“TV turned off all by itself. Quite strange. No, I didn’t see anyone near it.”)

Now if they’d just make one that controls RF devices like my car doors and garage door opener, I’d be all set.

When it arrived I was absolutely thrilled

When it arrived I was absolutely thrilled. It’s easy to set up, looks fantastic, has the perfect size and weight, the sounds are brilliant, it reacts well to the movements and it’s just absolutely lovely. I love this item and am carrying it around everywhere. There’s plenty of additonal functions, like a morse code version of the Doctor’s Allons-y. It can store up to 39 different controls, which is great. And if you’re a fan, like myself, you’ll probably just keep it in FX mode, so as to use it for fun.

The Tenth Doctor’s Sonic Screwdriver is packed with features that enrich the owning experience, making it perfect for Whovians of all ages

In FX Mode the Twelfth Doctor’s Sonic screwdriver is always ready for action. Press and hold the slider-mounted button to light the tip and make the classic sonic buzz, just like The Doctor. Double press and hold the button down to access another nine buzzes, beeps and scanning sounds from the universe of Doctor Who, or display the Sonic on its die-cast zinc Gallifreyan disc, perfectly balanced standing upright on its end cap, held in place by its hidden magnetic catch.

Slide the Sonic Screwdriver open with it’s slider pad, to reveal the clear core and internal yellow wires, just like the Tenth Doctor does on the show. Use the Any-TV-Off function to take control of any television without the need to program the Sonic Screwdriver by pressing the slider-mounted button three times in FX Mode to make it scan through all known TV-Off codes until it finds the one that turns the TV off. Click the slider-mounted button three times to broadcast one of 10 Tenth Doctor phrases as a series of Morse code beeps.

Gallery

Where you can buy a Tenth Doctor’s Sonic Screwdriver

The Tenth Doctor’s Sonic Screwdriver is no longer in production and we’re not aware of any retailers having any stock.

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 Tenth Doctor’s Sonic Screwdriver and want to learn more about how it works or how accurate it is.

For further information on the features and operation of the Tenth Doctor’s Sonic Screwdriver please see our online version of the full user manual, or you can download a printer friendly PDF version of the manual.

Will the Sonic Screwdriver work with my equipment?

The Tenth Doctor’s Sonic Screwdriver 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 Tenth Doctor’s Sonic Screwdriver only works with infra-red (IR) remote controls, not radio-frequency (RF) remotes, and that the Tenth Doctor’s Sonic Screwdriver is not compatible with Bang & Olufsen equipment.

Can the Sonic Screwdriver perform all functions of my remote control?

No, the Tenth Doctor’s Sonic Screwdriver is not a full replacement for your standard remote control. However, with 13 gestures and three memory banks, it can learn the infra-red (IR) codes from 39 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 39 functions with new IR codes at any time, if you change your mind about the functions that you want the Tenth Doctor’s Sonic Screwdriver to perform.

Is the Sonic Screwdriver easy to use?

Like any sensitive instrument, it takes a bit of practice to master the Tenth Doctor’s Sonic Screwdriver. Some trainee companions seem to be natural time lords and fair well without the psychic interface and can zap TVs and iPod docks into silence with it straight away, but for most trainees, about ten minutes’ practice is required to get the hang of the different movement gestures. Please note that the Tenth Doctor’s Sonic Screwdriver 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 Sonic Screwdriver use?

The Tenth Doctor’s Sonic Screwdriver has an inbuilt lithium polymer rechargeable battery. Use the micro USB cable to charge the Sonic from any USB outlet via your computer or any mobile phone USB charging adapter.

You can use any mobile phone micro USB charging cable to charge your Tenth Doctor’s Sonic.

The performance of the battery will diminish if it is not charged for long periods. To keep the Sonic Screwdriver’s battery in good condition, please recharge it at least every six months, even if it has not been used for that period.

Is the Tenth Doctor’s Sonic Screwdriver a “screen-accurate” replica?

For most users, the answer is a definite “yes”. We have taken great care to make this Sonic Screwdriver as accurate as possible to the actual hero prop that David Tennant used on screen. This has included taking 3D laser scans of the original prop (kindly loaned to us by David Tennant), accurately tracing the exact craquelure finish on the main body and using machined aluminium for the metal parts.

However, we have had to make some slight detail changes in order to make it possible to manufacture the Sonic Screwdriver and make it affordable for the widest possible number of fans. Sharp-eyed Tenth Doctor experts might notice the following tiny differences:

Emitter dome

The Sonic Screwdriver URC’s light-up blue tip is made from a blue, self-coloured, injection moulded acrylic. The prop emitter dome was made in clear acrylic painted blue on the inside. Although the colour is a close match to the prop, during its time on screen, the prop’s paint degraded and by the end of filming, had a very patchy appearance.

Emitter head

The Sonic Screwdriver URC’s emitter head has been made by a multi-stage process where aerospace grade aluminium is first extruded to create the longitudinal shapes and then machined by a computer controlled lathe and milling machine to create the iconic cage shape. The original prop was machined by hand, resulting in some slight asymmetry. Also due to heavy use, the original prop’s emitter head has acquired accidental damage in the form of nicks and scratches.

Clear tube

The Sonic Screwdriver URC’s clear tube is made from injection moulded polycarbonate. The injection moulding process requires that the tube’s inner core has a slight taper and a perfectly smooth surface, so that the part can be removed from the mould during the manufacturing process. The original prop’s tube was made by drilling a hole through the middle of a rod of acrylic, resulting in a slightly distressed inner surface. Residual stresses in micro-cracks on that surface have, over time, eventually led to larger visible cracks and even small voids, giving the surface a crazed, translucent look.

Main body

The original prop’s main body was turned from aluminium and the craquelure effect was created using multiple layers of paint with different drying rates. As such, this process is completely random and there is no way to replicate it using paint, as each surface pattern would be unique. In order to get as close as possible to the original craquelure effect, the original prop’s surface texture was painstakingly copied, line by line, and engraved on the inside of the injection mould tool used to create the Sonic Screwdriver URC’s main body in an engineering grade ABS. While we have carefully copied the surface texture of the original prop, due to the limitations of the injection moulding process and the method of creating a pattern on the inside of a mould, there are slight differences between the Sonic Screwdriver URC and the original prop’s surface finish.

The main body of David Tennant’s screen-used prop is attached to the Sonic Screwdriver structure by three screws. On the original prop, these are painted to match the main body colour. For the Sonic Screwdriver URC, these screws are not necessary and so have been omitted from the design.

Slider

The main body of David Tennant’s screen-used prop is attached to the Sonic Screwdriver structure by three screws. On the original prop, these are painted to match the main body colour. For the Sonic Screwdriver URC, these screws are not necessary and so have been omitted from the design.

Due to internal construction differences, the slider track on the Sonic Screwdriver URC is slightly shorter than the track on the real prop.

The Sonic Screwdriver URC’s slider pad button incorporates a light pipe so that it can indicate charge status. On the original prop, the button does not light up.

End cap

The original prop’s end cap is turned on a lathe and is glued into position. The Sonic Screwdriver URC’s removable end cap is moulded, houses a strong neodymium magnet and also conceals the USB charging socket.

Sound

The original prop does not produce sound. The sounds that you hear when the Tenth Doctor is using the Sonic Screwdriver in the TV show are sound effects, added after the filming has finished in the post-production stage.

The Sonic Screwdriver URC comes with a miniature speaker and a library of sounds including the classic noise of the Tenth Doctor’s Sonic Screwdriver, other Sonic Screwdriver sounds, spoken directions and contextual prompts.

Can I program my Sonic if I have lost my original remote?

No. The Sonic Screwdriver is a learning remote and you have to teach it the infra-red (IR) codes from your original remote control(s).

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

No, the codes are not erased when the Tenth Doctor’s Sonic Screwdriver battery runs low or is even completely discharged. The Sonic Screwdriver will retain the remote control codes it has learned even if it is left discharged for a long period. However, as battery performance is considerably reduced if the battery is allowed to remain discharged for long periods, it is recommended to charge the sonic every six months to maintain battery performance.

Where can I buy a Tenth Doctor’s Sonic Screwdriver universal remote?

The Tenth Doctor’s Sonic Screwdriver is no longer in production and we’re not aware of any retailers having any stock.

It was previously available to purchase from the following retailers:

In the United States:

ThinkGeek

Amazon.com

In the United Kingdom:

Amazon.co.uk

BBC Shop UK

Forbidden Planet

Firebox

In Australia:

Yellow Octopus

Latest Buy

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 Tenth Doctor’s Sonic Screwdriver and want to learn more about how it works or how accurate it is.

For further information on the features and operation of the Tenth Doctor’s Sonic Screwdriver please see our online version of the full user manual, or you can download a printer friendly PDF version of the manual.

Will the Sonic Screwdriver work with my equipment?

The Tenth Doctor’s Sonic Screwdriver 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 Tenth Doctor’s Sonic Screwdriver only works with infra-red (IR) remote controls, not radio-frequency (RF) remotes, and that the Tenth Doctor’s Sonic Screwdriver is not compatible with Bang & Olufsen equipment.

Can the Sonic Screwdriver perform all functions of my remote control?

No, the Tenth Doctor’s Sonic Screwdriver is not a full replacement for your standard remote control. However, with 13 gestures and three memory banks, it can learn the infra-red (IR) codes from 39 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 39 functions with new IR codes at any time, if you change your mind about the functions that you want the Tenth Doctor’s Sonic Screwdriver to perform.

Is the Sonic Screwdriver easy to use?

Like any sensitive instrument, it takes a bit of practice to master the Tenth Doctor’s Sonic Screwdriver. Some trainee companions seem to be natural time lords and fair well without the psychic interface and can zap TVs and iPod docks into silence with it straight away, but for most trainees, about ten minutes’ practice is required to get the hang of the different movement gestures. Please note that the Tenth Doctor’s Sonic Screwdriver 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 Sonic Screwdriver use?

The Tenth Doctor’s Sonic Screwdriver has an inbuilt lithium polymer rechargeable battery. Use the micro USB cable to charge the Sonic from any USB outlet via your computer or any mobile phone USB charging adapter.

You can use any mobile phone micro USB charging cable to charge your Tenth Doctor’s Sonic.

The performance of the battery will diminish if it is not charged for long periods. To keep the Sonic Screwdriver’s battery in good condition, please recharge it at least every six months, even if it has not been used for that period.

Is the Tenth Doctor's Sonic Screwdriver a “screen-accurate” replica?

For most users, the answer is a definite “yes”. We have taken great care to make this Sonic Screwdriver as accurate as possible to the actual hero prop that David Tennant used on screen. This has included taking 3D laser scans of the original prop (kindly loaned to us by David Tennant), accurately tracing the exact craquelure finish on the main body and using machined aluminium for the metal parts.

However, we have had to make some slight detail changes in order to make it possible to manufacture the Sonic Screwdriver and make it affordable for the widest possible number of fans. Sharp-eyed Tenth Doctor experts might notice the following tiny differences:

Emitter dome

The Sonic Screwdriver URC’s light-up blue tip is made from a blue, self-coloured, injection moulded acrylic. The prop emitter dome was made in clear acrylic painted blue on the inside. Although the colour is a close match to the prop, during its time on screen, the prop’s paint degraded and by the end of filming, had a very patchy appearance.

Emitter head

The Sonic Screwdriver URC’s emitter head has been made by a multi-stage process where aerospace grade aluminium is first extruded to create the longitudinal shapes and then machined by a computer controlled lathe and milling machine to create the iconic cage shape. The original prop was machined by hand, resulting in some slight asymmetry. Also due to heavy use, the original prop’s emitter head has acquired accidental damage in the form of nicks and scratches.

Clear tube

The Sonic Screwdriver URC’s clear tube is made from injection moulded polycarbonate. The injection moulding process requires that the tube’s inner core has a slight taper and a perfectly smooth surface, so that the part can be removed from the mould during the manufacturing process. The original prop’s tube was made by drilling a hole through the middle of a rod of acrylic, resulting in a slightly distressed inner surface. Residual stresses in micro-cracks on that surface have, over time, eventually led to larger visible cracks and even small voids, giving the surface a crazed, translucent look.

Main body

The original prop’s main body was turned from aluminium and the craquelure effect was created using multiple layers of paint with different drying rates. As such, this process is completely random and there is no way to replicate it using paint, as each surface pattern would be unique. In order to get as close as possible to the original craquelure effect, the original prop’s surface texture was painstakingly copied, line by line, and engraved on the inside of the injection mould tool used to create the Sonic Screwdriver URC’s main body in an engineering grade ABS. While we have carefully copied the surface texture of the original prop, due to the limitations of the injection moulding process and the method of creating a pattern on the inside of a mould, there are slight differences between the Sonic Screwdriver URC and the original prop’s surface finish.

The main body of David Tennant’s screen-used prop is attached to the Sonic Screwdriver structure by three screws. On the original prop, these are painted to match the main body colour. For the Sonic Screwdriver URC, these screws are not necessary and so have been omitted from the design.

Slider

The main body of David Tennant’s screen-used prop is attached to the Sonic Screwdriver structure by three screws. On the original prop, these are painted to match the main body colour. For the Sonic Screwdriver URC, these screws are not necessary and so have been omitted from the design.

Due to internal construction differences, the slider track on the Sonic Screwdriver URC is slightly shorter than the track on the real prop.

The Sonic Screwdriver URC’s slider pad button incorporates a light pipe so that it can indicate charge status. On the original prop, the button does not light up.

End cap

The original prop’s end cap is turned on a lathe and is glued into position. The Sonic Screwdriver URC’s removable end cap is moulded, houses a strong neodymium magnet and also conceals the USB charging socket.

Sound

The original prop does not produce sound. The sounds that you hear when the Tenth Doctor is using the Sonic Screwdriver in the TV show are sound effects, added after the filming has finished in the post-production stage.

The Sonic Screwdriver URC comes with a miniature speaker and a library of sounds including the classic noise of the Tenth Doctor’s Sonic Screwdriver, other Sonic Screwdriver sounds, spoken directions and contextual prompts.

Can I program my Sonic Screwdriver if I have lost my original remote?

No. The Sonic Screwdriver is a learning remote and you have to teach it the infra-red (IR) codes from your original remote control(s).

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

No, the codes are not erased when the Tenth Doctor’s Sonic Screwdriver battery runs low or is even completely discharged. The Sonic Screwdriver will retain the remote control codes it has learned even if it is left discharged for a long period. However, as battery performance is considerably reduced if the battery is allowed to remain discharged for long periods, it is recommended to charge the sonic every six months to maintain battery performance.

Where can I buy a Tenth Doctor's Sonic Screwdriver universal remote?

The Tenth Doctor’s Sonic Screwdriver is no longer in production and we’re not aware of any retailers having any stock.

It was previously available to purchase from the following retailers:

In the United States:

ThinkGeek

Amazon.com

In the United Kingdom:

Amazon.co.uk

BBC Shop UK

Forbidden Planet

Firebox

In Australia:

Yellow Octopus

Latest Buy

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