Phasers
Short for PHASed Energy Rectification. A directed-energy weapon , also known as rayguns, became reality at the end of 1997 when Hans Eric Herr, from San Diego, invented a real phaser, with wich you could bring someone into a shock.

Herr's invention uses a laser wich directs an intense bundle of ultraviolet light This ultraviolet light ionises the air. Just as in a lightningbolt an electricity-conducting channel is created in the air. An electrical discharge is directed through that channel, the discharge can be set to stun, musclecramps or even hartfailure. Herr's phaser can shoot a 100m's far and can also penetrate clothes. It needs to be recharged after a couple of shots. The use of ultraviolet radiation isn't in conflict with the Convention of Geneve. It will take minutes before the eyes will get damaged by the light.

Does this mean the StarTrek-laser is withing reach? The Laser he used for his test, is the size of a kitchentable. But Herr thinks he can make the device smaller and even more powerfull. He's also working on the range. If he can manage that, the Star Trek future has realy started.

Also: Tasers