Disruptor (science fiction)

A disruptor is a fictional weapon most commonly used by Romulans in Star Trek. The Romulan Disruptor is the standard weapon used by Romulan security personnel. It is somewhat similar to a Federation Type II Phaser. Romulan disruptor fire is characterized by a high residue of lingering antiprotons, which can remain in the area for hours. Romulan disruptor fire is typically green.

Romulan Disruptors are essentially identical to a Phaser II except that they are slightly heavier, around 1.75 pounds. Romulans also have a weapon that is similar to the Federation Phaser III.

Star Trek alludes to the fact that Romulan disruptors cause a painful death.

There is another class of disruptors known as the Varon-T (first mentioned in Star Trek: The Next Generation's 3rd-season episode "The Most Toys").

There are only five in existence and they have been outlawed by the Federation. Varon-T disruptors cause an extremely slow and painful death by slowly vaporizing the victim from the inside out.