I think I got it,.. A show called "The First Wave" or something like that. This guy follows/interprets the prophecies of Nostradamus and is trying to thwat the invasion of alien beings that have allready begun invading out planet. I think on one episode there is a device exactly like that and the guy uses it to prevent the aliens from getting a list of fellow 'rebels' or some important info. I think the 'device' got used twice on the show, and the second time he not only saved the day, but got rid of a few aliens at the same time.
I'm not 100% sure but that's what poped into my head.
Cheers!
