The mind manipulator is an experimental device developed on M1B-129 by the Wraith for the purpose of improving the mind manipulation process. It was created as a means to cull more effectively, as the success of such huntings is largely dependent upon manipulating the minds of their prey. The device causes anyone without Wraith DNA within a specific range to experience powerful illusions, even causing to believe they are in a different time and place. The strength, and possibly range, of the device is dependent upon the setting the device is set at. The technology projects an electromagnetic field which prevents normal radio communication. The unit fluctuates in systematic intervals on an ultra-low frequency. Actuator coils lie inside the membrane. A primary conduit, which leads directly into the core, deactivates the device when it is removed as well as a control panel nearby. The Wraith ultimately abandoned the experiment for an unknown reason and shut it down before leaving.
At some point, the Genii found the mind manipulator and managed to reactivate it, turning the device on to its highest setting. However, they couldn't shut it off again, causing the Genii to shoot the device, destroying the control panel and causing the conduits to regrow faster, but not shutting it down. The effects of the device ultimately caused the Genii to kill each other. Months later, Major Leonard's team was sent to explore the planet due to the energy readings from the device. Falling under its influence, Leonard murdered his own team. Eventually, the First Atlantis Reconnaissance Team, a Marine unit and Doctor Carson Beckett were sent to investigate the disappearance of Leonard's team. The new arrivals fell under the device's influence as well aside from Teyla Emmagan who was immune to its effects due to being Wraithkin. After the team experiences various hallucinations, Teyla and Lt. Colonel John Sheppard manage to shut it down by pulling the primary power conduit from the device, causing its effects to immediately cease. (SGA: "Phantoms")