Where do I buy a floating spinning rod thingy?

[clickynext]

My physics teacher showed us a device that consisted of a rod that could produce an electromagnetic field, and an electromagnetic base to go with it. When arranged the right way, the rod would be suspended above the base. On one side, there was a panel on the base, which allowed one side of the rod to stabilize, and allowed it to be spun in place. Since the friction is so low the thing would most likely spin for hours... does anyone have any idea what I'm talking about and where I could get one?

 

[KillyKillall]

So...your teacher showed you his rod and produced what to go with it? When arranged the right way it did what? Sit'n'spin??

 

[clickynext]

There wasn't much point to it, actually. It's probably more of a novelty item. He didn't actually show it, we saw it sitting on his table and asked about it.

 

[OffTopic1]

Does it look any thing like Kinetic Chaos Toy from Carlisle Companies Inc.?

 

[Queasy]

Originally posted by: clickynext
There wasn't much point to it, actually. It's probably more of a novelty item. He didn't actually show it, we saw it sitting on his table and asked about it.

Sitting on his table? So, he has a detachable rod?

Seriously, this sounds like something you'd find in a Spencer's or Sharper Image catalogue.

 

[Kelemvor]

http://www.thinkgeek.com/cubegoodies/toys/5bb6/?cpg=froogle

Probably not exactly what you're talking about but same general idea.

 

[clickynext]

Thanks. All those things aren't really the same thing, but same idea and similar amusement factor.