The Rod slotted into the control structure (a black obelisk), allowing the person wielding it (wearing the Sash of Rassilon) to disengage the control interfaces and gain access to the power of the Eye of Harmony. (TV: The Deadly Assassin) The Rod was also given, along with the Sash of Rassilon and the Crown of Rassilon, to Presidents upon being made Lord President of Gallifrey, believed to be of "only sentimental value". (TV: The Invasion of Time) The Rod would be stolen by the Time Lord criminal known as the Eleven. (AUDIO: The Eleven)