Secondly, consider the implications and limitations. A powerful fictional technology like mind - reading devices should have some drawbacks. Maybe it can't read thoughts that are deeply encrypted in the subconscious, or it has a short range. This makes the technology more believable and adds depth to the story. Also, think about how society would adapt to this technology. There would be ethical issues, legal battles, and social unrest which can all be great plot points.
Finally, make it integral to the story. Don't just introduce a cool - sounding technology for the sake of it. If you have a time - travel device, use it to drive the plot forward. Have the characters use it to correct past mistakes or to gain knowledge that will save their world. This way, the fictional technology becomes a crucial part of the narrative rather than just a shiny object in the background.
Firstly, base it on real - world physics principles. Even if you're stretching them a bit. For example, if you want to create a technology for faster - than - light travel, you can start with the concept of wormholes which are predicted by Einstein's theory of relativity. Just make sure you explain it in a way that seems somewhat believable to the reader.