Journal of Vacuum Science & Technology B, Vol.21, No.1, 474-478, 2003
Behavior of the solid-state field-controlled planar emitters under extreme working conditions
In this article we present the emission properties of planar solid-state field-controlled emission cold cathodes under extreme conditions, in particular about the highest limit for current densities on one hand and on the other hand about the highest gas pressures that can be supported by these cathodes under continuous electron emission. The experimental results are discussed in correlation with the measured energy distribution of the emitted electrons. (C) 2003 American Vacuum Society.