Sealed electron beam source

摘要

A sealed electron beam source ( 12 ) for an imaging tube ( 16 ) is provided. The beam source ( 12 ) includes a source housing ( 50 ) with a source window ( 54 ) having a first voltage potential and a source electrode ( 52 ) having a second voltage potential. The source electrode ( 52 ) generates electrons and emits the electrons through the source window ( 54 ) to a target ( 32 ) that is external to the source housing ( 50 ). A method of supplying and directing electrons on the target ( 32 ) within the imaging tube ( 16 ) is also provided. The method includes forming the source housing ( 50 ) over the source electrode ( 52 ) and sealing the source housing ( 50 ). The electrons are generated and emitted from the source electrode ( 52 ) and directed through the source window ( 54 ) to the target ( 32 ).