Method and structure for local emission regulation and arc prevention in field emitter arrays

Abstract

We propose an alternative arc-prevention and emission regulation method that allows high current densities and enforces a narrow energy distribution. The method requires a structure incorporating a filter aperture over the usual gate aperture. The top aperture acts as a high-pass energy filter. When the filter is negative with respect to the gate, a potential energy barrier is created in the path of the emitted electrons. Also, the energy distribution often becomes narrower and shifts closer to E/sub F/ after operating the emitters in UHV. The energy shift shows that the potential drop in the emitter is reduced, suggesting that the dielectric surface layer has become more conductive and/or thinner.