Abstract: A novel vacuum tube type of electric apparatus preferably utilizes cold cathode emission to provide an electron source. A grid element is employed to vary path direction for the particles, which are directed to alternative positions of an anode element. Secondary electron emission from a portion of the anode is utilized to permit the anode potential to rise upon electron impingement, while a second portion of the anode retains electrons to drive the anode potential in the negative sense. The structure allows both positive and negative states to be maintained, and has value in both rapid switching and memory application. The tube is advantageous manufactured on an insulating substrate which may be drawn to microscopic dimensions. This permits a dense pack to be accomplished, with low power requirements and high operating speed.