Abstract: An arrangement for and method of automatically collimating an expanding electron beam emitted from a field emission cathode is disclosed herein. This is accomplished without an externally powered colimating or focusing electrode. Rather, a dielectric member is positioned around the path taken by the beam so that when the beam is initially turned on, it bombards the dielectric member with free electrons and thereby places a negative electrostatic charge, ultimately reaching the potential of the cathode electrode itself, on the dielectric member. This electrostatic charge, in turn, causes the cross-sectional configuration of the beam to contract.

Abstract: A flat panel display of the field emission cathode type is described having polyimide spacers or pillars separating the emitting surface and display face of the same. A method of forming the spacers by integrated circuit techniques also is described.