Abstract: A cathode device includes an emitter tip for generating electrons. An elongate heater is included having proximal and distal ends. The emitter tip can be located at the distal end of the heater. Two spaced apart legs can extend away from the distal end of the heater, terminating at the proximal end and forming an elongate slot therebetween. Two electrical contacts can compressively engage respective opposite outer surfaces of the two legs at the proximal end of the heater to mechanically secure and electrically connect the two legs of the heater to respective electrical contacts at a junction that is at a location spaced away from the emitter tip to keep the junction cooler.

Abstract: An universal active noise reduction apparatus having a headset and a separate electronic sound module, comprising the headset having a housing, whereby the housing having a headband with a first end and a second end; a plurality of earcups having a microphone means for detecting noise signal and a speaker means for receiving audio signals attached to both ends of the headband; electronic connecting means having a first end and a second end, whereby the first end of the electronic connecting means extends from at least one earcup of the headband; an adapter connected to the second end of the electronic connecting means, whereby a plurality of male jacks for transmitting the audio signal protrude from the adapter; the electrical sound module containing a noise reduction circuitry means and an amplifier means, whereby the electrical sound module has at least a plurality of female members that interface with the male jacks of the adapter when inserted into the module for transmitting sound means; and optionally a