Abstract: A field emitter (10) having improved electron emission properties is provided. Electron-emitting microtip protrusions (14) in an emitter layer (12) are separated from a dielectric layer (18) by an interlayer (16) that prevents substantial mixing of the dielectric (16) and the emitter layer (12) during growth of the dielectric layer (18). A conductive gate electrode layer (20) is deposited on the dielectric layer (18). For carbon-based emitters, aluminum is one of several suitable interlayers between the carbon layer and a silicon dioxide dielectric layer.

Abstract: A semiconductor package has a molded-in-place lead frame (15) resting on a ledge (12b) adjacent a die-receiving trough (13) in a molded housing (10). A one-layer or two-layer flexible tape includes a depending tab (22) on which a die (30) is bonded and positioned within the trough. Electrical bonds are made between bond pads (42) on the die, either by wire bonds (29) or thermo-compression bonding using connector bumps (32), and bond pads on the tape. The tape is laid across a pair of ledges (12a, 12b) with the depending die resting on the bottom of the trough. The tape bond pads are then bonded to inner-extending contact fingers (18) of the lead frame. A single-in-line package is provided in one embodiment wherein integral contacts (17) extend outwardly from fingers (18) exterior of the housing (10).