Abstract: A display panel includes one or more character display positions, each of which comprises a cathode, an anode, and an array of anodic display elements. The display elements comprise conductive phosphor segments which can be energized in different combinations to emit light and display a character. In operation of the panel, the cathode and anode are connected in an operating circuit, and then selected phosphor segments are energized by information signals to transfer electrons thereto and to display a character.

Abstract: The panel comprises a base plate which carries a plurality of column cathode strips which are oriented parallel to each other, with insulating means dividing the surface of each such strip into a column of a plurality of separate operating areas including display cathode areas and priming cathode areas, the latter providing excited particles for use by the display areas. The display cathodes and priming cathodes are arrayed in rows and columns, and, in each column, there are gas communication paths between priming cathode areas and display cathode areas. In addition, there are gas communication paths along each row of priming cathodes. A separate display anode is provided in operative relation with each row of display cathodes, and a separate priming anode is provided in operative relation with each row of scan cathodes, and each crossing of an anode and cathode area forms a display cell or a priming cell.