Abstract: A ubiquitous personal station including a personal processing unit and a case is provided. The personal processing unit includes a display for displaying information, a communication unit for communicating, and a processor for processing information. The case holds the personal processing unit, and includes an input unit on at least a portion of a surface of the case, a communicator for communicating with the communications unit such that when the case and personal processing unit are not in communication, the personal processing unit locks out at least one secured feature.

Abstract: An ion feedback electron multiplier has an envelope containing an ionizable gas. Within the envelope is a chain of multiplier dynodes divided into two planar groups spaced from and parallel to one another. At one end of the multiplier chain is an electron source capable of emitting electrons upon ion bombardment. An electron lens which is between the multiplier chain and the electron source, focuses the electrons from the source onto one of the dynodes of the multiplier.

Abstract: A chain of planar dynodes is divided into two groups which are spaced from and substantially parallel to each other. A cathode which is capable of emitting electrons upon ion bombardment is at one end of the dynode chain. An envelope encloses the dynodes and the cathode. Also enclosed by the envelope are a plurality of shields. Each shield is located so as to prevent gas ions, present within the envelope, from striking the dynodes, while allowing the ions to strike the cathode.