Abstract: The present invention provides an electrode, typically an anode, for use in an x-ray generating apparatus comprising an electron source. The electrode comprises a housing, a diamond member mounted to the housing, and a target located on the diamond member, which target in use is bombarded with electrons from the electron source so as to generate x-rays. A bonding layer is located between the housing the diamond member, which bonding layer comprises an alloy having a solidus or melting point of less than 900° C. A particularly preferred alloy comprises silver, copper and indium. This arrangement assists in dissipating heat generated at the electrode surface whilst retaining the structural integrity of the electrode.

Abstract: A charged particle (e.g. photoelectron) spectrometer is operable in a first mode to produce an energy spectrum relating to the composition of a sample being analysed, and in a second mode to produce a charged particle image of the surface of the sample being analysed. A detector is used to detect charged particles produced in both modes of operation. A method of operation of the spectrometer includes the step of selecting which of said first and second modes to use and the detector being operated accordingly.