Semicon Associates has been a leading producer of quality dispenser cathodes and assemblies for more than 50 years. The assemblies are used in vacuum tube applications for military and commercial systems or in other electron stream applications. Semicon's experience allows the customer a wide range of design options that extend beyond the traditional geometry of dispenser cathodes to the completed Electron Gun.

Electron Gun designs include the cathode, mounting structures, ceramic high voltage standoffs, focus electrode and other structures with high mechanical and vacuum integrity. Electron guns are built for all markets. Processes include precision machining and assembly, controlled induction and furnace brazing, resistance and laser welding and high vacuum (<1 X 10-9 torr) leak checking. Electron Gun designs in various geometries and sizes including shadow and control grids are offered.

Structural materials include metalized alumina ceramics, refractory metals, iron based alloys such as Kovar and stainless steels and nickel based alloys such as Monel and Hastelloy. Braze materials, such as copper, copper-gold alloys, palladium-nickel and palladium-cobalt, among others, are common.

Semicon Electron Guns allow the end user to focus on core business by:
• Freeing up technical resources
• Reducing cycle times (easy next step installation)
• Improving quality (pre-tested, measured assemblies)
• Lowering costs (less labor, reduced inventory, no scrap, concurrent engineering)


The use of Semicon Electron Guns assures higher yields and lower costs for the end user. Semicon is fully staffed and equipped to become the primary source for meeting all customer needs. Customers that fabricate guns internally may wish to establish a viable second source.

Beyond technical expertise, we offer a market and team driven approach. Semicon Associates will partner with you to develop customized solutions tailored to your needs. Our partnership continues after the sale is completed to ensure you get maximum benefit from your purchase.