Field emission display (FED) cathodes with smaller work functions enable brighter displays with less power. The AC-2 was used to investigate materials with low and stable work functions and to explore how to manufacture them.

Fig. 1 Field emission display (FED)
(a) Relationship between display and pixels
(b) Pixel structure

　A voltage is applied to extraction electrodes within the FED pixels. The electrons extracted from the cathode collide with and excite the fluorescent material, causing it to emit visible light. The lower the work function of the cathode, the easier it is to extract electrons and the lower the required operating voltage. The FED development lab created many extraction electrodes using different substances, materials, and manufacturing conditions. The AC Series was central to measuring photoelectron emission rates, contributing to the process to find ways to manufacture electrodes with readily extractable electrons.