cathode

cathode definition - computer

The terminal on a device that emits current. In the cathode ray tubes (CRT) of the bulky TVs and monitors prior to flat panels, the negative cathode emits electrons that are attracted to the positive "anode." Current flows out of cathodes and into anodes. Depending on the application, a cathode may be considered positive or negative. Derived from Greek, cathode and anode mean "down" and "up" respectively. See electrode and cold cathode.


TUBEDIAG.GIF


Cathode Emitters

In vacuum tubes, the cathodes are the emitters, and the anodes are the collectors.






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