The parallel-plate electron multiplier

A review is made of the development and performance. A simple theory necessary to understand the principles of operation is outlined. Characteristics such as gain, pulse height distribution, timing and long-term operation are summarised. Some general considerations concerning fabrication processes are presented together with a specific design of a detector array. A novel structure of a PPEM exhibiting self-scanning x-position sensitivity is also described. A general comparison with the channel electron multiplier shows that the two devices generally operate in a similar way but differ in saturation behaviour.