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thermionic valve

electronics
Also known as: Fleming valve, kenotron, thermionic tube, vacuum diode(Show More)

Quick Summary

A thermionic valve, also known as a thermionic tube, is an electronic component that utilizes the emission of electrons from a heated electrode. This phenomenon, called thermionic emission, was observed by Thomas Edison and further explored by scientists like John Ambrose Fleming.

Fleming developed the first thermionic valve, a two-electrode vacuum tube, in 1904. This device was crucial for rectifying radio signals, converting alternating current to direct current, which was essential for early radio receivers. Later, Lee De Forest added a third electrode, a grid, creating a three-electrode vacuum tube called the Audion. This innovation allowed for the amplification of radio signals, paving the way for advancements in radio broadcasting, television, and early computers. While solid-state devices have largely replaced vacuum tubes, they are still used in specialized applications requiring extreme power or frequency handling.12

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