Cathode-ray tubes (CRTs) are vacuum tubes that contain one or more electron guns and a phosphorescent screen, used to display images in older television sets and computer monitors. They operate by directing a beam of electrons onto the screen to create images, a technology largely replaced by more modern display methods like LCD and OLED.

Cathode-ray Tubes

Cathode-ray tubes

Vacuum tubes are electronic components that control electric current between electrodes in an evacuated container, once essential in early computers, radios, and televisions before being largely replaced by transistors. Despite their obsolescence in most electronic devices, they are still valued for their unique sound qualities in audio equipment and their ability to handle high power in certain applications.

vacuum tubes

electron guns

A phosphorescent screen is a material that emits light after being energized by radiation or another form of energy, continuing to glow even after the energy source is removed. This property is utilized in various applications such as CRT displays, X-ray imaging, and glow-in-the-dark materials, where delayed light emission is beneficial.

phosphorescent screen

display images

television sets

computer monitors

beam of electrons

modern display methods

OLED, or Organic Light Emitting Diode, is a display technology that uses organic compounds to emit light when an electric current is applied, resulting in thinner, more flexible screens with superior color accuracy and contrast. Unlike traditional LCDs, OLEDs do not require a backlight, allowing for deeper blacks and more energy-efficient displays.

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