A field emission source comprising a first conductive region, a layer of nanotubes
deposited on the first conductive region, and a second conductive region placed
over and spaced from the nanotube coated first conductive region. After the device
structure is fabricated, a laser beam is used to dislodge one end of the nanotube
from the first conductive surface and an electric field is simultaneously applied
to point the freed end of the nanotube at the second conductive region.
