This invention provides for a simple method of fabricating miniature
electron multipliers, in an in-plane configuration suitable for use with
miniature analytic instruments such as mass filters. The materials
involved are predominantly silicon and compatible oxides, allowing the
possibility of integration with a mass filter formed in a similar
materials system. The materials are selected simultaneously to withstand
high voltages and to enhance secondary electron emission. Fabrication is
based on standard planar processing methods. These methods also allow the
construction of an integrated set of bias resistors in a multi-electrode
device, so that the device may be operated from a single high-voltage
source.