Particle detection by electron multiplication

An electron multiplier particle detector, comprising:

• cathode structure defining an impact surface segment on which particles impact, which surface segment has a finite probability of generating at least one electron for each impacting particle having predetermined characteristics;
• a plurality of electron multiplication dynode segments arranged in an array;
• and
• respective means for generating electrostatic and magnetic fields in a space extending from said impact surface past said dynode segments, whereby said electrons cascade and multiply successively along said array of dynode segments;
• wherein said impact surface segments and said array of dynode segments are defined by a plate structure of which a side of less width provides an impact surface segment and a side of greater width provides an array of dynode segments.

An electron multiplier particle detector, comprising:

• cathode structure defining an impact surface segment on which particles impact, which surface segment has a finite probability of generating at leat one electron for each impacting particle having predetermined characteristics;
• a plurality of electron multiplication dynode segments arranged in an array;
• and
• respective means for generating electrostatic and magnetic fields in a space extending from said impact surface past said dynode segments, whereby said electrons cascade and multiply successively along said array of dynode segments;
• wherein said array of dynode segments is a continuous dynode having a surface that comprises stripes alternately of electrically resistive material and electrically conductive material, which stripes extend orthogonal to the direction of travel of said streams of electrons.