Diode for providing X-rays

This patent describes a diode for generating X-rays and adapted for connection to a source of high electrical energy having a source of high energy electrons and a ground, the diode having a first end from which the X-rays are emitted, a second end and an axis extending between the ends. It comprises: a ring cathode connected to the electron source; an intermediate anode spaced from the ring cathode and with at least a portion of the intermediate anode being disposed between the ring cathode and the diode first end, the intermediate anode hiving means for decelerating electrons to cause the generation of X-rays emitted from the first end; an intermediate cathode disposed radially outwardly of the intermediate anode and connected thereto; and an inverse anode spaced from the intermediate cathode, the inverse and anode being disposed radially outwardly of the intermediate cathode and the inverse anode being positioned between the intermediate cathode and the diode second end