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An electron tube is a device used for the processing of electrical signals.

Although solid state semiconductors have replaced the electron tubes in most applications, there are still niche applications where electron tubes not only continue to see practical use, but perform their respective tasks better than any solid-state device. For example, tubes are still used in some high-power amplifiers, especially at microwave radio frequencies and in some hi-fi audio systems. There are many die hard hi-fi enthusiasts who are faithful to the electron tube devices because the output power from the tubes has better audio quality, more fidelity and has less inherent distortions. Other items that still use electron tubes are televisions, radios, welders, test equipment, communication equipment and many others.

In general, the solid state devices reign in areas where compactness and low power consumption is a factor, but will lose out to the electron tubes where fidelity is the key factor.

This 4-hr course provides a basic understanding of Electron Tubes, explaining the basic theory, evolution and applications. The course is based entirely on Naval Education and Training Materials (NAVEDTRA 14178), Electricity and Electronic Training Series; Module-6 and covers Chapter 1 titled "Introduction to Electron Tubes".

The student must take a multiple-choice quiz consisting of twenty (20) questions at the end of this course to obtain PDH credits.

State Board Acceptance

This course can be used by professional engineers to fulfill PDH requirements mandated by state and provincial licensing boards. Decatur Professional Development is an approved provider of continuing education in all states that pre-approve course providers. In all other states that mandate continuing education for engineers, it is the individual engineer's responsibility to determine the suitability of activities for PDH credit. The state boards typically accept online* courses that cover technical, managerial** or ethical content and which are relevant to the practice of engineering. The course must have a clear purpose or objective with a content that will maintain, improve or expand the skills and knowledge of the licensee's field of practice. For questions about your mandatory PDH requirements, visit the website of your state licensing board.

*Online courses are accepted by all state licensing boards that mandate continuing education. Other than New York (which limits online courses to 18 PDH) and Iowa (which limits online courses to 6 PDH), there are no limits placed by other states on the number of hours that can be earned through online continuing education. Consult with your state licensing board if you have any questions about the acceptability of online courses.

**The New York State Board of Engineers does not accept general office management courses, but will accept project management courses that are offered by an approved provider and that are technical in nature and contribute to the engineer's professional practice.

Please Note: Continuing Education credits for this course are awarded as PDH (Professional Development Hour Credits).