Microchannel Plate (MCP)

The microchannel plate (MCP) is a core technology used in image intensifiers. An MCP can accelerate and multiply a spatial stream of electrons passing through it, resulting in a stronger signal on the emitting end.

A MCP features small holes cut in an angle (usually between 30° and 40°). Common hole sizes are 12, 10 and 6 microns. 4 micron holes were tested on separate occasions by L3 and Photonis, but weren't developed into a production line due to the low yield during the production compared to the gains in performance.