neon glow lamps (was TTL homebrew CPUs)

[Tony Duell]

> 
> > At one time one could get three terminal neon lamps. These could be
> > used for many logic functions reliably since they always had on electrode
> > with ionized gas on it.
> 
> You still can. They are called Krytrons, are expensive, DAMN fast, and
> are export controlled.

There were also some sloower ones called 'Trigger Tubes', which AFAIK 
have no export restrictions (they are not suitable for that use, far too 
slow) but can be used for logic, etc.

> 
> Used for opening cans of sunshine.

Now that's an interesting way of putting it :-)

-tony