The Vacuum Tube Diode
January 7, 2026 • EPISODE 292
What invention helped spark the age of electronics? In this episode of Science LIVE, Dr. Roger Billings and the Protégés break down the vacuum tube diode—one of the earliest electronic components that made controlling the flow of electrons possible. Learn how this simple device works, why it was so important in early radios and computers, and how it laid the groundwork for modern electronic technology. Join us for a clear, engaging look at a key milestone in the history of electronics.
About DrB
Dr. Roger Billings is a visionary innovator whose work has touched the lives of millions of students and transformed the landscape of education. Widely known as “DrB” to the countless kids who benefit from his groundbreaking Acellus learning system, Dr. Billings has dedicated his life to advancing education through technology.
As part of DrB’s lifelong commitment to supporting education, Science LIVE was launched as a way to “give back” by mentoring students in conjunction with the Roger Billings Scholarship Program.
Read more about DrB »
About the Roger Billings Scholarship Program »
Hi Dr. Billings!
Vacuum tube diodes are cool
So cool how hard work can truly help you in the long run!
The drones are cool!
Good habbits for the new year! A lot to learn about!
I loved this video! And it was so intresting know Dr. R’s son and grandson, definitely team both!!!
It amazes me how such a small change can have profound technological advancements. Finding a way to convert AC to DC was a game changer.
Entertaining as usual! Keep it up!
For being the first live of the new year, this is a great start!
Amazing first live of 2026,i cant wait for more!
My favorite line:
*Caleb when he tries to say Guglielmo Marconi*
Caleb: “Gugli.. Gur gur… Marconi’s wireless telegraph company.”
bro, I was laughing my head off when Caleb tried to say that.
This was a great video to start of the year computers have a lot of meaning.
this was cool i liked learning about the vacuum dioed
I love 51
This was such a good explanation. Understanding science seems so complicated.
I LOVE LIVE SCIENCE ♥️
First video of 2026 did not disappoint!
technology is always fascinating!
Another great science live!
It’s always so interesting!
i love science Live amazing
Science Live is so informing. Happy 2026!
Reading is one of my favorite things to do. It really lets you go back in time and explore things you normally wouldn’t be able to.
Such brilliant minds
Why does current flow from the cathode to the anode but not in the opposite direction in a vacuum tube diode?
amazing the increase in communications of the telegraph 1844, changed the world.
I love how he studied in three different colleges
science live videos are awesome!
How all these little prices fit together to make something like a computer is just so cool.
I personally really enjoying learning about how things we now see as simple have shaped and formed a lot of how our modern day electronics are able to function. Thanks for another great video.
Science live is so interesting!
Hello! Here forf the Vacuum diode episode!
I already watched this but was receiving an error message with login.
It is cool to see what is behind the history of the technology of everyday technology.
I really liked learning about the Vacuum tube.
Crazy how so many parts can fit in such a tiny robot!
I love dr billings
Computers are interesting
2026 is going to be a good year.
I like the part about the tiny robots
There is always something new to learn in science!
Living in a state with (many) Tornadoes in Texas – the idea of the radar drone is really cool – saving lives but also gathering info that then also saves lives. The vacuum tube diode portion was also really eye opening. Thank you! Grace
I liked watching The Proteges! They were funny and explained it well.
Science LIVE is awesome!! We love you Rodger Billings this is so informational.
Tornados are terrifying, but those drones are a great idea!!
science is fun to learn
Both!!!!!!!!!!!!!!
I am team caleb. Great video.
Love you Caleb.
I love how humorous R 51 is, episodes like this never disappoint me.
Hi from north Carolina
tech is so advanced
I’ve always liked the intro song.
This is such a good breakdown! so interesting!
It’s amazing how far we went with technology and how much it evolved over the years.
These videos always brighten my day, can’t wait for the next!
Love the breakdown.
The whole thing about the telegraph is pretty cool
Today was a nice science live!
First video of 2026!
I want the radio, too!