A high-temperature-resistant smooth carbon field-electron emitter (SCFE) was proposed for replacing an original high-temperature-resistant carbon field-electron emitter. We compared their electron emission, processes, post-treatment technologies, and life. A comparison shows that the new SCFE has qualities. The SCFE showed a smoother surface, with bulk tightness, improved electron emission properties, decreased emitter thickness, and the contact between electrodes is better than ever. The electron emission area has been concentrated on a thinner edge, and we obtained high precision for the tube's electrode construction. Initial experiments indicated that those x-ray tubes with the SCFE maintained their properties from August 2006 up to the present. c 2008 American Vacuum Society.