Field emitting inks, consisting of conducting and semiconducting particles in an insulating matrix have been formulated and characterized as potential cold cathodes. Samples have been tested in a parallel electrode configuration to characterize their broad-area emission and to demonstrate patterning of the material. This has led to a portable sealed-off unit proving the capabilities of this ink-based technology. In addition, a probe system has been used to measure the emission current uniformity and threshold field distribution over a range of samples at a variety of probe resolutions. A series of tests at different electrode separations has shown that the emission is also a genuine field effect rather than being dependent primarily on the voltage. This has important benefits for producing an energy efficient and inexpensive gated structure with a narrow electrode separation in a working flat-panel display.