A cathode head (200) is provide that is suitable for use in an x-ray device (100) that includes an anode (300) having a target surface (304) configured and arranged to receive electrons emitted by the cathode head (200). The cathode head (200) may be constructed of magnetic or non-magnetic material and includes an emitter structure (202) carrying a filament (204) that defines a longitudinal axis about which is disposed one or more magnetic elements such as coils (208). The filament (204) is configured and arranged to emit an electron beam that defines a focal spot on the target surface (304) of the anode (300). The magnetic coil, or coils (208), disposed about the longitudinal axis defined by the filament (204) generate a magnetic field that enables control of the location of the focal spot on the target surface of the anode.