We present the realization of an innovative device capable of generating X-rays based on a novel concept of cold cathode: carbon nanotube-based electron sources. Taking advantage of the expertise in fabricating CNT-based emitting systems with tailored features, a series of customized cathodes have been produced and tested in our labs. The compact and robust X-ray source designed and tested by the Nanoray Consortium, in the frame of a FP7-SME project, is characterized by fast response time, reduced size-weight, long working life and better definition of the generated images. The increasing use of nanomaterials and nanostructures is demanding new tools with higher spatial resolving power for the investigation of objects and their properties in a fast and non-destructive manner. The proposed NANORAY technology can easily find applications in fluorescence spectrometry, aerospace, micro/nano mechanics, medical and archaeometric diagnostics, quality control in electronics and in the security field.