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NIGHT VISION DEVICES GENERATIONS
A Night Vision Device can be either a 1st, 2nd or 3rd generation unit. What this stands for is what type of image intensifier tube is used for that particular device; the image intensifier tube is the heart and soul of an NVD.
1st generation is currently the most popular type of night vision in the world. Utilizing the basic principles described earlier, a 1st generation unit will amplify the existing light several thousand times letting you clearly see in the dark. These units provide a bright and sharp image at a low cost, which is perfect, whether you are boating, observing wildlife, or providing security for your home. You may notice the following when you are looking through a 1st Gen. unit.
• A slight high-pitched whine when the unit is on.
• The image you see may be slightly blurry around the edges. This is known as Geometric Distortion.
• When you turn a 1st Gen. unit off it may glow green for some time.
• These are inherent characteristics of a 1st Gen. unit and are normal.
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2nd generation is primarily used by law enforcement or for professional applications. This is because the cost of a 2nd Gen. unit is approximately $500.00 to $1000.00 more then a 1st Gen. The main difference between a 1st and a 2nd generation unit is the addition of a micro-channel plate, commonly referred to as a MCP. The MCP works as an electron amplifier and is placed directly behind the photocathode. The MCP consists of millions of short parallel glass tubes. When the electrons pass through these short tubes, thousands more electrons are released. This extra process allows 2nd generation units to amplify the light many more times then 1st generation giving you a brighter and sharper image.
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| CGT/HPT: The CGT/HPT types of Image Intensifier tubes are engineered for significantly enhanced performance over current 2nd generation IITs. They are Multi-Alkali compact 18mm format MCP Image Intensifiers. They have increased sensitivity, resolution, Signal-to-Noise Ratio (SNR), and the Modulation Transfer Function (MTF). These improvements produce an exceptional image clarity and brightness. HPT tubes are restricted in Australia to Government, Police and Law Enforcement and require in export permit ex U.S.A. |
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3rd generation By adding a sensitive chemical, gallium arsenide to the photocathode a brighter and sharper image has been achieved over 2nd generation units. An ion barrier film was also added to increase tube life.
3rd Gen. provides the user with good to excellent low light performance. |
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BLACK SPOTS ON THE SCREEN
As you look through a night vision device you may notice black spots on the screen. A NVD is similar to a television screen and attracts dust and dirt. Typically these spots can be cleaned. However, this may also be a spot in the tube itself. This is normal. Most tubes will have some spots in them. These black spots will not affect the performance or reliability of the night vision device. |
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