How to choose a night vision device?

When performing rescue operations, combat operations, territory protection, covert surveillance, night hunting and other activities under poor lighting conditions, a night vision device (NVD) becomes a necessity. The device functioning could be based on intensification of light spectrum as well as on use of near (up to 1400 nm) or middle (up to 15 microns) infrared range. With advances in technology, modern NV units are equipped with additional useful features that allow them to operate at any time of year and in any, even extreme, weather conditions.

Night vision devices have a variety of features that are crucial to determining their effectiveness. A standard (non-digital) night vision device typically includes a housing, a lens, an eyepiece, an EOP, an infrared illuminator, and a power supply. The light intensification factor of a night vision device is a fundamental characteristic. In generations "1" and "1+" the ratio varies between 0.5-1.0 thousand units, in generations "2" and "2+" it varies between 25-40 thousand units, and in generations "3" and "3. +", it ranges from 50-80 thousand units. The higher the coefficient, the brighter the image obtained.

In addition, the performance of a night vision device with EOP depends on the photocathode sensitivity (200-2700 μA/lm) and the resolving power (25-72 shr/mm). On the other hand, digital night vision devices have other important characteristics that require attention, such as resolution, frame rate, and spectral sensitivity. Resolution affects image clarity and can be specified in strokes per millimeter (lines/mm) or lines per millimeter (lines/mm). The frame refresh rate depends on the parameters of the receiving matrix and the power of the processor.

Spectral sensitivity is the third parameter to be considered when buying a digital night vision device, it determines the device's ability to pick up low-power radiation. It is noteworthy that the principle of operation of digital and EOP night vision devices is somewhat different. Digital night vision devices are much better at capturing high-frequency infrared radiation from 900 nm and above, which makes them more effective in some situations. In addition, digital models have advanced features that increase their performance.

Choosing the best night vision device can be a daunting task, as there are many models with different technical features and price ranges. The CG Bliznec binocular night vision device and CG Lunatic M monocular demonstrate a good price/quality ratio. These devices work in the temperature range from -40 to +50 degrees and are suitable for various tasks, from night hunting to reconnaissance. Ultimately, the best device for you will depend on your requirements, budget, and specific task.