Performance in Perspective: Comparative Assessment of NNVT Generation 3 Image Intensifier Tubes in the Context of OMNIBUS Standards

Disclaimer

This article is a continuously evolving technical report and may be subject to updates as new information becomes available regarding the capabilities, performance, and production characteristics of Chinese-manufactured (specifically by North Night Vision Technology) Generation 3 image intensifier tubes.

Nocturnal Optics Australia is committed to maintaining accuracy and transparency in all published material. As additional technical data, field test results, and performance observations are obtained through continued evaluation, this report will be periodically revised to reflect the most current and verified findings.

Readers are encouraged to treat the information presented herein as provisional and comparative, not as a definitive specification, pending further independent testing and validation.

Introduction & Background

Night vision technology has advanced significantly over the past three decades, driven by military demand and civilian adoption in security, law enforcement, and recreational markets. For end-users and integrators, the core consideration is not merely the possession of night vision equipment, but rather identifying systems that strike an optimal balance between performance, reliability, and cost.

China’s entry into third-generation (Generation 3) night vision technology has sparked a mixture of intrigue, excitement and skepticism among enthusiasts. Traditionally, Generation 3 image intensifier tubes – with their Gallium Arsenide (GaAs) photocathodes – were a domain of Western manufacturers. Recently, however, Chinese firms have begun producing Generation 3 tubes marketed under model GIII18CW. These tubes are built in standard MX10160 and MX11769 formats.

Chinese GIII18CW tubes offer accessible Generation 3 night vision – but questions remain about their true performance and origin of some of the tubes produced under this Model Number. In this post, we’ll explore who makes these tubes, how they perform, and what other details have emerged, drawing on available data from dealers, technical forums, and research. The goal is a clear, technically sound overview for the night vision community.

This article presents a technical evaluation of North Night Vision Technology’s (NNVT) current (and older) US Manufactured Generation 3 image intensifier tubes, with specific emphasis on their comparative position against the established OMNIBUS U.S. military specifications. Particular attention is given to objective laboratory data, field performance, and limitations, thereby allowing users to understand both the strengths and constraints of these Intensifier Tubes in realistic applications.

However, prior to beginning any comparison, we will first explore the manufacturing bodies behind these tubes. 

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Manufacturers & Production Facilities

The primary producer of Chinese Generation 3 intensifiers is identified as North Night Vision Technology (NNVT) — formally North Night Vision Technology Co., Ltd. (Nanjing, Jiangsu, 210110, China). NNVT is a Chinese subsidiary of Norinco, specializing in the manufacture of image intensifier tubes, the core component of most night vision systems. NNVT has become recognized for producing cost-effective, Generation 2+ and Generation 3 tubes that provide competitive performance at accessible pricing.

From what has been identified. NNVT’s main facility is in Nanjing (Jiangsu Province), and in 2021 it spun off a North Night Vision Research Institute – Nanjing to focus on microchannel plate (MCP) and GaAs photocathode production. This indicates China has established domestic manufacturing capability for the critical components of Gen 3 tubes.

Other Manufacturers Marketing “GIII18C/ GIII18CW”-Type Tubes (Beyond NNVT)

Several China-based firms and trading houses advertise 18 mm Gen-3 GaAs tubes under “GIII18C/ GIII18CW” (or very similar) product names, typically in MX10160/MX11769 formats with P43 (green) or P45 (white) phosphor. These appear to be non-NNVT sources (or resellers/OEMs) and have been visible on B2B portals and specialty sites:

• FCT (FCT Globe) – lists GIII18C-S 18 mm Gen-3 tubes for PVS-14/PVS-31 with GaAs photocathode, autogated PSU, and P-43/P-45 options; positioned at ~FOM 1800+ “P-level.”

• Yunnan Yuanjin Optical (“OUTLOOK”) – markets Gen-3 white-phosphor MX10160 tubes (and Gen-2+), claiming higher SNR/MTF and autogating; also advertises “Gen-3” WP tubes via Alibaba storefronts with target FOM tiers (e.g., 1600+). 

• QCNV / assorted Made-in-China vendors – multiple listings for MX10160/MX11769 Gen-3 tubes at FOM 1600–2200+, with P43/P45 and autogate/manual-gain options (often branded QCNV). These look like aggregator/trader channels rather than primary fabs, but they demonstrate a broader commercial supply beyond NNVT. 

• Avantest (Made-in-China listing) – advertises MX10160 Gen-3 GaAs, FOM 1800+, P43/P45, autogate, aimed at PVS-14/31/GPNVG-18 use.

• Other B2B sellers (e.g., “ZhongYang” brand) – offer 18 mm Gen-3 tubes with published headline specs (e.g., SNR 30–32, photocathode 1800–2000 µA/lm, res 60–68 lp/mm, gain ≥10,000 cd/m²/lx), reinforcing the presence of additional non-NNVT pipelines.

Why Does This Matter?

Independent dealer testing has shown that some early GIII18CW-branded batches (sourced outside NNVT channels) suffered QC inconsistencies (dirty screens, artifacts, questionable datasheets), underscoring that “Generation 3” labeling alone doesn’t guarantee Western-equivalent performance. Vetting the actual origin and grading remains important when buying through secondary vendors.

Bottom line: While NNVT is the principal Chinese Gen-3 manufacturer, a growing ecosystem of other producers, OEMs, and trading houses now markets GIII18C/ GIII18CW-type tubes. If you’re sourcing tubes produced outside of NNVT through other dealers, insist on clear provenance to avoid surplus/fallout stock and to ensure you’re getting the performance tier you expect.

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Note on NNVT Generation 3 Tube Classification

The NNVT Generation 3 image intensifier tubes evaluated by Nocturnal Optics Australia have been informally grouped into two internal performance categories based on observed average test data and operational characteristics within the same product line.

These categories are referred to as:

• Class A – Approx. 2000+ FOM, representing higher-performing tubes with enhanced resolution, SNR, and photocathode sensitivity.

• Class B – Approx. 1500+ FOM, representing standard-performance tubes that still meet Generation 3 criteria but with lower average sensitivity and gain values.

It is important to note that “Class A” and “Class B” are internal designations only and not official manufacturers terminology. These terms are used by Nocturnal Optics Australia solely to distinguish between the two performance brackets commonly encountered in testing and field evaluation of NNVT Generation 3 tubes.

Image Description: A Chinese NNVT Generation 3 image intensifier tube (Class B, ~1500 FOM) undergoing a USAF 1951 Resolution Chart evaluation.

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NNVT Generation 3: Technical Overview

On paper, NNVT Generation 3 series tubes have impressive stated specifications. They utilize a Gallium Arsenide (Thin Ion Barrier Film) photocathode behind a standard 18mm input window, a high-gain MCP and represents a marked improvement over S25 multialkali photocathode designs typical of Generation 2+ technology.

The core specifications are as follows:

• Photocathode Type: Gallium Arsenide (GaAs), Thin-Filmed Ion Barrier

• Phosphor: P45 (White Phosphor), P43 (Green Phosphor) Variants Available 

• Format: MX-10160 (Autogated, Non-Manual Gain), MX-10160 (Autogated, Manual Gain 3-pad subformat), MX-11769 (Autogated, EGAC Pigtail for Manual Gain Control)

• Minimum FOM Range: 1500+ (Class B) – 2000+ (Class A)

• SNR: ≥ 23; tested 26–30+

• Resolution (lp/mm): ≥ 55 (tested up to 68)

• Photocathode Sensitivity: >1600 µA/lm (tested up to 2270 µA/lm)

• Luminance Gain (Manufacturer Specification): 12,000–20,000 (Max) cd/m²/lx

• Operational Voltage: 2.2–3.4 V

• Operational Lifetime (Manufacturer Rating): 10,000 hours

Compared with earlier NNVT offerings (NVT-4/5/7, Generation 2+), these tubes exhibit a substantial increase in photocathode sensitivity, resolution, and SNR, offering credible low-light performance at reduced cost relative to Western-made Generation 3 equivalents.

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Comparative Analysis: NNVT Generation 3 vs. U.S. OMNIBUS Standards (I–IX)

Disclaimer on Comparative Framework

For the purpose of this analysis, the NNVT Generation 3 image intensifier tubes have been compared against the U.S. OMNIBUS Generation 3 specifications (OMNI III–IX). The OMNIBUS series has long served as one of the most widely recognized benchmarks for assessing night vision tube performance, as it represents standardized contract specifications issued by the U.S. Department of Defence over successive iterations of Generation 3 Technology Image Intensifier Tubes.

By using OMNIBUS data as a reference point, we aim to provide readers with a structured and historically validated framework for evaluating NNVT tube performance. While direct one-to-one comparison is imperfect—given differences in test methodologies, manufacturing practices, and operational requirements—OMNIBUS specifications remain the most reliable yardstick for contextualizing non-U.S. manufactured tubes in terms of resolution, signal-to-noise ratio, photocathode sensitivity, and gain.

Label and phosphor screen of a OMNI VII (8) MX11769 Format image intensifier. The serial number has been redacted.

(Image Source: https://www.nv-intl.com/index.php/File:Omni_8_Label.png) 

It should be noted that NNVT Generation 3 tubes do not, at present, replicate or outperform metrics of current U.S. Generation 3 tubes (L3Harris, Elbit Systems), and performance expectations should be set accordingly. This comparative approach is intended purely as an analytical tool to help end-users, enthusiasts, and professionals better understand where NNVT tubes sit on the spectrum of historical and modern night vision capabilities.

Technical Data Disclaimer: OMNIBUS specifications are historically derived from U.S. military contract requirements. Values for Omni I–VII are based on consolidated data presented in Chrzanowski (2011) and BlackIce (AUNV) Forums, while later Omni VIII–IX specifications are compiled from a mixture of manufacturer data sheets, U.S. Army RDECOM/TARDEC briefings, and industry disclosures. This table is therefore a living reference, subject to refinement as new information emerges to reflect the most accurate understanding possible.. 

This comparison table is a work in progress. At present, there is no single, complete, and fully accurate source compiling OMNI Contract Intensifier Tubes. The data presented here is based & generalized on publicly available test sheets, manufacturer specifications, and published Omni-classification references. 

Sources: 1. Tube Data and Omni Classifications – AUNV Temporary Forum, 2. Review of night vision technology INVITED PAPER K. CHRZANOWSKI

Table 1. Revised Performance metrics of NNVT Generation 3 (Class B & Class A) image intensifier tubes compared with OMNIBUS I–IX MX10160 contract specifications - V1.02

 

Additional Notes on Presented Data

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Modulation Transfer Function (MTF) Data

Nocturnal Optics Australia is currently conducting ongoing enquiries with both NNVT’s manufacturing representatives and affiliated component suppliers to obtain verified Modulation Transfer Function (MTF) data for the Generation 3 image intensifier product line.

At present, MTF performance values for NNVT’s Gen 3 tubes have not been publicly released or independently validated. Establishing these figures is essential for accurately quantifying image contrast response across spatial frequencies, and for enabling precise comparison with Western OMNIBUS-standard tubes.

Once verified MTF results become available, this report will be updated to include those metrics.

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Gain Conversion Disclaimer

Gain values were originally specified in foot-Lamberts per foot-candle (fL/fc) under OMNIBUS contracts. These have been converted to SI units (cd/m²/lx) for consistency, with the original fL/fc values retained in brackets for historical accuracy and cross-reference.

In night-vision and electro-optical testing, luminance gain expresses the ratio between:

• Output luminance – brightness of the phosphor screen (cd/m² or fL)

• Input illuminance – light intensity at the photocathode (lx or fc)

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Two Common Systems of Units

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Conversions Used

From OMNIBUS (fL/fc) → SI (cd/m²/lx):

$$\text{cd/m²/lx} = \frac{\text{fL/fc}}{3.14}$$

From SI (cd/m²/lx) → OMNIBUS (fL/fc):

$$\text{fL/fc} = \text{cd/m²/lx} \times 3.14$$

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Discussion of Key Metrics

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1. Resolution and Signal-to-Noise Ratio (SNR)

The NNVT Generation 3 Class B (~1500 FOM) tubes demonstrate resolution performance between 57–60 lp/mm, with a signal-to-noise ratio (SNR) of approximately 26–27.8. These values place them on par with mid-era OMNI IV–V specifications and represent a substantial improvement over previous NNVT Gen 2+ models.

By comparison, the Class A (~2000 FOM) tubes achieve 68 lp/mm resolution and SNR values of 29.5–29.6, corresponding closely to late-era OMNI VII and early OMNI VIII performance tiers.

These results indicate that NNVT tubes are capable of high image fidelity, moderate contrast stability, and low electronic noise levels. However, U.S.-manufactured OMNIBUS VIII–IX tubes retain a measurable advantage in uniformity and consistency, particularly under dynamic lighting conditions and long-term operation, due to tighter control of microchannel plate (MCP) production tolerances and photocathode deposition uniformity (how evenly the light-sensitive material (like GaAs) is applied across the surface of the image intensifier’s photocathode) compared to other manufacturing practices that would be likely employed by NNVT. 

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2. Photocathode Sensitivity

The photocathode sensitivity of NNVT Generation 3 image intensifiers marks one of the most significant technological advancements in the company’s manufacturing history.

• Measured Performance:

  • Class B Tubes: 1630–2115 µA/lm (Comparable to OMNIBUS V–VI, typically 1800–2000 µA/lm)

  • Class A Tubes: 2200–2270 µA/lm (Approaching OMNI VII–VIII and nearing OMNI IX baseline, typically ~2200–2400+ µA/lm)

This improvement highlights a significant enhancement in Gallium Arsenide (GaAs) photocathode design and manufacturing consistency.

Earlier NNVT designs (Gen 2+ and transitional Gen 3 prototypes) typically exhibited 900–1300 µA/lm, resulting in noticeably weaker photon conversion and poorer low-light performance. The current generation now delivers nearly double that sensitivity range, directly translating into improved light detection capability.

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3. Luminance Gain (cd/m²/lx)

A critical distinction between NNVT and Western-manufactured Gen 3 tubes lies in luminance gain performance — the amplification factor relating output brightness on the phosphor screen to input illuminance on the photocathode.

While NNVT tubes exhibit adequate luminance gain for most field applications, they remain 30–50% lower than current OMNIBUS VIII–IX standards.

This results in dimmer overall image presentation and slightly reduced contrast visibility in complex lighting environments (e.g., under tree canopy or overcast starlight).

Despite this, the high SNR and strong photocathode sensitivity partially offset the lower gain, maintaining overall usability for both professional and civilian applications.

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Field Evaluation: NNVT Gen 3 (2000+ FOM, P45, Autogated)

A practical field evaluation was conducted using two NNVT Generation 3 Class A image intensifier tubes (2000+ FOM), each integrated into an Argus PVS-31 binocular housing. The purpose of this test was to assess real-world imaging performance, including resolution, signal-to-noise characteristics, and gain behavior, under both urban illumination (street and artificial lighting) and rural low-light conditions (starlight, partial canopy cover).

Building on these findings, Nocturnal Optics Australia intends to expand testing through a series of controlled low-light evaluations using a diverse range of tubes across different performance brackets and manufacturers.

Tube 1 (SN: 4004505):

• Integral Sensitivity: 2270 µA/lm

• Resolution: 68 lp/mm

• SNR: 29.6

• Gain: 16,500 cd/m²/lx

• FOM: 2013

Tube 2 (SN: 4004432):

• Integral Sensitivity: 2213 µA/lm

• Resolution: 68 lp/mm

• SNR: 29.5

• Gain: 16,010 cd/m²/lx

• FOM: 2006

Urban/Artificial Lighting Environment

Scene Context
Imagery was captured in a metropolitan setting with artificial illumination from signage, building-mounted lights, and reflective architectural surfaces. This scenario provides a rigorous test of autogating stability, bloom control, and contrast handling in environments containing direct point sources and high-contrast boundaries.

• Autogating effectively minimized bloom from streetlights and signage, maintaining edge sharpness and preventing overexposure.

• Fine structural details, including signage lettering and architectural edges, were well resolved.

• Noise was present in darker shadow regions, but gross detail remained intact.

Rural/Low-Light Environment (60–90 Minutes Post-Sunset, Tree Canopy, Minor Light Pollution)

In rural conditions beneath a tree canopy, imagery remained clear, with ground features and canopy textures clearly resolved.

• • Despite high SNR values (~29.5), a slight increase in visible noise was noted, likely due to the phosphor screen’s limited ability to fully render the photocathode’s strong signal at very low luminance levels.

  • Major terrain features, canopy details, and environmental textures were identifiable, ensuring the tubes remained highly usable under extremely low-light conditions.

  • The muted brightness, compared to U.S. OMNIBUS VI–VIII tubes, was consistent with the lower luminance gain ceiling of ~16,500 cd/m²/lx.

Image Output Analysis – NNVT Gen 3 (2000+ FOM, White Phosphor, Autogated)

1. Resolution and Spatial Detail

• Central resolution performance was strong, with fine structures such as branches, ground vegetation, and signage text clearly distinguishable.

• System resolution (68 lp/mm) aligned with field observations, confirming consistent detail resolution.

• Edge sharpness across the field of view remained stable, with minimal distortion.

2. Signal-to-Noise Ratio (SNR)

• Laboratory values (~29.5–29.6) were reflected in operational imagery.

• Noise was evident in shadowed areas, but did not obscure gross detail.

• Compared with OMNIBUS IV–V standards, NNVT output is visibly cleaner, though scintillation remains noticeable under the darkest conditions.

3. Photocathode Sensitivity and Luminance Gain

• Sensitivity exceeded 2200 µA/lm, supporting strong low-light capture.

• Image brightness was comparatively muted in terms of specification due to the lower luminance gain ceiling (~16,010-16,500 cd/m²/lx) relative to ~12,700–25,400 cd/m²/lx typically observed in OMNIBUS VI–VIII tubes.
  

4. Contrast and Bloom Control

• Autogating managed artificial light sources effectively, limiting overexposure.

• Tonal gradients between foliage, ground, and sky were well preserved, supporting depth perception and object separation.
  

5. Halo and Bloom Characteristics

• Bright point sources generated controlled bloom, without significant spill into adjacent features.

• Slightly less refined than OMNIBUS VII performance (~0.7 mm halo), but within acceptable limits for practical use.

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Transparency on NNVT Generation 3

It is important to provide a balanced and transparent evaluation of the NNVT Generation 3 image intensifier tubes.

Recent testing and comparative data indicate that NNVT’s current Generation 3 models (Class A and Class B) deliver a substantial leap in performance over earlier NNVT designs such as the NVT-4, NVT-5, and NVT-7 (Gen 2/2+), with meaningful improvements across resolution, SNR, and photocathode sensitivity.

Key findings include:

• Performance Alignment:
  NNVT Generation 3 tubes now approach OMNI V–VII levels in resolution (57–68 lp/mm) and SNR (26–29.6), with photocathode sensitivity figures between 1630–2270 µA/lm, rivaling OMNI VI–VIII standards.

• Luminance Gain Limitations:
  Despite the strong optical performance, NNVT tubes continue to exhibit limited luminance gain. Typical measured values range from 12,000–17,000 cd/m²/lx, compared to 19,000–28,000 cd/m²/lx in OMNI IX and 12,700–25,000 cd/m²/lx in OMNI VI–VIII. This limitation results in lower perceived image brightness under low-light or overcast conditions, even when resolution and SNR remain competitive.

• Technological Features:
  Modern features such as autogating and P45 (White Phosphor) screens substantially enhance contrast handling, narrowing the practical gap between NNVT and Western thin-film designs in real-world usability. However, the lack of manual gain control and absence of EGAC/MX-11769 format variants still limit system adaptability and user configurability in certain operational contexts.

In practical terms, NNVT Generation 3 sits within a performance window comparable to OMNI V through early OMNI VIII, offering strong optical performance and reliability at a significantly reduced cost.

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Conclusion

NNVT Generation 3 image intensifiers mark a substantive step forward in affordable night-vision capability, which has more closely bridged the gap between legacy Gen 2/2+ systems and US Military Specification OMNIBUS Western Generation 3 solutions.

From a practical performance standpoint, while overall luminance gain remains a constraint, these tubes deliver competitive resolution, high SNR, and strong photocathode sensitivity—placing typical units within the OMNI IV–VII envelope, with select Class A samples edging into early OMNI VIII territory.

We will continue to monitor and validate performance as additional evidence emerges—drawing on technical research forums, user channels, and dealer evaluations—and will update this analysis as verifiable data becomes available.

At Nocturnal Optics Australia, all NNVT tubes are supplied with clear, upfront disclosures about capabilities and limitations, ensuring end-users receive systems that align with their operational requirements and can purchase with confidence and integrity.