Night Vision Technology Generations

Image intensifier tube technology has advanced over five decades through a progression of 'generations.' Understanding these generations is crucial in selecting the optimal night vision product for your specific requirements.

Each generation (Gen) is identified by unique technological advancements. Currently, there are four image intensifier device generations: Generation 0 through Generation 3.

Generation 0 - The first night vision products (Gen 0, 1950s) functioned on image conversion rather than intensification, requiring an invisible infrared (IR) light source for illuminating the target area.

Generation 1 - The 1960s 'starlight scopes' (Vietnam era) had three image intensifier tubes connected in a series. These systems were heavy and bulky. The Gen 1 image was clear at the center but distorted around the edges.

Generation 2 - The MCP electron multiplier sparked Gen 2 growth in the 1970s. The “gain” from MCP removed back-to-back tubes, enhancing size and image quality. It also paved the way for handheld and helmet-mounted goggles.

Nocturnal Optics Australia mainly offers Generation 2+ Image Intensifier Tube Night Vision Systems.

Generation 3 - Two major advancements characterized development of Gen 3 Night Vision in the late 1970s and early 1980s: the gallium arsenide (GaAs) photocathode and the ion-barrier film on the MCP. The GaAs photocathode enabled detection of objects at greater distances under much darker conditions. The ion-barrier film increased the operational life of the tube from 2,000 hours (Gen 2) to 10,000 hours (Gen 3).

When discussing night vision technology, you also may hear the term ”Omnibus” or “OMNI.” The U.S. Military procures night vision devices through multi-year/multi-product contracts referred to as “Omnibus”—abbreviated as “OMNI.” For each successive OMNI contract, ITT has provided Gen 3 devices with increasingly higher performance. Therefore, Gen 3 devices may be further defined as OMNI I, II, etc.

Modern/ Current US-Produced Generation 3 Night Vision Tubes stand as the height of Night Vision Image Intensification Technology, classified as a controlled Defence Technology under International Traffic In Arms Regulations (ITAR) and Export Administration Regulations (EAR), resulting in considerable difficulty in obtaining them internationally.

How Does Night Vision Technology Work?

Image Intensifier Tubes in night vision devices operate by amplify light and convert photons to electrons through a series of processes.

1. Collection of Ambient Light

First, these tubes collect and gather the available ambient light or other light sources present in the surroundings. The photons, which are particles of light, are then captured and absorbed by a photocathode within the image intensifier tube.

2. Acceleration Of Electrons

Once the photons are absorbed, they release electrons through a photoelectric effect. This effect occurs when the energy from the photons causes electrons to be ejected from the atoms in the photocathode material. These released electrons are then accelerated towards a micro-channel plate (MCP) within the tube.

The micro-channel plate consists of a multitude of tiny channels, each coated with a material that emits secondary electrons upon impact. As the accelerated electrons from the photocathode strike the micro-channel plate, they collide with the channel walls, causing the emission of additional electrons. This collision and emission process occurs thousands of times, resulting in a significant amplification of the electron signal.

3. The Phosphor Screen and Visible Amplified Image

The amplified electron signal, now containing many more electrons than the original photons, proceeds to strike a phosphor screen at the end of the image intensifier tube. When the high-energy electrons hit the phosphor, they cause it to emit light. This light is then collected by a series of lenses and filters, ultimately forming a visible image for the user.

Night Vision Devices and Thermal Imaging Systems have a wide range of applications.

Civilian Applications

One common use of these devices is in civilian settings, where they are often used for activities such as hunting, wildlife observation, and surveillance at home. For outdoor enthusiasts, night vision technology can be a game changer, allowing them to engage in activities like camping, hiking, night photography, or birdwatching with enhanced visibility in low-light conditions.

Law Enforcement

Law enforcement teams also benefit from the use of night vision technology. It provides them with a tactical advantage during nighttime operations, enabling them to navigate and conduct surveillance in the dark.

This technology allows law enforcement to gather valuable information and safely survey dangerous situations where there may not be a readily available bright light source.

Land Search and Rescue/ EMS Applications

Night Vision technologies are incredibly useful in land search and rescue applications. They enhance visibility in low-light conditions, allowing search and rescue teams to effectively navigate and locate individuals in challenging environments.

This ensures Land SAR Teams can identify potential hazards, obstacles, or signs of distress that may not be visible without night vision capabilities. All of these factors contribute to more successful and timely rescues.

Image Intensifier Tube (IIT)

An image intensifier tube is the core component of a night vision device, responsible for converting incoming light into amplified electrons and then back into photons to create an enhanced image.

It allows users to see in low-light environments by amplifying available light.

Figure of Merit (FOM)

Figure of Merit, or FOM, is a metric used to evaluate the performance of image intensifier tubes. It is calculated by multiplying the resolution and signal-to-noise ratio values of the tube.

FOM serves as a benchmark for comparing different night vision systems and determining their performance levels.

Resolution (RES)

Resolution refers to the ability of an image intensifier tube or night vision system to distinguish fine details and differences in objects. It is measured in Line Pairs per Millimeter (lp/mm) and indicates the tube's ability to provide a clear and detailed image.

A higher resolution value indicates better image quality and the ability to resolve finer details.

Signal to Noise Ratio (SNR)

A measure of the ratio between the true signal (the light being picked up by the photocathode) and the noise (the scintillation produced by the tube). A higher SNR indicates a greater amount of signal compared to noise and results in better low-light performance.

SNR is multiplied with resolution to calculate the FOM.

Equivalent Background Illumination (EBI)

The light observed through a night vision device with the image tube on and no light on the photocathode. EBI is impacted by temperature, with a warmer device resulting in increased background illumination. EBI is quantified in lumens per square centimeter (lm/cm2).

The lower the value, the better. The EBI level determines the lowest light level at which an image can be detected. Below this light level, objects will be masked by the EBI.

Gain

Gain, which stands for brightness gain, luminous gain or luminance gain, is the measurement of the increase in brightness between the input and the output of an image intensifier tube.

The gain of an image intensifier is not constant, but increases as the light level decreases.

There are two different units used to specify gain, imperial and metric.

Imperial

The imperial units used to specify gain are foot-lambert per foot-candle (fL/fc).

They are utilized by manufacturers, retailers, and government organizations in the United States. Regardless, their widespread usage extends beyond the nation's boundaries because of its considerable influence on the global night vision industry.

Metric

The metric units for specifying gain are candela per square-meter per lux (cd/m2/lx).

Most prominent for employing metric units in all specifications is the European image intensifier manufacturer Photonis and the Chinese IIT Manufacturer, NNVT.

Autogain / Automatic Brightness Control (ABC)

The ABC feature in modern image intensifier tubes automatically adjusts the gain in brighter environments to provide users with a consistent viewing experience.

It's uncertain if this function also safeguards the intensifier from potential damage, like burn-in, in exceptionally bright conditions.

Variable Gain / Manual Gain / External Gain Adjustment Circuit (EGAC)

The external gain adjustment circuit (EGAC), commonly known as manual gain, allows users to adjust the gain of an image intensifier using a built-in potentiometer. MX-11769 is the popular tube format featuring manual gain, along with the gain 3-pad contact subformat of MX-10160.

Even though tubes with manual gain provide users control, they also include autogain, as these features are not mutually exclusive.

Photocathode

The photocathode is the first layer of an image intensifier tube and plays a crucial role in converting light energy into electrical energy. It absorbs photons and releases electrons, initiating the amplification process.

Generation 3 tubes often use Gallium Arsenide (GaAs) photocathodes, known for improved resolution and light sensitivity.

Photocathode Sensitivity (µA/lm)

Photocathode sensitivity measures how effectively a photocathode converts light energy into electrical energy. It is expressed in micro-amps per lumen (µA/lm), and higher sensitivity indicates a more efficient conversion process.

Microchannel Plate (MCP)

The microchannel plate is the second layer of an image intensifier tube. It consists of millions of channels or holes that amplify the electrons released by the photocathode.

The number of channels in the MCP is a critical factor in determining the resolution of the tube.

Phosphor Screen

The final component (or layer) in an image intensifier tube is the phosphor screen. The phosphor screen is a screen coated in phosphors. The phosphors on the phosphor screen are stimulated by the multiplied electrons from the microchannel plate.

This causes the phosphor screen to convert the electrons back to photons, or light, which produces the image that is seen by the user.

Diopter

The unit of measure used to define eye correction or the refractive power of a lens. Typically, changes to an optical eyepiece account for variations in individual eyesight. The majority of ITT systems offer a +2 to -6 diopter range.

Collimation

Collimation, in night vision, aligns the output images produced by a device with each other and/or the real field of view.

For monocular devices, collimation is less significant as the user does not perceive a slight image offset against the dark environment.

Binocular devices require collimation between pods for accurate observation, making real field of view less important for tasks like pilot navigation. If the two pods are misaligned, the best case is some degree of discomfort as the user's eyes have to adjust to looking into two different directions, and in the worst case simply cause the user to see double.

 

We Recommend High Quality Lithium Batteries.

Using lithium batteries for night vision devices is highly recommended due to their superior performance and reliability. Lithium batteries offer several advantages over other types of batteries, especially when it comes to powering night vision equipment.

Additionally, it is crucial to remove the batteries from the night vision device when not in use. This helps to prevent the risk of battery leakage, which can damage the equipment and potentially render it unusable.

Proper battery maintenance, including regular checks for corrosion and replacement of worn-out batteries, is essential for ensuring the longevity and reliable operation of night vision devices.

Absolutely.

Nocturnal Optics Australia takes pride in supporting Military, Law-Enforcement and EMS members. As such, we offer a 4% discount on all of our listed products for Current and Former Military, Law-Enforcement, EMS members.

To acquire your discount code, please email admin@nocturnalopticsau.com with valid proof (ID, DCAC, DVA Card or work email) of Military, Veteran, LE, EMS status.

(Proof of status is only used for verification purposes, any provided information is promptly and securely deleted from our systems after verification is completed for security purposes.)

Once validated, you will be sent an email containing your special discount code that can be entered into the checkout section of our website before placing your order.

Our team will verify your credentials and promptly send you the unique discount code for your use.

For International Export (Outside Of Australia) - Yes.

Night Vision (Image Intensification) and Thermal Imaging Technologies as well as other various Infrared Strobe/ Aiming Devices are considered sensitive/dual-use devices under the Australian Defence Strategic Goods List.

Exporting these types of items from Australia requires an Australian Defence Export Permit.

Accessories and Components Without Intensifier Tubes (Outside Of Australia) - No.

Housing Kits without Intensifier Tubes are currently not controlled and can be freely exported from Australia as determined by the Defence Exports Control Office (DECO).

For Importing (Inside To Australia) - No.

As per the Australian Border Force Prohibited Goods List, Night Vision Components and Intensifier Tubes can be imported into Australia without any restrictions.

With a Permit - Yes.

The export of Image Intensifier Tubes and Thermal Imaging Equipment is subject to regulations imposed by the Defence Export Control Office and Australian Border Force.

These regulations are in place to control the export of dual-use technologies, which have both civilian and military applications.

In order to export controlled dual-use technologies like Intensifier Tubes and Thermal Imaging Devices outside of Australia, individuals or companies are required to obtain a permit or license from the Defence Export Controls Office and follow the correct Procedures for export through the Australian Border Force.

This permit or license ensures that the export complies with the regulations and guidelines set by the DEC.

Without a Permit - No.

Failure to obtain the necessary permit or license for exporting Image Intensifier Tubes and Thermal Imaging Systems/ other DSGL goods may result in penalties, including fines and other legal consequences. It is crucial for exporters to fully understand and adhere to the regulations surrounding the export of these technologies to avoid any violations.

Importing Into Australia - Yes.

It is worth mentioning that while there are controls on the export of Image Intensifier Tubes and Thermal Imaging Systems, these technologies can be imported into Australia without restrictions currently.

Other Weapon Accessory and Laser items and related technologies may need to be reviewed within the Defence Trade Control Act and the ABF Customs Prohibited Imports List.

Only Those Listed On The Defence Trade Control Act (DTCA) 2012 - Foreign Countries List

As part of our obligations to Australian Defence Export Controls and relevant treaties, Nocturnal Optics only ships Export Controlled technologies (Night Vision Tubes, Thermal Imaging Equipment, Laser Illuminators, etc.) to countries specified on the Defence Trade Control Act (DTCA) 2012 - Foreign Countries List (FCL). - https://www.legislation.gov.au/F2016L00548/latest/text

These countries include:

Austria, Belgium, Bulgaria, Canada, Czech Republic, Denmark, Finland, France, Germany, Greece, Hungary, Ireland, Italy, Japan, Luxembourg, Netherlands, New Zealand, Norway, Poland, Portugal, Spain, Sweden, Switzerland, United Kingdom and the United States.

Yes, Subject to Case-By-Case Consideration/Approval.

Nocturnal Optics Australia has the ability to offer advanced night vision goggles, scopes, and thermal imaging devices that enhance situational awareness and improve operational effectiveness.

Please refer to the Contact Page on our website or email admin@nocturnalopticau.com for procurement inquiries.

In Theory - Yes.

Navigating the US International Traffic in Arms Regulations (ITAR) and Export Administration Regulations (EAR) can be a complex process for an Australian business seeking approval to supply US-Controlled Night Vision technology within Australia.

In Current Practice - No.

Although feasible, this would be a highly complex goal to achieve from legal, financial, and logistical standpoints.

The objective is to achieve this goal in the distant future, aiming to provide US Generation 3 Intensifier Tubes exclusively for use in Australia.

However, we must clarify that it is currently not feasible for Nocturnal Optics Australia.

Not At This Time - TBA in Future.

Nocturnal Optics Australia is deeply grateful for the interests of dedicated persons who have expressed heightened interest in being involved with this project.

Unfortunately at this time, we are unable to take on additional members due to financial and logistical constraints, but we urge those who may be interested (Former Military Veterans and Law-Enforcement members would be highly desired) in a unique role working within the Australian/ International Night Vision industry to keep an eye on this space for further developments.

Areas of Interest/ Future Opportunities:

• IT Systems and Website Development
• Inventory Procurement, Warehousing/ Logistics and Finances
• CAD Design/ Product Engineering and Design
• Product Evaluation, Testing and Certification
• Multimedia (Film, Photography, Editing and Graphic Design)
• Marketing (Social Media and Advertising)
• Defence Exports/ Legal Compliance