Image intensifier tubes in night vision optics amplify light and convert photons to electrons through a series of processes.

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.

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.

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 goggles and other night vision devices have a wide range of 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 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.

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.

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.

IMPORTANT: The below specifications are the average performance charts listed by the manufacturer and do not accurately reflect the exact performance levels of individual tubes, slight variations of specs will present. All intensifiers will include its individual spec sheet.

Handpicking: If you require specific specifications, please add them into your order notes at checkout and we will request the manufacturer to handpick tubes that are as close to your requirements as possible. 

 

NVT-7 (Class A):

FOM:  1800(Min) - 2000 (Max)

SNR: 28 

Resolution: 64 lp/mm 

High Light Res: 54 lp/mm

Gain: 10000 - 20000   

Phosphor: P43 (GP)/ P45 (WP) 

Power Supply: Auto-gating + Variable Gain

Voltage: 2.2-3.4v

Weight: 80 grams

 

NVT-5 (Class B): 

FOM: 1600 (Min) -1800 (Max)

SNR: 25 

Resolution: 64 lp/mm 

High Light Res: 54 lp/mm

Gain: 8000 - 12000    

Phosphor: P43 (GP)/ P45 (WP) 

Power Supply: Auto-gating + Variable Gain

Voltage: 2.2-3.4v

Weight: 80 grams  

 

NVT-4 (Class C): 

FOM: 1400 (Min) -1600 (Max)

SNR: 23 

Resolution: 60 lp/mm 

High Light Res: -  lp/mm

Gain: 8000 - 12000    

Phosphor: P43 (GP)/ P45 (WP) 

Power Supply: Fixed Gain  

Voltage: 2.2-3.4v

Weight: 80 grams

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.

Night Vision (Image Intensification) and Thermal Imaging Technologies are considered sensitive/dual-use devices under the Australian Defence Strategic Goods List.

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

However, UMNVD Housing Kits (and other Night Vision 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).

The export of Image Intensifier Tubes and Thermal Imaging Equipment is subject to regulations imposed by the Defence Export Controls (DEC) in Australia.

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.

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

Failure to obtain the necessary permit or license for exporting Image Intensifier Tubes and Thermal Imaging Systems 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.

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.

However, when it comes to exporting them, the proper permit or license must be obtained to ensure compliance with the regulations and to maintain the security and integrity of these technologies.

All items manufactured by Nocturnal Optics come standard with a Lifetime Warranty.

This means that if any component of your housing, which is originally manufactured and supplied by Nocturnal Optics, needs replacement at any point during the lifespan of the product, we will provide a new component free of charge (excluding shipping fees on behalf of the customer).

Please read through the Shipping, Warranties and Returns page under the Store Policies navigation bar on our page for more information.

Refer to the Contact Page for distributor inquiries on Nocturnal Optics OEM products.

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) 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.

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.