The night vision device can be either an optical or a digital device. There are quite a few varieties of the device, depending on the purpose, they serve for observation or accurate shooting in the dark.
General information
Before choosing a night vision device, you should pay attention to such indicators as dimensions, range and viewing angle, as well as the ability to focus on a specific target.
Such devices can be not only built-in, but also removable, serving for additional lighting at night. Depending on the amount of incoming light into the lens, choose its diameter.
Its maximum value is 60 mm. Another important characteristic is the viewing angle, where the highest indicator is x1. The clarity of the observed image depends on the generation of the device. The newer it is, the higher the light gain.
Night vision devices: description, principle of operation
Today, this equipment is quite popular. Many people wonder how to choose a night vision device. First you need to decide on the type of device.
- Monoculars. This device is the most popular not only among amateurs, but also among professionals. Outwardly, it looks like a telescope that has a lens. Thanks to the eyepiece, you can observe various objects at a great distance. The simplest and cheapest are first-class monoculars. They are able to see the object at a distance of 300 meters. The next class belongs to the professional type with a detection range of 600 meters. The latest generation of monoculars are equipped with a special rangefinder eyepiece, and also have a large viewing angle.
- Night vision goggles. This device is a binocular built into a special mask. She puts on her head. The main advantage is that the hands remain completely free. Therefore, glasses are used by drivers, rescuers, climbers, etc. As a rule, an adjustable illuminator is built into the glasses, due to which the viewing range is 600 m. Their main feature is the lack of multiplicity. Thus, at a certain distance, you can see the clear outline of objects.
- Binoculars. They are no less popular than previous types, and is also available in two versions. Such a universal apparatus is capable of solving many monitoring tasks in the dark. This is a great night vision device for hunting. It is used when performing search operations, as well as for monitoring a specific territory. Compared to previous types, binoculars have a huge multiplicity, so the range is much higher. Their specifications vary by generation. There are also binoculars with a built-in video camera capable of recording all movements that occur.
- Sights. This is a special class of night vision devices, which is used not only for observation, but also for accurate shooting. They are installed on different types of weapons. If a person has sufficient experience, then the shots will be accurate. Like all models, sights are divided into generations. Representatives of the first generation are able to recognize the target at a distance of more than 150 m. If you look at the sights more modern, they are able to see clear contours at a distance of 900 m and above. They are available in two types. The digital night vision device differs from the optical in its design.
Design
Before choosing a night vision device, you must understand its design. It does not affect the viewing range, but makes the process more comfortable. If you change the structural elements of devices, then objects may have a low definition.
Only part of the image intensifier tube will be visible in the lens, and its replacement is quite expensive. For sights, an important point is the presence of a sufficient distance from the device to the eye so as not to get injured when shooting.
Most domestic manufacturers perform high-quality devices with glass optics, but such a device has a high price. There are also cheap devices with plastic elements, but the quality will already be much worse.
What is an infrared illuminator?
This device serves to illuminate a specific area or object, so that it is more convenient to observe it. They must be installed when there is not enough natural light. They may consist of a laser, LEDs or other lamps. The laser adversely affects human vision. Therefore, laser illuminators are often prohibited. More secure are LEDs and lamps, usually with a power of 12 mW.
The most powerful illuminator is produced on the domestic market - 75mW. Thanks to him, the inspection range increased several times. If this device is not integrated into the night vision device, then it can be purchased separately. Basically, the reviews of those who use such an infrared illuminator are only positive.
Main characteristics
Among night vision devices, the following pattern exists. The smaller the dimensions, the greater the range of inspection. Particular attention must be paid to sights. First of all, their design must withstand the loads that arise when shooting.
In this case, the sight should not stray from its original position. In addition, the target should be clearly visible in all operating conditions. Most sights on the market do not meet the requirements for impact characteristics. They can be installed on certain weapons upon receipt of a license.
Purchasing Tips
To choose the right night vision device, you must adhere to the following rules:
- if the device will not be used in professional activities, then it is not necessary to select a device with improved technical characteristics, since the cost depends on this;
- for the image to be of high quality, you should choose a device with an opening of at least 1.5;
- when buying a device, you should pay attention to manufacturers, carry out a transaction where a warranty card is issued;
- Before purchasing, it is better to test the device to understand whether it is suitable for you or not;
- Before buying, you need to check its performance.
Night vision device: price
The cost depends on the technical characteristics, as well as on the type of device. So, the pricing policy of these devices is in such limits:
- monoculars from 1000 to 40 000 rubles;
- night vision goggles from 1000 to 180 thousand rubles;
- binoculars from 20,000 to 50,000 rubles;
- sights from 30,000 to 600 thousand rubles.
Conclusion
Many people who use night vision devices leave good reviews.
Each of the species is designed to improve the quality of observation in the dark. Before buying, you must clearly know for what purpose the device will be used. If for amateur observation, then a night vision device, the price of which is lower, is suitable. For professional activities, it is worth purchasing devices with improved technical characteristics.