|
|
|
|
|
 
|
|
1st Generation
Technology: Gen 1 technology is currently the most popular type
of night vision in the world. Utilizing the basic principles, a 1st generation will
amplify the existing light several thousand times letting you clearly see in the
dark. These units provide a bright and sharp image at a low cost, which is perfect,
whether you are boating, observing wildlife, or providing security for your home. A
Gen 1 device will typically reach about 75 yards in pitch-black conditions, and much
further when ambient light is present. When using a 1st Gen device, you may notice
some of the following characteristics inherent to Gen 1 Technology, all of which are
normal:
1) A slight high-pitched whine may occur when the unit is on,
2) Some geometric distortion may appear around the periphery, and
3) When you turn a 1st Gen off it may glow green for some time.
|
2nd Generation
Technology: Gen 2 technology is primarily used by law
enforcement or for professional applications, because the cost of a 2nd Gen unit is
typically $500 to $1000 more then a 1st gen. The main difference between a 1st and a
2nd generation unit is the addition of a micro-channel plate, commonly referred to as a
MCP. The MCP works as an electron amplifier and is placed directly behind the
photocathode. The MCP consists of millions of short parallel glass tubes. When
the electrons pass through these short tubes, thousands more electrons are released.
This extra process allows 2nd generation units to amplify the light many more times then
1st generation giving you a brighter and sharper image. In pitch-black conditions, a
Gen 2 device will reach 100 yards. Of course, the viewing distance is greatly
increased when ambient light is present.
|
|
 |
3rd Generation
Technology: Gen 3 technology is the latest in night vision
technology. By adding a gallium arsenide layer to the photocathode a brighter and
sharper image is achieved. Gen 3 devices excell in very dark environments where Gen
1 and Gen 2 devices are limited. In pitch black conditions, a Gen 3 device will
typically reach at least 150 yards, and frequently further, depending on the
backdrop. Image brightness and resolution will be compareable to 4th Gen, though
extra bright areas will have an apparent halo that is significantly reduced in 4th Gen
products. Unfortunately, Gen 3 technology is vastly more expensive than 1st or 2nd
generation. Typically a 3rd generation unit will cost $2000 or more.
|
4th Generation
Technology: Gen 4 Gated Filmless technology represents the
biggest technological breakthrough in image intensification of the past 10 years. By
removing the ion barrier film and Gating the system, Gen 4 demonstrates substantial
increases in target detection range and resolution, particularly at extremely low light
levels. In pitch-black conditions, a Gen 4 device will typically reach 200 yards or
further, depending on the backdrop. With a moon sliver overhead, a Gen 4 device may
provide good vision to 1000 yds or more, depending on the environment.
With significant improvement in contrast level and in performance under all light
conditions, 4th generation represents the top of the line performance in the night vision
market. The filmless MCP provides a higher signal-to-noise ratio than Gen 3,
resulting in better image quality (less scintillation) under low-light conditions.
The gated power supply further improves image resolution under high light conditions, and
the reduced halo minimizes interference from bright light sources. These
improvements also substantially increase the detection range of the systems.
Note: The term 4th generation is used/accepted among Night Vision manufactures to describe
gated filmless tubes. However, this designation is widely debated and is currently
referred to as Filmless & Gated image intensifiers by the US Military. |
 |
How Night Vision Works | Compare
Night Vision Generations
Shop Night Vision Products
|
**Thanks to the folks at American Technologies Network for most of this explanation. |
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
