Night Vision Wiki - User contributions [en]

PFM

2025-04-05T13:24:23Z

EP33 alt account: Fixed this article, contained lots of wrong info

The PFM is a night vision device of Soviet origin meant to help in the use of artillery aiming circles. . The kit includes some pods similar to those on PNW-2, using a tube which has a reticle similar to the one on the NSP-2, a reticle illumination unit, a protractor utilizing Soviet mils and spare bulbs for the aforementioned unit. Variants of this device were also produced with German labeling for the NVA. The device comes in a large metal box, with the individual components listed on a piece of paper on the lid of the box itself. A high voltage converter box with a mount for the individual cable pods is also supplied. How this converter differs from others as the ones on the PNW-2 is unclear. The transformer is powered by a 12v input
[[Category:Devices]]

P8079HP

2025-01-26T18:45:07Z

EP33 alt account: added 1PN54 info

[[File:P8079hp.jpg|thumb|P8079HP Image intensifier]]
The P8079HP is a three-stage cascade inverted first generation image intensifier tube with a P20 phosphor screen and integrated power supply, It requires a voltage of 6.75V, though operational performance is maintained until 4.5V.

Although very large (196mm length, 70mm diameter), and with a strong pincushion effect in the output image, due to the three cascading stages the performance is comparable to later generation image intensifiers.
{{TubeSpecs|phosphor=P20|res-typ=40|lum-sens-typ=300|screen-dia=25}}<ref>https://www.nightlase.com.au/content/docs/EEV_P8079HP.pdf</ref>

=== EP-16 ===
A Soviet/Russian copy of this tube called EP-16 exists. All known examples are made by [[MELZ]].<ref>flyback.org.ru/viewtopic.php?t=6343&start=200&sid=bbd6a818f82e730ee9a61457895e8aec</ref> This tube is used in 1PN54.

== References ==
<references />
[[Category:Formats]]

MX-9644

2025-01-26T18:44:04Z

EP33 alt account: started page, too lazy to finish now, will be done sometime in the future

The MX9644 is a tube format of American origin.
[[Category:Formats]]

P8079HP

2025-01-26T18:17:57Z

EP33 alt account: added Soviet/Russian EP-16 copy

[[File:P8079hp.jpg|thumb|P8079HP Image intensifier]]
The P8079HP is a three-stage cascade inverted first generation image intensifier tube with a P20 phosphor screen and integrated power supply, It requires a voltage of 6.75V, though operational performance is maintained until 4.5V.

Although very large (196mm length, 70mm diameter), and with a strong pincushion effect in the output image, due to the three cascading stages the performance is comparable to later generation image intensifiers.
{{TubeSpecs|phosphor=P20|res-typ=40|lum-sens-typ=300|screen-dia=25}}<ref>https://www.nightlase.com.au/content/docs/EEV_P8079HP.pdf</ref>

=== EP-16 ===
A Soviet/Russian copy of this tube called EP-16 exists. All known examples are made by [[MELZ]].<ref>flyback.org.ru/viewtopic.php?t=6343&start=200&sid=bbd6a818f82e730ee9a61457895e8aec</ref>

== References ==
<references />
[[Category:Formats]]

1PN50

2025-01-26T18:08:57Z

EP33 alt account: added soviet format thievery

The 1PN50 "Relic" is a night vision device of Soviet origin. The device also carries the designation BN-2. The device is commonly sold on the civilian market as Baigish-6 or Baigish-6u.<ref>https://nokto.info/noktowizor-lornetka-1pn50-wojskowa-43.html</ref> It uses generation-2 image intensifiers, namely the EP-10, EPM-28G and EPM-61G. These tubes are all clones of the [[MX9644]] format.<ref>https://nokto.info/image-intensifier-tubes-for-night-vision-devices/image-intensifier-tubes-gen-2/</ref> Originally, the device utilized a 7.5 volt accumulator, although the device can utilize voltages anywhere between 7.5 to 4.5 volts.<ref>[https://forum.guns.ru/forummessage/256/1976210.html https://forum.guns.ru/forummessage/256/1976210.htm]</ref>The device was also supplied with PRP-4 artillery reconnaissance vehicles. <ref>https://www.rwd-mb3.de/technik_g/pages/prp4.htm</ref> A striking characteristic of the device is the biocular nature of it. It uses a large 2.4x lens. The ocular side uses a panoramic lens to present the image to both eyes. The device was manufactured by [[KOMZ]].

== References ==
[[Category:Devices]]

1PN51

2025-01-26T18:05:46Z

EP33 alt account: Added page for 1PN51, referencing EP-10 being copies of MX9644. this will also be added to the 1PN50 page

The 1PN51 "Kazuar" is a night vision rifle sight of Soviet origin. The tubes used are of the same format as the ones in the [[1PN50]] those being being copies of [[MX9644|MX9964]] used in [[PVS-4]]).

PNV-57

2025-01-11T18:50:29Z

EP33 alt account: added manufacturer

The PNV-57 is a family of night vision binoculars originally developed and produced in the Soviet Union, but later variants also developed and produced in Czechoslovakia and Poland.

The design has several variants, either using Gen. 0 or Gen. 1 [[Image Intensifier|image intensifier tubes]]. They use an external power supply, with a high voltage cable connecting the supply to the binoculars. Most variants then require an external power source to be connected to this power supply. Originally these units are mounted to a tanker cap style helmet with the power supply worn on the back of the cap. With the exception of the later PNV-57E, the device lacks IPD adjustment.

The device is often supplied with additional CBK-1 high voltage rectifiers. The device also comes with a small bottle of sealing grease, that is to be reapplied when the device is taken apart (i.e to replace the rectifiers).<ref name=":0">https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=aW-5H-4Tqhs&t=276s</ref><ref name=":1">https://www.rwd-mb3.de/pages/pnw57.htm</ref>

== Variants ==
{| class="wikitable"
|+
!Device
!Generation
!Information
!Image
|-
|PNV-57
|0
|Goggles look like two smooth cylinders with a flat underside.
Painted grey, green, brown and black.

Utilizes V1P/V1PM generation-0 tubes, these are slightly smaller than V-8 and EP-33 tubes.

This variant of the device comes with AF-2 IR filters and A-55 IR emitters. The IR filters are made from a type of glass that has a high manganese content.

The device also comes with spare bulbs for the A-55 light.<ref name=":1" />
|[[File:Device serial.jpg|thumb|Czechoslovakian PNV-57 made in 1968]]
|-
|PNW-57/PNW-57A
|0
|Polish copy of the PNV-57. The main difference between the PNW-57 and Czechoslovakian PNV-57 is that it has ear outserts where headphones can be inserted. The device comes in either a green wooden box or grey metal box, similar to its Czechoslovakian counterpart, but with slightly different dimensions and a slightly lighter tone of grey. The device also uses a different type of illuminator with the same plug as the device itself.
The difference between PNW-57 and PNW-57A are not yet fully clear.
The device uses W1P/W1PM tubes of indigenous production.
|
|-
|PNV-57A
|0
|Same as the PNV-57, but uses a different transformer. The transformer replaced the obsolete CBK-1 kenotrons with modern diodes. The cables also come out at an angle to avoid them getting damaged by long term storage.<ref name=":0" />
|
|-
|PNV57AM
|???
|???
|
|-
|PNV-57AK
|0
|Same as the PNV-57A, but in a box containing two units
|
|-
|PNW-2
|Unknown, but presumably 0
|Unit of Polish origin similar to PNV-57, except that it is a monocular with an adjustable mount. Included in the transport box are two separate monoculars. Very uncommon.<ref>https://www.reddit.com/r/NightVision/comments/x94cfa/strange_russian_goggle/</ref> Sometimes the kit has a tank helmet with a specialized mount on it. The mount in question appears to have an adjustable IPD. Rarely, there's also a bridge of two pods possibly called PNV-4.<ref>https://www.reddit.com/r/Rusfor/comments/1dtzb0i/how_do_i_do_this</ref>
|
|-
|PVN1
|Very likely 0, much like PNW-2
|A unit of Soviet origin, it comes in a metal box labeled PVN1. Within this box are two monoculars that are similar in nature to the PNW-2. The mounting interface on the tankers helmet included is the same as on the PNW-2. Like on the PNW-2 there appears to be an integrated eye cap for the non night vision equipped eye. Judging by factory markings the individual pods (labeled PVN-1) are made by ZOMZ.<ref>[https://forum.guns.rx/forummessage/36/2894992-3.html https://forum.guns.ru/forummessage/36/2894992-3.htm]</ref>
|
|-
|PNV-57H
|0
|Czech handheld clone of the PNV-57A
Uses a much larger power supply

Large IR lamp fitted to top of unit

Presumably uses the same V1PM tubes as the default Czechoslovak PNV-57 made by [[Tesla]]. <ref>https://forum.astronomie.de/threads/infrarot-nachtsichtgeraet-nachtsichtbrille-pnv-57-binokular.344107/</ref>
|
|-
|PNV-57K
|0
|???
|
|-
|PNV-57T
|0
|Identical to the PNV-57AK, but in a wooden crate marked accordingly
|
|-
|PNV-57E
|1/0+
|Visually and functionally distinct to PNV-57A models.
Looks like two irregularly shaped cylinders with a large protrusion on the upper side, nearer to the eyepieces.

The unit is painted a green - brown colour, similar to some versions of the PNV-57A

Sometimes seen converted to handheld use, with a power supply mounted on top of the binoculars

Uses generation-1/0+ V-8 tubes. <ref name=":2">https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=0LfyEFIjfgo&t=3s</ref>

Doesn't have the CBK-1 high voltage rectifiers included, as the power supply is different internally.

The device also comes with UFS-8 and KF-19 light blockers and their respective mounts.

It lacks the grease, as field disassembly was rendered pointless by removal of the rectifiers. <ref name=":1" />
|
|-
|PNV-57EH
|1/0+
|Recon variant presumably made in Czechoslovakia.<ref>https://www.detektorweb.info/clanek/nocni-videni-1</ref>
|
|-
|PNV-57EM
|1/0+
|Modernised version of the PNV-57E.
Unlike other versions, the power supply for this variant has a battery compartment, eliminating the need for a separate battery pack.

The binoculars are slightly shorter than the PNV-57E, the front lenses replaced with a shorter version with adjustable focus

Uses upgraded V-8A tubes made by [[Ekran Optical Systems|Ekran]]. <ref name=":2" />
|
|-
|PNV-57ET
|1/0+
|Same as the PNV-57E, but in a box containing two units
|
|-
|PNV-57ETC
|???
|???
|
|-
|PNW-57M
|[[16mm]] generation-2/3 tubes
|Uses the same body as the PNW-57, but different lenses. <ref>http://www.opticstrade.cz/night-vision-devices/pnv-57-m-en/</ref>
The device is of Polish origin, this is certain because of the PNW designation.

The device appears to have removed the bulky transformer (Batteries mounted in the former cable spot?)

The device was also in service with Polish artillery units. <ref>http://pzo.warszawa.pl/oferta/optoelektronika-dla-artylerii/152-mm-ahs-dana/</ref>

The device was created to be compatible with existing surplus PNV-57 accessories. <ref>https://www.reddit.com/r/UssrNvgResearchGroup/comments/1az60vn/what_are_theese_are_theese_gen1_or_gen0/</ref>
|
|-
|BNO
|1/0+
|Magnified binocular version of the PNV-57E
Different front lens design

Power supply, battery compartment and IR illuminator mounted in a long tube mounted on top of the device
|
|-
|BN2
|1/0+
|Similar to the BNO, but with different front lenses and no IR illuminator
|
|}

== References ==
<references />
[[Category:Devices]]

UPN-1

2025-01-11T18:45:51Z

EP33 alt account: added page for UPN-1

The UPN-1 is a generation-0 night vision monocular of Soviet origin. It uses a P3 image converter tube. According to the single forum post that this device is mentioned in it is for helicopter use (though the validity of this claim is highly debatable).<ref>[https://forum.guns.ru/forummessage/36/2894992-3.html https://forum.guns.ru/forummessage/36/2894992-3.htm]</ref>
<references />
[[Category:Devices]]

NSP-2

2025-01-11T18:39:36Z

EP33 alt account: added bombproof source for 3P tube

The NSP-2 is a gun mounted night vision optic of Soviet origin. The device uses a Gen. 0 3P tube with a different format than V-7 or V-1P/V-1PM.<ref>https://russianlegacy.com/night-vision-scope-vintage-poster</ref><ref>[https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=LUVo6ehy4nw https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=LUVo6ehy4n]</ref> While the device is of Soviet origin, numerous Warsaw Pact states produced the device under license. These countries include: the GDR, Poland and Czechoslovakia. <ref>https://www.theakforum.net/threads/east-german-nsp-2-ir-night-vision-scope.328641/</ref>

The device when in its box has a weight of 16 Kilos. The device has a magnification of 2.2x and a field of view of 8°. The scope itself has a large IR light mounted on top with a 4.5v 20w bulb inside. Additionally there's a cable that leads to a transformer that was meant to be worn on the users hip. Inside the transformer is the battery compartment, which fits the 3SC-25 4.5 volt accumulator that is supplied with the device.<ref>https://www.rwd-mb3.de/pages/nsp3.htm</ref> The device can be used for 3.5 hours before having to have the battery changed.<ref>[https://topwar.ru/179511-vospreschaetsja-vkljuchat-dnem-bez-diafragmy-i-navodit-na-jarkij-svet-ob-osobennostjah-nochnogo-pricela-nsp-2-obrazca-1950-h.html https://topwar.ru/179511-vospreschaetsja-vkljuchat-dnem-bez-diafragmy-i-navodit-na-jarkij-svet-ob-osobennostjah-nochnogo-pricela-nsp-2-obrazca-1950]</ref>

== References ==
<references />
[[Category:Devices]]

PNV-57

2025-01-11T18:37:48Z

EP33 alt account: Added PVN1

The PNV-57 is a family of night vision binoculars originally developed and produced in the Soviet Union, but later variants also developed and produced in Czechoslovakia and Poland.

The design has several variants, either using Gen. 0 or Gen. 1 [[Image Intensifier|image intensifier tubes]]. They use an external power supply, with a high voltage cable connecting the supply to the binoculars. Most variants then require an external power source to be connected to this power supply. Originally these units are mounted to a tanker cap style helmet with the power supply worn on the back of the cap. With the exception of the later PNV-57E, the device lacks IPD adjustment.

The device is often supplied with additional CBK-1 high voltage rectifiers. The device also comes with a small bottle of sealing grease, that is to be reapplied when the device is taken apart (i.e to replace the rectifiers).<ref name=":0">https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=aW-5H-4Tqhs&t=276s</ref><ref name=":1">https://www.rwd-mb3.de/pages/pnw57.htm</ref>

== Variants ==
{| class="wikitable"
|+
!Device
!Generation
!Information
!Image
|-
|PNV-57
|0
|Goggles look like two smooth cylinders with a flat underside.
Painted grey, green, brown and black.

Utilizes V1P/V1PM generation-0 tubes, these are slightly smaller than V-8 and EP-33 tubes.

This variant of the device comes with AF-2 IR filters and A-55 IR emitters. The IR filters are made from a type of glass that has a high manganese content.

The device also comes with spare bulbs for the A-55 light.<ref name=":1" />
|[[File:Device serial.jpg|thumb|Czechoslovakian PNV-57 made in 1968]]
|-
|PNW-57/PNW-57A
|0
|Polish copy of the PNV-57. The main difference between the PNW-57 and Czechoslovakian PNV-57 is that it has ear outserts where headphones can be inserted. The device comes in either a green wooden box or grey metal box, similar to its Czechoslovakian counterpart, but with slightly different dimensions and a slightly lighter tone of grey. The device also uses a different type of illuminator with the same plug as the device itself.
The difference between PNW-57 and PNW-57A are not yet fully clear.
The device uses W1P/W1PM tubes of indigenous production.
|
|-
|PNV-57A
|0
|Same as the PNV-57, but uses a different transformer. The transformer replaced the obsolete CBK-1 kenotrons with modern diodes. The cables also come out at an angle to avoid them getting damaged by long term storage.<ref name=":0" />
|
|-
|PNV57AM
|???
|???
|
|-
|PNV-57AK
|0
|Same as the PNV-57A, but in a box containing two units
|
|-
|PNW-2
|Unknown, but presumably 0
|Unit of Polish origin similar to PNV-57, except that it is a monocular with an adjustable mount. Included in the transport box are two separate monoculars. Very uncommon.<ref>https://www.reddit.com/r/NightVision/comments/x94cfa/strange_russian_goggle/</ref> Sometimes the kit has a tank helmet with a specialized mount on it. The mount in question appears to have an adjustable IPD. Rarely, there's also a bridge of two pods possibly called PNV-4.<ref>https://www.reddit.com/r/Rusfor/comments/1dtzb0i/how_do_i_do_this</ref>
|
|-
|PVN1
|Very likely 0, much like PNW-2
|A unit of Soviet origin, it comes in a metal box labeled PVN1. Within this box are two monoculars that are similar in nature to the PNW-2. The mounting interface on the tankers helmet included is the same as on the PNW-2. Like on the PNW-2 there appears to be an integrated eye cap for the non night vision equipped eye.<ref>[https://forum.guns.rx/forummessage/36/2894992-3.html https://forum.guns.ru/forummessage/36/2894992-3.htm]</ref>
|
|-
|PNV-57H
|0
|Czech handheld clone of the PNV-57A
Uses a much larger power supply

Large IR lamp fitted to top of unit

Presumably uses the same V1PM tubes as the default Czechoslovak PNV-57 made by [[Tesla]]. <ref>https://forum.astronomie.de/threads/infrarot-nachtsichtgeraet-nachtsichtbrille-pnv-57-binokular.344107/</ref>
|
|-
|PNV-57K
|0
|???
|
|-
|PNV-57T
|0
|Identical to the PNV-57AK, but in a wooden crate marked accordingly
|
|-
|PNV-57E
|1/0+
|Visually and functionally distinct to PNV-57A models.
Looks like two irregularly shaped cylinders with a large protrusion on the upper side, nearer to the eyepieces.

The unit is painted a green - brown colour, similar to some versions of the PNV-57A

Sometimes seen converted to handheld use, with a power supply mounted on top of the binoculars

Uses generation-1/0+ V-8 tubes. <ref name=":2">https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=0LfyEFIjfgo&t=3s</ref>

Doesn't have the CBK-1 high voltage rectifiers included, as the power supply is different internally.

The device also comes with UFS-8 and KF-19 light blockers and their respective mounts.

It lacks the grease, as field disassembly was rendered pointless by removal of the rectifiers. <ref name=":1" />
|
|-
|PNV-57EH
|1/0+
|Recon variant presumably made in Czechoslovakia.<ref>https://www.detektorweb.info/clanek/nocni-videni-1</ref>
|
|-
|PNV-57EM
|1/0+
|Modernised version of the PNV-57E.
Unlike other versions, the power supply for this variant has a battery compartment, eliminating the need for a separate battery pack.

The binoculars are slightly shorter than the PNV-57E, the front lenses replaced with a shorter version with adjustable focus

Uses upgraded V-8A tubes made by [[Ekran Optical Systems|Ekran]]. <ref name=":2" />
|
|-
|PNV-57ET
|1/0+
|Same as the PNV-57E, but in a box containing two units
|
|-
|PNV-57ETC
|???
|???
|
|-
|PNW-57M
|[[16mm]] generation-2/3 tubes
|Uses the same body as the PNW-57, but different lenses. <ref>http://www.opticstrade.cz/night-vision-devices/pnv-57-m-en/</ref>
The device is of Polish origin, this is certain because of the PNW designation.

The device appears to have removed the bulky transformer (Batteries mounted in the former cable spot?)

The device was also in service with Polish artillery units. <ref>http://pzo.warszawa.pl/oferta/optoelektronika-dla-artylerii/152-mm-ahs-dana/</ref>

The device was created to be compatible with existing surplus PNV-57 accessories. <ref>https://www.reddit.com/r/UssrNvgResearchGroup/comments/1az60vn/what_are_theese_are_theese_gen1_or_gen0/</ref>
|
|-
|BNO
|1/0+
|Magnified binocular version of the PNV-57E
Different front lens design

Power supply, battery compartment and IR illuminator mounted in a long tube mounted on top of the device
|
|-
|BN2
|1/0+
|Similar to the BNO, but with different front lenses and no IR illuminator
|
|}

== References ==
<references />
[[Category:Devices]]

Ekran Optical Systems

2025-01-06T14:23:40Z

EP33 alt account: rewrote, added more PMT info as well as adding that gen-0/0+ and PMT manufacturing is unknown

{{Stub}}

Ekran Optical Systems is a Russian image intensifier tube manufacturer. In addition to image intensifiers they also produce photomultiplier tubes. They are based in Novosibirsk.

== History ==
JSC Ekran Optical Systems was founded in 1954, as the first large scale Soviet enterprise producing components for night vision. While experimental tube manufacturing within the USSR existed before Ekran, they were the first to mass produce image tubes.

It's initial line of products consisted of Gen. 0 [[Image Intensifier|image intensifier]] tubes (such as the V1P) and photomultiplier tubes (like the FEU-110).

Today, Ekran produces Gen. 2+ image intensifiers. If they are still manufacturing generation-0/0+ tubes and photomultipliers is unclear.<ref>https://www.ekran-os.ru/about</ref>

== References ==
[[Category:Image Intensifier Manufacturers]]
[[Category:Manufacturers]]

V-8

2024-12-31T03:41:46Z

EP33 alt account: Added V-8

The V-8 is a generation-0+/1 tube of Soviet origin. It is a milspec tube that EP33 are based off of.
[[Category:Formats]]

1PN63

2024-12-29T14:35:36Z

EP33 alt account: added to devices

The 1PN63 or NPO-1 also known as "Quaker" (Kvaker) is a binocular headmounted night vision device of Soviet origin that utilizes an image intensifier called EPV22G. The EPV22G is a generation-0+/1+ (Single chamber electrostatically focused with S-20/25 photocathode, spherical photocathode and fiber optic input/output). The device was manufactured either by LZOS or ROMZ near the tail end of the cold war. The NPK-1 "Kanadit" (1K229 GRAU index) laser was issued alongside this device. While the 1PN63 sporadically pops up on the western market the NPK-1 has yet to bee seen. While the 1PN63 may look similar to the ON 1x20 civilian night vision device it is entirely distinct from that particular device.
[[Category:Devices]]

1PN63

2024-12-29T14:34:39Z

EP33 alt account: fixed some things with the "CL-1", in reality it's called NPK-1, please excuse this error

1PN63

2024-12-29T14:30:23Z

EP33 alt account: 1PN63 page created, will make a subsection about the CL-1 laser sometime later perhaps

The 1PN63 or NPO-1 also known as "Quaker" (Kvaker) is a binocular headmounted night vision device of Soviet origin that utilizes an image intensifier called EPV22G. The EPV22G is a generation-0+/1+ (Single chamber electrostatically focused with S-20/25 photocathode, spherical photocathode and fiber optic input/output). The device was manufactured either by LZOS or ROMZ near the tail end of the cold war. The CL-1 (1K229 GRAU index) laser was issued alongside this device. While the 1PN63 sporadically pops up on the western market the CL-1 has yet to bee seen.

PFM

2024-12-19T01:48:45Z

EP33 alt account: added more info, more to come

The PFM is a night vision device of Soviet origin. It was meant for mine clearance. The kit includes some pods similar to those on PNW-2 and also a tripod. Variants of this device were also produced with German labeling for the NVA. The device comes in a large metal box, with the individual components listed on a piece of paper on the lid of the box itself. A high voltage converter box with a mount for the individual cable pods is also supplied. How this converter differs from others as the ones on the PNW-2 is unclear.
[[Category:Devices]]

NS-71

2024-12-03T00:40:33Z

EP33 alt account: added NW-70, this device is extremely obscure, sorry for the lack of info :(

The NS-71 is a Polish generation-0 night vision device.

It was intended to be used by sappers and combat engineers. It mounts to helmets via a clamp fitted to the main body of the device. Its high voltage transformer box is slung near the waist and uses 6 volt. Mounted on top of the main body of the device is an IR lamp, that can be toggled via a switch on the transformer. The lamp has three settings, off, scatter, and beam. With the light turned on the device draws much more current than the PNV-57s ~10mA.<ref>https://forum.astronomie.de/threads/infrarot-nachtsichtgeraet-nachtsichtbrille-pnv-57-binokular.344107/</ref> while the body of the device may look similar to the PNV-57, the lenses on the NS-71 have variable focus. Additionally the lenses are linked together via an assembly similar to the one found on the type 85. The device is similar in function to the Soviet PNR-1.<ref>https://pliki.elektroda.pl/516835,ns-71.html</ref> There appears to be an earlier or prototype device called "NW-70". It differentiates itself by a thicker and hammertone painted IR lamp. The NW-70 is very uncommon only rarely appearing on the surplus market.

== References ==
<references />
[[Category:Devices]]

DIPT-10A

2024-11-20T20:55:20Z

EP33 alt account: added to devices, + fixed some wording and grammar :D, neat little device

[[File:DIPT-10A 1.jpg|thumb|DIPT-10A with the day caps on]]
the DIPT-10A is a passive French autogated gen 2 binocular nvg adopted in the early 80's for the French army (army name OB-41A)

the binocular is for multiple use with its 33 degree's of field of view F1.0 optic's and a minimal focus distance of 30 centimeters , the device weighs 1 kilo and has his own head attachements.

the device is equipped with an integrated infrared diode to use only in absence of any lights, the device has a 3 position switch: Arret/off Marche/on and Lamp/light, the last position needs to have the rotative switch pushed slightly forward to be reach for avoiding accidental turn on

the device uses 2.7v BA1567 battery which gives it 20 hours autonomie or 10 hours if the light is always turned on,the gain is automatically regulated depending the light received in the tubes.

sadly the model of the intensification tubes are unknown the very little sources available talk about micro channel plate gen 2 tube.

the first prototypes of the device were made between 1973 and 74 and experimentations began between 1974 and 75.

both oculars have settings from -4 to +4.5 dioptries.
[[File:DIPT-10A back.jpg|thumb|back of the device with the switch and the eyes setting visible]]
[[Category:Devices]]

Image Intensifier

2024-11-15T13:17:54Z

EP33 alt account: fixed gen-0 history section, the source for the G. Holst claim is Image Tubes by Csorba

An image intensifier (abbreviation: II or I²) is an electro-optical component that can produce an intensified monochrome image on a [[Phosphor Screen|phosphor screen]] from a cone of incoming light, intended to intensify the signal beyond what optics and digital sensors are capable of.

In the field of night vision, image intensifier refers to image intensifier ''tubes'' which are miniaturized image intensifiers (usually in tubular shape) that form the core component of any night vision device.

Image intensifier tubes are inserted into a housing that otherwise only provides optics, power supply, and protection of the sensitive component. Many formats of image intensifier tubes are designed to be exchangable with limited tooling and know-how, originally intended to allow armies to replace damaged image intensifier tubes by an engineer during deployment.

== Generations ==
The U.S. Army's Night Vision and Electronic Sensors Directorate (NVESD) categorizes image intensifiers into four distinct generations. With each generation, a change in the technology has lead to substantial performance improvements.<ref>Night Vision Technologies Handbook https://www.dhs.gov/sites/default/files/publications/NV-Tech-HB_1013-508.pdf</ref>

Although the generation of any given image intensifier will quickly provide a rough understanding of what to expect from it, it is not a replacement for accurate performance parameters (e.g. [[Figure of Merit (FOM)|FOM]], [[Signal-to-Noise Ratio (SNR)|SNR]], [[Gain]]), as these can vary wildly for different image intensifiers of the same generation. The relevant agencies of the U.S. government have since recognized this circumstance and have mostly stopped using generations to refer to image intensifiers in their specifications, and instead use the [[Figure of Merit (FOM)]] for most purposes.

Some manufacturers and retailers use a ''+'' to indicate intra-generational improvements, e.g. ''Gen. 2+''. This practice is not part of the official specification and can be defined differently by anyone.

=== Generation 0 ===
Generation 0 was invented in 1932 by G. Holst. First uses were in World War II by the Germans, later the Soviets and the Americans. The Soviets utilized these devices as night driving aids, the Germans as various sights for weapons and tanks and the Americans as night rifle sights.

Gen. 0 tubes don't have any or only very low [[gain]] of a around 10 and thus rely on strong IR illumination.

Gen. 0 tubes utilize S-1 photocathodes, that have a quantum efficiency of 0.5% in the IR spectrum and 1% in the UV spectrum.

'''Examples of Gen 0 devices'''

*Vampir
*M2 & M3 Sniperscope
*PNV57A

=== Generation 1/0+===
Generation 1, developed and patented in the 1960s, improved the gain to around 1000 fL/fc. This enabled the use of Gen. 1 devices under moonlight conditions without the use of IR illumination.

Later developments include the glass in the body being replaced with ceramic, improving the gain even further. These devices are sometimes referred to as Gen. 1+.

Some devices used multiple tubes in a cascade configuration, leading to improvements in [[gain]] of up to 100,000 fL/fc, but with very low [[Signal-to-Noise Ratio (SNR)|SNR]].

'''Examples of Gen 1 devices'''

*AN/PAS 2 Starlight
* [[Armasight]] Spark

Russian Gen. 1/0+ tubes made by [[Ekran FEP|Ekran]] are also found in most cheap consumer devices.

===Generation 2===

The Generation 2 was developed in the 1970s and was the first generation using a [[Microchannel Plate (MCP)]], which substantially increased the [[gain]] to around 20k fL/fc. During this time, due to drastic innovations in the semiconductor space, the first widespread integration of the [[Power Supply Unit (PSU)|PSU]] with the tube in a single, modern package appears.

Generation 2 IITs are usually produced with either P20, P22, P43 or P45 [[Phosphor Screen|phosphor screens]].

Some manufacturers, like [[Photonis Technologies SAS|Photonis]], have continued developing their Gen. 2 technology without ever developing a Gen. 3 production line. Nontheless they have succeeded in pushing the envelope with their image intensifiers matching Gen. 3 performance, most recently even producing image intensifiers with [[gain]] levels above 60k fL/fc.

'''Examples of Gen 2 devices'''

*[[Simrad GN-1|GN-1]] employed Gen 2 IIT upon release.

===Generation 3===
{{Unverified}}
The photocathode is made using gallium arsenide and the refined [[Microchannel Plate (MCP)|MCP]] technology is coated with an Aluminum oxide layer called ion barrier film to prolong the tubes functional life by preventing the occasionally released ion to damage the [[Microchannel Plate (MCP)|MCP]], a process called ion-poisoning which drastically diminishes the plates functional lifespan. The downside of this ion film is that it somewhat restricts the amount of electrons that pass through it thereby detracting some of the intensification. The so called haloing-effect was also increased by this film, something that lessens the practical performance since it may obscure parts of what is being observed.

Subsequent development of the technology led to "thin-film" tubes among other solutions to lessen the impact of the ion barrier on gain and resolution. Since the beginnings of thin-film IIT it has become so commonplace that instead of being singled out as having thin ion barrier film the earlier image intensifiers are nowadays referred to as "thick-film" instead.

Gen. 3 tubes are usually produced with either P43 or P45 [[Phosphor Screen|phosphor screens]]. [[Adams Industries]] sold a Sentinel-CNV "color" night vision binocular where each optical channel had differently filtered input, each channel seeing different parts of the spectrum, and output as two colors, with one side having a red phosphor<ref>https://www.adamsindustries.com/</ref> screen, with green P43 on the other.

Gen 3 image intensifier [[gain]] is often set in the range of 40k to 80k fL/fc. High gain variants are set to 100k to 120k fL/fc.

'''Examples of Gen 3 devices'''

*[[AN/PVS-14]]
*[[AN/PVS-31]]
*[[MNV-K]]
*[[Excelitas Kite Mk. 4]]

====Filmless====
As a logical next step, manufacturers such as [[Litton Industries|Litton]] (now [[L3Harris]]) began developing third generation image intensifiers without an ion barrier film in the 1990s. Albeit successful in creating even higher performing image intensifiers, the early iterations suffered from shorter lifespans and less durability in addition to higher production cost. The first [[Omnibus]] containing filmless image intensifiers was Omni V. Both [[ITT Industries|ITT]] and [[Litton Industries|Litton]] (NGEOS) were given contracts for Gen 4 [[MX-10160#MX-10160B/AVS-6|MX-10160B]] tubes. There is some evidence that Litton achieved filmless image intensifiers that reached [[Signal-to-Noise Ratio (SNR)|SNR]] figures over 35, with the lifetime being around 7500 hours which was also the required minimum. It is unclear what exactly happened, and why the Gen 4 designation was dropped. On their webpage [[ITT Industries|ITT]] wrote about the development of the so called Pinnacle technology<ref>Gen 4, Omni V and VI, and Pinnacle technology https://web.archive.org/web/20060324232309/http://www.nightvision.com/military/cs_gen3pinnacle.html</ref>, an autogated image intensifier tube with a thinner ion barrier film, where they mention receiving a $40mil Navy order for filmless [[AN/AVS-9|F4949]] sets. ITT writes they could not keep up with the requirements, and the U.S. Navy reverted back to buying the older Omni IV regular ion barrier image intensifier tubes. [[Litton Industries|Litton]], later [[L3]], continued developing filmless technology. During the next 10 to 15 years the U.S. military bought [[L3]] filmless image intensifier tubes for special use cases. Probably the best known early example is the [[AN/PVS-15]] that used [[L3]] manufactured filmless technology [[MX-10160#MX-10160B/AVS-6|MX-10160B]]<nowiki/>s (also filmless MX-10160WG), NSN (5855-01-548-9651) assigned on 8 Mar 2007.

[[L3Harris]] stands out as the sole western producer of filmless image intensifier tubes, having patented the process. The only other eastern producer is [[Ekran FEP]].

=== Generation 4 ===
The official specification does not include Generation 4 any more, as even the most modern filmless image intensifier tubes still fall under the definition of Generation 3.

== Terminology ==
While the American system for determining generations is quite clear cut, some systems like the Russian one aren't the same. The following table will shot the various definitions of tube generations. The Russian system exists because the Soviets never really had a generation system. The photocathode type was the only thing ever given, and even this is rare. Anything above the second generation carries the same designation, as those technologies were developed after the West.
{| class="wikitable"
|+
!Tube type
!Western designation
!Russian desigantion
!Common Marketing term
|-
|Single chamber electrostatically focused with S-1 photocathode
|Generation 0
|Generation 0
|Generation 0
|-
|Single chamber electrostatically focused with S-20/25 photocathode
|Generation 1
|Generation 0+
|Generation 1
|-
|Single chamber electrostatically focused with S-20/25 photocathode and spherical photocathode
|Generation 1
|Generation 0+ (sometimes the spherical nature is specified)
|Generation 1+/CF super
|-
|Single chamber electrostatically focused with S-20/25 photocathode and spherical photocathode and fiber optic input/output
|Generation 1
|Generation 0+ (usually the fiber optic is noted)
|Generation 1+
|-
|Multiple chamber cascade tube with S-1/20/25 input photocathode
|Generation 1 (usually just called cascade without further specification)
|Generation 1
|Cascade
|-
|Image intensifier with a microchannel plate and S-20/25 photocathode
|Generation 2
|Generation 2
|Generation 2
|}

== [[:Category:Formats|Formats]]==
No single standard for the physical size and shape of image intensifier tubes exists. Instead, several different formats have been created over time.

Many older formats have since become partially or completely abandoned, as many have been designed to fit a specific housing or use case, as well as miniaturization allowing for ever smaller form factors.

Other formats, like MX-10160, have evolved to become somewhat of an industry standard, far exceeding their originally intended use case.

Manufacturers are still creating new formats, like [[Photonis Technologies SAS|Photonis]] with their 16mm format, which is even smaller and lighter than the commonly used formats.
*Mx9916 (Fat Anvis)
*[[MX-10130]]
*[[MX-10160|MX-10160 / Small Anvis / 37mm / 18mm]]
*[[MX-11769]]
*16mm

== Lifetime ==
Because image intensifiers rely on an electrochemical process to operate, they will slowly degrade with use.

The original [[MX-10160#MX-10160%2FAVS-6|MX-10160/AVS6]] specification defines a mean time to failure of the image intensifier of 7500 hours under normal and 1500 hours under accelerated conditions. This includes degradation in performance as well as complete failure of the assembly.

Image intensifiers are considered to have "failed" if the FOM decreases below 50% of the initial value.Source?

Gen. 2 image intensifiers loose [[Figure of Merit (FOM)|FOM]] almost linearly over their lifetime, while Gen. 3 image intensifiers have an almost constant [[Figure of Merit (FOM)|FOM]] with a sharp decrease at the end of life.<ref>Eric Garris - [[Harris]] - The Gen. 3 Advantage ([https://dokumen.tips/documents/the-gen-3-advantage-harris-gen-3-advantage-night-vision-and-communication-systems.html?page=10 https://dokumen.tips/documents/the-gen-3-advantage-harris-gen-3-advantage-night-vision-and-communication-systems.html?page=9])</ref> This means that while used Gen. 3 image intensifiers are likely to meet their original specifications, Gen. 2 image intensifiers will have a more or less lower performance compared to when they were new.

== References ==
<references />
[[Category:Technology]]

Image Intensifier

2024-11-15T00:52:40Z

EP33 alt account: added >gen-2 designation info

An image intensifier (abbreviation: II or I²) is an electro-optical component that can produce an intensified monochrome image on a [[Phosphor Screen|phosphor screen]] from a cone of incoming light, intended to intensify the signal beyond what optics and digital sensors are capable of.

In the field of night vision, image intensifier refers to image intensifier ''tubes'' which are miniaturized image intensifiers (usually in tubular shape) that form the core component of any night vision device.

Image intensifier tubes are inserted into a housing that otherwise only provides optics, power supply, and protection of the sensitive component. Many formats of image intensifier tubes are designed to be exchangable with limited tooling and know-how, originally intended to allow armies to replace damaged image intensifier tubes by an engineer during deployment.

== Generations ==
The U.S. Army's Night Vision and Electronic Sensors Directorate (NVESD) categorizes image intensifiers into four distinct generations. With each generation, a change in the technology has lead to substantial performance improvements.<ref>Night Vision Technologies Handbook https://www.dhs.gov/sites/default/files/publications/NV-Tech-HB_1013-508.pdf</ref>

Although the generation of any given image intensifier will quickly provide a rough understanding of what to expect from it, it is not a replacement for accurate performance parameters (e.g. [[Figure of Merit (FOM)|FOM]], [[Signal-to-Noise Ratio (SNR)|SNR]], [[Gain]]), as these can vary wildly for different image intensifiers of the same generation. The relevant agencies of the U.S. government have since recognized this circumstance and have mostly stopped using generations to refer to image intensifiers in their specifications, and instead use the [[Figure of Merit (FOM)]] for most purposes.

Some manufacturers and retailers use a ''+'' to indicate intra-generational improvements, e.g. ''Gen. 2+''. This practice is not part of the official specification and can be defined differently by anyone.

=== Generation 0 ===
Generation 0 was invented in 1929 by a Hungarian scientist in the UK. First uses where in World War II by the Germans, later the Soviets and the Americans.

Gen. 0 tubes don't have any or only very low [[gain]] of a around 10 and thus rely on strong IR illumination.

Gen. 0 tubes utilize S-1 photocathodes, that have a quantum efficiency of 0.5% in the IR spectrum and 1% in the UV spectrum.

'''Examples of Gen 0 devices'''

*Vampir
*M2 & M3 Sniperscope
*PNV57A

=== Generation 1/0+===
Generation 1, developed and patented in the 1960s, improved the gain to around 1000 fL/fc. This enabled the use of Gen. 1 devices under moonlight conditions without the use of IR illumination.

Later developments include the glass in the body being replaced with ceramic, improving the gain even further. These devices are sometimes referred to as Gen. 1+.

Some devices used multiple tubes in a cascade configuration, leading to improvements in [[gain]] of up to 100,000 fL/fc, but with very low [[Signal-to-Noise Ratio (SNR)|SNR]].

'''Examples of Gen 1 devices'''

*AN/PAS 2 Starlight
* [[Armasight]] Spark

Russian Gen. 1/0+ tubes made by [[Ekran FEP|Ekran]] are also found in most cheap consumer devices.

===Generation 2===

The Generation 2 was developed in the 1970s and was the first generation using a [[Microchannel Plate (MCP)]], which substantially increased the [[gain]] to around 20k fL/fc. During this time, due to drastic innovations in the semiconductor space, the first widespread integration of the [[Power Supply Unit (PSU)|PSU]] with the tube in a single, modern package appears.

Generation 2 IITs are usually produced with either P20, P22, P43 or P45 [[Phosphor Screen|phosphor screens]].

Some manufacturers, like [[Photonis Technologies SAS|Photonis]], have continued developing their Gen. 2 technology without ever developing a Gen. 3 production line. Nontheless they have succeeded in pushing the envelope with their image intensifiers matching Gen. 3 performance, most recently even producing image intensifiers with [[gain]] levels above 60k fL/fc.

'''Examples of Gen 2 devices'''

*[[Simrad GN-1|GN-1]] employed Gen 2 IIT upon release.

===Generation 3===
{{Unverified}}
The photocathode is made using gallium arsenide and the refined [[Microchannel Plate (MCP)|MCP]] technology is coated with an Aluminum oxide layer called ion barrier film to prolong the tubes functional life by preventing the occasionally released ion to damage the [[Microchannel Plate (MCP)|MCP]], a process called ion-poisoning which drastically diminishes the plates functional lifespan. The downside of this ion film is that it somewhat restricts the amount of electrons that pass through it thereby detracting some of the intensification. The so called haloing-effect was also increased by this film, something that lessens the practical performance since it may obscure parts of what is being observed.

Subsequent development of the technology led to "thin-film" tubes among other solutions to lessen the impact of the ion barrier on gain and resolution. Since the beginnings of thin-film IIT it has become so commonplace that instead of being singled out as having thin ion barrier film the earlier image intensifiers are nowadays referred to as "thick-film" instead.

Gen. 3 tubes are usually produced with either P43 or P45 [[Phosphor Screen|phosphor screens]]. [[Adams Industries]] sold a Sentinel-CNV "color" night vision binocular where each optical channel had differently filtered input, each channel seeing different parts of the spectrum, and output as two colors, with one side having a red phosphor<ref>https://www.adamsindustries.com/</ref> screen, with green P43 on the other.

Gen 3 image intensifier [[gain]] is often set in the range of 40k to 80k fL/fc. High gain variants are set to 100k to 120k fL/fc.

'''Examples of Gen 3 devices'''

*[[AN/PVS-14]]
*[[AN/PVS-31]]
*[[MNV-K]]
*[[Excelitas Kite Mk. 4]]

====Filmless====
As a logical next step, manufacturers such as [[Litton Industries|Litton]] (now [[L3Harris]]) began developing third generation image intensifiers without an ion barrier film in the 1990s. Albeit successful in creating even higher performing image intensifiers, the early iterations suffered from shorter lifespans and less durability in addition to higher production cost. The first [[Omnibus]] containing filmless image intensifiers was Omni V. Both [[ITT Industries|ITT]] and [[Litton Industries|Litton]] (NGEOS) were given contracts for Gen 4 [[MX-10160#MX-10160B/AVS-6|MX-10160B]] tubes. There is some evidence that Litton achieved filmless image intensifiers that reached [[Signal-to-Noise Ratio (SNR)|SNR]] figures over 35, with the lifetime being around 7500 hours which was also the required minimum. It is unclear what exactly happened, and why the Gen 4 designation was dropped. On their webpage [[ITT Industries|ITT]] wrote about the development of the so called Pinnacle technology<ref>Gen 4, Omni V and VI, and Pinnacle technology https://web.archive.org/web/20060324232309/http://www.nightvision.com/military/cs_gen3pinnacle.html</ref>, an autogated image intensifier tube with a thinner ion barrier film, where they mention receiving a $40mil Navy order for filmless [[AN/AVS-9|F4949]] sets. ITT writes they could not keep up with the requirements, and the U.S. Navy reverted back to buying the older Omni IV regular ion barrier image intensifier tubes. [[Litton Industries|Litton]], later [[L3]], continued developing filmless technology. During the next 10 to 15 years the U.S. military bought [[L3]] filmless image intensifier tubes for special use cases. Probably the best known early example is the [[AN/PVS-15]] that used [[L3]] manufactured filmless technology [[MX-10160#MX-10160B/AVS-6|MX-10160B]]<nowiki/>s (also filmless MX-10160WG), NSN (5855-01-548-9651) assigned on 8 Mar 2007.

[[L3Harris]] stands out as the sole western producer of filmless image intensifier tubes, having patented the process. The only other eastern producer is [[Ekran FEP]].

=== Generation 4 ===
The official specification does not include Generation 4 any more, as even the most modern filmless image intensifier tubes still fall under the definition of Generation 3.

== Terminology ==
While the American system for determining generations is quite clear cut, some systems like the Russian one aren't the same. The following table will shot the various definitions of tube generations. The Russian system exists because the Soviets never really had a generation system. The photocathode type was the only thing ever given, and even this is rare. Anything above the second generation carries the same designation, as those technologies were developed after the West.
{| class="wikitable"
|+
!Tube type
!Western designation
!Russian desigantion
!Common Marketing term
|-
|Single chamber electrostatically focused with S-1 photocathode
|Generation 0
|Generation 0
|Generation 0
|-
|Single chamber electrostatically focused with S-20/25 photocathode
|Generation 1
|Generation 0+
|Generation 1
|-
|Single chamber electrostatically focused with S-20/25 photocathode and spherical photocathode
|Generation 1
|Generation 0+ (sometimes the spherical nature is specified)
|Generation 1+/CF super
|-
|Single chamber electrostatically focused with S-20/25 photocathode and spherical photocathode and fiber optic input/output
|Generation 1
|Generation 0+ (usually the fiber optic is noted)
|Generation 1+
|-
|Multiple chamber cascade tube with S-1/20/25 input photocathode
|Generation 1 (usually just called cascade without further specification)
|Generation 1
|Cascade
|-
|Image intensifier with a microchannel plate and S-20/25 photocathode
|Generation 2
|Generation 2
|Generation 2
|}

== Formats==
No single standard for the physical size and shape of image intensifier tubes exists. Instead, several different formats have been created over time.

Many older formats have since become partially or completely abandoned, as many have been designed to fit a specific housing or use case, as well as miniaturization allowing for ever smaller form factors.

Other formats, like MX-10160, have evolved to become somewhat of an industry standard, far exceeding their originally intended use case.

Manufacturers are still creating new formats, like [[Photonis Technologies SAS|Photonis]] with their 16mm format, which is even smaller and lighter than the commonly used formats.
*Mx9916 (Fat Anvis)
*MX-10130
*[[MX-10160|MX-10160 / Small Anvis / 37mm / 18mm]]
*[[MX-11769]]
*16mm

== Lifetime ==
Because image intensifiers rely on an electrochemical process to operate, they will slowly degrade with use.

The original [[MX-10160#MX-10160%2FAVS-6|MX-10160/AVS6]] specification defines a mean time to failure of the image intensifier of 7500 hours under normal and 1500 hours under accelerated conditions. This includes degradation in performance as well as complete failure of the assembly.

Image intensifiers are considered to have "failed" if the FOM decreases below 50% of the initial value.Source?

Gen. 2 image intensifiers loose [[Figure of Merit (FOM)|FOM]] almost linearly over their lifetime, while Gen. 3 image intensifiers have an almost constant [[Figure of Merit (FOM)|FOM]] with a sharp decrease at the end of life.<ref>Eric Garris - [[Harris]] - The Gen. 3 Advantage ([https://dokumen.tips/documents/the-gen-3-advantage-harris-gen-3-advantage-night-vision-and-communication-systems.html?page=10 https://dokumen.tips/documents/the-gen-3-advantage-harris-gen-3-advantage-night-vision-and-communication-systems.html?page=9])</ref> This means that while used Gen. 3 image intensifiers are likely to meet their original specifications, Gen. 2 image intensifiers will have a more or less lower performance compared to when they were new.

== References ==
<references />
[[Category:Technology]]

Image Intensifier

2024-11-15T00:38:06Z

EP33 alt account: added 0+, the part about who invented gen-0 is wrong

An image intensifier (abbreviation: II or I²) is an electro-optical component that can produce an intensified monochrome image on a [[Phosphor Screen|phosphor screen]] from a cone of incoming light, intended to intensify the signal beyond what optics and digital sensors are capable of.

In the field of night vision, image intensifier refers to image intensifier ''tubes'' which are miniaturized image intensifiers (usually in tubular shape) that form the core component of any night vision device.

Image intensifier tubes are inserted into a housing that otherwise only provides optics, power supply, and protection of the sensitive component. Many formats of image intensifier tubes are designed to be exchangable with limited tooling and know-how, originally intended to allow armies to replace damaged image intensifier tubes by an engineer during deployment.

== Generations ==
The U.S. Army's Night Vision and Electronic Sensors Directorate (NVESD) categorizes image intensifiers into four distinct generations. With each generation, a change in the technology has lead to substantial performance improvements.<ref>Night Vision Technologies Handbook https://www.dhs.gov/sites/default/files/publications/NV-Tech-HB_1013-508.pdf</ref>

Although the generation of any given image intensifier will quickly provide a rough understanding of what to expect from it, it is not a replacement for accurate performance parameters (e.g. [[Figure of Merit (FOM)|FOM]], [[Signal-to-Noise Ratio (SNR)|SNR]], [[Gain]]), as these can vary wildly for different image intensifiers of the same generation. The relevant agencies of the U.S. government have since recognized this circumstance and have mostly stopped using generations to refer to image intensifiers in their specifications, and instead use the [[Figure of Merit (FOM)]] for most purposes.

Some manufacturers and retailers use a ''+'' to indicate intra-generational improvements, e.g. ''Gen. 2+''. This practice is not part of the official specification and can be defined differently by anyone.

=== Generation 0 ===
Generation 0 was invented in 1929 by a Hungarian scientist in the UK. First uses where in World War II by the Germans, later the Soviets and the Americans.

Gen. 0 tubes don't have any or only very low [[gain]] of a around 10 and thus rely on strong IR illumination.

Gen. 0 tubes utilize S-1 photocathodes, that have a quantum efficiency of 0.5% in the IR spectrum and 1% in the UV spectrum.

'''Examples of Gen 0 devices'''

*Vampir
*M2 & M3 Sniperscope
*PNV57A

=== Generation 1/0+===
Generation 1, developed and patented in the 1960s, improved the gain to around 1000 fL/fc. This enabled the use of Gen. 1 devices under moonlight conditions without the use of IR illumination.

Later developments include the glass in the body being replaced with ceramic, improving the gain even further. These devices are sometimes referred to as Gen. 1+.

Some devices used multiple tubes in a cascade configuration, leading to improvements in [[gain]] of up to 100,000 fL/fc, but with very low [[Signal-to-Noise Ratio (SNR)|SNR]].

'''Examples of Gen 1 devices'''

*AN/PAS 2 Starlight
* [[Armasight]] Spark

Russian Gen. 1/0+ tubes made by [[Ekran FEP|Ekran]] are also found in most cheap consumer devices.

===Generation 2===

The Generation 2 was developed in the 1970s and was the first generation using a [[Microchannel Plate (MCP)]], which substantially increased the [[gain]] to around 20k fL/fc. During this time, due to drastic innovations in the semiconductor space, the first widespread integration of the [[Power Supply Unit (PSU)|PSU]] with the tube in a single, modern package appears.

Generation 2 IITs are usually produced with either P20, P22, P43 or P45 [[Phosphor Screen|phosphor screens]].

Some manufacturers, like [[Photonis Technologies SAS|Photonis]], have continued developing their Gen. 2 technology without ever developing a Gen. 3 production line. Nontheless they have succeeded in pushing the envelope with their image intensifiers matching Gen. 3 performance, most recently even producing image intensifiers with [[gain]] levels above 60k fL/fc.

'''Examples of Gen 2 devices'''

*[[Simrad GN-1|GN-1]] employed Gen 2 IIT upon release.

===Generation 3===
{{Unverified}}
The photocathode is made using gallium arsenide and the refined [[Microchannel Plate (MCP)|MCP]] technology is coated with an Aluminum oxide layer called ion barrier film to prolong the tubes functional life by preventing the occasionally released ion to damage the [[Microchannel Plate (MCP)|MCP]], a process called ion-poisoning which drastically diminishes the plates functional lifespan. The downside of this ion film is that it somewhat restricts the amount of electrons that pass through it thereby detracting some of the intensification. The so called haloing-effect was also increased by this film, something that lessens the practical performance since it may obscure parts of what is being observed.

Subsequent development of the technology led to "thin-film" tubes among other solutions to lessen the impact of the ion barrier on gain and resolution. Since the beginnings of thin-film IIT it has become so commonplace that instead of being singled out as having thin ion barrier film the earlier image intensifiers are nowadays referred to as "thick-film" instead.

Gen. 3 tubes are usually produced with either P43 or P45 [[Phosphor Screen|phosphor screens]]. [[Adams Industries]] sold a Sentinel-CNV "color" night vision binocular where each optical channel had differently filtered input, each channel seeing different parts of the spectrum, and output as two colors, with one side having a red phosphor<ref>https://www.adamsindustries.com/</ref> screen, with green P43 on the other.

Gen 3 image intensifier [[gain]] is often set in the range of 40k to 80k fL/fc. High gain variants are set to 100k to 120k fL/fc.

'''Examples of Gen 3 devices'''

*[[AN/PVS-14]]
*[[AN/PVS-31]]
*[[MNV-K]]
*[[Excelitas Kite Mk. 4]]

====Filmless====
As a logical next step, manufacturers such as [[Litton Industries|Litton]] (now [[L3Harris]]) began developing third generation image intensifiers without an ion barrier film in the 1990s. Albeit successful in creating even higher performing image intensifiers, the early iterations suffered from shorter lifespans and less durability in addition to higher production cost. The first [[Omnibus]] containing filmless image intensifiers was Omni V. Both [[ITT Industries|ITT]] and [[Litton Industries|Litton]] (NGEOS) were given contracts for Gen 4 [[MX-10160#MX-10160B/AVS-6|MX-10160B]] tubes. There is some evidence that Litton achieved filmless image intensifiers that reached [[Signal-to-Noise Ratio (SNR)|SNR]] figures over 35, with the lifetime being around 7500 hours which was also the required minimum. It is unclear what exactly happened, and why the Gen 4 designation was dropped. On their webpage [[ITT Industries|ITT]] wrote about the development of the so called Pinnacle technology<ref>Gen 4, Omni V and VI, and Pinnacle technology https://web.archive.org/web/20060324232309/http://www.nightvision.com/military/cs_gen3pinnacle.html</ref>, an autogated image intensifier tube with a thinner ion barrier film, where they mention receiving a $40mil Navy order for filmless [[AN/AVS-9|F4949]] sets. ITT writes they could not keep up with the requirements, and the U.S. Navy reverted back to buying the older Omni IV regular ion barrier image intensifier tubes. [[Litton Industries|Litton]], later [[L3]], continued developing filmless technology. During the next 10 to 15 years the U.S. military bought [[L3]] filmless image intensifier tubes for special use cases. Probably the best known early example is the [[AN/PVS-15]] that used [[L3]] manufactured filmless technology [[MX-10160#MX-10160B/AVS-6|MX-10160B]]<nowiki/>s (also filmless MX-10160WG), NSN (5855-01-548-9651) assigned on 8 Mar 2007.

[[L3Harris]] stands out as the sole western producer of filmless image intensifier tubes, having patented the process. The only other eastern producer is [[Ekran FEP]].

=== Generation 4 ===
The official specification does not include Generation 4 any more, as even the most modern filmless image intensifier tubes still fall under the definition of Generation 3.

== Terminology ==
While the American system for determining generations is quite clear cut, some systems like the Russian one aren't the same. The following table will shot the various definitions of tube generations. The Russian system exists because the Soviets never really had a generation system. The photocathode type was the only thing ever given, and even this is rare.
{| class="wikitable"
|+
!Tube type
!Western designation
!Russian desigantion
!Common Marketing term
|-
|Single chamber electrostatically focused with S-1 photocathode
|Generation 0
|Generation 0
|Generation 0
|-
|Single chamber electrostatically focused with S-20/25 photocathode
|Generation 1
|Generation 0+
|Generation 1
|-
|Single chamber electrostatically focused with S-20/25 photocathode and spherical photocathode
|Generation 1
|Generation 0+ (sometimes the spherical nature is specified)
|Generation 1+/CF super
|-
|Single chamber electrostatically focused with S-20/25 photocathode and spherical photocathode and fiber optic input/output
|Generation 1
|Generation 0+ (usually the fiber optic is noted)
|Generation 1+
|-
|Multiple chamber cascade tube with S-1/20/25 input photocathode
|Generation 1 (usually just called cascade)
|Generation 1
|Cascade
|}

== Formats==
No single standard for the physical size and shape of image intensifier tubes exists. Instead, several different formats have been created over time.

Many older formats have since become partially or completely abandoned, as many have been designed to fit a specific housing or use case, as well as miniaturization allowing for ever smaller form factors.

Other formats, like MX-10160, have evolved to become somewhat of an industry standard, far exceeding their originally intended use case.

Manufacturers are still creating new formats, like [[Photonis Technologies SAS|Photonis]] with their 16mm format, which is even smaller and lighter than the commonly used formats.
*Mx9916 (Fat Anvis)
*MX-10130
*[[MX-10160|MX-10160 / Small Anvis / 37mm / 18mm]]
*[[MX-11769]]
*16mm

== Lifetime ==
Because image intensifiers rely on an electrochemical process to operate, they will slowly degrade with use.

The original [[MX-10160#MX-10160%2FAVS-6|MX-10160/AVS6]] specification defines a mean time to failure of the image intensifier of 7500 hours under normal and 1500 hours under accelerated conditions. This includes degradation in performance as well as complete failure of the assembly.

Image intensifiers are considered to have "failed" if the FOM decreases below 50% of the initial value.Source?

Gen. 2 image intensifiers loose [[Figure of Merit (FOM)|FOM]] almost linearly over their lifetime, while Gen. 3 image intensifiers have an almost constant [[Figure of Merit (FOM)|FOM]] with a sharp decrease at the end of life.<ref>Eric Garris - [[Harris]] - The Gen. 3 Advantage ([https://dokumen.tips/documents/the-gen-3-advantage-harris-gen-3-advantage-night-vision-and-communication-systems.html?page=10 https://dokumen.tips/documents/the-gen-3-advantage-harris-gen-3-advantage-night-vision-and-communication-systems.html?page=9])</ref> This means that while used Gen. 3 image intensifiers are likely to meet their original specifications, Gen. 2 image intensifiers will have a more or less lower performance compared to when they were new.

== References ==
<references />
[[Category:Technology]]

Image Intensifier

2024-11-15T00:36:15Z

EP33 alt account: added terminology to finally settle the gen-0+ debate

An image intensifier (abbreviation: II or I²) is an electro-optical component that can produce an intensified monochrome image on a [[Phosphor Screen|phosphor screen]] from a cone of incoming light, intended to intensify the signal beyond what optics and digital sensors are capable of.

In the field of night vision, image intensifier refers to image intensifier ''tubes'' which are miniaturized image intensifiers (usually in tubular shape) that form the core component of any night vision device.

Image intensifier tubes are inserted into a housing that otherwise only provides optics, power supply, and protection of the sensitive component. Many formats of image intensifier tubes are designed to be exchangable with limited tooling and know-how, originally intended to allow armies to replace damaged image intensifier tubes by an engineer during deployment.

== Generations ==
The U.S. Army's Night Vision and Electronic Sensors Directorate (NVESD) categorizes image intensifiers into four distinct generations. With each generation, a change in the technology has lead to substantial performance improvements.<ref>Night Vision Technologies Handbook https://www.dhs.gov/sites/default/files/publications/NV-Tech-HB_1013-508.pdf</ref>

Although the generation of any given image intensifier will quickly provide a rough understanding of what to expect from it, it is not a replacement for accurate performance parameters (e.g. [[Figure of Merit (FOM)|FOM]], [[Signal-to-Noise Ratio (SNR)|SNR]], [[Gain]]), as these can vary wildly for different image intensifiers of the same generation. The relevant agencies of the U.S. government have since recognized this circumstance and have mostly stopped using generations to refer to image intensifiers in their specifications, and instead use the [[Figure of Merit (FOM)]] for most purposes.

Some manufacturers and retailers use a ''+'' to indicate intra-generational improvements, e.g. ''Gen. 2+''. This practice is not part of the official specification and can be defined differently by anyone.

=== Generation 0 ===
Generation 0 was invented in 1929 by a Hungarian scientist in the UK. First uses where in World War II by the Germans, later the Soviets and the Americans.

Gen. 0 tubes don't have any or only very low [[gain]] of a around 10 and thus rely on strong IR illumination.

Gen. 0 tubes utilize S-1 photocathodes, that have a quantum efficiency of 0.5% in the IR spectrum and 1% in the UV spectrum.

'''Examples of Gen 0 devices'''

*Vampir
*M2 & M3 Sniperscope
*PNV57A

=== Generation 1===
Generation 1, developed and patented in the 1960s, improved the gain to around 1000 fL/fc. This enabled the use of Gen. 1 devices under moonlight conditions without the use of IR illumination.

Later developments include the glass in the body being replaced with ceramic, improving the gain even further. These devices are sometimes referred to as Gen. 1+.

Some devices used multiple tubes in a cascade configuration, leading to improvements in [[gain]] of up to 100,000 fL/fc, but with very low [[Signal-to-Noise Ratio (SNR)|SNR]].

'''Examples of Gen 1 devices'''

*AN/PAS 2 Starlight
* [[Armasight]] Spark

Russian Gen. 1 tubes made by [[Ekran FEP|Ekran]] are also found in most cheap consumer devices.

===Generation 2===

The Generation 2 was developed in the 1970s and was the first generation using a [[Microchannel Plate (MCP)]], which substantially increased the [[gain]] to around 20k fL/fc. During this time, due to drastic innovations in the semiconductor space, the first widespread integration of the [[Power Supply Unit (PSU)|PSU]] with the tube in a single, modern package appears.

Generation 2 IITs are usually produced with either P20, P22, P43 or P45 [[Phosphor Screen|phosphor screens]].

Some manufacturers, like [[Photonis Technologies SAS|Photonis]], have continued developing their Gen. 2 technology without ever developing a Gen. 3 production line. Nontheless they have succeeded in pushing the envelope with their image intensifiers matching Gen. 3 performance, most recently even producing image intensifiers with [[gain]] levels above 60k fL/fc.

'''Examples of Gen 2 devices'''

*[[Simrad GN-1|GN-1]] employed Gen 2 IIT upon release.

===Generation 3===
{{Unverified}}
The photocathode is made using gallium arsenide and the refined [[Microchannel Plate (MCP)|MCP]] technology is coated with an Aluminum oxide layer called ion barrier film to prolong the tubes functional life by preventing the occasionally released ion to damage the [[Microchannel Plate (MCP)|MCP]], a process called ion-poisoning which drastically diminishes the plates functional lifespan. The downside of this ion film is that it somewhat restricts the amount of electrons that pass through it thereby detracting some of the intensification. The so called haloing-effect was also increased by this film, something that lessens the practical performance since it may obscure parts of what is being observed.

Subsequent development of the technology led to "thin-film" tubes among other solutions to lessen the impact of the ion barrier on gain and resolution. Since the beginnings of thin-film IIT it has become so commonplace that instead of being singled out as having thin ion barrier film the earlier image intensifiers are nowadays referred to as "thick-film" instead.

Gen. 3 tubes are usually produced with either P43 or P45 [[Phosphor Screen|phosphor screens]]. [[Adams Industries]] sold a Sentinel-CNV "color" night vision binocular where each optical channel had differently filtered input, each channel seeing different parts of the spectrum, and output as two colors, with one side having a red phosphor<ref>https://www.adamsindustries.com/</ref> screen, with green P43 on the other.

Gen 3 image intensifier [[gain]] is often set in the range of 40k to 80k fL/fc. High gain variants are set to 100k to 120k fL/fc.

'''Examples of Gen 3 devices'''

*[[AN/PVS-14]]
*[[AN/PVS-31]]
*[[MNV-K]]
*[[Excelitas Kite Mk. 4]]

====Filmless====
As a logical next step, manufacturers such as [[Litton Industries|Litton]] (now [[L3Harris]]) began developing third generation image intensifiers without an ion barrier film in the 1990s. Albeit successful in creating even higher performing image intensifiers, the early iterations suffered from shorter lifespans and less durability in addition to higher production cost. The first [[Omnibus]] containing filmless image intensifiers was Omni V. Both [[ITT Industries|ITT]] and [[Litton Industries|Litton]] (NGEOS) were given contracts for Gen 4 [[MX-10160#MX-10160B/AVS-6|MX-10160B]] tubes. There is some evidence that Litton achieved filmless image intensifiers that reached [[Signal-to-Noise Ratio (SNR)|SNR]] figures over 35, with the lifetime being around 7500 hours which was also the required minimum. It is unclear what exactly happened, and why the Gen 4 designation was dropped. On their webpage [[ITT Industries|ITT]] wrote about the development of the so called Pinnacle technology<ref>Gen 4, Omni V and VI, and Pinnacle technology https://web.archive.org/web/20060324232309/http://www.nightvision.com/military/cs_gen3pinnacle.html</ref>, an autogated image intensifier tube with a thinner ion barrier film, where they mention receiving a $40mil Navy order for filmless [[AN/AVS-9|F4949]] sets. ITT writes they could not keep up with the requirements, and the U.S. Navy reverted back to buying the older Omni IV regular ion barrier image intensifier tubes. [[Litton Industries|Litton]], later [[L3]], continued developing filmless technology. During the next 10 to 15 years the U.S. military bought [[L3]] filmless image intensifier tubes for special use cases. Probably the best known early example is the [[AN/PVS-15]] that used [[L3]] manufactured filmless technology [[MX-10160#MX-10160B/AVS-6|MX-10160B]]<nowiki/>s (also filmless MX-10160WG), NSN (5855-01-548-9651) assigned on 8 Mar 2007.

[[L3Harris]] stands out as the sole western producer of filmless image intensifier tubes, having patented the process. The only other eastern producer is [[Ekran FEP]].

=== Generation 4 ===
The official specification does not include Generation 4 any more, as even the most modern filmless image intensifier tubes still fall under the definition of Generation 3.

== Terminology ==
While the American system for determining generations is quite clear cut, some systems like the Russian one aren't the same. The following table will shot the various definitions of tube generations. The Russian system exists because the Soviets never really had a generation system. The photocathode type was the only thing ever given, and even this is rare.
{| class="wikitable"
|+
!Tube type
!Western designation
!Russian desigantion
!Common Marketing term
|-
|Single chamber electrostatically focused with S-1 photocathode
|Generation 0
|Generation 0
|Generation 0
|-
|Single chamber electrostatically focused with S-20/25 photocathode
|Generation 1
|Generation 0+
|Generation 1
|-
|Single chamber electrostatically focused with S-20/25 photocathode and spherical photocathode
|Generation 1
|Generation 0+ (sometimes the spherical nature is specified)
|Generation 1+/CF super
|-
|Single chamber electrostatically focused with S-20/25 photocathode and spherical photocathode and fiber optic input/output
|Generation 1
|Generation 0+ (usually the fiber optic is noted)
|Generation 1+
|-
|Multiple chamber cascade tube with S-1/20/25 input photocathode
|Generation 1 (usually just called cascade)
|Generation 1
|Cascade
|}

== Formats==
No single standard for the physical size and shape of image intensifier tubes exists. Instead, several different formats have been created over time.

Many older formats have since become partially or completely abandoned, as many have been designed to fit a specific housing or use case, as well as miniaturization allowing for ever smaller form factors.

Other formats, like MX-10160, have evolved to become somewhat of an industry standard, far exceeding their originally intended use case.

Manufacturers are still creating new formats, like [[Photonis Technologies SAS|Photonis]] with their 16mm format, which is even smaller and lighter than the commonly used formats.
*Mx9916 (Fat Anvis)
*MX-10130
*[[MX-10160|MX-10160 / Small Anvis / 37mm / 18mm]]
*[[MX-11769]]
*16mm

== Lifetime ==
Because image intensifiers rely on an electrochemical process to operate, they will slowly degrade with use.

The original [[MX-10160#MX-10160%2FAVS-6|MX-10160/AVS6]] specification defines a mean time to failure of the image intensifier of 7500 hours under normal and 1500 hours under accelerated conditions. This includes degradation in performance as well as complete failure of the assembly.

Image intensifiers are considered to have "failed" if the FOM decreases below 50% of the initial value.Source?

Gen. 2 image intensifiers loose [[Figure of Merit (FOM)|FOM]] almost linearly over their lifetime, while Gen. 3 image intensifiers have an almost constant [[Figure of Merit (FOM)|FOM]] with a sharp decrease at the end of life.<ref>Eric Garris - [[Harris]] - The Gen. 3 Advantage ([https://dokumen.tips/documents/the-gen-3-advantage-harris-gen-3-advantage-night-vision-and-communication-systems.html?page=10 https://dokumen.tips/documents/the-gen-3-advantage-harris-gen-3-advantage-night-vision-and-communication-systems.html?page=9])</ref> This means that while used Gen. 3 image intensifiers are likely to meet their original specifications, Gen. 2 image intensifiers will have a more or less lower performance compared to when they were new.

== References ==
<references />
[[Category:Technology]]

NSP-3

2024-11-15T00:31:45Z

EP33 alt account: NSP subheading changed

The NSP-3 is a night vision device of Soviet origin. Unlike the earlier NSP-2, the NSP-3 is a passive device using a cascade tube. Inside the device (presumably) is a U-32M three-stage cascade tube. The device weighs around 2.7kg. It has a magnification of 2.7x and a field of view of 7°. The device runs on a 4.5 volt accumulator. The whole kit including the bag, crate and accessories weighs around 7.8kg. There are two variants of the device, the NSP-3 and NSP-3A. The NSP-3 carries the 1PN27 GRAU index catalogue number, while the NSP-3As number is 1PN28.<ref>https://www.rwd-mb3.de/pages/nsp3.htm</ref>

==== NSP-3 ====
The device was license produced in Poland and Hungary. The Polish version of the device carries the same NSP-3 designation of the soviet variant, while Hungarian devices are called NSzP-3 (pronounced NSP). These use U-32M tubes.<ref>https://www.reddit.com/r/UssrNvgResearchGroup/comments/1c3smyt/soviet_u32m_cascaded_gen1_image_converter_tube/</ref>

== References ==
[[Category:Devices]]

EP33

2024-11-15T00:07:35Z

EP33 alt account: added something

The EP33 is a generation 0+/1 image intensifier tube of Russian origin.<ref>https://www.ekran-os.ru/products?id=35#s</ref> All variants of the EP33 are produced by [[Ekran Optical Systems|Ekran]]. There are multiple variants of the EP33, these are: EP33, EP33-U, EP33-UD, EP33-US-D and EP33-SF. The SF is special, as it has a spherical photocathode to counteract distortion.<ref>https://www.ekran-os.ru/images/spec/eop0/spherical/en/pEP33-SF.pdf</ref> These tubes were and still are widely used in civilian devices marketed as "generation-1". The U in some EP33 variant indicated that the anode cone is shortened for the sake of compactness.<ref>[https://forum.guns.ru/forummessage/209/2602105.html https://forum.guns.ru/forummessage/209/2602105.htm]</ref>

== References ==

Fero 52

2024-11-15T00:01:41Z

EP33 alt account: added PRD 4x80

The Fero 52 is a night vision device of west German origin. The device uses a generation-1 image intensifier.

The housing is biocular and can easily be distinguished from the [[Fero 51]] by its large objective lens. The device has a magnification of 4x and a field of view of 10°. It is powered up by pressing a small button that shortly supplies high voltage to the the tube. After pressing the button the tube slowly discharges. The device is powered by 2 1.5v batteries.<ref>https://www.bundeswehr-und-mehr.de/a-4226</ref> There also appears to be either a licensed or cloned device produced by Zrak called PRD 4x80.<ref>https://www.reddit.com/r/NightVision/comments/flp2v4/found_this_zrak_nv_binoculars_a_while_ago_was/</ref>

== References ==
<references />
[[Category:Devices]]

Fero 52

2024-11-15T00:00:09Z

EP33 alt account: fixed gen system

The Fero 52 is a night vision device of west German origin. The device uses a generation-1 image intensifier.

The housing is biocular and can easily be distinguished from the [[Fero 51]] by its large objective lens. The device has a magnification of 4x and a field of view of 10°. It is powered up by pressing a small button that shortly supplies high voltage to the the tube. After pressing the button the tube slowly discharges. The device is powered by 2 1.5v batteries.<ref>https://www.bundeswehr-und-mehr.de/a-4226</ref> There also appears to be either a licensed or cloned device produced by Zrak.<ref>https://www.reddit.com/r/NightVision/comments/flp2v4/found_this_zrak_nv_binoculars_a_while_ago_was/</ref>

== References ==
<references />
[[Category:Devices]]

Fero 51

2024-11-14T23:59:35Z

EP33 alt account: changed gen system to western

The Fero 51 is a device of west German origin. It is a Gen. 0 bi-ocular utilizing [[AEG Telefunken|Telefunken]] 6914 tubes. The housing utilizes 1.5 volt batteries and has exchangeable high voltage cartridges.<ref>http://www.eyry.eu/miltec/documents/Infrarot-Fernrohr-Fero51-TDV.pdf</ref> It is a bi-ocular device with a distinctive long objective lens that protrudes from the housing. It is distinct from the later [[Fero D51|D51]] model, with no commonality between the two.

The device is the predecessor of the [[Fero 52]] (1).

== References ==
<references />
[[Category:Devices]]

1PN39

2024-11-14T23:07:12Z

EP33 alt account: more info

The 1PN39 also called NNP-22 (literally "Night Observation Device 22) is a night observation device of Soviet origin. The full kit includes a tripod and long power cable.
[[Category:Devices]]

1PN39

2024-11-14T23:00:50Z

EP33 alt account: added page to 1PN39, this is WIP, but trust me bros

The 1PN39 also called NNP-22 (literally "Night Observation Device 22) is a night observation device of Soviet origin.
[[Category:Devices]]

PFM

2024-11-14T22:53:11Z

EP33 alt account: added more info, the source thread is lost to time, but fuck it, we ball

PNV-57

2024-11-14T22:47:40Z

EP33 alt account: Edited some info on the PNV-57 to the PNV-57A, as this was terrible reading wise

The PNV-57 is a family of night vision binoculars originally developed and produced in the Soviet Union, but later variants also developed and produced in Czechoslovakia and Poland.

The design has several variants, either using Gen. 0 or Gen. 1 [[Image Intensifier|image intensifier tubes]]. They use an external power supply, with a high voltage cable connecting the supply to the binoculars. Most variants then require an external power source to be connected to this power supply. Originally these units are mounted to a tanker cap style helmet with the power supply worn on the back of the cap. With the exception of the later PNV-57E, the device lacks IPD adjustment.

The device is often supplied with additional CBK-1 high voltage rectifiers. The device also comes with a small bottle of sealing grease, that is to be reapplied when the device is taken apart (i.e to replace the rectifiers).<ref name=":0">https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=aW-5H-4Tqhs&t=276s</ref><ref name=":1">https://www.rwd-mb3.de/pages/pnw57.htm</ref>

== Variants ==
{| class="wikitable"
|+
!Device
!Generation
!Information
!Image
|-
|PNV-57
|0
|Goggles look like two smooth cylinders with a flat underside.
Painted grey, green, brown and black.

Utilizes V1P/V1PM generation-0 tubes, these are slightly smaller than V-8 and EP-33 tubes.

This variant of the device comes with AF-2 IR filters and A-55 IR emitters. The IR filters are made from a type of glass that has a high manganese content.

The device also comes with spare bulbs for the A-55 light.<ref name=":1" />
|[[File:Device serial.jpg|thumb|Czechoslovakian PNV-57 made in 1968]]
|-
|PNW-57/PNW-57A
|0
|Polish copy of the PNV-57. The main difference between the PNW-57 and Czechoslovakian PNV-57 is that it has ear outserts where headphones can be inserted. The device comes in either a green wooden box or grey metal box, similar to its Czechoslovakian counterpart, but with slightly different dimensions and a slightly lighter tone of grey. The device also uses a different type of illuminator with the same plug as the device itself.
The difference between PNW-57 and PNW-57A are not yet fully clear.
The device uses W1P/W1PM tubes of indigenous production.
|
|-
|PNV-57A
|0
|Same as the PNV-57, but uses a different transformer. The transformer replaced the obsolete CBK-1 kenotrons with modern diodes. The cables also come out at an angle to avoid them getting damaged by long term storage.<ref name=":0" />
|
|-
|PNV57AM
|???
|???
|
|-
|PNV-57AK
|0
|Same as the PNV-57A, but in a box containing two units
|
|-
|PNW-2
|Unknown, but presumably 0
|Unit of Polish origin similar to PNV-57, except that it is a monocular with an adjustable mount. Included in the transport box are two separate monoculars. Very uncommon.<ref>https://www.reddit.com/r/NightVision/comments/x94cfa/strange_russian_goggle/</ref> Sometimes the kit has a tank helmet with a specialized mount on it. The mount in question appears to have an adjustable IPD. Rarely, there's also a bridge of two pods possibly called PNV-4.<ref>https://www.reddit.com/r/Rusfor/comments/1dtzb0i/how_do_i_do_this</ref>
|
|-
|PNV-57H
|0
|Czech handheld clone of the PNV-57A
Uses a much larger power supply

Large IR lamp fitted to top of unit

Presumably uses the same V1PM tubes as the default Czechoslovak PNV-57 made by [[Tesla]]. <ref>https://forum.astronomie.de/threads/infrarot-nachtsichtgeraet-nachtsichtbrille-pnv-57-binokular.344107/</ref>
|
|-
|PNV-57K
|0
|???
|
|-
|PNV-57T
|0
|Identical to the PNV-57AK, but in a wooden crate marked accordingly
|
|-
|PNV-57E
|1/0+
|Visually and functionally distinct to PNV-57A models.
Looks like two irregularly shaped cylinders with a large protrusion on the upper side, nearer to the eyepieces.

The unit is painted a green - brown colour, similar to some versions of the PNV-57A

Sometimes seen converted to handheld use, with a power supply mounted on top of the binoculars

Uses generation-1/0+ V-8 tubes. <ref name=":2">https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=0LfyEFIjfgo&t=3s</ref>

Doesn't have the CBK-1 high voltage rectifiers included, as the power supply is different internally.

The device also comes with UFS-8 and KF-19 light blockers and their respective mounts.

It lacks the grease, as field disassembly was rendered pointless by removal of the rectifiers. <ref name=":1" />
|
|-
|PNV-57EH
|1/0+
|Recon variant presumably made in Czechoslovakia.<ref>https://www.detektorweb.info/clanek/nocni-videni-1</ref>
|
|-
|PNV-57EM
|1/0+
|Modernised version of the PNV-57E.
Unlike other versions, the power supply for this variant has a battery compartment, eliminating the need for a separate battery pack.

The binoculars are slightly shorter than the PNV-57E, the front lenses replaced with a shorter version with adjustable focus

Uses upgraded V-8A tubes made by [[Ekran Optical Systems|Ekran]]. <ref name=":2" />
|
|-
|PNV-57ET
|1/0+
|Same as the PNV-57E, but in a box containing two units
|
|-
|PNV-57ETC
|???
|???
|
|-
|PNW-57M
|[[16mm]] generation-2/3 tubes
|Uses the same body as the PNW-57, but different lenses. <ref>http://www.opticstrade.cz/night-vision-devices/pnv-57-m-en/</ref>
The device is of Polish origin, this is certain because of the PNW designation.

The device appears to have removed the bulky transformer (Batteries mounted in the former cable spot?)

The device was also in service with Polish artillery units. <ref>http://pzo.warszawa.pl/oferta/optoelektronika-dla-artylerii/152-mm-ahs-dana/</ref>

The device was created to be compatible with existing surplus PNV-57 accessories. <ref>https://www.reddit.com/r/UssrNvgResearchGroup/comments/1az60vn/what_are_theese_are_theese_gen1_or_gen0/</ref>
|
|-
|BNO
|1/0+
|Magnified binocular version of the PNV-57E
Different front lens design

Power supply, battery compartment and IR illuminator mounted in a long tube mounted on top of the device
|
|-
|BN2
|1/0+
|Similar to the BNO, but with different front lenses and no IR illuminator
|
|}

== References ==
<references />
[[Category:Devices]]