Optix Diana (single tube)

Optix Diana (Single Tube Bi-Ocular)

Summary

Diana overall 1

The Optix Diana Bi-ocular is a single-tube, dual-eye night vision device developed and manufactured by Optix Co. of Bulgaria. Designed for military, law enforcement, and surveillance applications. It uses a second or third-generation image intensifier tube, and is comparable in layout and function to the American AN/PVS-7 system.

Diana overall 2

The device is typically mounted on a helmet, headgear and features integrated infrared (IR) illumination, automatic brightness control, and robust environmental sealing. It is widely used by NATO-aligned and regional defense forces, particularly in Eastern Europe.

Design

The Diana Biocular features a single image intensifier tube with a dual eyepiece (bi-ocular) viewing system, allowing both eyes to view roughly the same intensified image. Due to collimator design, each eye has a somewhat more separate view, extending its associated right or left field of view. This improves user comfort and the feeling of depth perception (even if it is false depth perception) over long periods of use compared to monocular systems. Its rugged, lightweight housing is waterproof and built to MIL-STD environmental specifications.

The standard version uses 1× magnification, though other Diana variants with higher magnifications (3×, 5×, 10×) are available. The system can be handheld or mounted and is powered by two standard AA batteries.

Environmental seal is accomplished by the use of oirings behind each screw on the ocular assembly, and silicone sealant around the edge where the main body and ocular assembly meet. Note that this will make disassembly more challenging, as even after removing all the screws, the silicone glue will hold the two together. Be careful using force to separate the two, as there are still wires for the indicator lights present, so force must be used, but with extreme care.

Interestingly, the collimator in this bi-ocular is actually a two part design unlike the PVS7, with the collimating lenses being mounted to the main body, and the reflector being mounted to the rear ocular assembly. In the photo below, you can also see the reed switch located in the top left, next to the power switch. This reed switch is the on/off control for utilizing the magnet in the helmet or head mount.

Board and collimator splitter

Technical Specifications

Manufacturer: Optix Co., Bulgaria

Magnification: 1× (unity)

F-number    1.3

Focus Range: 25 cm to infinity

Image Intensifier Tube: Gen 2+ or Gen 3 (depending on variant)

Field of View (FOV): ~43° (See product brochure)

Resolution: ≥ 57 lp/mm (typical for Gen 2+), ≥ 64 lp/mm (Gen 3)

Diopter Adjustment: –6 to +4

Exit pupil diameter: 17 mm

Exit pupil relief: 8 mm

Inter-pupil distance: 54 to 76 mm

Infrared Illuminator: Built-in, switchable   

Power Supply: 2 × AA batteries

Battery Life: Up to 60 hours (without IR)

Dimensions: Approx 160 × 140 × 80 mm (model-dependent)

Weight: ≤ 550 g (without the battery), ~600–700 g (including batteries)

Operating Temperature   -50 ÷ +50°C

Storage temperature:    -56 ÷ +65°C

Water Resistance: Waterproof (IP67 or MIL-STD-810F equivalent)

Overall dimensions (L x W x H): 147 x 141 x 64 mm (without the eyecups)

Listed Operation time:

40 hours (alkaline),

20 hours (rechargeable),

65 hours (lithium)

Calculated performance range*

Detection range:     210 m ÷ 350 m

Orientation range:     180 m ÷ 290 m

Recognition range:     84 m ÷ 140 m

Identification range:     40 m ÷ 65 m

Diana tube, this one is likely a Herder Digital gen 3

Tube: 18mm non-inverting (MX10130) with rear alignment nubs removed, and flying leads instead of pads.

Mounting: Head mount / helmet mount compatible

Features

Automatic Brightness Control (ABC): Maintains image clarity in varying light levels.

Bright Light Protection: Protects the tube from damage in sudden high-light conditions.

IR Illuminator: Integrated for use in complete darkness or enclosed spaces.

Flexible Mounting Options: Compatible with headgear or tripod accessories.

Operational Use

The Diana Biocular is used in:

Military reconnaissance and patrol operations

Border surveillance

Special police units and tactical teams

Search and rescue in low-visibility environments

It is particularly suited for users who prefer both-eye viewing while maintaining low weight and compact dimensions compared to binocular systems.

Variants

Optix produces several variants under the Diana product line:

Diana 3× / 5× / 10× – Long-range night vision binoculars with higher magnification

Optix Diana Power switch and markings

Switch Positions

Listed from top to bottom:

1: On headmount only, tube on, IR illuminator on.

2. On headmount only, tube on. (momentary illuminator available on button press)

3. Off

4. handheld mode, Tube on. (momentary illuminator available on button press)

Take note that when not on a head mount or helmet mount, the top two positions will not work, and the device will be "off", until a magnet is placed on top of the device body, about centered between the mounting slot and the switch. A magnet in this location will close the reed switch mounted inside the body, around that location.

With mounts so poorly available, this should be considered if making your own.

See Also

AN/PVS-7

Optix Co. (Bulgaria)

Gen 2+ and Gen 3 night vision

References

Optix Co. Diana Product Brochure. https://www.optixco.com File:Optix Diana sales brochure.pdf Night Vision User Manual – Optix Diana Series