Signal-to-Noise Ratio (SNR)

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The Signal-to-Noise Ratio is the ratio between the actual image (signal) and noise, used to measure the performance in providing a noise-free image in image intensifiers and optical sensors of digital night vision and thermal devices.

Typical specs are:

  • Gen 0[1]
    • SNR ~2
    • Gain >1
  • Gen 1[1]
    • SNR ~6
    • Gain ~70
  • Gen 2 (introduction of the MCP)[1]
    • SNR ~11
    • Gain 3.5k to 10k
  • Gen 2+[2]
    • SNR <30
    • Gain 10k to 60k
  • Advanced Gen 2+[3]
    • SNR <40
  • Gen 3[4]
    • SNR <35
    • Gain 20k to 80k
  • Advanced Gen 3[5]
    • SNR <50
    • Gain 60k to 120k

A very noisy and possibly dim image can be one sign of a end of life conditions if it can be assumed the factory specifications were considerably higher than what is observerd.

References