There are many types of night vision goggles, which may be confusing for those who are new to or do not know about them. However, if we focus on the low-light night vision goggles, their development history and characteristics will become clearer. As an important branch of the field of night vision goggles, low-light night vision goggles have undergone multiple generations of evolution, including generation 1, generation 1+, generation 2, generation 2+ and generation 3 products. With the continuous advancement of technology, the imaging quality of low-light night vision goggles has been quite excellent, especially in generation 2+ and generation 3 products. With their small size, light weight, clear images and comprehensive functions, they have become a powerful assistant for many industries such as the military, police, surveyors, oil industry workers, journalists, travel enthusiasts, aquaculture farmers and nature lovers to work at night. However, due to the technical complexity and high cost of key components such as low-light image intensifiers, the price of low-light night vision goggles is relatively high.
In the market, we often see products of generation 1+ and above. Among them, although the performance of generation 1+ night vision goggles has been improved, they are relatively large in size and more suitable for use as handheld telescopes, with fewer helmet-type designs. For example, the NP-1600 handheld low-light night vision device is a typical 1+ generation product, which is moderately priced and cost-effective, but slightly larger in size.
2nd generation night vision device. Compared with the 1st generation, the 2nd generation night vision device has undergone significant improvements. Its key technology lies in the introduction of microchannel plates, which are placed directly behind the photocathode as electronic amplifiers. When electrons pass through these microchannels, thousands of times the electrons are released, which significantly increases the brightness of the night vision goggles. This makes the 2nd generation night vision device more outstanding in imaging effect, more compact, easy to carry, and suitable for helmet use. However, the technical upgrade from the 1st generation to the 2nd generation has significantly increased the cost.
Its core component is the image intensifier, which includes the photocathode, the electronic optical system, the gain mechanism and the fluorescent screen. The imaging method is usually black and white or greenish color, which can clearly distinguish the details of the facial features. However, it should be noted that the product itself does not have the function of taking pictures and recording videos. The low-light night vision device is designed for low-light or completely dark environments, suitable for observing targets and enemy reconnaissance at night. Its infrared auxiliary function is highly concealed, making it very suitable for use by the military and public security units.
In addition, low-light night vision devices must follow specific usage rules. Since the first-generation plus product may damage the image intensifier tube under strong light, it is not recommended to use it during the day or when the light is strong. Although the second-generation plus product has strong light protection, it is also recommended to avoid turning it on under strong light. As for the third-generation night vision device, it uses the latest technology to enhance the image clarity and resolution through sensitive chemicals, but the price is extremely high, far exceeding the first and second generation products. At present, the domestic level can only reach the super second generation, and the products that truly reach the third generation standard mostly rely on imports. Therefore, when choosing, it is necessary to weigh the actual needs and budget.