How to Take Care of your Night Vision Device

Today we would like to talk about night vision devices, what they are and how not to get lost in the variety of models. First, let’s see what they are for. First of all, for observation in low light conditions. This includes binoculars and monoculars, night vision goggles, sights, various attachments and combined systems, which, in their functionality, seem to combine all of the above.

The principle of operation of night vision devices. Starting a conversation on the topic of the principle of operation of night vision devices, it is necessary to immediately clarify one very common misconception that occurs among people who encounter a night vision device for the first time.

Any night vision device can “see” in complete, that is, absolute darkness, unless special infrared illumination is used. In other words, if there is absolutely no light in the surrounding space in the range visible to the human eye, or in the region of infrared light adjacent to it (for example, a tightly closed room “without windows, without doors”), then not through any, even the most expensive device you won’t see anything. Each night vision device works on the principle of multiple amplification (limited by the technical capabilities of night vision devices) of existing light, up to values sufficient for perception by the naked eye.

Types of night vision devices

With the help of night vision devices, the reflected light from objects is amplified and displayed on the screen of such a device. Night vision devices differ in a number of ways: type, application, and functional principles. Let’s take a closer look at each type of NVD separately: 1. Sights – this type is widely used for aimed shooting at night.

This separate device has a mount for mounting on a weapon, an aiming mark and an electro-optical illumination amplification system. Interestingly, for the first time such sights were used by the Germans during the Great Patriotic War. 2. Night vision goggles is a device in the form of glasses that are mounted on the head or helmet with special devices, which allows the hands to remain free. Such glasses transmit the image on a one-to-one scale, this allows you to drive a vehicle, navigate the map, and so on. 3. Binoculars – enhance the brightness, image and optical magnification, which allows you to navigate the terrain at night. 4. Combined systems – as mentioned above, according to their technical characteristics, they combine all of the above types of night vision devices, expand their capabilities and functional application. All devices are characterized by a waterproof housing, and the maximum range is 1000 meters. Many models are protected from bright light or flashes. These devices can be used for many tasks, especially when there is no sunlight and it is impossible to use electrical appliances.

Night vision devices, their types and classification depend on the goals that they can perform. How to choose a night vision device? Before acquiring a night vision device, everyone must decide for themselves what goals it should meet and what it will be used for. When choosing a night vision device for a car or hunting, you should consider the following characteristics: Lens diameter. The lens should collect as much light as possible from the observed object, so to get a bright picture, you need to choose a device with a large lens. Line of sight. It is indicated in degrees, while the larger this indicator, the better the device will work.

Focusing. This indicator has a certain range, which must meet the requirements of the consumer. In case of vision problems, it is necessary to clarify whether the modern night vision device has a diopter correction of the eyepiece. Resolution. It is measured in the number of strokes in one millimeter. Small details are best seen in high-resolution night vision devices. Dimensions and weight. This indicator is especially important for sights, which can significantly weight the rifle. Models with a more expensive device will have the optimal design.

General rules of taking care of NV devices

Now consider the general recommendations for the care of night vision devices. First, it is important to store the device on a solid and level surface in a place where the device is protected from falling. A dry and cool area is optimally suited for the device. Such a microclimate will avoid accidental contamination or the development of corrosion.

After using the device, close it with a plastic case, which is most often included in the kit or purchased separately. This will protect the optics from dust and simplify the care of the device. Moving metal parts must be treated with silicone grease, which must be renewed 1-2 times a year.

Taking care of the lens

Optics is the most important thing, so it needs especially careful and thorough care. To understand how to clean the lenses of a night vision device, you need to understand the types of pollution. Lungs – these include particles of dust or dead skin, small fragments from broken glass slides. The removal of such contaminants is preferably carried out with compressed air. To do this, just buy a small rubber pear in a pharmacy.

This method will allow you to quickly correct the contamination without harm to the optics. Water Soluble – If the stain can be removed with ordinary water, try a simple but effective cleaning option: breathe on the optical surface, and when it fogs up, wipe it with a soft cloth. This cleaning of the lens avoids over moistening of the surfaces. Persistent – this includes oily fingerprints and other contaminants. To cope with them, you need to purchase a special liquid and wipes for optics. Refuse to use even the softest paper or abrasive wipes. Never remove stubborn stains “dry”. Do not use solvents containing acetone or ammonium.

Additionally, it is important to remember the general rules for caring for lenses and lenses. By adhering to the following simple rules, you can avoid damage to optical elements and additional costs for the purchase of new ones. Avoid touching any glass surfaces of the device with your hands. When wiping the optics with a napkin, do it as carefully as possible, do not press, and move strictly from the center to the edges. Do not disassemble the lens barrel or professionals should perform barrel – any maintenance on lenses inside the instrument. Periodically inspect glass surfaces for dust and other light contaminants. Knowing how to care for a night vision device, try to minimize the appearance of stains on the optics – too frequent and diligent cleaning leads to abrasion of the anti-reflective coating of the lenses, and other troubles.

Cases for night vision devices

For any lover of night vision devices, it is important to treat your device with care. For example, a sight is one of the most important components of a successful hunt or wildlife observation. Of course, we can safely conclude that caring for devices night vision and their careful storage is a fundamental task of hunters.

An excellent solution to this problem is to buy a special case for night vision devices. The case can protect your equipment from many negative factors. For example, it will protect your device from bad weather or from bumps during transportation .Thanks to the case you will not scratch or break your optics How to choose a case for NVD? and the truth is not one year. In addition, best of all, if he can protect you from any atmospheric phenomena, so that neither rain nor fog can affect him; frontal seams with which the fabric is pulled together. The absence of glue streaks and an even seam without protruding threads – this is the standard of high-quality sewing.

Conclusion

The night vision device can be used in the dark or in very low light levels. It is worth remembering that dense fog, smoke, rain or snow greatly interfere with the operation of these devices, especially when using digital zoom. Which type of NVD is the best? It depends on the specific goals and the task.

For amateur observation, glasses may be enough, but for professional observation, binoculars are required. For dynamic observation, for example, for recreational hunting, it is better to choose more compact and lightweight monoculars.