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FAQ: NIGHT OPTICS

1. What is a NVD (Night Vision Device)?

Night Vision is a device that allows the user to see in darkness or in poor and difficult visibility conditions - smoke, fog, rain, or other cataclysms.

The NVD as we now know it has been used by U.S. soldiers in operations in the Middle East, although the earliest such developments date back to World War II. Nowadays, NVD is used to fly rescue helicopters and military fighter jets at night, and modern drones are equipped with thermal imaging cameras. Thanks to the cheapening and development of technology, hunters, naturalists, and law enforcement officials have the opportunity to use the NVD where they need it.

2. What are some precautions to using Night Vision?

There are not many elements in the NVD that can be easily damaged. It is undesirable to drop the device, store it for a long time without removing the batteries. Always use lens protection, or better yet, put in a good glass filter.

- Do not turn the device on during the day or point it at a light source (even at night).

- Do not disassemble or repair the appliance yourself - do so only with a professional customer service representative.

- Do not drop or shake the night vision device too much.

- Keep the device in its original case. This also applies to transport your device.

- Do not let a minor use or play with the device.

3. How does Night Vision work?

The principle of operation of night vision devices (NVD) is based on the transformation of infrared (IR) radiation into visible and low levels of brightness created on the observed object by the luminescence of the night sky, stars and moon in the visible and near IR spectral area.

Originally, night vision devices (NVIs) were developed for defense purposes. This is understandable, because during military operations the ability to act at night is as good as it can save many lives during the day, and such devices have long been adopted by the armies of most countries.

4. What is the difference between the 1 Gen and the 2 Gen?

Gen 1 is a generation of analogue night vision devices. The first generation is capable of 1000x amplification. The disadvantage of this technology is a dim image with low resolution, the so-called "fish eye" effect. One should not forget about the short lifetime of about 1500 hours.

The advent of Gen 2 night vision was preceded by a qualitative scientific breakthrough in the development of vacuum electronics components. The key element in the Gen 2 electron-optical converter is a microchannel plate that enhances the brightness of the image. The lifetime of the device is about 2.5 - 5 thousand hours, and the working distance up to 200 yards (183 meters).

Start a "serious conversation" with the Gen 2 or 2+ optics, with multiple enhanced sensitivity and good resolution. The Pinnacle Gen 3, 3+ and 3 genes are more commonly used by rescuers and the military due to their side light sensitivity. These are devices that have absorbed all the achievements of modern technical thought.

5. How a NVD can be focused?

The night vision sight or binocular has a lens and adjustable eyepiece.

To adjust the Night Vision Device, you should adjust the lens to make the picture clearer and more visible. Then adjust the eyepiece for your eyesight.

If you are trying to adjust your binoculars or NVD glasses, each eyepiece needs to be adjusted separately - your eyes have different indicators. Close one eye alternately and look into the optics with only one eye. Adjust the device to this vision. Then change your eyes.

Sometimes night vision goggles need to be adjusted first, and only then proceed to the eyepiece adjustment.

You should focus your devices on the weather and the time of day, you will be working with them.

6. How far can you see with a NVD?

No one can answer that question for sure. The quality and generation of the device, as well as the level of light in a particular environment, are directly related to the range of detection and recognition of the device. An expensive 3rd generation sight with excellent image quality can detect an animal or a person at a distance of 300 meters, but you will not be able to recognize or identify an animal or person by sight or gender until they are about 150 meters away.

But, if it's really a dark night, you'll need to get closer to get the necessary detection and recognition range. If the night sky is a month away then the detection and recognition range can be even greater.

7. What is Infrared Illuminator (IRI) meant for (Complete Darkness)?

An infrared flashlight is a special device that emits light in the infrared range in a given direction and with preset parameters. These devices are used in conjunction with night sights and ELVs in conditions where there are no light sources or their intensity is extremely low. Any night vision device amplifies the weak light that comes from stars, the moon, is reflected by clouds, etc. If such light is not sufficient, an IR flashlight is needed.

8. Can the NVD be returned if you don't like it?

In accordance with our return policy, you can return most items within 30 days of purchase. The device must also be intact and in its original packaging with all components included. The warranty does not cover mechanical damage to the appliance made by the buyer himself.

Please contact our support team for more information.

9. What is the warranty for AGM products?

AGM provides a 5-year warranty on any 384-640 resolution thermal device purchased after 01-01-2023. AGM provides a 3-year warranty on ALL other products including 160-256 resolution thermal devices, night vision optics, digital night vision optics - and 384-640 resolution thermal devices purchased before 01-01-2023. For more information about product warranties click here

10. What power source is needed for most of the analog night vision?

The most commonly used power supplies for NVD are 1 x 3 V (CR123A) or 1 x 1.5 V (AA battery). But you should check which power supply fits your model (see manual).

11. What is the average lithium battery runtime with analog night vision?

On average, a lithium battery with analogue night vision device has an operating life of 40 hours. However, it all depends on how actively you use your sight or binocular. Stay in standby mode and this will extend battery life. But then - what's the point?

12. Are the optics waterproof?

Optics are waterproof. However, make sure that all port covers are closed and kept in their position.

There are weatherproof optics that can withstand a temporary immersion (for 5 minutes) in water to a depth of 1 m. In addition, there are all-weather models (AW) and they are splash-proof.

13. Can I use my analog night vision Day and Night?

Unfortunately, you cannot use analog night vision during the day. Moreover, directing the device to a light source (even at night) can significantly damage the device. So be especially careful and only use the analogue night vision at night.

Some companies make hybrids, such as Gen3+ and a thermal imaging camera (ITT Exelis with their Dual Sensor Night Vision Goggle development). They make it possible to combine thermal and visual information on one display. There are a few, though: the devices cost more than 10,000 dollars and almost all go to the military.

14. Can I take the analog night vision out of the country?

You need to have export documentation for any of the night vision devices (analogue, thermal, etc.). You cannot take the analogue instrument out of the country without documents. Since night vision devices are tactical. They're used in the army and the police. The NVD falls under the Arms Trade Act. Correspondingly, you cannot take the device out of the country (by any means). Otherwise, you will go to a federal prison.

15. Can I export, i.e. mail, my analog night vision oversees to countries not considered U.S. territories?

No, according to the International Arms Trade Regulations, night vision devices (analogue or thermal imaging) are weapons. If you try to take the device out or send it by mail, you will end up in a federal prison. You should not take any chances.

16. Is Night Vision / Thermal Legal?

Yes, optics (night vision or thermal imaging) are legal devices in the United States. You can safely buy and use the devices for your own pleasure, hobby or work.

However, according to the International Arms Trade Regulations, or ITAR for short, you cannot take your devices abroad. It is also not recommended that you give the device to other countries. This is made for the sake of confidentiality and to preserve our tactical secrets.

17. What battery should I use with my thermal device?

For best performance and proper usage time please use CR123 batteries with Nominal Capacity: 1550 mAh or higher

18. What external power bank should I use with my thermal device?

Most models of AGM thermal imagers have a USB port (Type-C or Micro-USB) for connecting an external power supply. It is possible to use power bank with parameters 4.75V~5.25V, ≥2A, ≥10W (5V, 2A, 10W is recommended). Switching the battery voltage, which is available in the menus of some thermal imagers, does not affect the external power supply.

19. Issues while using AGM Connect app. Error messages saying the video failed.

Please update the AGM Connect app on your phone to the latest version. Then try turning off mobile internet on your phone and leave only Wi-Fi. Some phones prioritize the mobile network, so they cannot detect the device in this case.