NCJ Number
229173
Journal
Law Enforcement Technology Volume: 36 Issue: 10 Dated: October 2009 Pages: 20,22,25
Date Published
October 2009
Length
5 pages
Annotation
This article provides a state-of-the-art description of third-generation night-vision technology.
Abstract
The level of resolution obtained from this equipment in a low-light environment is improved over earlier versions. This results from an increase in the number of line pairs in the night vision itself, the image intensification tube, and how it relates to what the human eye can detect. The law enforcement applications for night vision equipment are mainly in two categories: tactical nighttime operations by SWAT teams and nighttime surveillance operations. From Nivisys, the most affordable model is the company's Multi-Use Monocular (MUM-14). This is a passive handheld night vision device that uses a single Generation 3 intensifier tube to provide clear images in dark conditions. According to the company, the MUM-14's single eyepiece is based on the concept that independent use of each eye maximizes the ability of the user to operate under a wide range of low-light conditions and maintain maximum situational awareness. For the future, officers experienced in tactical demands in the field want night-vision technology to be able to distinguish true color, as opposed to the black and green imaging of the current generation of technology. The integration of thermal imaging with night vision in a single device is also envisioned for the future.