light. Second-generation can be used during full to thin moon phases, while typically seeing much farther than first generation. Third generation can be used in starlight and even cloudy conditions.


Your budget will play a large part in choosing which night vision device to purchase. A digital, second-gener- ation device will generally offer all the features needed with a brighter, sharper image in a cost-effective package. Law enforcement and security service applications favor second-generation devices in the field.


An important note to remember is that each unit uti- lizes a built-in infrared illuminator. Medium and long illuminators are quite different from the built-in illumi- nators. These powerful external illuminators can send a ‘spotlight’-like beam of infrared light out to distances of 500 yards but generally prove unnecessary for most applications.


Picture Resolution


What should you look for in a night vision device? Again, picture quality. This is related to the resolution of your spe- cific device. It is just like a tiny television set; higher reso- lution is always better. Resolution is measured in lp/mm, where 64 to 72 lp/mm is the top standard. Most experts recommend 45 lp/mm for general operations. Ease of use really matters with night vision. Anybody can slap on a pair of cool-looking night vision goggles and wander around in the dark. But to get the most out of your equipment, it is important to invest in the manufacturer recommended training.


As for durability, the most frequently asked question with night vision devices is, “What if I drop my night vi- sion device?” The simple and most straightforward answer is that you will probably break it. However, some products are military grade quality and are designed to sustain more abuse than others. Remember, these devices are fairly deli- cate and the internal parts contain precision electronics that are not designed to take direct impact.


One great aspect about night vision devices is the wide range of power supply options. If you can obtain a de- vice that fits your needs and is powered by easily sourced options such as AA batteries, this produces a win-win situation. Camera-style night vision devices are good for recording what you see. This form of documentation may help to decrease liability in the field.


Both Technologies There are many applications for both night vision and thermal imaging devices. Night vision devices are un- rivaled tools for surveillance operations, special tactics teams, searches of dark facilities, and just seeing what’s going on in the dark. Thermal imaging devices can be used for a wide range of search and rescue missions, identifying heat signatures of recently used items, and quick threat detection.


It can be easy to get caught up in the cool features of www.lawandordermag.com 41


Night vision devices are fairly delicate, so ruggedized devices matter. To get the most out of your night vision equipment, take the manufacturer recommended training. Photo courtesy of Night Vision Depot.


both technologies, but it is important to remember that each has limitations. Night vision devices can be foiled by street- lights or house lights. They can’t see through smoke, fog, heavy rain, and snow.


Thermal imaging devices can see through smoke and other obscurants, but it is foiled by window and wind- shield glass. More importantly, thermal imaging devices do not produce an image sharp enough to positively iden- tify a threat. It can show you there is a person in a dark warehouse with a handgun, but it can’t show you who that person is.


Nicholas J. Salovay serves as a Security Team Leader in the private pharmaceutical sector. He is active in the training and development of security forces to mitigate risks, and may be reached at nicholas. salovay@yahoo.com.


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