Enclosure (2) to COMDTINST 1543.3
A Brief History
Throughout this guide, we will refer to "Image Intensification", the theory which led to the
eventual development of night vision systems. This theory was originally conceptualized by
the Nazis during WWII. Fortunately, they were not able to build a working system. Since
WWII, night vision technology has been classified into 4 "Generations" (0, 1, 2, & 3), each
more technologically advanced than the next. Although you may see generation numbers all
the way up to Generation 6 technology advertised to the general public, this is a marketing
ploy. The military sets the requirements for what determines a generation. Throughout this
guide, you will see reference to "Generation 3" or "Gen 3" technology, the most
technologically advanced generation of night vision.
System Functions Overview
On-Off: The PVS-14 type MNVDs have a rotary On-Off switch. The switch is located on the
back of the PVS-14. To turn these units on, turn the switch one click clockwise. To turn it off,
turn the switch one click counter-clockwise.
Tuning the System to Your Eye: In order to get a clear image using night vision, the MNVD
must be properly `tuned', or adjusted, to fit your eyesight prior to use. To tune the MNVD,
turn the system on and observe an object 8 to 10 feet away through the MNVD. Adjust the
objective lens (on the front of the MNVD) until the image is as crisp and clear as possible.
Next, adjust the diopter, or eyepiece lens, on the back of the MNVD, again until the image is as
crisp and clear as possible. Finally, adjust the objective lens again. You should see as clearly
through the MNVD as you would see during the day with unaided vision. If this is not the
case, repeat the process. Once this has been done, you should only have to adjust the objective
lens to focus for distance.
Focusing for Distance: Adjust the objective lens to focus for distance.
Variable Gain: The PVS-14 is equipped with variable gain, which is controlled by the knob
on the front of the MNVD. The variable gain adjustment allows the user to manually adjust for
varying light conditions. These systems have a built in light adjustment that does a good job of
adjusting if you leave this knob set approximately in the mid range. The manual function is
used primarily when there are extreme conditions.
Low Battery Indicator: The MNVDs also have a low battery indicator light. When the
batteries are low, a flashing red light will be visible in the viewing area of the MNVD.
Battery Installation and Replacement: The PVS-14 systems commonly used by the Coast
Guard use two standard AA batteries. Battery life is typically about 70 hours. This varies
depending on ambient temperature during use and storage.
To install or replace batteries:
The PVS-14 has a battery compartment located on the bottom of the unit, with a cartridge that
snaps into the compartment. The cartridge is accessed at the front of the unit, below the
objective lens. To remove the cartridge, press the two dtentes located on each side of the
1
Previous Page
