Why Generation 3 Matters
Generation 3 image intensifiers are defined by their GaAs (Gallium Arsenide) photocathode, which offers dramatically superior photon-to-electron conversion efficiency compared to Generation 2 multi-alkali photocathodes — particularly in the near-infrared spectrum (700–900nm), where natural night sky radiation is most abundant. The result is a fundamentally brighter, lower-noise image under starlight and near-zero illumination conditions that Generation 2 systems cannot replicate regardless of tube age or housing quality.
The S-Series uses a high-sensitivity negative electron affinity (NEA) GaAs photocathode bonded to a glass input window, paired with a high-gain, low-noise microchannel plate (MCP) electron multiplier — the same core architecture used in U.S. mil-spec tubes such as those produced by L3Harris and Elbit Systems.
The Global Gen 3 Supply Reality
True Generation 3 image intensifier tubes are produced by a handful of manufacturers worldwide. In the United States, L3Harris Technologies and Elbit Systems of America (ESOA) are the primary producers — but all U.S.-origin Gen 3 tubes are classified as defense articles under ITAR (International Traffic in Arms Regulations). This means export requires U.S. State Department licensing, is frequently denied or delayed for non-allied nations, and is entirely unavailable for many end markets.
NNVT is one of the only manufacturers outside the United States capable of producing Gen 3 tubes at scale, with verified performance, and with no ITAR restrictions. For procurement teams, OEMs, and distributors who need genuine Gen 3 capability without navigating U.S. export control, NNVT is not merely an alternative — it is often the only viable option.
S-Series Model Lineup
All models feature: GaAs photocathode · Auto-Gating · Filmed · 18mm format · Green or White Phosphor available · Spherical or planar output surface optional · P43 / P45 / P31 phosphor types optional
Important Update: We now offer premium hand-selected high-grade units with FOM up to 2600+, expanding your options for top-tier high-end night vision product lines.
表格
| Parameter | S12H | S14H | S16H | S18H | S20H |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Photocathode Sensitivity (µA/lm) | ≥1600 | ≥1600 | ≥1800 | ≥1800 | ≥2000 |
| Resolution (lp/mm) | ≥51 | ≥55 | ≥60 | ≥64 | ≥64 |
| Signal-to-Noise Ratio | ≥22 | ≥25 | ≥25 | ≥28 | ≥32 |
| Luminous Gain (cd/m²/lx) | 12000–20000 | 12000–20000 | 12000–20000 | 12000–20000 | 12000–20000 |
| Output Brightness (cd/m²) | 4–12 | 4–12 | 4–12 | 4–12 | 4–12 |
| Photocathode Diameter (mm) | ≥17.5 | ≥17.5 | ≥17.5 | ≥17.5 | ≥17.5 |
| Uniformity | ≤3:1 | ≤3:1 | ≤3:1 | ≤3:1 | ≤3:1 |
| Input Voltage (V) | 2.2–3.4 | 2.2–3.4 | 2.2–3.4 | 2.2–3.4 | 2.2–3.4 |
| Input Current (mA) | ≤35 | ≤35 | ≤35 | ≤35 | ≤35 |
| Power Supply | Auto-Gating | Auto-Gating | Auto-Gating | Auto-Gating | Auto-Gating |
| FOM (Typical) | ~1100 | ~1375 | ~1500 | ~1792 | ~2048 |
| MTTF | 10,000 hrs | 10,000 hrs | 10,000 hrs | 10,000 hrs | 10,000 hrs |
FOM (Figure of Merit) = Resolution × SNR. Primary production focus is on S16H–S20H grades, corresponding to FOM 1800–2000+, aligned with U.S. XD-4 / OMNI VII performance benchmarks. Premium sorted high-performance tubes can reach FOM up to 2600+.
Performance Benchmark: How S-Series Compares to U.S. Gen 3
表格
| NNVT S18H | NNVT S20H | U.S. Mil-Spec Threshold | U.S. XD-4 / OMNI VII | |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Photocathode Sensitivity | ≥1800 µA/lm | ≥2000 µA/lm | ≥1800 µA/lm | ≥2000 µA/lm |
| Resolution | ≥64 lp/mm | ≥64 lp/mm | ≥64 lp/mm | ≥64 lp/mm |
| SNR | ≥28 | ≥32 | ≥25 | ≥30 |
| FOM | ~1792 | ~2048 | ~1600 | ~1920+ |
| Auto-Gating | ✅ | ✅ | ✅ | ✅ |
| ITAR Restricted | ❌ No | ❌ No | ✅ Yes | ✅ Yes |
| Export License Required | ❌ No | ❌ No | ✅ Yes | ✅ Yes |
Key Procurement Advantages
- No ITAR Restrictions NNVT S-Series tubes are manufactured in China and are not subject to U.S. International Traffic in Arms Regulations. No export license application, no State Department review, no denial risk. Procurement can proceed on commercial timelines.
- Competitive Pricing at Mil-Spec Performance U.S. Gen 3 tubes at equivalent FOM grades carry significant cost premiums driven by domestic supply constraints and export licensing overhead. NNVT S-Series delivers comparable performance at a substantially lower per-unit cost, enabling more cost-effective system builds and larger procurement volumes. We offer tiered volume pricing, and long-term framework clients can lock pricing to mitigate raw material fluctuation and stabilize your BOM cost.
- Verified Gen 3 Architecture GaAs photocathode, MCP electron multiplier, auto-gating power supply, filmed format — the S-Series is not a rebranded Gen 2+ product. It is a genuine Generation 3 tube built on the same fundamental technology as U.S.-manufactured equivalents.
- Flexible Configuration Green phosphor (P43) or white phosphor (P45), spherical or planar output surface, multiple electrical interface options available: 2-contact pads, 3-contact pads, 3-wire and pigtail cable versions. Configurations are available to match OEM housing designs and end-user requirements without custom development overhead.
- Proven Reliability Mean Time To Failure (MTTF) of 10,000 hours. Suitable for integration into systems with long service life requirements across military, law enforcement, and professional security applications. Every tube comes with original factory test sheet and unique serial number for full-chain traceability, simplifying incoming QC and batch quality management.
- Spectral Range 400–900nm Full spectral coverage from visible to near-infrared, ensuring high utilization of natural night sky illumination and strong compatibility with IR illuminators and laser aiming devices.
- Flexible Order Quantities & Priority Lead Time INFREDAR maintains strategic safety stock for fast shipment. We support sample evaluation, small-batch pilot runs and long-term bulk framework contracts. Key partners get reserved buffer inventory and priority production scheduling to avoid production line downtime.
- OEM & ODM Customization Service Custom bin-sorting by your target FOM/SNR specs, private labeling, interface modification and high-voltage power supply matching are available. We help you build your own branded night vision products.
- In-house Engineering & One-stop Component Supply Our night vision R&D team provides technical consultation for tube selection and 整机 matching & tuning. Beyond image intensifier tubes, we also supply compatible housings, HV power supplies and optical lens assemblies to consolidate your procurement and reduce multi-vendor communication overhead.
- Reliable After-sales Support Factory warranty for manufacturing defects, fast replacement process for non-conforming tubes and priority technical troubleshooting for long-term cooperation partners.
Who This Product Is For
The NNVT S-Series is supplied to: OEM Night Vision Manufacturers integrating tubes into PVS-14, BNVD, clip-on, and weapon sight housings Military & Law Enforcement Procurement Offices sourcing Gen 3 capability outside the U.S. supply chain Night Vision Distributors & System Integrators building product lines that require genuine Gen 3 performance without ITAR exposure
Request a Quote or Sample Evaluation
INFREDAR works directly with procurement teams and OEM partners to match the right tube grade to your application. Volume pricing, mixed-grade orders, and sample evaluation units are available. Contact us today to discuss your project requirements.
