Night vision technology has evolved over time providing numerous benefits in multiple fields of use. Applications spanning areas such as surveillance, security, and military operations are just a few to name.
But did you ever wonder what type of lens is used in night vision cameras and how does it differ from regular lenses?
The lens is an important part of every night vision device, especially for spy cameras. Spy cams have lenses with different types suited for different conditions and needs.
In this short article we’ll try to answer the question and provide you with better understanding when it comes to night vision lenses used in spy and surveillance cameras.
- Objective Lenses
Some of the important parts that you may find in all spy cameras and other types of night vision devices are objective lenses also called front lenses.
They are responsible for capturing incoming light and directing it to the image intensifier tube, where the night vision magic happens.
The diameters of these lenses vary depending on the lens and range and it’s between 20mm and 75mm or more, with the bigger lens providing more light. The bigger objective lens the more light it gathers, providing great images and better performance in low-light conditions.
Objective lenses can be further categorized into three primary types:
- Monocular Lenses: These lenses include single objective lens employed in monocular night vision systems. They are small and can be used individually as well as in a mobile setup.
- Binocular Lenses: However, binocular night vision devices have two objective lenses – one for each eye essentially. They offer a better and balanced perspective that is more immersive. They are mainly applied in applications where depth perception is important.
- Camera Lenses: The objective lens has an important role when incorporated into the night vision spy camera as it determines the field of view and image quality. The choice of lens for a night vision camera depends on the specific requirements of the surveillance or recording task.
- 2. Zoom Lenses
Then we move on to zoom lenses. It is a type of objective lens with variable focus. Such types are very helpful for surveillance and military purposes where seeing a faraway item or target is crucial. Zoom lenses are more flexible as they give operators an opportunity to adjust to match the prevailing situations and capture clear images at various distances.
- 3. Infrared (IR) Lenses
The infrared lenses work in tandem with infrared illuminators that produce non-visible infrared light. The lenses are used when there is no ambient light. IR lenses are essential for covert surveillance and security applications. They allow night vision spy cameras to capture clear images without emitting visible light that could give away their presence.
- 4. Fixed-Focus Lenses
The fixed-focus lenses are adjusted to specific focal length, which means they have the same focus depth of field. The lenses are ideal for use where objects stay at a constant distance from the lens. Unlike zoom lenses that require regular configuration, these lenses are more dependent and don’t require constant adjustments.
Conclusion
Night vision spy camera lenses constitute a very significant part of the night vision system that enables these devices to provide clear and detailed images under night-time conditions.
When choosing a night vision spy camera lens, it is important to consider the exact needs and functions. Where will it be used, for what purpose, what conditions, etc.
Factors to consider include the level of light you are likely to be working in, the distance you need to be able to see, and the budget you have available at your disposal.
