Find HS Code and trade information for night vision sight

Night Vision Sight

A night vision sight (NVS), also known as a night vision device (NVD), is an optical instrument designed to allow visibility in low-light conditions. These devices are commonly used by military, law enforcement, wildlife observation, and hunting communities.

Material & Technology

NVS technology broadly falls into two main categories:

• Image Intensification: These devices amplify existing ambient light, typically using a microchannel plate to accelerate electrons and produce a visible image. Key components include:
  • Objective Lens: Focuses incoming light.
  • Image Intensifier Tube: The core component, responsible for amplification. These tubes contain a photocathode (converts light to electrons), a microchannel plate (amplifies electrons), and a phosphor screen (converts electrons back to visible light).
  • Eyepiece: Magnifies the amplified image for viewing.
  • Power Supply: Provides energy for the tube and other components.
  • Housing: Protects the internal components and provides mounting points. Materials vary, often utilizing durable polymers or metal alloys.
• Thermal Imaging: These devices detect heat signatures emitted by objects, creating an image based on temperature differences. They do not require visible light. Key components include:
  • Thermal Lens: Focuses infrared radiation. Often made of germanium or silicon.
  • Thermal Detector Array: Detects infrared radiation and converts it into an electrical signal. Different array types exist (e.g., vanadium oxide, amorphous silicon).
  • Signal Processing Electronics: Processes the electrical signal to create an image.
  • Display: Presents the thermal image (typically LCD or OLED).
  • Housing: Protects internal components.

Purpose & Function

The primary purpose of an NVS is to provide usable vision in darkness or low-light environments.

• Image Intensification: Works best in environments with some ambient light (moonlight, starlight). It creates a green-tinted image (though white phosphor options are available).
• Thermal Imaging: Works by detecting heat, meaning it can see through smoke, fog, and some foliage. It does not rely on ambient light and displays images as a color gradient representing temperature.

Usage Scenarios

• Military & Law Enforcement: Surveillance, reconnaissance, target acquisition, navigation, and security operations.
• Hunting: Tracking and identifying game animals in low-light conditions.
• Wildlife Observation: Studying nocturnal animals without disturbing their habitat.
• Security & Surveillance: Perimeter security, property protection, and nighttime monitoring.
• Navigation: Boating, hiking, and other activities in dark conditions.
• Search and Rescue: Locating individuals in low-visibility environments.

Common Types

• Goggles: Worn on the head, providing hands-free operation.
• Monoculars: Single-tube devices, compact and portable.
• Binoculars: Two-tube devices, providing stereoscopic vision.
• Riflescopes: Mounted on firearms, providing magnified night vision for accurate shooting.
• Handheld Devices: Portable devices with varying levels of magnification and features.
• Cameras/Recorders: Capture night vision footage for documentation or analysis.
• Clip-on Devices: Attach to existing daytime optics, converting them into night vision devices.

Generations of Image Intensification

Image intensifier tubes are categorized into generations, each representing advancements in technology and performance.

• Generation 1: Earliest technology, offering basic amplification. Limited range and image clarity.
• Generation 2: Improved amplification and image clarity compared to Gen 1.
• Generation 3: Significant improvements in amplification, resolution, and image clarity. Most commonly used by military and law enforcement.
• Generation 4: Enhanced performance with reduced bloom and distortion.
• Digital Night Vision: Uses digital sensors and image processing for improved image quality and features.

Key Specifications

• Magnification: The level of enlargement provided.
• Objective Lens Diameter: Affects light gathering ability.
• Resolution (lp/mm): Measures image clarity.
• Range: The distance at which objects can be detected.
• Field of View: The width of the visible area.
• Battery Life: The duration of operation on a single charge.
• Water Resistance: Protection against moisture.
• Weight: Important for portability and comfort.

Night vision sights are optical appliances designed to enhance visibility in low-light conditions, typically fitting to arms for targeting purposes. Based on the provided information, several HS codes may be relevant.

• 9013.10.10.00: This HS code falls under Chapter 90 – Optical, photographic, cinematographic, measuring, checking, precision, medical or surgical instruments and apparatus; parts and accessories thereof. Specifically, it covers Lasers, other than laser diodes; other optical appliances and instruments, not specified or included elsewhere in this chapter: Telescopic sights for fitting to arms; periscopes; telescopes designed to form parts of machines, appliances, instruments or apparatus of this chapter or section XVI: Telescopic sights for rifles: Not designed for use with infrared light. The tariff rate is 14.9% basic tariff + 7.5% additional tariff, totaling 52.4%.
• 9013.10.30.00: Also within Chapter 90, this code covers Lasers, other than laser diodes; other optical appliances and instruments, not specified or included elsewhere in this chapter: Telescopic sights for fitting to arms; periscopes; telescopes designed to form parts of machines, appliances, instruments or apparatus of this chapter or section XVI: Telescopic sights for rifles: Other. The tariff rate is 1.4% basic tariff + 25.0% additional tariff, totaling 56.4%.
• 9013.90.00.00: This HS code, also under Chapter 90, covers other optical appliances and instruments not specified elsewhere. While a broader category, it could apply if the night vision sight doesn't strictly fit the definition of a telescopic sight. The tariff rate is not explicitly stated in the provided reference material.

Important Note: The distinction between HS code 9013.10.10.00 and 9013.10.30.00 hinges on whether the night vision sight is designed for use with infrared light. Please verify this specification carefully.