Harris AN/PVS-23 (F5050YG)

The Harris AN/PVS-23 (F5050YG) is a multi-purpose night vision binocular system designed for use by ground and sea-borne operators. It is derived from the proven AN/AVS-6 (ANVIS) goggle, using aviation standard Harris Gen3 PINNACLE optics. This allows the AN/PVS-23 to provide an unparalleled image in a substantially more-rugged package than its aviation counterparts. The AN/PVS-23 has been designed from the ground up to handle the harshest battlefield conditions.

U.S. Military Special Operations Forces began using binocular style night vision devices in the form of the ANVIS-6 and ANVIS-9 goggles. These units were built to operate in controlled environments, like cockpits, where they would not be exposed to the rigors and abuse of the field. However, the lenses and optics afforded the best possible image for pilots who needed depth perception to fly their planes and helos at night. This ability was coveted by the special operations community and aviation-type night vision began being used on the ground. However, the somewhat fragile nature of aviation-style goggles proved the need for more rugged systems. Enter the Harris’ AN/PVS-23. Using Harris’ latest Gen3 PINNACLE tube technology and aviation-grade optics, the AN/PVS-23 provides the operator the best of both worlds.

PINNACLE represents the latest and greatest night vision technology. Developed by ITT Technologies, it is the answer to the U.S. Military’s request for Gen4. This request was to eliminate the ion barrier film in the tube that limits the amount of light able to be gathered in the first place. The film is important, though because it also protects the sensitive Photocathode in the tube from the damage caused by positive ions striking it as the light photons are converted into electrons and multiplied. In essence, the film greatly extends the service life of the tube. The military’s request for Gen4 was to eliminate this film to allow the maximum amount of light in to the tube, giving it more light to amplify and resulting in a better, crisper image for the warfighter. The development cycle proved that by eliminating the film, the tubes were becoming damaged very quickly and could not sustain a desirable life. So, ITT’s scientists developed a thinner film than the original barrier used in Gen3 tubes. This new film is 10,000 times thinner than a human hair and allows noticeably more light transfer than the standard, thicker, Gen3 tubes. This new super-thin film technology, combined with an enhanced autogated power supply, improved hole size of the Microchannel Plate, a more sensitive Photocathode, and other advancements, represents ITT’s PINNACLE Technology. Because it still uses a film, PINNACLE is Gen3.

PINNACLE gives the user unparalleled imaging and pushes Gen3 technology to the max. The user can operate in environments that, previously, would have been non-permissive to night vision because the system reduces the blooming and halo effects of bright light. The operator no longer needs to worry about getting bright lights blinding him or her or damaging the unit. Of course, this does not mean that the user can walk around in sunlight with his or her PVS-15, but they will not fry the tube if they make entry into a room and the bad guy flips on the light switch or shines a flashlight in their direction. PINNACLE really shines in lower-light situations where there is less contrast created by ambient light. Details not visible to standard Gen3 tubes can be better seen by PINNACLE units because they can gather more light to better resolve images. This makes PINNACLE units ideal for military and law enforcement units.

The AN/PVS-23 is an excellent choice for land navigation and vehicle operation. As a binocular-style system, it provides increased depth perception because each eye receives a unique image, giving greater clarity than can be obtained with a single tube. It features independent eye-span adjustment for precise interpupiliary settings. Along with built-in tilt adjustment, the AN/PVS-23 produces one of the most comfortable, least-straining images of all night vision devices available. The system can be worn comfortably for hours on end with little-to-no eye fatigue.

The AN/PVS-23’s body housing is rugged and self-contained. The unit can be employed in hand-held or hands-free modes. Unlike its aviation counterparts, the AN/PVS-23 can used free of its mount. It features an onboard battery compartment that allows it to run for up to 10 hours off a single AA battery. For extended, hands-free use, the AN/PVS-23 can be plugged into a remote battery pack that mounts to the back of the operator’s helmet. The battery pack plugs into the mounting shroud via cable and allows the AN/PVS-23 to be powered when it is attached to the mount. The unit also features an excellent built-in IR illuminator that is focusable to narrow and wide beam.

The AN/PVS-23 is one of the most versatile night vision systems available. It has been in use by U.S. Special Operations Forces for years.

Export of Night Vision Equipment or related accessories (such as manuals) is strictly regulated by the US Department of State in accordance with the guidelines of the International Traffic in Arms Regulations (ITAR). It is a major crime to ship or carry US manufactured night vision devices outside the borders of the United States, punishable by fines and prison sentences. Ignorance of these regulations will not hold up in court. By purchasing night vision equipment from TNVC, you attest that you will not attempt to export or carry this night vision equipment outside the borders of the United States. Also, it illegal to allow a non-US Citizen to look through US Gen3 Night Vision Devices, even on US soil. Again, this is a crime punishable by fines and prison sentences.