Part 6 — IR Lasers, Illuminators, Strobes and Markers
The active infrared tools that extend night-vision capability for aiming, illumination, and identification.
- Lesson 1: Understanding Near-Infrared Light
The band of infrared light that night vision can see.
- Lesson 2: Active vs. Passive Aiming
The difference between using an IR laser and aiming passively.
- Lesson 3: Infrared Aiming Lasers
IR aiming lasers and how they project a beam only NV can see.
- Lesson 4: Infrared Illuminators
IR flood lights that add light when ambient is too low.
- Lesson 5: LED vs. VCSEL Illuminators
The two main emitter technologies behind IR illuminators.
- Lesson 6: Beam Divergence and Focus
How wide or narrow an IR beam is and how to shape it.
- Lesson 7: Civilian vs. Full-Power Devices
Power limits that distinguish civilian from full-power IR lasers.
- Lesson 8: Visible and IR Combination Devices
Units that combine a visible laser with an IR laser and illuminator.
- Lesson 9: Infrared Strobes and Beacons
IR strobes used to mark friendly positions at a distance.
- Lesson 10: Infrared Markers and Chemlights
Passive and active IR markers for identification.
- Lesson 11: Switches and Controls
Tail caps, pressure pads, and modes for operating IR devices.
- Lesson 12: Laser and Eye Safety
Safe handling of IR lasers, including invisible beams.
- Lesson 13: Signature Discipline
Managing how much IR you emit so others cannot see you.