1. Manuals
  2. Brands
  3. Electrophysics Manuals
  4. Camera Accessories
  5. AstroScope 9350
  6. Operating manual

Electrophysics AstroScope 9350 Operating Manual

Astroscope night vision
Hide thumbs
Table of Contents

Advertisement

Quick Links

OPERATING MANUAL
ASTROSCOPE
NIGHT VISION
Export limitations: Because the AstroScope 9350 modules utilize
state-of-the-art image intensifier technology, it is unlawful to carry
these devices out of the country or to export them without an
approved U.S. State Department export license.

Advertisement

Table of Contents
loading

Summary of Contents for Electrophysics AstroScope 9350

  • Page 1 OPERATING MANUAL ASTROSCOPE NIGHT VISION Export limitations: Because the AstroScope 9350 modules utilize state-of-the-art image intensifier technology, it is unlawful to carry these devices out of the country or to export them without an approved U.S. State Department export license.
  • Page 2 WARNING: TO REDUCE RISK OF FIRE, ELECTRIC SHOCK OR DAMAGE, DO NOT EXPOSE THIS PRODUCT TO CONTINUOUS RAIN OR MOISTURE. TO REDUCE RISK OF SHOCK AND TO REDUCE ANNOYING INTERFERENCE, USE ONLY RECOMMENDED ACCESSORIES. CAUTION: DO NOT REMOVE THE COVER. THERE ARE NO USER SERVICEABLE PARTS INSIDE.

  • Page 3: Table Of Contents

    1 INTRODUCTION TO ASTROSCOPE NIGHT VISION...1-1 1.1 Purpose of This Manual ...1-1 1.1.1 How This Guide Is Organized...1-1 1.2 Important Safeguards ...1-1 1.3 Reference Guide...1-3 1.4 How Image Intensifiers Work...1-5 1.5 Evolution of Image Intensifiers ...1-7 1.6 Benefits of AstroScope Night Vision ...1-7 2 ASTROSCOPE CONFIGURATION, SET-UP, AND OPERATION ...2-1 2.1 Removable-Lens Camera and Camcorder Operation...2-3 2.1.1 Required Components...2-4...

  • Page 5: Introduction To Astroscope Night Vision

    VISION Purpose of This Manual This manual provides basic information and instructions for operating the AstroScope 9350 products, as well as procedures for troubleshooting. We suggest that you read this manual carefully and retain the manual for future reference. 1.1.1...
  • Page 6 Intensifier Protection – In order to assure long-life and high sensitivity performance, do not use during daytime or bright ambient conditions. Do not look at the sun or extremely bright objects. Do not look at bright objects for long periods of time as this may cause the intensifier tube to develop insensitive areas.

  • Page 7: Reference Guide

    Reference Guide Nikon Pair – see pg 2-3 200mm Lens – see pg 3-1 Canon EOS Pair – see pg 2-3 200mm Lens – see pg 3-1 Canon XL Pair – see pg 2-3 200mm Lens – see pg 3-1...
  • Page 8 Bracket Series – see pg 2-11 200mm Lens – see pg 3-1 BBA-C Adapter – see pg 2-17 200mm Lens – see pg 3-1 Pocket Scope – see pg 2-21 200mm Lens – see pg 3-1...

  • Page 9: How Image Intensifiers Work

    How Image Intensifiers Work Image intensifiers are predominant in night vision applications due to their ability to amplify low-light scenes at night, making them visible to the human eye and commercial cameras and camcorders. Unlike thermal images, image intensifiers can be used to read vehicle license tags and registration markings on boats and aircraft, as well as to recognize faces, which can be entered as evidence in criminal prosecutions.
  • Page 10 photocathode. This dim light consists of energy in both the visible and near-infrared portions of the electromagnetic spectrum. 2. When the light impinges on the photocathode (the light sensitive portion of the image intensifier) electrons are emitted with amplitude determined by the photocathode's spectral responsivity and the amount of light energy.

  • Page 11: Evolution Of Image Intensifiers

    Evolution of Image Intensifiers The image intensifier tube has evolved substantially over the past few decades. This evolution is described by different generations (“Gen”) of technology as follows: Gen 1 – These are the first so-called night-vision devices and were introduced in the early 1960s and first fielded in Vietnam.
  • Page 12 • Fully Accessorized: Adapters have been designed for optimized use on Canon EOS and Nikon digital and SLR cameras, as well as a wide range of Camcorders including the Canon XL1S, Sony PC- 110, 120, and 330, C-mount CCD/CMOS cameras and as a viewer using an eye piece adapter.

  • Page 13: Astroscope Configuration, Set-Up, And Operation

    2 ASTROSCOPE CONFIGURATION, SET-UP, AND OPERATION...

  • Page 15: Removable-Lens Camera And Camcorder Operation

    Removable-Lens Camera and Camcorder Operation This section describes the configuration set-up and operation of AstroScope Night Vision on removable-lens cameras and camcorders, such as Nikon SLF/Digital Cameras, Canon EOS type SLR/Digital Cameras and Canon XL Camcorders.

  • Page 16: Required Components

    2.1.1 Required Components The Nikon, EOS, and XL adapters pairs are pictured below. Handle each part carefully. If any of the optics becomes dirty, refer to the Maintenance section of this manual for cleaning instructions. 2.1.1.1 Nikon Components 2.1.1.2 Canon EOS Components 9350NIK BBA side for Nikon Cameras.

  • Page 17: Assembly

    2.1.1.3 Canon XL Components 2.1.2 Assembly The Front Lens Adapter (FLA) has an alignment pin on the inside wall. Align the pin with the groove on the side of the CIU and slide the CIU into the FLA. Alignment Pin Groove in CIU 9350XL BBA for Canon XL Camcorders...

  • Page 18: Notes On Optimal Use

    2.1.3 Notes on Optimal Use 2.1.3.1 Use on Nikon Digital Cameras In the “Shooting Menu,” select and set the ISO to 1600 or a comparable fast ISO setting. Some cameras limit the ISO to 800 while others allow up to 6400.
  • Page 19 Review – Set to “Off”. File numbering – Set to “Continuous”. Video system – Set to “NTSC”. 10. Custom Function (C.Fn) – a. Press the center button. On the Canon D30, scroll down to number 5 and press the button again.
  • Page 20 Gain: The XL-1 has a maximum gain of +12db and the XL-1S has a maximum of +30db. As you increase the gain, the image quality decreases. Try and limit the gain to no more than +6db on the XL-1 and between 12-18db on the XL-1S.
  • Page 21 Using the camera’s metering system, adjust the shutter speed to attain a correct exposure. Note: All EOS and only Nikon Auto-S brand lenses may auto-focus with the AstroScope if there is enough light.
  • Page 22 2-10...
  • Page 23 Non-Removable-Lens Camcorder Operation This section describes the configuration set-up and operation of AstroScope Night Vision on non-removable lens camcorders. 2-11...

  • Page 24: Required Components

    If any of the optics become dirty, refer to the Maintenance section of this manual for cleaning instructions. 2-12 9350EPA 9350FLA-C 9350 Bracket (Actual Bracket may vary depending on camcorder) 9350 Camcorder Coupler (Actual Coupler may vary depending on camcorder)

  • Page 25: Assembly

    2.2.2 Assembly Loosen the battery door release to open the door. Insert two AAA batteries into the EPA oriented as shown on the internal diagram. Close the door and secure the Battery Door release. The FLA-C has an alignment pin on the inside wall. Align the pin with the groove on the side of the CIU and slide the CIU into the FLA-C.

  • Page 26: Notes On Optimal Use

    Thread the 9350 Camcorder Coupler to the back of the 9350EPA. Loosely thread the 9350EPA to the Bracket using the threaded screw on the platform, so that the EPA can slide back and forth. Loosely thread the Camcorder to the Bracket using the other threaded screw.
  • Page 27 lens ring until the object is in crisp, sharp focus. Only focus with the objective lens for crisp and sharp images. NOTE: It is always best to select an objective lens that produces the desired magnification. Zooming with the camcorder objective lens will result in grainy, low contrast images.
  • Page 28 2-16...

  • Page 29: C-Mount Camera Operation

    C-Mount Camera Operation This section describes the configuration set-up and operation of the AstroScope Night Vision C-Mount Cameras. 2-17...

  • Page 30: Required Components

    2.3.1 Required Components The adapter pair for C-Mount Cameras is pictured below. Handle each part carefully. If any of the optics becomes dirty, refer to the Maintenance section of this manual for cleaning instructions. 2.3.2 Assembly The FLA-C has an alignment pin on the inside wall. Align the pin with the groove on the side of the CIU and slide the CIU into the FLA-C.
  • Page 31 There is a silver alignment pin on the inside of the BBA- C. Align this pin with the hole in the CIU and thread the BBA-C to the FLA-C. Silver Alignment Pin Attach the assembly to your c-mount camera. Attach an objective lens to the front of the assembly. Power the unit through the cable provided with 3 to 15 volts DC.
  • Page 32 If you wish to reorient the 9350BBA-C with the tripod mount at the bottom and the focus wheel on top, simply loosen knurled thumb screw located at the back side of the chassis and rotate the 9350 assembly with respect to video camera to the desired position. Locking Screw...

  • Page 33: Pocket Scope Operation

    Pocket Scope Operation This section describes the configuration set-up and operation the AstroScope Night Vision Pocket Scope. 2-21...

  • Page 34: Required Components

    2.4.1 Required Components Below is a list of items included with the unit. Handle each part carefully. If any of the optics becomes dirty, refer to the Maintenance section of this manual for cleaning instructions. 9350EPA 9350FLA-C Eyepiece 2-22...

  • Page 35: Assembly

    2.4.2 Assembly Loosen the battery door release to open the door. Insert two AAA batteries into the EPA, oriented as shown on the internal diagram. Close the door and secure the Battery Door release. The FLA-C has an alignment pin on the inside wall. Align the pin with the groove on the side of the CIU and slide the CIU into the FLA-C.
  • Page 36 Thread the Eyepiece to the back of the 9350EPA about half way. Thread the Objective Lens to the FLA-C. Power the unit by turning the switch on the 9350EPA to the “On” position. Set the lens at infinity and adjust the eyepiece for your vision.
  • Page 37 2-25...

  • Page 39: Astroscope Accessories Set-Up And Operation

    3 ASTROSCOPE ACCESSORIES SET-UP AND OPERATION...

  • Page 41: 200 M Low-Light Telephoto Lens M

    200 mm Low-Light Telephoto Lens...

  • Page 42: Required Components

    3.1.1 Required Components Below is a list of items included with the unit. Handle each part carefully. If any of the optics become dirty, refer to the Maintenance section of this manual for cleaning instructions. 200mm Lens 200mm Lens Hood Tripod Mount...

  • Page 43: Assembly

    3.1.2 Assembly The 200mm Catadioptric Lens is shipped with the lens hood in the stowed position. Note: The hood has a bayonet design, which allows you to remove it and reverse it, so that the lens can be stored in a compact form.
  • Page 44 Reverse the hood and align the pins with the slots in the lens. Twist clockwise to lock in place. 3.1.2.1 Using the Tripod Mount Note: The Tripod Mount is only required when using a tripod. The tripod mount is not used on units that include the 9350EPA, which already have an integral tripod mount.
  • Page 45 Install the Tripod Mount onto the back of the lens so that it touches the flange. Secure by tightening the knob screw. Secure the Tripod Mount to the tripod using one of the three holes on the bottom until the system is balanced. *The Tripod Mount base can be reversed if necessary to balance a heavy camera system as follows: Remove the three screws from the bottom and rotate the base 180°.

  • Page 46: Notes On Optimal Use

    Consequently, we recommend adjusting the Nikon camera settings as follows: Set the ISO to 1000 or higher. When using photographic film, use high speed film only, ISO1000 minimum Set the camera to “Manual Exposure”...
  • Page 47 Set the shutter to 1/30 as a minimum speed. Use the camera’s metering to attain the correct exposure. Focus the lens as needed. 3.1.3.3 9350 Bracket Series Install the 200mm Catadioptric lens directly onto the EPA along with the CIU. Focus the lens as needed.

  • Page 49: Troubleshooting Guide

    4 TROUBLESHOOTING GUIDE Symptom Using 35mm Nikon or Canon film cameras Vignetted it is normal for some vignetting to occur on Images the left and right side of the image. Using Nikon or Canon Digital cameras having a sensor size of 5 Meg or larger can expect some vignetting.
  • Page 50 Nikon cameras operated in the manual mode Information only, will provide accurate exposure information. Canon EOS camera operated in the Viewfinder in the manual mode will provide accurate exposure information. Nikon cameras using the 200mm Electrophysics lens will provide no information in the viewfinder. Canon...

  • Page 51: Key Operational Parameters

    5 MAINTENANCE Key Operational Parameters 5.1.1 Power: <300mw (<50mA typical) 5.1.2 Environmental Operating Temperature: -20° to 50 °C Storage Temperature: -40° to 80°C Water Resistance: Splash proof Operating Humidity: 0-95% Cleaning Non-optical surfaces: The non-optical surfaces of the lens can be cleaned with water, mild detergents, and a soft cloth.

  • Page 53: How To Return Products For Warranty Repair

    6 WARRANTY Electrophysics warrants that these products to be free from defects in material and workmanship. Any warranty described herein shall extend to the first ultimate user only for a period of one year from the date of shipment from our factory. Electrophysics' obligation under this warranty shall be limited to furnishing a replacement for, or at our option, repairing any part which, to our satisfaction, proves...

  • Page 54: How To Return Products For "Out Of Warranty" Repair

    The following information must be included on the packing slip: HOW TO RETURN PRODUCTS FOR “OUT OF WARRANTY” REPAIR Following expiration of the warranty period, the owner is financially obligated to pay for any repairs which are required. The owner may either return their product to their dealer and the dealer will take care of it, or, they may work with Electrophysics directly.

  • Page 55: Contact Sheet For Repairs And Service

    7 CONTACT SHEET FOR REPAIRS AND SERVICE Electrophysics Corporation 373 Route 46 West Fairfield, New Jersey 07004 Toll Free Telephone: (800) 759-9577 Telephone: (973) 882-0211 Fax: (973) 882-0997 E-mail: service@electrophysics.com...

Table of Contents