Day: August 14, 2025

Below is a quick look at how to pick out a PVS14 for new users. Sometimes the “research” people do on night vision literally can just lead them in circles. Worse yet they get advice from people who’s circumstances or uses may not be similar to yours.

“What do the numbers and pictures mean?”

Since every single night vision tube is different, there are natural variations in tube performance and cosmetics from one tube to another. One tube may have several black spots, while another may be cosmetically clean. One tube may have low EBI, while another may have a higher Signal to Noise Ratio but also a slightly higher EBI. Which to choose?

FOM is a term you will hear a lot about. It stands for Figure of Merit. It is the Signal to Noise Ratio specification multiplied by the Center Resolution specification of an individual tube.

Signal to Noise Ratio X Center Resolution= FOM

For example: 30 x 72 = 2160 FOM

A tube with a Signal to Noise Ratio of 30 and a Center Resolution of 72 would have a figure of merit of 2,160 and all other specifications aside, would perform more than adequately for 99% of the lighting conditions most people will face.

A higher the FOM level is, in general, an indication of a greater level of performance you can expect to get out of your tube. This means greater light gathering capability which helps in extreme low light situations.

At this point I would remind you that we are never more than a phone call or an email away. And even after you read this, or “just aren’t sure” that what you are looking at is best for YOU, just give us a quick call. You are under no obligation to buy. We do this every day. Avail yourself of 33 years of experience! Call us at 912.375.1480 or email us at robert@jrhenterprises.com