How does digital night vision work with an IR illuminator?

Here's a breakdown of how digital night vision works with an IR illuminator:

1. Image Capture and Conversion:

• Digital Sensor: Digital night vision devices utilize a CMOS or CCD sensor, similar to those found in digital cameras, to capture available light, including infrared (IR) light.
• Light to Digital Signal: The sensor converts the incoming light into a digital signal, which is then processed by the device's internal electronics. 

2. Infrared Illumination (when needed):

• Active Illumination: Unlike passive night vision, which relies on existing ambient light, digital night vision often incorporates an active IR illuminator.
• Invisible Light Source: The IR illuminator emits infrared light, which is invisible to the human eye but can be detected by the digital sensor.  Do not look into the illuminator.  It is very bright, but you cannot see the light, yet it can harm your eyes!  Point at a mirror to tell if it is on. You will see a red glow on the lens.
• Improved Visibility in Darkness: By illuminating the scene with IR light, the digital night vision device can capture a usable image even in complete darkness. 

3. Digital Image Processing:

• Image Enhancement: The digital signal from the sensor is processed by the device's electronics to enhance the image, adjusting brightness, contrast, and sharpness.
• Display on LCD/OLED: The processed digital image is then displayed on an LCD or OLED screen built into the night vision device. 

In Summary:

Digital night vision devices use a digital sensor to capture available light and an IR illuminator to provide additional light in low-light or no-light environments. The captured light, including reflected IR light, is converted into a digital signal, processed, and displayed on a screen.