frequently asked questions (FAQ)

What do NVIS and NVG stand for?
NVIS is an acronym for Night Vision Imaging System, including the material and optic technologies for making images visible in the near infrared bands. NVG is short for Night Vision Goggle, a device to view images in the visible and near infrared bands.

Does Wamco design and manufacture NVG devices?
Yes. In fact, Wamco developed the first NVIS compatible filters for incandescent light sources, and monochrome and full color displays. We have been involved in the design and production of Night Vision Goggle (NVG) and related technologies since 1984.

Do Wamco NVIS filters and other NVIS products conform to military specifications?
Yes. Military standards are exacting and require compliance in a variety of real-world applications that far exceed most other non-military uses. Military standard requirements for NVIS technology were originally developed from Wamco’s own standards. Wamco builds and designs NVIS filters exceeding the requirements of the highest military standards, including MIL-STD-85762A and MIL-STD-3009.

What are the benefits of Wamco NVIS filters?
Wamco manufacturing processes utilize the widest range of glass, polymeric and composite filters found anywhere in the industry. In addition, we design and manufacture custom products to your specification. Our NVIS filters come with full engineering support, and have been fully NVIS, radometrically and photometrically tested.

What other industries does Wamco light technology provide solutions for?
Wamco's expertise and capabilities in material development, assembly techniques, production, engineering and testing have made Wamco a prime source not only for the defense industry, but also for aerospace, automotive, medical and other industries requiring lighting solutions worldwide.

What kind of materials go into Wamco night vision (NVIS) filter products?
We have the widest possible range of high quality standard and optical-grade materials found anywhere. We use several different kinds of materials, like glass, polymeric and composite filters and many others for our night vision filters (NVIS) and other optical filters.

What are some typical applications for Wamco products such as NVIS filters and optical filters?
Applications include avionic and ground based display filters along with NVIS filters used on laptops, PDS’s, keyboards, flashlights, illuminated switches and panels. Wamco NVIS filters can also be used by border patrol, search and rescue and emergency medical platforms.

Does Wamco offer Night Vision Filter (NVIS Filter) tool kit?
Yes. The Wamco Night Vision Filter Tool Kit is a collection of standard Wamco Night Vision Goggle (NVG) filters designed to satisfy common NVIS lighting applications. These night vision filters use the latest in polymeric and glass technology leading to outstanding performance.

What is Secure Lighting?
Secure Lighting is a term used to describe the optical and near infrared light emission from a ground–based application.  The specification for Secure Lighting is defined by the US Army CECOM* at Fort Monmouth and designated CLCP. Please contact Wamco for more information about Secure Lighting and custom filter solutions available. 

Does Wamco make Secure Lighting?
Wamco filters developed for Secure Lighting applications are available for quick delivery at affordable pricing. Standard products are specially designed for portable electronics and ground applications. Wamco filters limit the near infrared emission of light sources (IAW CECOM Wavelength restriction requirements*) providing a secure lighting environment at night. Keep the soldier safe from enemy detection by using a Wamco secure lighting filter. Please contact Wamco to discuss your secure lighting application requirements.

*The CECOM wavelength restriction requirementis are defined as: Elimination of the energy not used by the human eye or otherwise not required by the operator. Between 350 and 930 nm, no more than ½ percent (0.5%) of the total energy emitted shall be between 600 and 700 nm and as close to 600 nm as possible.