Welcome to the How-To Guide for Various Thermal & Night Vision Optics
Welcome to the Know-How Hub at Night Vision Universe—the ultimate resource for mastering your thermal and night vision equipment. Whether you’re new to night optics or a seasoned user, our comprehensive guides, tutorials, and expert insights are designed to help you get the most out of your gear. From step-by-step zeroing instructions to in-depth brand-specific tutorials, we provide clear, practical information to enhance your experience and performance. Explore our hub to find everything you need to operate, maintain, and optimize your night vision and thermal optics with confidence.
Nocpix
While the name, logo, and some of the features may be new, Nocpix is born out of years of research, development, and experience in building thermal optics for hunters and outdoorsmen. Our manufacturing and technology development comes from the world’s leading microbolometer (thermal sensor) fabricator. We’ve paired this strong history of success with a fresh look at the available options in the thermal industry. This brand represents a launch of next generation thermal devices with a unified goal: provide the best image quality and consistently positive user experience. This idea can be noticed throughout the product line — image quality and user experience comes above all else. We support this mission through our research and development, field testing, and countless hours behind the lens.
Our commitment to creating the best possible image not only requires the highest quality components (thermal sensors, lenses, displays, etc), but also the intentional programming and optimization of these pieces to achieve a powerful synergy. We do this through several innovative technologies, all working together. Read more about these hardware and software systems on the next page to learn how we integrate them into our products. We thrive on the delicate balance of pushing complex technological boundaries while delivering products that intentionally feel simple and intuitive to use.
For the latest videos and info, please visit the Nocpix YouTube Channel
InfiRay Outdoor is the leading global brand in outdoor and hunting related thermal imaging products. InfiRay Outdoor is sold worldwide in more than 90 countries and is on the cutting edge of thermal imaging device technology. With 48% of all employees working in the R&D department, Infiray Outdoor owns 645 patents related to thermal sensors and optics, and has a production capacity of 7M units per year.
In addition to substantial production capacity, InfiRay Outdoor has been first to market over the past five years with exciting new technological advancements in the industry including 1280x1024 resolution sensors, 12um, 10um, and 8um sensors, dual field-of-view optics, shutterless calibration technology, and much more. These advancements have positioned InfiRay Outdoor as the clear leader in the thermal imaging night vision industry.
For the latest videos and info, please visit the InfiRay Outdoor YouTube Channel
Discover RIX Optics’ innovative thermal and night vision solutions through their comprehensive video library. From in-depth reviews of models like the RIX Storm S3 and Leap L6 to real-world hunting applications, their content provides valuable insights for enthusiasts and professionals alike. Whether you’re exploring the capabilities of the RIX K2 Pocket Monocular or seeking guidance on selecting the right thermal optic, RIX Optics offers expert analysis and practical demonstrations to enhance your understanding and experience.
For the latest videos and info, please visit the AGM YouTube Channel
Discover RIX Optics’ innovative thermal and night vision solutions through their comprehensive video library. From in-depth reviews of models like the RIX Storm S3 and Leap L6 to real-world hunting applications, their content provides valuable insights for enthusiasts and professionals alike. Whether you’re exploring the capabilities of the RIX K2 Pocket Monocular or seeking guidance on selecting the right thermal optic, RIX Optics offers expert analysis and practical demonstrations to enhance your understanding and experience.
For the latest videos and info, please visit the RIX Optics YouTube Channel
We are a team of assorted enthusiasts who want to make the tools we want to see and use.We strive to provide you with quality products that give you great performance with fantastic value.
DNT Optics was founded by an experienced team who have been working in the optics and firearm industry. We are ardent in creating modern tools for modern solutions.
Our engineers are developing optics that perform with the best but it does no one any good if people cannot afford them.
We believe in optics for all, not just for those who can afford them, We want to provide everyone with the right tools for the job.
DNT stands for Day Night Technologies as a nod to our passion for seeing in the dark. Optics should not be limited to the time of day or the amount of available light. Typically being able to see in the dark is prohibitively expensive. However with the evolution of technology it is becoming more accessible and we are working to make it available to our customers.
Seeing in the dark is not our only focus. As our name implies we will be offering everything from the latest tech to traditional day optics for whatever task you have. We believe you will love what you see.
We will explore this new world together.
For the latest videos and info, please visit the DNT YouTube Channel
Explore Bering Optics’ innovative thermal and digital night vision solutions designed for precision and performance. Their YouTube channel offers in-depth reviews, zeroing tutorials, and real-world hunting footage to help you maximize the capabilities of their advanced optics. Whether you’re interested in the Super Yoter, Hogster, or other models, these videos provide valuable insights to enhance your shooting experience.
For the latest videos and info, please visit the Bering Optics YouTube Channel
Explore Armasight’s advanced night vision and thermal imaging technologies through their official YouTube channel. Featuring in-depth reviews, product demonstrations, and real-world applications, their videos showcase a range of optics designed for various needs. From the versatile PVS-14 monocular to the powerful BNVD-40 binoculars, Armasight offers insights into the capabilities and features of their products. Whether you’re interested in helmet kits, thermal scopes, or monoculars, Armasight’s content provides valuable information to help you choose the right equipment for your needs.
For the latest videos and info, please visit the Armasight YouTube Channel
NVU Universal Thermal & Night Vision Guide
A single master guide for AGM, Pulsar, InfiRay Outdoor, RIX, Nocpix, DNT Optics, Bering Optics, and Armasight devices.
Table of Contents
- Introduction
- Device Families Overview
- First-Time Setup
- Optical Setup & Image Tuning
- Controls & Menu Navigation
- Zeroing
- Clip-On Systems
- Recording & File Management
- Wireless Features
- Ballistic Calculator & LRF
- Troubleshooting
- Accessories
- Future-Proofing
- Brand Quick Reference Cards
1. Introduction
1.1 What This Guide Covers
This master guide is designed as a single universal resource for the major thermal, digital night vision, and multispectral optics sold by Night Vision Universe. Instead of sending you to separate brand pages, this guide explains:
- Universal setup and operation shared across all devices
- Brand-specific differences clearly labeled inline
- Future-proof instructions that still apply when models are discontinued
- Standardized terminology and diagrams
- Ballistic calculator + LRF fundamentals
- Clip-on rules, zeroing, NUC, focusing, and menu logic
1.2 Brands Included
This guide covers the major brands we work with:
- AGM Global Vision
- Pulsar
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InfiRay Outdoor (RICO, HYBRID, BOLT, Micro, etc.)
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RIX Optics (Leap, DBH, Storm)
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Nocpix (ACE, LUMI, VISTA, QUEST, RICO 2)
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DNT Optics (Hydra, ThermNight, Zulus)
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Bering Optics (Hogster, Super Hogster, Super Yoter)
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Armasight (Contractor, Sidekick)
1.3 How to Use This Guide
The structure is simple:
- Each section starts with universal instructions that apply to all devices.
- Then we list Brand Differences with labels like AGM, Pulsar, InfiRay, RIX, Nocpix, DNT, Bering, Armasight.
Example:
Brand Differences — NUC: AGM — Auto/Manual/Background; InfiRay — short-press Power for manual NUC; Pulsar — auto shutter; etc.
1.4 Types of Devices Covered
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Thermal Imaging: detects heat, works in complete darkness and through many obscurants.
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Digital Night Vision: uses visible/IR light; excellent for ID but not for seeing through fog/brush.
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Multispectral / Fusion: combines thermal + digital NV (e.g. DNT Hydra/ThermNight).
1.5 Safety Notes for All Devices
- Never point optics directly at the sun.
- Use only proper lens cloths; germanium lenses scratch easily.
- Ensure mounts are torqued according to manufacturer specs.
- Avoid sudden temperature shocks (e.g. hot truck dash to freezing outdoors).
- Allow 3–5 minutes for the sensor to stabilize after power-on.
1.6 Firmware & Future-Proofing
Firmware updates may add features, but core behavior doesn’t change:
- NUC, focusing, zeroing, clip-on alignment, and ballistic math all remain the same.
- New models are simply added as new brand-tag bullets instead of needing entirely new guides.
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2. Device Families Overview
2.1 Thermal Optics (Universal)
Thermal scopes all use a microbolometer to detect heat and display it as an image. Differences between brands are mostly in:
- Menu layout
- Image processing
- Button interface
- Recording and app support
2.2 Digital Night Vision
Used in DNT Zulus, Armasight Sidekick, and some multispectral systems.
- Needs ambient or IR light
- Daytime safe (unlike traditional analog tubes)
- Excellent for identification, but cannot see through fog/brush like thermal
2.3 Multispectral / Fusion Devices
Used by DNT Hydra / ThermNight and select other models. These combine:
- Digital night vision (detail)
- Thermal overlays (detection)
2.4 Clip-On vs Dedicated Scopes
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Dedicated Thermal: Standalone scopes with their own reticles and profiles.
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Clip-On Systems: Sit in front of a day scope; day scope reticle stays primary. Clip-on section is detailed in Section 7.
2.5 Brand Family Summaries
AGM Global Vision
- Families: Rattler, Adder, Varmint, Fuzion.
- Known for simple, reliable UI and freeze-frame zeroing.
- Good performance at lower price points; works with AGM Connect app.
Pulsar
- Families: Thermion, Trail, Axion, Krypton/Proton clip-ons.
- Industry-leading app ecosystem (Stream Vision 2).
- One-shot zero, excellent image processing, and robust LRF integration.
InfiRay Outdoor
- Families: RICO, RICO Mk2, RICO Hybrid, BOLT, Micro, etc.
- Turret-style controls on higher-end units.
- Advanced ballistic calculators and strong image quality.
RIX Optics
- Families: Leap (L3/L6), DBH, Storm.
- Modern ergonomics with dial + button controls.
- Fast menus and simplified ballistic logic.
Nocpix
- Families: ACE, LUMI, VISTA, QUEST (fusion), RICO 2 (InfiRay-derived).
- Great mix of price and performance.
- RICO 2 uses InfiRay-style UI and ballistic features.
DNT Optics
- Models: Hydra (3-in-1), ThermNight, Zulus HD V2.
- Focus on multispectral, NV + thermal fusion devices.
- Ballistics more basic, better for close and mid-range hunting.
Bering Optics
- Families: Hogster, Super Hogster, Super Yoter.
- Simple menus, rugged construction, very stable zero.
- No full ballistic calculator; some models show basic holdover aid.
Armasight
- Families: Contractor thermal scopes, Sidekick digital NV.
- Rugged, military-oriented design language.
- Contractor LRF models include a modern ballistic calculator.
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3. First-Time Setup
3.1 Unboxing & Inspection
- Inspect housing and lens for cracks, chips, or misalignment.
- Verify that lens caps, battery doors, and turret caps move properly.
- Confirm all accessories are present (mounts, chargers, cables, manuals).
- Let the unit acclimate to room temperature before powering on.
3.2 Mounting the Optic
3.2.1 Rifles (Dedicated Thermal Scopes)
- Mount on a quality Picatinny rail; avoid cheap or damaged rails.
- Position for comfortable eye relief under recoil.
- Tighten mount screws or QD levers to recommended torque.
- Confirm there is zero movement or wiggle after tightening.
3.2.2 Clip-On Devices
- Clip-on mounts in front of the day scope on the same rail.
- Use a monolithic rail whenever possible for maximum stability.
- Ensure the optical center of the clip-on aligns with the day scope.
- Day scope usually works best between 1–4x (up to 6x on some models).
3.2.3 Helmet / Handheld Use
- Use the correct adapter (dovetail or bayonet) for helmet mounts.
- Adjust vertical and horizontal swing arms for proper eye alignment.
- For handheld devices, use a wrist strap or lanyard to avoid drops.
3.3 Battery Types & Charging
Common systems include:
- 18650 cells (InfiRay, RIX, Nocpix, some DNT and others)
- Proprietary battery packs (Pulsar APS, AGM packs, Armasight packs)
- Internal Li-ion with optional external packs
Universal rules:
- Use only quality cells and chargers from reputable brands.
- Do not leave batteries charging unattended.
- Store batteries at moderate temperatures and partial charge for longevity.
3.4 Powering On / Off / Standby
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Power On: Long-press the Power button (usually 2–3 seconds).
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Standby: Short-press Power (screen off, sensor warm).
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Power Off: Long-press Power until shutdown confirmation appears.
3.5 Initial Warm-Up
Thermal sensors benefit from a 3–5 minute warm-up:
- Image sharpens over time.
- Noise and fixed pattern artifacts decrease.
- NUC (calibration) is more effective.
3.6 Brand Notes
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AGM: Ensure battery pack clicks fully into place; freeze-zero is used later for zeroing.
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Pulsar: APS batteries twist-lock; Thermion-style scopes need careful eye relief setup.
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InfiRay: Turret-based units need proper dial orientation; manual NUC often on Power short-press.
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RIX: Leap series rely heavily on the dial for menu navigation; practice short vs long press timing.
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Nocpix: RICO 2 behaves like InfiRay; others are more basic but follow similar logic.
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DNT: Hydra/ThermNight modes (NV/Thermal/Fusion) affect initial behavior.
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Bering: Battery doors must lock firmly or power will cut out.
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Armasight: Contractor LRF units may prompt for time/date during initial setup for ballistic use.
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4. Optical Setup & Image Tuning
4.1 Eyepiece / Diopter Adjustment
Diopter affects the clarity of the text and icons, not the scene.
- Point the optic at a bright, plain surface (wall, sky).
- Open the main menu.
- Rotate the diopter until the menu text is perfectly sharp.
- Don’t touch diopter again unless your eyesight changes.
4.2 Objective Focus
Objective focus controls scene sharpness at different distances.
- Aim at your intended target distance.
- Slowly rotate the front focus ring until detail is crisp.
- Go slightly past focus, then come back to the sharpest point.
4.3 Digital Zoom & Picture-in-Picture (PIP)
- Always zero at base magnification (1.0x digital).
- Digital zoom increases perceived magnification but reduces clarity.
- PIP shows a magnified window at the top or bottom while keeping full FOV.
4.4 Color Palettes
Common palettes:
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White Hot: Bright, all-purpose.
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Black Hot: Great for tracking animals.
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Red Hot: Fast detection.
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Rainbow / Fusion: Maximum contrast, sometimes busy.
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Iron: Good for anomaly detection.
4.5 Gain / Contrast / Brightness
Brightness: How bright the screen is.
Contrast: How separated hot/cold objects are.
Gain / AGC: How strongly the thermal signal is amplified.
General tuning tips:
- Cold, dark night: slightly higher gain.
- Hot day: reduce gain, increase contrast.
- Fog/rain: increase contrast, moderate gain.
4.6 NUC (Non-Uniformity Correction)
NUC cleans up image artifacts such as banding, fixed pattern noise, and ghosting.
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Auto NUC: Device triggers on its own.
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Manual NUC: You press a button to recalibrate.
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Background NUC: Lens cap closed, then NUC for a uniform frame.
Brand notes — NUC:
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AGM: Auto / Manual / Background NUC options.
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Pulsar: Auto shutter system; manual NUC through menu.
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InfiRay: Short-press Power often triggers manual NUC.
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RIX: NUC via menu/dial combo.
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Nocpix: Some models are shutterless; manual NUC still available.
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DNT: Mode-dependent (NV vs Thermal vs Fusion).
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Bering: Auto + manual via quick menu.
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Armasight: Manual shutter on some models for deep recalibration.
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5. Controls & Menu Navigation
5.1 Universal Control Logic
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Short-press: Quick actions (zoom, NUC, PIP, palette).
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Long-press: Power, standby, deeper menu entries.
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Quick Menu: Fast access to image and zoom settings.
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Main Menu: Zeroing, profiles, Wi-Fi, recording, system tools.
5.2 Encoder / Dial Systems
Used by InfiRay Hybrid/RICO/Bolt, RIX Leap/DBH, and some Nocpix RICO 2:
- Rotate dial: scroll through options.
- Short-press dial: confirm selection.
- Long-press dial: exit or save changes.
5.3 Brand-Specific Control Behaviors
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AGM: Top-mounted 3–4 button layout; short-press Menu for quick menu, long-press for main menu.
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Pulsar: 3-button triangle layout plus scroll wheel on Thermion models; excellent quick menu behavior.
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InfiRay: Turret + button cluster; power short-press often doubles as NUC.
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RIX: Dial + four buttons; very fast UI.
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Nocpix: RICO 2 = InfiRay-like; ACE/LUMI/VISTA use simple 4-button patterns.
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DNT: Extra Mode button for NV/Thermal/Fusion on multispectral units.
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Bering: Straightforward 4-button system; minimal complexity.
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Armasight: Modern icon-based menus with clean layout.
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6. Zeroing
6.1 Universal Zeroing Principles
- Zero at base magnification (no digital zoom).
- Use a high-contrast or heated target (handwarmer, foil dot, steel, etc.).
- Fire a 3-shot group; ignore individual fliers.
- Enter the zeroing menu.
- Freeze the image if the device supports it.
- Move the reticle to the center of the group, not to the target center.
- Save the zero profile (e.g. “6.5CM AR”, “223 Bolt”, etc.).
- Confirm at longer distance (50–100 yards or more).
6.2 Pixel Shift Zeroing
Reticle movement in thermals is based on pixels, not MOA clicks. Each pixel corresponds to an angular shift based on the FOV.
- InfiRay and Nocpix RICO 2: approx. ~1.2 MOA/pixel (model-dependent).
- Pulsar: finer increments (~0.5–0.7 MOA per pixel, depending on sensor and optics).
- AGM/Bering: typically around 1 MOA per click/pixel.
6.3 Multi-Profile Zeroing
All modern scopes support multiple profiles:
- Different rifles (AR vs bolt gun)
- Different ammo types (supersonic vs subsonic)
- Different clip-on configurations
6.4 Brand Notes — Zeroing
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AGM: Freeze screen, move reticle to group, save profile.
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Pulsar: One-shot zero + multi-distance refinement per profile.
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InfiRay: X/Y zeroing, often using a turret dial and on-screen coordinates.
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RIX: Similar to InfiRay but simplified; zero via dial and freeze.
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Nocpix: ACE/VISTA/LUMI etc. use freeze + X/Y; RICO 2 follows InfiRay RICO logic.
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DNT: Must confirm zero in each mode (NV / Thermal / Fusion when applicable).
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Bering: Straightforward W/E adjustments; very robust once set.
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Armasight: Freeze frame zeroing; Contractor LRF integrates with ballistic calculator after zero is complete.
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7. Clip-On Systems
7.1 What a Clip-On Does
- Provides thermal image in front of your day scope.
- Does not typically provide its own reticle (InfiRay Hybrid is an exception in dedicated mode).
- Relies on the day scope for aiming point and holdovers.
7.2 Clip-On Accuracy Rules
- Clip-on must be optically centered in front of the day optic.
- Use 1–4x on the day scope (up to 6x on some systems).
- Mount both optic and clip-on on the same, rigid rail if possible.
7.3 Universal Clip-On Mounting Procedure
- Mount the day scope and confirm its zero before adding the clip-on.
- Mount the clip-on on the same rail, in front of the day optic.
- Ensure there is no cant (tilt) and that height matches the day scope.
- Run any on-screen alignment tools (if available).
- Confirm zero at your typical shooting distance.
7.4 Brand Notes — Clip-On Usage
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InfiRay Hybrid: Has both dedicated scope mode and clip-on mode. Clip-on mode hides reticle and focuses on optical alignment.
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RIX DBH: Designed specifically as a clip-on; offers alignment tools and is optimized for day scopes around 2–4x.
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Nocpix RICO 2 (Clip-On Kits): Operate very similarly to InfiRay Hybrid; watch for screen alignment menus.
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AGM Clip-On Models: Hide reticle in clip-on mode; the day scope remains the aiming system.
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Pulsar Krypton/Proton: Polished clip-on experience with clear “screen alignment” options in the menu.
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DNT: Some fusion units can act in front of a day optic; ensure mode (NV/Thermal/Fusion) matches your test conditions.
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Bering: Clip-on capability on some Hogster/Yoter variants; mechanical alignment is critical.
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Armasight: Certain models are clip-on capable; use manufacturer-recommended mount kits.
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8. Recording & File Management
8.1 Universal Recording Behavior
- Photos: quick snapshots, small files.
- Videos: larger files, may include audio, used for hunts or training review.
- Recoil-activated video (RAV): captures a window before and after the shot.
8.2 Storage & Capacity
Most devices have internal storage (8–32GB+ depending on model). General notes:
- Pulsar: ~16GB, very efficient compression.
- InfiRay / Nocpix RICO 2: often 32GB, high bitrate & great image quality.
- AGM: solid onboard storage, bitrate slightly lower than InfiRay/Pulsar.
- Bering & DNT: storage varies significantly by model.
8.3 Export Methods
8.3.1 USB Cable
- Power the device off.
- Connect via USB to your computer.
- Power on; device appears as a media drive.
- Copy video/photo files to your computer.
8.3.2 Mobile App
- Pulsar: Stream Vision 2
- AGM: AGM Connect
- InfiRay/RIX/Nocpix: InfiRay Outdoor app (or Nocpix app on some units)
- DNT: DNT app
- Armasight: Armasight app
8.3.3 SD Card / Removable Storage
Less common on newer units, but some legacy models may use SD cards.
8.4 Recoil-Activated Video (RAV)
RAV detects recoil and automatically records a short window before and after the shot.
- Prevents missing the moment of impact.
- Increases battery use and fills storage faster.
8.5 Brand Notes — Recording
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Pulsar: Among the best for recording; smooth, stable MP4 files and good audio.
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InfiRay: High bitrate, excellent clarity; strong performance in RICO and Hybrid lines.
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RIX: Similar quality to InfiRay with slightly lighter file sizes.
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Nocpix: RICO 2 inherits InfiRay-quality recording; other models are good for ID and basic hunting footage.
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AGM: Good general video, slightly more conservative compression.
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DNT: Multispectral recordings are lighter-weight but show both NV and thermal elements.
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Bering: Some models have recording; quality is good enough for hunt documentation.
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Armasight: Contractor series recordings look very clean, especially on 640 models.
8.6 Troubleshooting Recording
- Device freezes while recording: storage may be nearly full — delete or export files.
- Choppy footage: extreme cold conditions or low battery; warm the device and use fresh cells.
- No audio: check settings — some devices mute mic by default.
- Corrupt file: avoid powering off while recording; stop recording first.
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9. Wireless Features
9.1 Universal Wireless Concepts
- Optic broadcasts Wi-Fi SSID.
- Phone connects directly to the optic’s Wi-Fi (not your home router).
- Apps provide live view, gallery access, and sometimes firmware updates.
9.2 Standard Connection Flow
- Enable Wi-Fi in the optic menu.
- On your phone, join the optic’s Wi-Fi network and enter the password.
- Open the brand’s app and tap “Connect.”
9.3 Brand Notes — Wireless
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AGM: Simple Wi-Fi connection and gallery via AGM Connect.
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Pulsar: Stream Vision 2 is a very strong ecosystem with cloud features and ballistic support on LRF models.
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InfiRay: InfiRay Outdoor app supports live view, file transfer, and some firmware operations.
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RIX: Uses InfiRay Outdoor app; stable live view and file management.
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Nocpix: RICO 2 uses InfiRay app; other models have their own Nocpix app.
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DNT: Wi-Fi only (no Bluetooth); fusion streaming may be slightly slower.
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Bering: Wi-Fi availability depends on model.
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Armasight: Modern app with live view, file transfer, and ballistic integration.
9.4 Wireless Troubleshooting
- Disable cellular data when connecting to optic Wi-Fi (prevents auto-switch).
- Forget & re-add the Wi-Fi network if pairing fails.
- Ensure the optic isn’t in standby when trying to connect.
- Check for app updates if live view is unstable.
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10. Ballistic Calculator & LRF System
10.1 Beginner Overview — What It Does
A ballistic calculator takes your rifle + ammo data and the distance from the LRF (laser rangefinder) and tells you where to aim at different ranges.
- You enter your ammo data (velocity, BC, zero distance, sight height).
- You range the target.
- The device calculates bullet drop.
- The reticle shifts or a holdover dot appears.
10.2 Inputs Used by Ballistic Systems
- Zero distance (e.g. 100 yards)
- Muzzle velocity (fps or m/s)
- Ballistic coefficient (G1 or G7)
- Sight height (optic center to bore center)
- Temperature
- Pressure/elevation
- Humidity (sometimes)
10.3 Advanced Shooter Explanation (High-Level)
- Ballistic calculators move the reticle in pixels, which map to MOA/MRAD depending on FOV.
- Different brands may use G1 vs G7 drag models.
- Air density, temperature, and altitude alter bullet drop.
- Transonic/subsonic regions introduce instability that isn’t fully modeled.
- Most LRF-based systems are most reliable within ~600 yards for hunting.
10.4 LRF Behavior (Universal)
- LRF measures distance to target within a certain accuracy (often ±1–2 yards).
- Ballistic calculator uses that distance plus your profile to compute drop.
- High-reflectivity targets range farther and more reliably.
10.5 Brand Notes — Ballistic Engine
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InfiRay / Nocpix RICO 2: Robust ballistic engines; support reticle shift or holdover dots and full environmental input.
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RIX: Simplified ballistic logic; good mid-range performance (up to ~400 yards).
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Pulsar: Very strong ballistic solution with Stream Vision 2 integration and multi-profile management.
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Armasight Contractor LRF: Modern ballistic implementation with full environmental inputs.
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DNT: Basic ballistic estimation; primarily range-based holdover suggestions.
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Bering: Generally no full ballistic calculator; some models offer only basic drop hinting.
10.6 Typical Menu Paths (By Brand)
InfiRay / Nocpix RICO 2 (pattern example):
Menu → Ballistics → Profile → Zero Distance
Menu → Ballistics → Velocity
Menu → Ballistics → BC
Menu → Ballistics → Sight Height
Menu → Ballistics → Environment → Temp/Pressure
Menu → Ballistics → Enable
RIX:
Menu → Ballistic → Cartridge → Zero Range
Menu → Ballistic → Velocity
Menu → Ballistic → Sight Height
Menu → Ballistic → Enable Holdover
Pulsar LRF Models:
Menu → Ballistics → Create Profile
Set Zero Distance, Velocity, BC, Sight Height
Sync with Stream Vision 2 (optional)
Enable Ballistic Calculator
Armasight Contractor LRF (pattern):
Menu → Ballistics → Rifle Profile
Menu → Ballistics → Ammo
Menu → Ballistics → Environment
Enable Ballistics
DNT:
Menu → Ballistic → Caliber Group
Set Zero Distance
Enable Holdover Assist
10.7 Ballistic Limitations
- Cannot fully correct for wind.
- Assumes consistent muzzle velocity (dirty barrel or different lot of ammo can change impact).
- Cannot model all instability at long range or through dense atmospherics.
- Mounting issues or poor zeroing will still cause misses, even with a perfect ballistic solution.
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11. Troubleshooting
11.1 Blurry Image
- Reset diopter on menu text.
- Refocus objective lens.
- Run a manual NUC.
- Clean lens with microfiber only.
- Reduce digital zoom.
- Allow 3–5 minutes for sensor warm-up.
11.2 Smearing, Ghosting or Lines
- Run manual NUC.
- Change palettes (forces AGC recalculation).
- Power-cycle the device.
11.3 Lag or Freezing
- Swap in a fresh battery.
- Stop recording.
- Allow device to cool slightly in very hot conditions.
- Update firmware if manufacturer recommends.
11.4 Zero Shift
- Verify mount torque and rail quality.
- Confirm that zeroing was done on base magnification.
- Check for temperature-induced shift (reconfirm in your typical conditions).
- On clip-ons, check alignment and FOV centering.
11.5 Battery Problems
- Use quality cells or original manufacturer packs.
- In cold weather, keep batteries in a warm pocket.
- Replace batteries that no longer hold charge.
11.6 Pixel Correction
- Use the device’s manual or auto pixel repair function.
- Place the reticle over the dead/hot pixel and confirm correction if required.
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12. Accessories
12.1 Power
- Quality 18650 cells and chargers (if applicable).
- Spare APS packs for Pulsar units.
- Power banks for helmet/handheld use.
12.2 Mounts & Rails
- Premium QD mounts (Bobro, ADM, etc.).
- Monolithic rails for clip-on accuracy.
- Risers if needed to align clip-on with day optic.
12.3 Lens Protection
- Flip-up caps for both objective and eyepiece.
- Anti-reflective covers for tactical applications.
12.4 Zeroing Helpers
- Thermal zero targets or steel + handwarmers.
- Stable shooting rest or lead sled.
- Optional boresight tools.
12.5 Cleaning & Storage
- High-quality lens cloths and wipes.
- Padded case and/or dry box with silica packets.
- Store batteries separately for long-term storage.
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13. Future-Proofing
13.1 Why This Guide Stays Relevant
- Thermal physics do not change.
- Zeroing methodology is consistent across generations.
- NUC, focusing, menus, and ballistic logic have stable foundations.
13.2 New Models, Same Behavior
If a brand releases “Model 2” or “Mk3” versions, the underlying behavior remains the same. Only specs (sensor resolution, storage, LRF range) change.
13.3 When to Check Manufacturer Manuals
- Firmware-specific functions.
- Model-specific quirks or warnings.
- Exact ballistic and LRF capabilities per unit.
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14. Brand Quick Reference Cards
These quick reference summaries let you jump directly to the most important behavior for your brand.
14.1 AGM
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Zeroing: Freeze → move reticle to group center → save profile.
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NUC: Auto / Manual / Background.
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Recording: Internal storage, app transfer via AGM Connect.
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Best For: Value-focused thermals and simplicity.
14.2 Pulsar
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Zeroing: One-shot zero + multi-distance refinement.
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Ballistics: Strong integration with Stream Vision 2 on LRF models.
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Recording: Excellent quality and stable compression.
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Best For: Wireless ecosystem and overall polish.
14.3 InfiRay Outdoor
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Zeroing: Pixel-based X/Y with turret on many models.
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Ballistics: Advanced engine with reticle shift or holdover dot.
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Clip-On: HYBRID series supports dedicated and clip-on modes.
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Best For: High image quality and advanced features.
14.4 RIX
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Zeroing: Freeze + dial and arrow keys.
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Recording: Stable, good clarity.
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Ballistics: Simplified mid-range ballistic logic.
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Best For: Fast, simple controls with modern ergonomics.
14.5 Nocpix
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Zeroing: Freeze + X/Y; RICO 2 follows InfiRay RICO logic.
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NUC: Mix of shutterless and shuttered systems.
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Ballistics: RICO 2 uses full InfiRay-style ballistic engine.
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Best For: Balancing cost, features, and flexibility.
14.6 DNT Optics
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Devices: Thermal, NV, and multispectral/fusion.
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Zeroing: Mode-dependent; verify in NV, Thermal, and Fusion separately.
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Ballistics: Basic range-based holdover.
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Best For: Users who want hybrid NV+thermal options.
14.7 Bering Optics
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Zeroing: Simple W/E adjustments.
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NUC: Auto + manual; straightforward.
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Recording: Varies by model; some have onboard recording.
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Best For: Rugged use cases and dependable zero.
14.8 Armasight
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Zeroing: Freeze frame zero; intuitive interface.
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Ballistics: Contractor LRF models have comprehensive ballistic tools.
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Recording: Clean, stable recordings with good audio performance.
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Best For: Users wanting military-style ruggedness and modern thermal performance.
— End of NVU Universal Thermal & Night Vision Guide —