Names and marks appearing on the products herein are either registered trademarks or trademarks of
FLIR Outdoor & Tactical Systems and/or its subsidiaries. All other trademarks, trade names, or company
names referenced herein are used for identification only and are the property of their respective owners.
This product is protected by patents, design patents, patents pending, or design patents pending.
If you have questions that are not covered in this manual, or need service, contact FLIR OTS customer
support for additional information prior to returning a product.
This documentation is subject to change without notice.
EXPORT INFORMATION
Equipment described herein may require US Government authorization for export purposes. Diversion
contrary to US law is prohibited.
PROPER DISPOSAL OF ELECTRICAL AND ELECTRONIC EQUIPMENT (EEE)
The European Union (EU) has enacted Waste Electrical and Electronic Equipment Directive 2002/96/EC
(WEEE), which aims to prevent EEE waste from arising; to encourage reuse, recycling, and recover y of
EEE waste; and to promote environmental responsibility.
In accordance with these regulations, all EEE products labeled with the “crossed out wheeled bin” either
on the product itself or in the product literature must not be disposed of in regular rubbish bins, mixed
with regular household or other commercial waste, or by other regular municipal waste collection means.
Instead, and in order to prevent possible harm to the environment or human health, all EEE products
(including any cables that came with the product) should be responsibly discarded or recycled.
To identify a responsible disposal method where you live, please contact your local waste collection
or recycling service, your original place of purchase or product supplier, or the responsible government
authority in your area.
Business users should contact their supplier or refer to their purchase contract.
IMPORTANT INSTRUCTIONS AND NOTICES TO THE USER:
Modification of this device without the express authorization of FLIR Commercial Systems, Inc. may void
the user’s authority under FCC rules to operate this device.
Note 1: This equipment has been tested and found to comply with the limits for a Class B digital device,
pursuant to Part 15 of the FCC rules. These limits are designed to provide reasonable protection against
harmful interference in a residential installation.
This equipment generates, uses, and can radiate radio frequency energy and, if not installed and used in
accordance with the instructions, may cause harmful interference to radio communications. However,
there is no guarantee that the interference will not occur in a particular installation. If this equipment
does cause harmful interference to radio or television reception, which can be determined by turning
the equipment off and on, the user is encouraged to try to correct the interference by one or more of the
following measures:
• Reorient or relocate the receiving antenna
• Increase the separation between the equipment and receiver
• Connect the equipment into an outlet on a circuit different from
that of the receiver
• Consult the dealer or an experienced radio/television technician for help.
INDUSTRY CANADA NOTICE:
This Class B digital apparatus complies with Canadian ICES-003.
AVIS D’INDUSTRIE CANADA:
Cet appareil numérique de la classe B est conforme à la norme NMB-003 du Canada.
• Only use the attachments/accessories specified by the manufacturer
• All service must be provided by the manufacturer
WARNING:
This product contains natural rubber latex which may cause allergic reactions! The FDA
has repor ted an increase in the number of deaths that are associated with an apparent sensitivity to
natural latex proteins. If you are allergic to latex, it is a good idea to learn which products contain it
and strictly avoid exposure to those products.
WARNING:
• Always make sure your firearm is unloaded before you place the equipment on the firearm.
Reconfirm that the chamber is empty if you stop the procedure then resume later. Safe handling
rules should be followed at all times.
• The light from the unit infrared (IR) illuminator is invisible to the unaided eye when used in total
darkness. However, the light can be detected by other Night Vision Devices (NVD).
• To reduce the risk of detection by another NVD, avoid prolonged activation of the IR illuminator.
• The IR light is more detectable by an NVD when used in smoke, fog and rain. Avoid prolonged
activation of the unit IR illuminator in these conditions.
• This product contains natural rubber latex, which may cause allergic reactions.
• The intensifier’s phosphor screen contains toxic materials. Please note the following:
– If the intensifier tube breaks, be extremely careful to avoid inhaling the phosphor screen
material. DO NOT allow the material to come in contact with your mouth, eyes, or any open
wounds on the skin.
– If the phosphor screen material comes in contact with your skin, wash it off immediately with
soap and water.
– If you inhale or swallow any phosphor screen material, drink a lot of water, induce vomiting,
• The Spark is a precision electron-optical instrument, and must be handled carefully at all times to
prevent damage to the device and danger to the user.
• To protect the intensifier tube, do not remove the lens cap of the Spark when the monocular is
being operated in daylight conditions, or when the device is not in use.
• Use of the Spark in brightly lit conditions may damage the unit’s intensifier tube.
• Bright light sources such as firelight, headlights, searchlights, etc. can damage the Spark. Avoid
exposing the unit to these types of light sources.
• DO NOT attempt to force the controls past their stopping points, as this may cause damage to the
mechanisms.
• Before replacing the intensifier tube, confirm that it is no longer covered by warranty.
• Do not store the equipment with the battery still inserted.
• Clean and dry each component of the Spark thoroughly before placing them in the storage case.
NOTES:
• The equipment requires some ambient light (moonlight, starlight, etc.) to operate.
• Performance of the device in nighttime conditions depends on the level of ambient light in the
environment. Please remember the following:
– The level of ambient light is reduced by the presence of clouds, shade, or objects that block
natural light (trees, buildings, etc.).
– The equipment is less effective when operated in shadows and other darkened areas.
– The equipment is less effective when operated in rain, fog, sleet, snow, dust or smoke.
– The equipment will not “see” through dense smoke.
• The IR illuminator is intended for increased illumination, as needed, when viewing at a close
distance of up to 3m.
• The Spark is not a weapon sight. However, it can be used in conjunction with a collimator dot sight
or laser aiming device.
• For the purpose of returning defective components, retain all packaging materials.
To provide the operator with the abilit y to observe at night under moonlight and starlight
conditions.
The Spark can be used as a handheld, head-mounted, helmet-mounted or weapon-mounted device
to allow walking, weapon firing, short-range surveillance, map reading, vehicle maintenance, and
administering of first aid.
The Spark allows for horizontal and vertical adjustments when mounted to the user’s head or helmet, and
is equipped with an infrared light-emitting source (IR illuminator).
1.2 WARRANTY INFORMATION AND REGISTRATION
1.2.1 WARRANTY INFORMATION
1.2.2 PRODUCT REGISTRATION
In order to validate the warranty on your product, the Customer must complete and submit FLIR Outdoor
& Tactical Systems’ PRODUCT REGISTRATION FORM on our websit
The Spark is a hand-held, head-mounted, helmet-mounted, or weapon-mounted night vision system
that allows the user to operate it while walking, firing weapons, conducting short-range surveillance,
reading maps, conducting vehicle maintenance, or administering first aid in both moonlight and starlight
conditions.
The Spark utilizes the principle of intensification of the residual light that is reflected from the
surrounding objects. The optical system of the unit consists of an objective lens, an intensifier tube (IT),
and an eyepiece.
Exclusive CORE (Ceramic Optical Ruggedized Engine) technology image intensifier tubes are used in the
Spark monoculars. While CORE does not contain a micro channel plate (and so by definition lands in the
Gen 1 category) that is where the parallels end. Instead of glass, CORE tubes use a specially formulated
ceramic compound fused with metal alloys similar to those used in production of Gen 2 and Gen 3 image
intensifier tubes. Further advances in CORE have almost removed edge distortion, dramatically increased
photo-sensitivity and most importantly, almost doubled resolution up to 70 lp/mm.
A built-in IR illuminator makes it possible to use the unit in low light or total darkness.
The Spark allows for ver tical and fore-and-aft adjustment when mounted to the user’s head or helmet,
when focusing the lens, and when focusing the eyepiece.
NOTE:
The equipment requires some light (moonlight, starlight, etc.) to operate. Performance of the device
depends upon the level of ambient light in the environment. Please remember the following:
– The level of ambient light in the environment is reduced by the presence of clouds, shade, or
objects that block natural light (trees, buildings, etc.
– The equipment is less effective when operated in shadows and other darkened areas.
– The equipment is less effective when operated in rain, fog, sleet, snow, or smoke.
– Under starlight conditions, particularly in low-contrast environments such as snow-covered
territory, sandy deserts, large bodies of water or grassy hills, the visibility may degrade,
thereby disguising or masking changes in terrain.
– The equipment will not “see” through dense smoke.
1Body7Battery Compartment
2Rail8IR Illuminator
3Eyepiece Ring9Battery Cap
4Eyepiece10Focus Ring
5Eyecup11Lens
6Function Switch12Lens Cap
2.2 SPECIFICATIONS
TABLE 2-2. MECHANICA L DATA
EQUIPMENT ITEMDIMENSIONS, MMWE IGHT, G
Spark Night Vision Monocular
(145 x 49 x 82 w/o eyecup and lens cap)
Flip-up Helmet Mount*140 x 70 x 90280
Goggle Kit*280 x 180 x 80295
IR850-XLR*150 x 46 x 46210
Quick Release Picatinny Mount Adapter #26*120 x 76 x 1370
Dual Bridge*110 x 39 x 1969
Dovetail to Weaver Transfer Piece*38 x 21 x 7.58
Swing Arm #37*49 x 46 x 6450
3x Afocal Lens*Dia 61 x 73180
5x Afocal Lens*Dia 78 x 90344
The standard components of the Spark are shown in Figure 2-2 and listed in Table 2-6.
The ITEM NO. column indicates the number used to identify items in Figure 2-2.
To protect the intensifier tube when the sight is not in use or when it is being operated in daylight,
keep the protective lens cap securely fitted over the lens.
3.1.1 BATTERY INSTALLATION
The Spark operates on a single CR123A battery.
Install the CR123A battery as follows:
1. Unscrew the battery cap (A) and insert the CR123A batter y (B), observing the polarity markings on
the body of the device.
2. Screw the battery cap (A) back on securely.
A
3.1.2 MOUNTING THE SPARK TO A GOGGLE KIT
Mount the Spark to the optional goggle kit as follows (refer to Figure 3-2):
1. Put on the goggle kit. Adjust the goggle kit strap pads until the goggles fit securely around your
head. Remove the goggle kit.
2. Loosen the screw (A). While pushing down on the button (B), insert the Spark rail into the guide (C)
of the goggle kit bracket. Tighten the screw (A).
3. Put on the goggle kit, now mounted with the Spark.
4. To adjust the equipment for greater comfort, loosen the screw (A) and move the unit along the guide
(C).
5. The goggle kit has a flip-up mechanism. Push the button (D) of the goggle kit bracket and lift the unit
up until it reaches its top position.
6. Push the same button (D) to lower the unit into the correct viewing position.
Figure 3-2 shows the Spark in the correct position for the right eye. To readjust the unit for the other
eye, remove the unit from the goggle kit bracket. Turn the unit around (180º) and mount it on the bracket
through the rail on the second side. With the button (E) pushed, move the unit along the slide-rail (F) until
the desired, most comfortable position is reached.
To remove the Spark from the goggle kit, loosen the screw (A), push the button (B), and slide the unit out
of the bracket guide (C).
F
E
D
B
A
C
FIGURE 3-2. MOUNTING SPARK TO A GOGGLE KIT
3.1.3 MOUNTING THE SPARK TO A HELMET
An optional flip-up helmet mount can be used to attach the Spark to a helmet. The helmet mount fits the
Spark securely onto helmet via a rugged strapping device and grooved hooks. With the helmet mount, the
Spark can be positioned directly in front of the user’s eyes, or flipped backwards, out of the field of view.
Mount the Spark to a helmet as follows (refer to Figure 3-3):
1. Attach the mount to the helmet.
2. Adjust and tighten the straps (A).
3. Loosen the screw (B). With the button (C) pushed down, insert the Spark rail into the guide (D) of the
helmet mount bracket. Tighten the screw (B).
4. Put on the helmet with the Spark attached.
5. Push the button (F) and move the unit along the slide-rail (G) until the most comfortable position is
reached.
6. Adjust the mount for comfortable using. Loosen the screw (B) and move the unit along the guide (D)
for eye relief adjustment. Turn the lever (H) and move the unit along vertical slide-rail until the most
comfortable vertical position is reached.
7. The helmet mount has a flip-up mechanism. Push the button (E) of the mount bracket and lift the unit
up until it reaches its top position.
8. Push the same button (E) to lower the Spark into the proper viewing position.
The Spark can be mounted in position for the right or left eye. To readjust the Spark for other eye,
reverse its positioning and reinstall it on the helmet mount bracket. Use the second unit rail located on
the opposite side of the unit. Push the button (F) and move the unit along the slide-rail (G) until the most
comfortable position is reached.
To remove the Spark from the helmet mount, loosen the screw (B), push down on the button (C), and slide
the unit out of the guide (D). To remove the flip-up mechanism from the helmet mount, loosen the lever
(H), pull the knob out (I), and slide the flip-up mechanism out of the vertical rail.
H
I
G
E
C
F
B
D
FIGURE 3-3. MOUNTING THE SPARK TO A HELMET
A
3.1.4 MOUNTING THE SPARK TO A WE APON WITH A QUICK-RELEASE WE APON
MOUNT
NOTE:
The Spark is not a weapon sight. However, it can be used in conjunction with a collimator dot sight
or laser aiming device.
To mount the Spark to a weapon using an optional quick-release weapon mount (QRM), perform the
following (refer to Figure 3-4):
1. While pushing down on the lever holder (C), turn the lever (B) backwards to loosen the QRM
clamping device (A).
2. Install the QRM on the weapon rail by inserting the stop (not shown in Figure 3-4) into one of
transverse slots of the weapon rail.
FIGURE 3-4. MOUNTING THE SPARK TO A WEAPON WITH A QUICK-RELEASE WEAPON MOUNT
E
F
I
G
H
E
A
C
B
D
3. To secure the QRM onto the weapon rail, turn the lever (B) forward. Secure the clamping device (A)
tightly to the weapon rail. To adjust the force of the lever clamp, loosen or tighten the nut (D) as
necessary:
– When the clamping device (A) unlocked, push the lever holder (C) so that the nut (D) gets out of its
hollow.
– To tighten/loosen clamping device, turn the nut (D) CW/CCW, respectively, by one-two increments
(the eight-sided nuts of the AIM clamping devices fit their hollows only if turned in one of the
discrete positions), when the holder (C) pushed. Just as the holder (C) released, backmoving
springs makes the nut (D) get back into its hollow.
– Check to ensure the clamping device holds weapon/NVM rail firmly.
4. While pushing down on the lever holder (F), turn the lever (E) forward.
5. Install the Spark on the QRM rail by inserting the stop (G) into the transverse slot of the unit rail.
6. Attach the Spark to the QRM rail by turning the lever (E) backwards. Secure the QRM clamping
device (H tightly to the Spark rail. To adjust the force of the lever clamp, loosen or tighten the nut (I)
as necessary.
3.1.5 MOUNTING AN IR ILLUMINATOR TO THE SPARK
To mount an IR illuminator to the Spark, use the optional Dovetail to Weaver Transfer Piece. Perform the
following steps (refer to Figure 3-5):
C
B
A
FIGURE 3-5. MOUNTING AN IR ILLUMINATOR TO THE SPARK
1. Install the transfer piece (A) onto one of the Spark rails.
2. Tighten the fixing screw (B) on the transfer piece.
3. Loosen the IR illuminator fixing screw (C).
4. Mount the IR illuminator on the Weaver rail of transfer piece and tighten the fixing screw (C).
3.1.6 MOUNTING THE SPARK TO A STANDARD US MIL HELMET/ HEADGEAR
ASS EMBLY
To mount the Spark to a Standard US Mil helmet or headgear assembly, use an optional transfer adapter.
Perform the following steps (refer to Figure 3-6):
F
C
A
FIGURE 3-6. MOUNTING THE SPARK TO A STANDARD US MIL HELMET/HEADGEAR ASSEMBLY
D
B
C
F
D
G
E
D
1. Push down on the lever (C). Mount the adapter (A) to the Spark rail (B).
2. Align the adapter prism (D) with the helmet/ headgear assembly mount (E). Slide the Spark
backwards until its alignment boss is in line with the alignment groove on the helmet/ headgear
assembly mount. Push down until the Spark locks into the helmet/ headgear assembly mount.
To dismount the Spark from the helmet/ headgear assembly, push down on the lever (F) and remove the
unit.
Push down on the lever (C) and remove the adapter from the Spark rail.
The transfer adapter can be adjusted for either the right or left eye. In Figure 3-6, the Spark is shown in
the proper position for the left eye. Readjust the adapter for the right eye as follows:
1. Push down on the lever (C). Remove the adapter from the Spark rail.
2. Loosen the nut (G), and turn the adapter around between the two fixing devices. Retighten the nut
(G).
3. Mount the adapter to the other Spark rail located on the opposite side of the unit.
To mount the 3x or 5x afocal lens (A) with adapter (B) to the device, screw it into the threading of the
standard 1x objective lens (C) of the Spark.
C
A
FIGURE 3-7. MOUNTING ACCESSORY LENS TO SPARK
B
3.1.8 UNIVERSAL CAMERA ADAPTER APPLICATION
To mount the Spark (affixed with a camera or video recorder) to a tripod, you will need a universal camera
adapter. Mount the connected devices to a tripod as follows:
D
A
C
B
G
E
FIGURE 3-8. UNIVERSAL CAMERA ADAPTER APPLICATION
F
1. Screw the adapter onto the tripod.
2. Remove the eyecup from the Spark eyepiece.
3. Install the Spark on the adapter rail (A) and tighten the fixing screw (B).
4. Install the camera on the adapter rail (C) and insert the fixing screw (D) into the tripod socket of the
camera. Tighten the fixing screw.
5. Loosen the screws one by one. Align the optical axis of the Spark with the camera objective. Tighten
the screws (E and F).
6. To focus the image, loosen the screw (G) and adjust the distance between the monocular and the
camera’s eyepiece. Tighten the screw (G).
These procedures should be performed under nighttime conditions only.
CAUTION:
Use of the Spark brightly lit conditions may damage the unit’s intensifier tube.
1. Verify that the battery is installed as indicated on the monocular body.
2. Make a visual estimation of the illumination level in the viewing area. The required level of
illumination is less than 1 lx (late twilight sky conditions).
3. Remove the lens cap and place it over the housing of the lens.
4. Turn the function switch ON. The green indicator light (Fig. 3-9, D) indicates that the unit is ready for
operation. After a slight delay, a green glow will appear in the eyepiece of the monocular.
5. Adjust the unit diopter by rotating the ring of the eyepiece.
6. Observe the scene. Rotate the focus ring until the image is clear and sharp.
CAUTION:
Bright sources such as firelight, headlights, searchlights, etc. can damage the Spark. Avoid exposing
the unit to these types of light sources.
3.3.2 IR ILLUMINATOR OPERATIONS
CAUTION:
When operating the device in extremely dark conditions, the light from the unit’s IR illuminator will
be invisible to the unaided eye. However, the light can be detected by other NVDs.
NOTE:
The IR illuminator is designed to provide additional illumination (when needed) while viewing scenes
or targets from a short distance (up to 3m).
To activate the IR illuminator, turn the monocular on. Flip the function switch (Fig. 3-10, A) CW from ON to
the IR position. A red indicator (Fig. 3-10, B) lights when the IR illuminator is turned on.
3.3.3 SPARK SHUT-DOWN
1. Turn the function switch to OFF. The green glow of the viewing area will fade to black.
2. Secure the lens cap over the objective lens.
3. If necessary, remove the unit from the rail (from the scope lens). Remove the unit by following the
mounting instructions in reverse.
4. Unscrew the battery cap and take out the battery. Replace the battery cap. Do not store the unit
with the battery still in it.
5. Store the unit and all accessories in the case.
3.4 STORAGE
3.4.1 PREPARATIONS FOR STORAGE
Prepare the Spark for storage as follows:
1. Verify that the Spark and all accessories are clean and dry before returning them to the storage
case.
2. Secure the cap over the objective lens.
3. Remove the battery.
4. Place the Spark and accessories in the appropriate locations in the case, and close the cover.
4.1.1 PREVENTIVE MAINTENANCE CHECKS AND SERVICES (PMCS)
Table 4-1: Preventive Maintenance Checks and Services has been provided so that you can keep your
equipment operable and in good condition.
Perform all functional tests in the order listed in Table 4-1.
Operating Procedures are detailed in Chapter 3.
A. Cautions
Always observe any CAUTIONS that appear in the table.
B. Explanation of Table Entries
SEQ NO. column. Sequence numbers are for reference and appear in the order required to perform
checks and services.
LOCATION ITEM TO CHECK/ SERVICE column. Indicates the location and the item to be checked or
serviced.
PROCEDURE column. Details the checking/ servicing procedure.
NOT FULLY MISSION CAPABLE IF... column. Indicates what faults will prevent your equipment from
operating successfully.
TABLE 4-1. PREVENTIVE MAINTENANCE CHECKS AND SERVICES
SEQ
LOCATION I TEM T O
NO.
CHECK/ SERVICE
1 CompletenessOpen the carrying case and inventory items by means
2 Soft Carrying
Case
3 External
Surfaces
4 Lens CapInspect for cracked, torn, or missing lens caps.Cap is torn or cut.
of comparing with the data specified in this manual.
Shake out loose dirt or foreign material. Inspect for
tears, cuts, excess wear or damage to the mounting
clips.
Inspect for cracks or damage.
Scratches and gouges are OK if operation is not
affected.
The purpose of troubleshooting is to identify the most frequently occurring equipment malfunctions, their
probable causes, and the corrective actions required to fix them.
Table 4-2 lists common malfunctions that may occur during the operation or maintenance of the Spark.
Perform the tests, inspections, and corrective actions in the order listed in the table.
This table does not list all of the malfunctions that may occur with your device, or all of the
tests and corrective actions that may be necessary. If you experience an equipment malfunction
that is not listed, or is not fixed by the corrective actions listed in the table, please contact Customer
Service center.
Poor image qualityCheck objective lens or eyepiece
Light is visible around
the eyecup
Focusing ring cannot be
moved
Eyepiece ring cannot be
moved
Battery is dead, missing or improperly
installed.
Battery contact surfaces or contact
springs are dirty or corroded.
Defective image intensifier.Please contact Customer Support.
Turn the IR illuminator on in a dark
area. Visually estimate whether or not
the observed scene is illuminated.
focus.
Check for fogging or dirt on the lens.Clean the lens as detailed in Part 4.4.2. If
Damaged optical components.Please contact Customer Support
Check the exit pupil distance value.Readjust for proper eye-relief distance.
Check the eyecup resilience.If the eyecup is defective, please contact
Check to see if the focusing ring is
bent or broken.
Check to see if the eyepiece ring is
bent or broken.
Replace the battery or install it correctly.
Clean the contact surfaces with a pencil
eraser and/ or alcohol and cotton swabs.
If the IR illuminator fails to activate,
please contact Customer Support.
Refocus the lens.
image quality is still poor, please contact
Customer Suppor t.
Customer Suppor t.
If damaged, please contact Customer
Support.
If damaged, please contact Customer
Support.
4.3 IDENTIFICATION OF OPERATIONAL DEFECTS
4.3.1 OPERATIONAL DEFECTS
Operational defects relate to the reliability of the intensifier, and are an indication of instability. If
identified, the user will need to return the Spark immediately. Operational defects include shading, edge
glow, flashing, flickering, and intermittent operation.
If shading is persistent, you will not be able to see a fully circular image (Figure 4-1). Shading is a very
dark, high-contrast area with a distinct line of demarcation present, and you cannot see an image through
it. Shading always begins on the edge, and will eventually migrate inward until it spans across the entire
image area. If you notice shading with your device, please contact Customer Support.
SHADING
FIGURE 4-1. SHADING
NOTE:
Verify that any shading is not the result of improper eye-relief adjustment.
B. Edge Glow
Edge glow is a bright area (it sometimes appears to be sparkling) in the outer portion of the viewing area
(see Figure 4-2). To check for edge glow, block out all light from the device by cupping a hand over the
lens. If the image tube is displaying edge glow, the bright area will still show up; if edge glow occurs,
please contact Customer Support.
EDGE
GLOW
FIGURE 4-2. EDGE GLOW
C. Flashing, Flickering, or Intermittent Operation
The image may appear to flicker or flash. If there is more than a single flicker, check for a loose battery
adapter or a weak battery. If flickering continues, please contact Customer Support.
4.3.2 COSMETIC BLEMISHES
Cosmetic blemishes are usually the result of manufacturing imperfections. They do not affect the
reliability of the image intensifier, and are not normally a cause for returning the Spark. However, some
types of cosmetic blemishes can worsen over time and interfere with the user’s ability to properly
operate the device during missions. If you believe a cosmetic blemish is cause for returning the device,
record the specific nature of the problem on the maintenance forms and use the clock method to identify
the position of the blemish and its approximate distance from the center (e.g., 5:00 toward the outside,
2:30 near the center, or 1:00 midway).
A bright spot is a small, non-uniform bright area that may flicker or appear constant (Figure 4-3).
Not all bright spots make the Spark rejectable. Cup your hand over the lens to block out all light. If the
bright spot remains please contact Customer Support.
Bright spots usually go away when all light is blocked out. Verify that any bright spots are not simply the
result of bright light in the area you are observing. Bright spots are acceptable if they do not interfere
with the user’s ability to view the scene or perform missions.
B. Emission points
Emission points are steady or fluctuating pinpoints of bright light in the image area that do not go away
when all external light is blocked from the objective lens (Figure 4-3). The position of an emission point
within the image area does not move. Not all emission points are cause to return the Spark. Verify that
emission points are not simply light sources present in the scene you are observing. Emission points are
acceptable if they do not interfere with the user’s ability to perform missions.
EMISSION
POINT
FIGURE 4-3. EMISSION POINTS AND BRIGHT SPOTS
BRIGHT
SPOT
C. Black Spots
Black spots are cosmetic blemishes in the image intensifier or debris between the lenses. Black spots
are acceptable as long as they do not interfere with the user’s ability to observe the scene. No action
is required if this condition is present, unless the spots inter fere with the operator’s ability to perform
missions.
4.4 MAINTENANCE
4.4.1 GENERAL
The section regarding Spark operator maintenance consists of operational tests, inspections for the
unit serviceability, cleaning and mounting procedures, troubleshooting, and replacement instructions
for a limited number of parts. Maintenance instructions covered elsewhere in this manual (PMCS,
troubleshooting, etc.) are not repeated in this section.
CAUTION:
The Spark is a precision electron-optical instrument, and must be handled carefully at all times to
prevent damage to the device’s body or mechanisms.
The coating on the demist shield can be damaged if the shield is cleaned while wet, or if it is
cleaned with wet lens paper. Clean the shield only when it is dry, and only use dry lens paper.
CAUTION:
Thoroughly dry each item before placing them into the storage case.
Clean the Spark as follows:
1. Gently brush off any dirt from the unit’s body using a clean, soft cloth.
2. Moisten the cloth with fresh water and gently wipe external surfaces (except for glass surfaces).
3. Dry any wet surfaces (except for glass surfaces) with another clean, soft, dry cloth.
4. Using a lens brush, carefully remove all loose dirt from the glass surfaces.
5. Slightly dampen a cotton swab with ethanol. Gently and slowly wipe the lenses. Without touching
the lens holders, clean the glass surfaces in circular movements, beginning in the center and moving
out towards the edge. Change the cotton swab after each circular stroke. Repeat until the glass
surfaces are clean.
6. Clean the battery contact surfaces and contact springs with a pencil eraser and/ or alcoholdampened cotton swabs.
Clean optional mounting devices with a soft brush (cloth), soap, and water as required.
Clean optional lenses as detailed in items 4 and 5 above (except for the demist shield).
4.4.3 BATTERY REMOVAL AND REPLACEMENT
Refer to Part 3.1.1 for battery installation procedures. No special tools are required to replace the battery.
The parts authorized in this list of spare parts are required for operator maintenance. This list includes
parts that must be removed in order to replace authorized parts.
ITEM NO. Column indicates the number used to identify items in Figure A-1.
PART NO. Column indicates the primary number used by the manufacturer to identify an item; this number
controls the design and characteristics of the item by means of its engineering, specifications, standards,
and inspection requirements.
5
8
4
3
1
ITE M NO.DESCRIPTIONPART NO.
1Battery CapASSPKBC
2Battery Cap RetainerASSPKBCR
3Lens CapASSPKLC
4Objective Lens AssemblyASSPKOLA
5Eyepiece AssemblyASSPKEPA
6EyecupASSPKECA
7Function SwitchASSPKFS
8RailASSPKPR
9Operation and Maintenance ManualASSPKOMM