The Development of the Generation II as an Aid for Patients with Retinitis Pigmentosa and Night Blindness

Abstract

The Generation II is a modification of the Army's night photography/observation instrumentation. Low levels of light are intensified approximately 700 times to stimulate cone function. The individual with no rod function is able to see at night under these intensified amounts of illumination. The device can be used for night “spotting and mobility” purposes, much like a telescope is used during the day by the partially-sighted with intact rod function and poor cone function. This paper is presented to inform the optometrist of the availability and usefulness of this device for his patients.