A simple modification to any mobile phone with a camera will turn it into a night vision device (NVD), capable of operating and recording video in complete darkness, without the slightest source of illumination.
Real night vision devices use infrared emitters for illumination; their spectrum is not visible to the human eye. And to detect this glow, special video cameras are used that perceive light in the infrared (IR) range (in old night vision devices, cathode ray tubes were used).
Our unit will work on the same principle: we will modify the camera so that it perceives IR rays. And we equip the phone with IR illumination.
Will need
- An old or unnecessary mobile phone (not necessarily a smartphone). Any model with a camera in normal and functional condition will do.
- An adapter with a mini USB connector that can be connected to a phone and remove power from its battery.
- Infrared LEDs in the ring from a night vision video camera - Ali Express.
It is quite possible to solder a homemade ruler from IR LEDs.
How to make a night vision device from a smartphone
We disassemble the mobile phone. Our goal is a video camera.
In this model, the camera is removable, this will simplify the task of modifying it.
Carefully disconnect the cable from the common board.
And we take out the camera.
Peel off the protective mesh.
The top cover of the camera is soldered on four legs, unsolder them one by one.
And remove the top cover with the lens.
We see a matrix protected by an infrared filter.
Carefully remove it using a sharp object such as a stationery knife.
The infrared glare filter produces a red glow, it cannot be confused. Such filters are installed in all video cameras, excluding invisible light in the IR range from entering the matrix.
We assemble everything in reverse order. Solder the legs.
We install the camera back, connect the cable.
We assemble the phone and install the battery.
Next, take the adapter and bite off the unnecessary socket from it.
Solder to the IR ring LEDs wires from the USB connector. Through them, from the phone, 5 V power will flow, from which they will be powered LEDs.
We attach the ring to the body with double-sided tape.
We connect the connector.
The night vision device is ready.
Checking work
Testing the device in complete darkness.
You can take photos, record videos, etc.
