What is a Lensometer used for?

A lensometer, often referred to as a focimeter, is an optical instrument used primarily to determine the prescription of glasses by measuring the curvature and optical power of lenses. It allows practitioners to accurately verify the power of a lens, ensuring that it meets the specifications required for the wearer’s visual needs. The term "focimeter" not only describes the function of measuring lens power but has also become synonymous with lensometers as a key tool in ophthalmic dispensing.

The specific function of a lensometer includes aligning the lens in such a way that it can measure the dioptric power, which is crucial for ensuring that the wearer receives the correct prescription. This capability confirms why the designation of lensometer as a type of focimeter is appropriate and emphasizes its importance in the optical dispensing process.

While measuring corneal curvature, vertex distance, and base curves are important aspects of ocular health and fitting eyewear, these functions do not align directly with the main purpose of a lensometer. Therefore, understanding the lensometer as a trade name highlights its specialized role in dispensing eyewear accurately.