What is the purpose of an autorefractor?

The purpose of an autorefractor is to generate an approximation of a person's eyeglass prescription. This device uses automated technology to measure how light is altered as it enters the eye. By reflecting light off the retina and assessing how the eye focuses this light, the autorefractor can determine refractive errors such as nearsightedness, farsightedness, and astigmatism. The output provides an initial estimate of the prescription needed to correct these refractive issues, making it a valuable tool in an eye examination.

The effectiveness of an autorefractor lies in its ability to quickly and objectively assess visual acuity without the need for subjective input from the patient, which streamlines the process of determining the appropriate lens prescription. This technology serves as an important preliminary step, often leading to further evaluation and more precise fitting by an optometrist or ophthalmologist.