Applications of Microcomputers’ to Orthoptic Measurement

J A Burne, PhD

This communication emphasises the advantages of direct and objective measures of visual functions in the clinical setting. The applications of microcomputers in the role are outlined and an example of such a system as developed in the School of Orthoptics at Cumberland College of Health Sciences, Sydney, is described. This system utilises the basic IBM microcomputer for analysis and storage of patient data.
Additional hardware enables the system to generate complex visual stimuli and to record the visual responses evoked by these stimuli.
Current interests are centred on visual evoked responses, eletroretinograms and eye movement studies. The interfacing of standard ophthalmic testing equipment, e.g. perimeters and ultrasound, adds a further dimension to the system. The relatively low cost and simplicity of operation of microcomputer/ based systems suggests they are likely to proliferate within the eye environment.