What is the function of an autorefractor?

The function of an autorefractor is to determine the prescription for glasses. This device measures how light rays are refracted as they enter the eye, providing objective data on the patient's refractive error. The autorefractor uses infrared light to assess the eye's focusing ability, which helps the technician or eye care professional understand whether the patient is nearsighted, farsighted, or has astigmatism. The output from the autorefractor assists in creating an accurate prescription for corrective lenses, which is essential for improving the patient's vision.

In contrast, other options involve different diagnostic processes: measuring intraocular pressure is typically done with a tonometer, assessing the health of the retina is conducted through various imaging techniques and examinations, and visual field tests ascertain peripheral vision, all of which do not relate to determining the prescription for glasses.