Ophthalmic Instrument Stands are comprised of several different assemblies. The overhead lamp offers illumination for reading cards.
The Phoropter arm is mounted on a pole and is counterbalanced to offer ease of movement.
The Slit Lamp Arm is generally integrated into the base of the stand to support the greater weight of the Slit Lamp.
Many stands also offer a 3rd arm for the Keratometer, which is also mounted on the pole and counterbalanced. It is essential that this arm be positioned correctly, to avoid damaging the other instruments.
Most stands have charging wells for hand held instruments and a binding post or outlet for the (BIO) Binocular Indirect Ophthalmoscope. They may also include switches to control the room lights and projector.