What's New
Buyer's Guide
By Lindsey Aspinall

Accessories

To the Max

Croakies has introduced the new Terra Cord in three sizes: Terra Max, Terra Middi, and Terra Micro. The cord is available in these various sizes so that it can accommodate all frame sizes. Terra Max will accommodate the widest frames while Terra Micro handles the smallest. UV resistant molded ends provide a tight hold and offer easy adjustment. In addition, Terra Cords also have a tough but pliable climbing rope. For information, call 800-443-8620.

Spectacle Lenses

Illumina Expands

Vision-Ease Lens has expanded the availability of the Illumina PAL. In addition to polycarbonate clear, it is now available in LifeRx Photochromic Polycarbonate and Plastic Clear CR 39. Illumina is a general purpose PAL with a 17mm minimum fitting height. The lens design is created by using advanced software to optimize the balance between all viewing areas and astigmatism. For more information, call 800-328-3449. VISION-EASE LENS

Free form family

Shamir has launched the Shamir Freeform Technology family of products spotlighting Autograph PAL design and debuting the Creation PAL. Developed with patented Freeform Optics, Shamir Creation features an extended base curve selection that is up to 40 percent flatter. Creation lenses are available in semi-finished Freeform design which are Freeform design on the front and spherical design on the back. Shamir Autograph combines each patient's requirements and personalized Freeform Technology for a custom-made PAL with the highest degree of accuracy to 1/100 diopters with a Freeform front and backside design that provides wider fields of vision compared to the equivalent frontside design. Creation will be initially available in CR 39 and 1.60 materials. The controlled rollout will continue with polycarbonate, CR 39 Transitions, 1.60 Transitions, 1.67 and 1.67 Transitions. For more, call 877-SHAMIR1 or visit www.shamirlens.com.

Fresh Daily

CIBA Vision has introduced FreshLook One-Day color contact lenses to the U.S. marketplace. The CLs incorporate the FreshLook ColorBlends patented 3-in-1 technology into CIBA's Focus Dailies technology to offer ECPs a hygienic, disposable color CL option. In addition to a healthier daily disposable platform, the company suggests the lenses are an affordable alternative for patients who want to wear color CLs from time to time. FreshLook One-Day CLs are available in the four most popular FreshLook ColorBlends colors: Pure hazel, blue, green, and gray. The lenses come in 10 packs of 13.8mm diameter in powers from -0.50D to -6.00D in 0.25D steps, plus plano. For more information, visit www.freshlookcontacts.com.

Equipment

PSI has added the Automatic Lap Cleaner (ALC) to their equipment line. ALC cleans and dries aluminum laps after each use. Using this automated system to clean laps can provide cost savings by reducing labor costs. Money will also be saved in the long run by preventing dents to the lap. Laps are loaded directly from the cylinder lines onto the ALC's conveyor. They travel through a wash area to clean away any polish residue. Laps are then taken through the drying chamber where a stream of cool air pushes water to the edges, leaving the lap completely dry. For information, call 800-237-8154 or visit the company site, www.LookToPSI.com.

Gerber Coburn has added the CMX50 Finer/Polisher to its Performance Series line. The technology combines optimal processing times with pressures set to a lab's specified lens materials, including CR 39, polycarbonate, glass, and high index, to allow for accurate lenses. CMX50 keeps work functions conveniently in one area with a built-in pad dispenser, work shelf, and a lens/lap wash pan. The CMX50 accommodates Gerber's standard pin AccuBlock or LOH surface blocks. For more information, call 800-843-1479 or visit the Website www.gerbercoburn.com.

Let There Be Light

Eschenbach has released a new battery-operated LED Headlight for those who need extra illumination in a hands-free product. Three AAA batteries are included and power the LED Headlight for a battery life of more than 30 hours. The LEDs are housed in a ratcheting mechanism that allows the user to adjust the downward angle of the light. The on/off switch allows the user to turn on one, two, or three LEDs, depending on the amount of illumination needed. An adjustable elastic strap ensures the LED Headlight stays in place, and offers a comfortable and secure fit. For more information, call 800-487-5389, visit the company Website www.eschenbach.com, or E-mail info@eschenbach.com.