eye on equipment

Why The DCS Matters to You

Karlen McLean, ABOC, NCLC

The Data Communication Standard (DCS) is a set of voluntary guidelines established by the Optical Industry Association (OMA) that oversee data communication between computer systems and lens processing equipment so that communication can be compatible.

Other than manufacturers, wholesale labs, and perhaps large retail labs, many optical businesses are unaware of the Data Communication Standard. And really, why should the average optical business know about the DCS?

With the industry vesting in digital protocol and processing, knowing at least a little bit of the standards for data communications that drive the production and end result of free-form/digitally processed lenses can help your business understand what goes into these lenses and how they should come out.

Additionally, if you perform in-office lab work now or are thinking of doing so in the future, you may want or need to adapt to or add digital processing. With this type of equipment on the cusp of decreasing in size and cost, it's not too far-fetched to consider digital processing for your practice.

MISSION STATEMENT

Knowing the standards—the base of the pyramid—can help you in many ways, as described in the Optical Industry Association and Lens Processing Technology Division mission statement:

“It is the expressed intent of the Optical Industry Association and its Lens Processing Technology Division to establish a standard system of data communication that provides for compatibility in the inter-connection of lens processing equipment.

“This system will enhance buyer confidence in the equipment and improve the quality and performance of lens processing systems in our customers' shops and laboratories. The standards will be supported through the participation of the members and will be promoted by the Optical Industry Association to users of lens processing equipment.”

The statement goes on to say that versions will be reviewed, updated, and reissued as needed to reflect technological advances. Optical Industry Association members agree to support these voluntary standards. Others are free to use them, which makes great sense.

Robertson Optical Laboratories personnel “doing the digital”

WHY FOLLOW THEM?

Can you imagine the mess if data communication between optical equipment and computer systems were all different? Picture a PC trying to communicate with a MAC; it can be done, but not easily, and the results can be erratic.

Smoothing the data communication process so that both you and your patients are satisfied with the turnaround time and lens product quality and performance is the key to a well-operated business—from placing the order to processing, dispensing, patient recall, and referral back to you. EB