NIDEK SC-1600 POLA LCD Visual Chart: read correctly to understand correctly
In myopia-vision consultations, many customers wonder why the chart/curve looks more 'scientific' after measuring with an LCD screen compared to traditional measurements. Devices like the NIDEK SC-1600 POLA are often used to assist in controlled vision assessments, helping to reduce errors from 'guessing letters' or fatigue during the examination. At Kính Mắt Điện Biên Phủ (529 3/2 Street, Ho Chi Minh City), we always emphasize: the chart is an illustrative tool, while the final conclusion needs to be linked to your symptoms, refraction, and actual visual needs.
💡Don't self-'diagnose' with a number
The vision on the chart can change depending on the time of day, eye dryness, and concentration level. Let the specialist explain the meaning of each part and compare it with other tests during the same session.
POLA in vision measurement: why it matters with glare
Some situations reduce vision when there is glare or light polarization (driving during the day, highly reflective environments). When there is a testing component related to polarization (POLA), the measurement session can help better distinguish between the causes of 'blurry vision' related to optics and glare-causing factors. This supports the decision: whether anti-glare lenses, polarized lenses for sunglasses, or finer adjustments for daily wear are needed.
POLA does not replace eye pathology examinations, but helps to 'clarify the visual context' — especially when you feel your vision is worse under bright light even though your prescription is correct.
LCD and the chart: you should understand it as 'enough to cooperate in measurement'
The LCD screen allows the display of optotypes (vision symbols) with stable contrast, consistent across different testing levels. The tracking chart/curve is often used to record changes over time or under testing conditions, helping to reduce debates like 'I saw better yesterday than today'. For the average user, the most important part is to understand: the endpoint of the curve reflects the level of vision achieved under those conditions and needs to be compared with other indicators.
Questions to ask after viewing the chart
"Does this level correspond to distance or near vision in my life?" — "Is there a difference between the two eyes, and do I need adjustments for my prescription/astigmatism?" — "Do I have dry eye symptoms affecting the results?"
From the chart to glasses: linking with suitable lenses and frames
When the measurement results show you are sensitive to glare or have specific visual needs (driving, outdoor work), choosing lenses is not just about the prescription. You may need quality anti-reflective coatings, targeted blue light filtering lenses (not always 'the more yellow, the better'), or polarized sunglasses if suitable for your work. Stable frames, correctly fitting at the nose-ear contact points, help keep the pupil aligned with the optical axis of the lens, avoiding the feeling of 'poor vision' even though the prescription is correct.
| Needs | Suggested consultation direction (for reference) |
|---|
| Daytime driving | Reduce glare, increase safe contrast, avoid overly dark colors |
| Office | Focus on the center of the screen, consider progression if middle-aged |
| Outdoor | UV protection, polarization when appropriate, snug frame fit |
Common misunderstandings when looking at the 'vision curve'
Many people think a 'higher' chart means better absolute vision, but in optical practice, you need to consider measurement conditions, inter-eye deviation, and reliability when repeated. There are also cases where you see well in a dark room but worse in sunlight — that’s why the consultation should inquire about your living environment. Additionally, wearing glasses with incorrect astigmatism axis or slipping frames can misalign the lens center, leading to the feeling of 'not achieving vision' even though the chart looks fine.
Preparation tips before measurement
Get enough sleep, limit staying up late close to the measurement time; if using soft lenses, follow the instructions to remove them before the measurement; bring old glasses to compare visual comfort. These small details help the results reflect your 'normal' state more accurately.
Schedule a measurement and view results directly
If you want to understand more about the measurement process and how to read the illustrative charts during the examination, please
schedule an appointment at
Kính Mắt Điện Biên Phủ. You can also refer to suitable lens types in
products and read more guides in
articles. Our goal is to help you
understand before
buying, so you can wear glasses comfortably and safely in daily activities.
Continue: measure – cut – receive glasses
To
get the right prescription and alignment, prioritize
measuring PD / height of the lens on the actual frame before ordering. The
free eye measurements,
reading NIDEK RT-6100 results, and
Eyeruler — centering help you understand the measurement slip.
Cutting process at the store and
how long to receive lenses in District 10 explain the actual time.
Measurement + genuine cutting Q10 consolidates responsibility.
Contact to schedule an appointment; bring
old glasses or
prescription photos to re-measure. If ordering lenses online, it’s advisable to send along
a photo of the measurement slip and
a photo wearing the frame for the store to quickly check alignment/PD before finalizing.
