
ALM 500 / ALM 700
Fast, accurate automatic measurement of all lenses and frames
- Green light accuracy 525 nm light removes the need to enter the Abbe number
- Automatic lens detection Detects lens type, guides centring and confirms the reading
- Block and mark together Blocking and marking done in one single operation
- Data transfer Send values to an automatic phoropter or practice software
Overview
The ALM 500 and ALM 700 are automatic lensmeters for optometrists, opticians and optical workshops. They measure single vision, multifocal and progressive lenses in frames, plus soft and hard contact lenses, quickly and accurately. Place the lens on the support and the lensmeter detects the lens type, guides you to centre it and confirms the measurement automatically. Both models share the same optical core. The ALM 700 adds UV transmission measurement, interpupillary distance measurement and a touch screen.
Green light for precise readings
Both lensmeters measure with a green light beam at 525 nm, similar to the ISO 7944 reference wavelength. This reduces measurement drift caused by light deviation through the lens, so every material is measured precisely and independently of its Abbe number. You never need to look up or enter the Abbe value.
- Sphere from -25.00 D to +25.00 D
- Cylinder up to ±10.00 D
- Prism up to 10 prism dioptres
- Tinted lenses up to class 4
Extended measuring capacity
The lens support adapts to all lens and frame curves and suits high base curves. The wide space under the base leaves room to position frame temples easily. The marking system is designed so that blocking and marking happen in one single operation, saving a step at the bench. A dedicated support is supplied for contact lenses, and the adjustable frame rest with a graduated scale gives a quick reading of the right and left eye height difference.
ALM 700 extras: UV and PD
The ALM 700 measures UV transmission (375 nm, UV-A) at the same time as lens power, with no extra handling. Both results show on the main screen. It also measures half and full interpupillary distance from 45 to 85 mm, using two independent nose supports. A reactive touch screen, similar to a smartphone or tablet, replaces button navigation.
Both models have a tilting colour screen for seated or standing use, a central validation button, an integrated printer, built-in accessory storage and quick-change marking tips.
Models
| Model | What is different |
|---|---|
| ALM 500 | Green light measurement, automatic lens detection, tilting colour screen, printer and data transfer. |
| ALM 700 | Everything in the ALM 500, plus UV transmission measurement, interpupillary distance measurement and a touch screen. |
Specifications
Measuring range
| Sphere | -25.00 to +25.00 (steps 0.01 / 0.12 / 0.25) D |
|---|---|
| Cylinder | 0.00 to ±10.00 (steps 0.01 / 0.12 / 0.25) D |
| Axis | 1 to 180 (1° steps) ° |
| Addition | 0.00 to 10.00 (steps 0.01 / 0.12 / 0.25) D |
| Prism | 0.00 to 10.00 (steps 0.01 / 0.12 / 0.25) Δ |
| Measurement wavelength | 525 nm |
Lens types
| Spectacle lenses | Single vision, multifocal, progressive |
|---|---|
| Tinted lenses | Up to class 4 (more than 5% transmission) |
| Contact lenses | Soft and hard (dedicated support) |
ALM 700 only
| UV transmission | 0 to 100% (for lenses -25 D to +25 D) |
|---|---|
| UV measurement wavelength | 375 (UV-A) nm |
| Interpupillary distance | 45 to 85 (0.5 mm steps) mm |
| Touch screen | Yes |
Hardware
| Screen | 5.7-inch colour LCD, tilting |
|---|---|
| Integrated printer | Yes |
| Connection | RS-232C |
| Dimensions (L x W x H) | approx. 170 x 206 x 467 mm |
| Weight | approx. 4.3 kg |
| Power supply | 100 to 240 V, 50/60 Hz, 40 VA |
Downloads
Works with

What is the difference between the ALM 500 and ALM 700?
Both share green light measurement, automatic lens detection, a tilting colour screen, a printer and data transfer. The ALM 700 adds UV transmission measurement, interpupillary distance measurement and a touch screen.
Do I need to enter the Abbe number of the lens?
No. The lensmeters measure with green light at 525 nm, so readings are independent of the lens material and its Abbe number.
Can the ALM 500 and ALM 700 measure contact lenses and dark tints?
Yes. They measure soft and hard contact lenses with a dedicated support, and tinted lenses up to class 4.
Talk to us
Ask about the ALM 500 / ALM 700
Tell us what you need: a quote, a demonstration in your practice, finance options or a brochure. Your regional representative will reply within one working day.
Your Essilor Instruments team
Speak to the representative for your province, or call the Johannesburg office on +27 87 365 2077.
Free State, Gauteng, North West, Limpopo, Mpumalanga
Ritchard Dry
Regional representative
Northern Cape, Western Cape, Eastern Cape, KwaZulu-Natal
Stephan du Plessis
Regional representative