(FARO: Lake Mary, FL) -- FARO Technologies Inc., a global provider of portable 3-D measurement and imaging solutions, has announced the release of the world’s most accurate, break-resistant spherically-mounted retroreflector (SMR) as a part of its newly expanded line of laser tracker targets.

FARO’s new break-resistant SMRs offer the accuracy, durability, and affordability needed in demanding measurement environments. In the past, users were faced with choosing between a high-performance, lower-cost glass panel SMR or a durable, higher-cost and less-accurate break-resistant model. With the new break-resistant SMRs, however, this dilemma no longer exists. Their accuracy is equal to or better than a traditional glass panel SMR, while having the added advantage of being break resistant. They also come at a lower cost than before—some are even less than a traditional glass-panel SMR. This will allow users to quickly recognize a true return on the investment.

“FARO’s dedication to providing world-class 3-D measurement and imaging solutions doesn’t stop with the devices themselves,” says Jay Freeland, FARO’s CEO. “Our goal is to continuously offer industry-leading accessories that enable optimal device performance. With FARO’s new line SMRs, we are able to take the durability and performance of break-resistant SMRs and make them affordable for more customers.”

These new targets are available in three models: standard accuracy, long range, and high performance. Each one has higher accuracy than previous FARO break-resistant SMRs, while the long-range and high-performance models have the ability to track up to 55 m with the FARO Laser Tracker ION. In addition to its long range, the SMR is 80-percent more accurate than previous FARO models. The combination of the sphere properties and the centering of the optics make it the world’s most accurate, break-resistant SMR.

“Regardless of how accurate your laser tracker is, the quality of the measurement is directly affected by the precision of the target,” says Ken Steffey, FARO director of product management for laser tracker products.

“These new break-resistant SMRs contain a single element retroreflector with a gold coating,” says Steffey. “Because the retroreflector is constructed of a single element, there are no separate glass panels that can shift or break over time. Users can now have the peace of mind that comes with a break-resistant target without having to sacrifice high performance.”

FARO is also introducing its new line of patented break-resistant window SMRs. These targets represent the ultimate performance in harsh environments, as the window covering is designed to keep the reflective optics clean. All the SMRs provided by FARO can be used with any laser tracker measurement system.