Flatness measurements are made as a series of single angle measurements at specified
locations.  Visual and electronic autocollimators are the most accurate instruments for the
small angle measurements required for a flatness measurement.  Our software, SurfaceView,
records all the measurements and calculates the surface profile accurately.  SurfaceView is
designed specifically to help the user make a surface plate calibration that conforms to 
Federal Specification GGG-P-463c, the standard for surface plates.  SurfaceView also allows
users to make other, less stringent measurements during production or for a routine check.
Electronic autocollimator measurements can be recorded by SurfaceView automatically and
remotely.  The user need only move the mirror to the next measurement position.
Other autocollimators or electronic levels can also be used, or data can be entered manually.