The biggest difference between modern perimeters is no longer just test strategy. It is how much confidence you have in the result, how dependent the test is on fixation, and how directly the field data connects to the retina itself.
Carolina Optics typically recommends iCare COMPASS for practices that want more than standard bowl perimetry. Its advantage is not just field testing, but retinal-tracked perimetry tied directly to confocal fundus imaging.
| Feature | iCare COMPASS | ZEISS HFA3 | Haag-Streit Octopus 900 |
|---|---|---|---|
| Testing Paradigm | Automated tracked perimetry with active retinal tracking at 25 Hz | Standard automated perimetry (SAP) with SITA and SITA Faster strategies | Static and kinetic full-field perimetry with TOP strategy |
| Fixation Management | Active retinal tracking compensates for eye movement during entire test | Gaze tracking with fixation monitoring; relies on patient cooperation | Automated fixation control with guided workflow |
| Fundus Imaging | Built-in 60° confocal fundus imaging with 100° SmartMosaic | No integrated fundus imaging | No integrated fundus imaging |
| Progression Analysis | Smart Progression Analysis with cluster and pointwise trends | Guided Progression Analysis (GPA) — the established clinical standard | Cluster and polar analyses with EyeSuite Progression |
| Common Test Grids | 24-2, 30-2, 10-2 | 24-2, 24-2C (with 10 macular points), 30-2, 10-2 | G, M, 24-2, 10-2, peripheral 07, Esterman, custom |
| Kinetic Perimetry | Not available | Available on some models | Full Goldmann-style kinetic perimetry included |
| Workflow Automation | Fully automated: auto-alignment, auto-focus, auto-retinal tracking, auto-pupil tracking, auto-exposure, auto-capture | Automated with SITA Faster reducing test time | Guided workflow with multi-language patient instructions |
| Minimum Pupil / Trial Lens | 3 mm non-mydriatic; auto-focus −12D to +15D, no trial lens needed | Trial lens required for significant refractive error | Trial lens requirements vary by test |
| Operator Training Burden | Low — full automation reduces operator variability | Moderate — familiar workflow but relies on patient fixation cooperation | Moderate — versatile but requires familiarity with multiple test modes |
| Best Practice Fit | Comprehensive optometry and ophthalmology practices with a heavy medical focus and wanting retinal-tracked confidence and structure-function integration | Practices invested in the ZEISS ecosystem and GPA progression continuity | Practices needing both static and kinetic perimetry flexibility |
Traditional perimeters rely on the patient maintaining fixation on a central target. When fixation breaks down — which happens frequently in older glaucoma patients — the result becomes harder to trust. COMPASS tracks the retina at 25 Hz and compensates in real time, so each threshold point maps to a verified retinal location rather than an assumed one.
The built-in confocal fundus image captures simultaneously with the visual field. That means you can overlay sensitivity data on retinal anatomy without switching instruments or importing images from a separate device. For glaucoma counseling, this changes how you explain progression to the patient.
Smart Progression Analysis tracks longitudinal visual field change with cluster-based and pointwise trends. Because the fundus image is captured at every visit, you can correlate structural change with functional loss in a single report — supporting more confident clinical decisions about when to escalate treatment.
Unreliable visual field results create a clinical bottleneck: the doctor has to decide whether to re-test or act on uncertain data. By reducing fixation-dependent variability, COMPASS aims to produce fewer unreliable fields — which can improve patient throughput and clinical confidence.
Retinal-tracked perimetry with simultaneous confocal fundus imaging. The strongest story for practices that want to reduce fixation uncertainty and integrate structure-function data into one test session. Fully automated operation through 3 mm pupils with no trial lens.
HFA3 remains the familiar standard in glaucoma perimetry. SITA Faster shortens test time, 24-2C adds macular sensitivity points, and Guided Progression Analysis provides established longitudinal tracking. For practices that value continuity across the ZEISS ecosystem, HFA3 is a solid choice.
Octopus 900 is the strongest option when practices need both static and kinetic full-field perimetry. TOP strategy reduces test time, EyeSuite integration supports network workflows, and Goldmann-style kinetic capability adds unique capability.
Carolina Optics is an independent distributor, not a single-manufacturer rep. That means our recommendation is based on practice fit, not quota.
We bring the COMPASS to your practice so you can run visual fields on your own patients and compare results against your current perimeter.
Installation, calibration, and staff training included. Your team is running fields from day one.
We help you choose the right fit across multiple manufacturers — not just the most expensive device.
Ongoing support across Virginia, North Carolina, and South Carolina. Not a call center — a local partner.
Schedule a demo and we’ll bring the COMPASS to your practice so you can compare field quality, workflow, and retinal tracking firsthand.
Carolina Optics is an independent distributor and is not affiliated with or endorsed by the competitor brands referenced on this page. Product names and trademarks belong to their respective owners.