An automated system for selecting optical apparatus compares a set of user
specifications with the optical characteristics of a plurality of
standard optical components, and automatically chooses a combination of
the components forming the closest match to the user's requirements. The
method is performed using a programmed computer which may be remotely
interfaced with the user via the internet. The user inputs the
specification into the computer using a standardized input table. The
user may optionally specify that the system be designed using a
particular product line or family of standard products. If a system
exactly matching the customer's specifications cannot be found, two
systems are suggested that bracket the customer's stated requirements.