nearmeter

Nearmeter is a term that can refer to several different instruments intended to measure proximity or short-range distance in various fields. There is no single standardized device known as a nearmeter; the term is used informally in product names or descriptions to indicate a focus on near-range measurement.

In photography and cinematography, a nearmeter might describe a rangefinding or focusing aid that estimates subject distance to assist manual focus or composition. In practice, such devices may rely on triangulation, infrared time-of-flight, or ultrasonic sensing, mapping distance to a subject within a few centimeters to several meters.

In robotics and automation, nearmeter-like sensors are short-range proximity sensors used for obstacle detection, end-effector positioning, or tool alignment. Technologies include capacitive, infrared, ultrasound, or time-of-flight sensors with typical operating ranges from a few millimeters to a couple meters.

In consumer electronics, especially touchless or wake-up sensing, a nearmeter may describe a capacitive or infrared proximity sensor that detects a hand or object near a device to trigger a function.

Availability and specification vary widely; the term is not a standard measurement category.

See also: proximity sensor, rangefinder, time-of-flight sensor, capacitive sensor.