Abstract: A method for acquiring misalignment information as to centerlines of first and second in-line shafts utilizing a shaft alignment system including an analyzer having a memory. A sensor head mounted on the first shaft at an initial angular position relative to the centerline of the first shaft includes a microprocessor having memory, a collimated light source emitter for transmitting a collimated light beam in a first direction corresponding to the centerline of the first shaft, a detector having a detecting surface for detecting a collimated light source from a second direction corresponding to the centerline of the second shaft, and an angular position sensor for determining an angular position of the sensor head as the head is rotated about the centerline of the first shaft. The sensor head is rotated in a first or a second rotational direction relative to the centerline of the first shaft.