Abstract: An apparatus providing a means for slit lamp biomicroscopes and similar opthalmological instruments to be accurately positioned and controlled without the need for a table base under the instrument, comprising an overhead assembly and mounting device which allows controlled movement and positioning of the slit lamp and associated illumination system in all three spatial axes. The overhead location of the support and movement mechanism combined with a joystick control on the instrument arm eliminates ergonomic obstacles allowing the instrument to be used when examining patients in wheelchairs and those affected by medical and anatomic restrictions.