Abstract: An optical system is provided which combines range-finding (distance measurement), sighting (target acquisition) and scanning capabilities. This single beam system uses a polarization selector and a retardation plate to take advantage of the polarization properties of light from a transmit source and of light reflected to a receiver. The system further includes scanning optics for moving the optical beam of light in relation to object in order gather information from the object. Methods for using the system are also provided.

Abstract: A method and system for associating an object with a web site is provided. An object in space is identified with unique object-identifying coordinates. These coordinates are compared with a database of object-identifying coordinates that correspond to unique web site identifiers and at least one web site identifier corresponding to the object-identifying coordinates is selected. Once the web site identifier is selected, WWW data may be downloaded relating to the object identified by the object-identifying coordinates. This data may be downloaded with minimal or no intervention from a mobile user once the system has identified the object-identifying coordinates of the object.

Abstract: A reduced noise optical system is provided for use in measuring distance, range-finding and scanning. The system comprises at least one lens, at least one receiver operably positioned to receive a return beam of light reflected from an object and a limiting aperture operably aligned with the lens to limit the signal, and thus the noise, transmitted in the return beam.

Abstract: An optical system for measuring distance and for range-finding is provided. This single beam system uses a polarization selector and a retardation plate to take advantage of the polarization properties of light from a transmit source and of light reflected to a receiver. Another embodiment of the system uses the properties of certain types of transmit sources to further reduce the dimensions of the system. Methods for using the system are also provided.