Optimal rates of movement for kinetic perimetry.

Duration, reliability, and sensitivity of kinetic thresholds were evaluated for the I/4e, I/2e, and I/1e Goldmann-equivalent targets as a function of stimulus velocity (1 degrees to 8 degrees/s) using the SQUID automated perimeter. For all targets, the average duration of kinetic meridional scans decreased significantly as stimulus velocity increased from 1 degrees to 4 degrees/s. Minimal reductions in kinetic scan times were present for stimulus velocities above 4 degrees/s. All targets appeared to have reductions in sensitivity at velocities above 4 degrees/s (target detection occurring at more central visual field locations) that were presumably related to the observers' reaction times. There were no consistent differences in the variability of kinetic thresholds for different stimulus velocities. When all factors were considered, a stimulus velocity of 4 degrees/s seemed to be optimal for kinetic scans of all targets in the central and peripheral visual field.