subject: The Importance of Dimensional Metrology [print this page] CMMs are one of the most common machines used in dimensional measurement. They can be operated manually or via a computer. There are two kinds of CMM- traditional CMM and the more recent portable CMM. They are often used to measure large areas. Nowadays, there are many modern and highly developed CMM instruments which can provide accurate measurements. Some of the services this technology can do include portable arm measuring, laser measurement within 80 meters, reverse engineering and laser scanning capacity within 15 meters.