Recent advances in the technology of high-speed manufacturing systems have introduced the need for a new approach in the design of process control systems. Computerized process control systems require automatic quality inspection stations which are capable of converting measures of product attributes into electronic information. In this study, a noncontact, electro-optic inspection system was developed which automatically measures product outer dimension at high speeds. Two approaches were taken in the system design. One approach required a photodetector as an analog measuring device, and the other utilized a photodiode matrix as a digital measuring device. The performance capability of each system was in the order of 100% detection of outer dimensions that were 0.01 in. out of specification to 97% for 0.001 in. variations. Both design approaches resulted in fast, accurate, and inexpensive inspection systems which could easily be adapted to most production environments.