The Brown & Sharpe ball-shaped, ruby tip contact point has an M1.4x0.3 thread size, and is designed for use with Bestest series dial test indicators. Ruby-tip contact points are lightweight, wear-resistant, stable with changes in temperature, and are suitable for delicate and silicon carbide surfaces. Non-magnetic and non-conductive properties make it suitable for electrical discharge machining (EDM) processes.

Dial indicators are also called dial gauges, dial calipers, and probe indicators. These precision measuring tools are used to accurately measure small linear distances and object sizes. The dial magnifies the measurement so that it can more easily be read by the human eye. Frequently used in manufacturing, laboratories, and other industrial or mechanical fields, dial indicators are used anywhere a small measurement must be found and recorded or transferred, such as checking the variation in tolerance of a workpiece. Standard dial indicators measure the displacement along the axis of the indicator. Dial test indicators are very similar to dial indicators, except that the axis of measurement is perpendicular to the axis of the indicator. Dial and dial test indicators can be analog, with a mechanical dial, or electronic, with a digital display. Some electronic models transfer the data electronically to a computer for recording and potential manipulation.

Brown & Sharpe manufactures precision measuring equipment and metrology hand tools. The company, founded in 1833, played a key role in setting industrial standards in the United States. Brown & Sharpe was acquired by Hexagon Metrology in 2001 and is headquartered in North Kingstown, RI.