It is often necessary to be able to create computer models from physical objects. This is often done for the purposes of reverse engineering, or archival. Many of the contact methods, such as callipers or Coordinate Measuring Machines, are unsuitable for use in areas where the material is delicate. There are numerous techniques that are capable of performing quick accurate measurements of surface geometry, a number of which are reviewed. Funded by Enterprise Ireland Basic Research Grant (SC/98/604) and the Office Of Public Works.