A first position measurement device (“FPMD”) is configured to control and operate both standalone and combined device operating modes. During the combined device operating mode, the FPMD inputs second-device measurement sample outputs provided by a second position measurement device (“SPMD”) via an inter-device communication connection. The FPMD and the SPMD are held in a fixed relationship in a workpiece measurement arrangement (e.g., with transverse measuring axes). Concurrent measurement data sets are determined as including at least a first-device measurement sample output from the FPMD and a second-device measurement sample output from the SPMD corresponding to concurrent first-device and second-device sample periods. Each concurrent measurement data set is associated with a corresponding measurement sample region on the workpiece. A combined measurement data output (e.g., as output and/or displayed by the FPMD) is provided for the current measurement sample region on the workpiece based on the corresponding concurrent measurement data set.