Digital Bench Scale –  the Ultimate FAQs

Contents

Introduction

Digital bench scale is a type of scale that provides precise and accurate measurement results. It has sensors that measure the load weight. The weight force is transmitted into an electric signal.

Due to their precise and accurate measurements, the digital bench scale is ideal for weighing, counting in a commercial and industrial environment.

What are Digital bench scales applications?

The scales are mostly preferred due to their ability and option such as computer and USB connectivity.

Generally, these types of scales are used in food industries, chemicals, pharmaceuticals, and factories.

Other areas of application include:

• Filling
• Counting
• Parcel handling
• Weight check
• General weighing
• Food production
• Quality control
• Packaging
• Logistics
• Supermarkets, retail shops
• Laboratories and research

What are the factors for selecting a digital bench scale for business?

Before any purchase of digital bench scale is made, the business, organization need to consider the following:

• The scale capacity

This factor act as key when it comes to the selection of digital bench scale for any business.

The buyer will always consider the maximum weight capacity/limit. To select the right scale that fits your business needs, you need to understand the weight capacity that the business handles daily. For the digital bench scale, its capacity range from 0.6 -700kgs.

These weighing machines are available in numerous weight capacities inside the degrees from micrograms to several metric lots. Most weight machines are decided on depending upon the industry and accuracy requirements. For immediate, in the pharmaceutical industry, the weighing balance with the measuring range of micrograms to a couple of kilograms is most excellent.

• The scale working environment condition

Despite having a wide range of digital bench scales, the working environment acts as a key determiner on scale selection. The scale being selected should be ideal for that certain environment, such as for a harsh environment. The scale should have the ability to stand the harsh conditions. The digital bench scale that is corrosion resistant is ideal for harsh environmental conditions.

The working area of the scale should be predetermined before purchase, such as is the equipment being utilized indoors or outdoors.

• The size of the digital bench scale

This also the key factor to consider, as this helps the buyer understand the space need of the equipment. The size of the digital bench scale suits both indoor and outdoor duties as it requires less space.

• Area of application

Since the digital bench scale is ideal and fits many applications from factories to industries, Know the typical application of the scale. Is the weighted load mobile or stationery/

Is it used in a continuous process such as manufacturing, or is there a need to pack the equipment?

• The digital bench scale Readability

The scale readability is vital when it comes to digital bench scale selection. The scale should have the ability to read the weight decimal result. Having precise and accurate weight measurement is key.

• Digital bench scale material

Weigh scales come in different models and are made of different materials. Weighing scales used in harsh environmental conditions prone to corrosion, the scale is made up of material stainless steel or plastic that are resistant to corrosion.

For a weighing scale that handles bulk weights, the material used in the whole body is metal, steel, and a fabricated platform. Also, stable and grip base that ensures safe handling of weighing loads.

• Computerizing features

The digital bench scales are automated, thus power-saving features. Automated weighing computing ensures precise and accurate measurements. Also, having different functions and memory retentions.

• Durability

Considering what application a digital bench scale does is key. The position of the equipment determines its stability. The digital bench scale should be placed on a stable surface away from vibration and bumps. The material of the load being weighed should avoid liquid spillage on the weighing scale that can cause corrosion or damages.

• Regulatory considerations

Understanding any regulation and legal for the trade of digital bench scales. For scales used in chemical and food production must be stainless. And for legal for trade, any digital bench scales used for commercial purposes must be tested, approved, and certified by the National Conference on weights and measures (NTEP).

• The digital bench scale accessories

One advantage of having a digital bench scale is the automated feature that allows precise and accurate display of weight measurement. The need of the buyer to connect the scale to computer and printer. The accessories such as USB, cables, and software may be key also.

• Precision and accuracy of the scale

Despite the factor, all measuring devices are not 100% accurate, a new and stable digital bench scale weighing measurements can be a negative or a plus.

The accuracy of scale can also depend on the type of load being weighed. The electronic and measuring scales’ accuracy can be quoted by the dealer or manufacturer on the product manual.

How do you connect the Digital Bench Scale to a Computer?

Connecting your Digital bench scale to you’re computer may follow different steps and options available. The following are steps by steps on connecting a digital bench scale to a PC:

The digital bench scale has a USB port or RS232 (Serial). Accessories needed for this process:

• A digital bench scales
• Computer
• Cables that connect both the scale and the PC.
• USB cable
• Windows program or A software.

For digital bench scales that do not have a print option, refer to the connectivity option from the manual.

• Recognizing USB Cable Connectors

When the Digital bench scale has a USB connection, you would have to figure out what connector is on the scale. The computer’s USB ports are consistently Type-A USB ports.

When your digital bench scale has a Type B USB port, you would have to get a USB link with a Type A connector toward one side and a Type B connector.

The USB connector of a digital bench scale comes with a device driver that enables one to install windows. Another option can be the provision of a CD that comes in handy with a digital bench scale. The drivers enable the weigher to read the transmitted weight measurements.

• Note RS232 Cable-connectors

To locate the RS232 port, check the back of your PC. The computer serial ports would be either 25 pin or 9 pin for the old computers. To connect the 25 pins to 9 pins and visa versa, you need an adapter to do so.

RS232 cables have two models that are, Null modem cable and Modem cables. For these cables to work, an adapter converts a modem cable to a null modem cable and a null-modem cable into a modem cable.

When all cables are known, connect the computer using the right and correct cables.

The other remaining ports are designed for printer connection.

• Connection of RS232 to USB cables

For computers with USB connection options and the digital bench scale has RS232 option, you can use an RS232 to USB converter cable. Always connects the CD or drivers provided first before connecting computer cables.

• Identify the communication port number.

Most computers have a single-built communication port. When connecting your RS232 USB converter or USB cable, determine the communication port of the device connection. To do this, select the window device manager, notice a selection that highlights all communication ports installed on a computer.

Before selecting the device manager, ensure the digital bench scale is connected to your computer and the device driver is well installed.

• Download and run of Software

Once your digital bench scale is connected to the appropriate communication ports, the next step is downloading and running software.

The software to be set up can be attained online by purchasing and downloading it into a later saved file as a folder on a computer. After software installation, running it follows.

The serial communication parameters should be determined during this step.

• Testing the connection of scale to the computer

When all the connections are made and the communication parameters are identified, one can read the weight measurement results.

To read the weight measurements, press the print option, and a table consisting of the readings appears on display. When no data appears after pressing the print option, check the selected communication port could be the wrong one.

When the data is unreadable or appears blur, then the issue is the serial communication parameters.

• Feeding the weight values to excel

After all, connections are made, the data appears, leave the data in the background running, select and open a Microsoft Excel, place the cursor in one of the cells, and press the print option on the digital bench scale. When all connections are well made, the weight value should appear on an excel sheet. After the data is one excel, one can save or transfer it to other programs or databases.

When should one calibrate the Digital bench scale and its benefits?

For both commercial and individual digital bench scales, calibration is key to ensure the accuracy of the scales. When the digital bench scales are used more often, they may face degradation.

The scale calibration is done as follows:

Place the certified/standard load on the scale. Record the weight. No adjustment should be made on the scale when the weight attained matches the certified one or meets the calibration. If the weight readings do not match standards one or meet calibration tolerance, the scale needs to be serviced to attain its accuracy.

Upon purchasing new digital bench scales, the factory does scale calibration for you, so there is no need to calibrate the new digital bench scale.

The frequency of scale calibration depends on various factors;

• Working environment working conditions.
• Hours or period of the equipment used.
• Manufacturer’s recommendations.

The most recommended is twice a year calibration. Another great option is consulting your digital bench scale manufacturer.

Scales that are used daily tend to wear out often. The calibration is recommended to be done monthly.

There is a lot of benefits that come with scale calibration:

• Ensure accurate and precise measurements are attained.
• Ensure the business or the company operating the digital bench scale meets regulations and legal for trade.
• Avoidance of legal notices and penalties
• It extends scale performance life.
• Maximum profits and cost savings.
• Detecting the scale replacement.

How do you transfer the data from the Digital bench scale to the computer?

Data transfer from a Digital bench scale to a computer takes less time than taking data and storing data manually.

The following are the accessories needed for this activity:

• A computer
• A digital bench scales
• USB cable
• RS232
• USB port
• Serial port
• Microsoft Excel or Access
• RS232 to USB convertor
• A Software
• Ensure your digital bench scale is well connected.
• You will need software to enable you to transfer the data to computer Microsoft excel.
• When satisfied with transferring the data waiting on a computer excel and plain unformatted text, you can open the Microsoft programs such as excel or access to copy and paste the data for the manual option.
• Suppose you want your data to transfer directly to a spreadsheet or another application. You need parameters and software (commonly used is ‘win wedge’).
• Once you have your software installed and your digital bench scale connected, you will need to find your scale or connectivity settings.
• Configure your selected software to best match your application.
• You are now ready to transfer your weighing data easily and automatically to windows-based applications like word, excel, or open office.
• The weighing data, timestamp, and other parameters are automatically added to the opened spreadsheet.

What are Digital bench scale warranty terms?

The digital bench scale comes from a manufacturer with a warranty upon purchase.

Warranty length varies from one to two years. The digital bench scale warranty period is indicated on the specification of the equipment. The warranty may cover the following: the full scale, different parts such as stainless-steel parts. For the digital bench scale, indicators and scale bases are also covered. While the equipment is under warranty, it can be returned to the manufacturer for repair and replacement.

If the digital bench scale has a two-year warranty, the warranty period starts on the delivery day of the equipment. The warranty terms include labor repair and spare parts. It also covers defects that are not attributed to the customer.

In cases where the digital bench scale is shipped for repair, the shipment to and from costs is the customer’s responsibility.

The warranty is voided when the following is done: Repairs are done by unskilled or unauthorized personnel, incorrectly equipment power connections, Scale defects due to operator carelessness or lack of user manual provided.

The digital bench scale warranty does offer any damage or loss compensation caused by the customer.

What are the technical specifications of the Digital bench Scale?

Digital bench scales come with a wide range of sizes, materials, colors, and capacities.

The following are the features and specification of a digital bench scale:

Figure 5: An image of Digital bench scale         Figure 6:  An image of Digital bench scale

• Battery-powered
• Stainless steel platform that acts as weighing surface.
• Overall height: 35 inches
• Connection ports: USB option, RS232
• Width: 29 inches
• Weighing scale readability 0.02 kg -0.05 kg
• Scale Display: LCD scale, AC adapter, USB Cable, and RS232 cable
• AA batteries
• Battery recharging time: 10-12hours
• Auto power off 1 -255 minutes programmed
• Load cells: maximum eight cells
• Operating temperatures: 14 Celsius- 140 Celsius and low as – 10 Celsius.
• Battery charging and low battery warning on display.

What is the Digital bench scale installation procedure?

The following is a step by step installation procedure for a digital bench scale:

• Inspect the entire package and ensure all parts and a manual is available.
• Remove the manual and go through it to understand the scale installation process.
• Locate the input for the external power supply.
• Identify the cell cable and that of the battery power supply.
• Remove the 10-inch and 37-inch post that allows for both benchtop and floor applications.
• Install the posts using a hand screw knob to provide a quick transition from bench to floor scale with a platform capacity of 660lbs and 300kgs.
• Place the stainless-steel platform on the surface with the use of hand screws and level the feet.
• Use the leveling feet to adjust the desk height to up to seven inches high.
• Position the LCD and ensure the 115-volt power cord is intact.
• After complete installation of the digital bench scale, press zero to reset the scale.
• Also, ensure the scale is well-calibrated and all the functions are functioning.

What are the types of power supply needed by the Digital bench scale?

The digital bench scale is a powered type of scale. The main sources of power supply for the digital bench scale are electricity, AC adapter, rechargeable batteries, and load cells.

The electrical power requirements for a digital bench scale are 120 V, the battery type used is 6 AA, and its battery life is 30 hours. Also, the availability of load cells on a scale platform is vital.

What roles do different indicators and panel keys on the Digital bench scale display?

The digital bench scale has an indicator that outlines the weighing applications. The waterproof keyboard has five keys. The multifunction symbols displayed on the LCD have various functions:

• M+: Mainly for totalization, for numeric input, it modified from left to right.
• MODE/C: It starts and turns off the scale. To clear the totalization, press the MODE/C.
• MR: for numeric input, it confirms the entry made. It allows to select the step and confirm a parameter in a step.
• TARE: If the press and hold down, it allows the manual tare from the keyboard. Cancels the value when the scale is unloaded.
• Zero: It decreases and modifies the numeric input. Displays the weight that can be a +/ _.
• Mc: Allows memory to clear this by pressing and holding down the MODE/C and MR keys.

What is included on a Digital Bench Scale display?

The digital bench scale display has various symbols that have different functions:

0: This indicates the weight detected is near zero value.

~: Unstable weight.

Clock symbol: The scale not managed.

NET:  Displayed weight is net weight.

Battery display: This can indicate the low battery warning, battery charging, and battery charge level.

MAX: It indicates the load capacity limit,

MIN: Indicate the load minimum weight capacity.

LT: Indicate that the tare key is enabled.

%: Scale is not used.

Lbs./ Kg:  Indicates the unit of measure.

How do you turn on the auto power function on a turned-off Digital Bench Scale?

A digital bench scale being automated allows turn-off function that ranges from 1-255 minutes. To be able to turn off the scale, ensure the scale is unloaded. When the scale turns off, the turn-off sign and signal are displaced. To be able to turn on the scale that was off:

• Turn on the scale by pressing the TARE key.
• To enter the menu, press the MR key.
• Keep on pressing and scrolling the ZERO key.
• Press MR to select the menu.
• Press and hold down the ZERO until the parameter turn-off.
• Press the MODE/C key to save the parameters selected.

What procedure does one follow on converting unit of measure on a Digital bench scale?

When operating/ weighing different loads using a digital bench scale, the unit of measure can be converted from pounds to kilograms and vice versa. This is done by pressing the MODE/C key.

The unit of measure conversion procedure includes:

• Ensure your scale is turned on.
• Press the MR key to select the next step.
• Press and hold down the ZERO or TARE key.
• Press the MR key to enter the selected parameter.
• Select either enable the unit conversion or disable the unit conversion option.
• After selection, press the MR key for confirmation.
• Press and hold down the MODE/C key and save the changes done.
• To confirm if the changes did were saved, press the MR key.

How does totalization operation work in a Digital Bench Scale?

A digital bench scale has both abilities to have automatic and manual totalization. When the set parameter is a yes, the total weight and loads being weighed are displayed.

Unload Totalization

When the TARE is on, the negatives weight values can be totalized. The negative weight value can be totalized by pressing an M+ key.

Load totalization

For manual totalization, press the M+ key, and the weight will be accumulated in total.

When the scale is set in automatic, the automatic acquisition and accumulation of weight are achieved.

What type of scale messages displayed when using the Digital bench scale?

When using a Digital bench scale message displayed is key.

The following are different message and their description

• Low: The weight is less than the minimum totalization weight.
• ErPnt: The convertor read the null value at the calibration point.
• Zero: The weight on the scale is zeroing.
• Er-11: Indicates the calibration error. Ensure the weight used is equal to half-scale capacity.
• Er- 12: Indicates that the calibration point acquired is equal to zero, thus calibration error.
• Er-39: This Shows that the scale has not been used or calibrated.
• Er-85: Indicates the scale has not been calibrated but has been initialized.
• oVEr: This shows that there is a weight overload.

How much weight limit can a Digital bench scale?

Digital bench scales have a wide range of sizes, colors, models, and capacities.

The buyer should understand how much load weight the business handles for the best selection of the scale.

The digital bench scale has a readability of 20g and above.

The maximum capacity for a digital bench scale is 600lbs -300kgs.

How do you troubleshoot the Digital bench scale?

The main reason why the digital bench scales are becoming more opted scale is its precise and accurate measurement readings. But the working environment conditions and operator equipment handling can affect the digital bench scale performance and accuracy.

To prevent scale damage and quick replacement, there is a need to pay attention and fix the common problems.

The following are troubleshooting that should be done on a digital bench scale:

• Test and Reset

First, reset your digital bench scale until it reads zero.

For the model that requires special code to reset the scale into a factory setting. Check the manual for a guide.

When the scale reads zero, what follows is testing of scale accuracy with standard load weight.

By doing this, the scale should have accurate weight readings.

• Ensure your digital bench scale is placed on a leveled surface

Always ensure the scale is on a leveled surface before any weighing operation.

The stability of the scale is very vital. You can decide to place the scale on a raise floor area, or for the leveled constructed surface, the scale should place on the floor.

If the floor surface is not leveled well enough, ensure you move your scale until you attain the scale’s stability.

• Scale calibration

The digital bench scale calibration depends on how often the scale is in operation. For the scale that is used daily, there is a chance that the equipment may be worn out easily. Monthly calibration is recommended for this case. Digital bench scale manufacturers recommend the scale calibration to be done twice yearly for those less used scales.

When doing the scale calibration, ensure it is on calibration mode. Use the standard weight on the scale. After the accurate readings are attained, end the procedure by pressing the calibration button on the scale.

• Batteries and load cells check

When the digital bench scale display experiences errors or any malfunction, the cause could be battery defects.

To solve the battery-related issue, open the battery compartment and remove batteries. Dust the battery compartment. If the above doesn’t solve the battery issues, then battery replacement is vital.

• Lcd panel check

If your digital bench scale weight readings appear to blur or partial on an LCD panel display, there may be a loose connection. To solve this, press the LCD from outside gently.

• Not reading the weight.

This a common problem faced by the digital bench scale despite reading zero on display. The scale repair or adjustment is key.

To solve the issue, troubleshoot the following:

• Make the scale stable and placed it on a leveled surface.
• Remove the scale platform unnecessary screws.
• Ensure the scale feet are well screwed and the height is observed.

• Reading’s fluctuations

It happens when the weight readings are not stable to a consistent number. When digital bench scale behaves in this manner, there is a need for scale repair, adjustment, and replacement.

Troubleshoot the issues this way:

• Ensure the scale surface is away from vibrations and strong wind.
• Ensure you have good power supply connections.
• Check for any missing load cell cable pins.

• LCD not lighting up

When the digital bench scale display is not lighting up, the cause may lack AC power.

The issue can be troubleshot by:

• Check the power supply of the scale.
• Ensure the scale cables are plugged into the power supply.

• Scale keyboard not responding

The cause may be due to a power surge. Ensure both the AC power is available and the scale indicator is functioning.

• Scale ZERO key not responding

The cause may due to the scale unit is in a net mode. Always ensure the scale unit is in gross weighing mode.

How do you step up your Digital bench scale?

The following is a guide on how to set up a digital bench scale:

• Inspect the surface on which the scale is to place on.
• Select the leveled surface for your scale.
• Position your scale platform onto the scale body.
• Ensure your digital bench scale is well balanced for accurate and precise measurements.
• To attain stability of the scale, adjust the scale feet to a desirable height.
• Digital bench scale can run with us of main power supply or use AA batteries.
• For the main power option, ensure the power adapter is plugged into the main power or AC port.
• For the batteries option, identify the battery compartment cover that is on the base of the scale. Slide the cover and insert the recommended AA batteries.
• Press the ON button to turn on the scale.
• Ensure all the parts of scale are well fitted and fixed.
• The digital bench scale can be used.

What are the benefits of Digital bench scale training?

Whether purchasing or already operating the digital bench scale, operate advanced training is vital. The digital bench scale training offers a solid understanding of scale operations and maintenance.

The following are scale training needs:

• The equipment owners. They ensure the scale of productivity is achieved.
• Skilled scale operators.
• Quality representatives. They ensure and help the company scale meets the requirements.

The following are benefits of training programs for the scale’s operators:

• Ensures the operator can use the equipment more efficiently.
• Regular training ensures the new employees also gain knowledge on how to effectively operate the digital bench scale.
• Acquiring knowledge about equipment safety and maintenance procedures.
• Helps the equipped operator to apply metrology concepts learned.

What causes the inconsistent measurement readings of a Digital bench scale?

The causes of precise, accurate, and inconsistent measurement readings may be due to working environment conditions and lack of scale calibration.

If your digital bench scale has incorrect and inconsistent reading, the causes are as follows:

• Uneven and unleveled floor

A digital bench scale that is already calibrated still shows inconsistent readings due to tilted and uneven floors.

Ensure the surface on which the scale is placed is even and steady.

• Lack of scale calibration

Despite the manufacturer’s digital bench scale being calibrated, scale calibration may be affected by various factors.

A calibration routine should be done on a scale to ensure your scale has consistent and accurate reading. The period of scale calibration depends on factors such as how often the scale is used?

• Frequencies interference

The scale readings may be inaccurate due to the presence of frequencies.

When operating the digital bench scale, ensure the phone or radio can avoid frequency interference.

• The build-up debris on and under the scale platform

Debris, dust, and dirt build-up can affect the scale measurements. Always ensure the scale is regularly dusted and debris build-up underneath the platform is cleared.

What are preventative maintenances done on a Digital bench scale?

Digital bench scales are integral for any business operations. They should be kept safe and operating as this ensures measurement accuracy and cost-saving.

For proper scale utilization in a business, a preventative maintenance routine should be adhered to.

When scale regular maintenance and calibration routine is ignored, the scale may experience incorrect and inconsistent measurement readings.

The preventative maintenance of the digital bench scale also comes with benefits:

• Costly downtime prevention: By performing the recommended scale preventative maintenance it minimizes the downtime of the equipment. It ensures the scale meets the requirements and compliance.
• Accuracy and quality: The routine ensures scale performance, life longevity, and measurement accuracy.
• Increased profits: Regular scale maintenance ensures the scale is intact and in cases where timely replacement is needed.
• Scale reliability: Preventative maintenance of scale ensures other scale activities such as data storage and backup, adjustments, and testing are done.

Digital bench scale preventative maintenance includes the following:

• Scale calibrations
• Testing, repair, and adjustments
• Thorough scale cleaning
• Replacement of scale parts
• Inspecting and placing inspection labels on the equipment.
• Post-inspection
• Removal of debris underneath of scale platform
• Lubrication of moving parts
• Worn and damaged scale feet replacement

Why should one refurbish and upgrade the Digital bench scale?

Digital bench scale upgrade and refurbishment ensure the improvement of scale performance and uptime. Using the scale more often and over a long period can cause a reduction of scale performance. Also, with time the need for new software is felt.

The scale upgrade improves the equipment performance, and a technology update is done on the scale.

Scale refurbishing enables it to return to its original manufactured status.

The digital bench scale refurbishing or upgrading has a lot of benefits:

• Improved scale performance and uptime
• Extended scale performance life
• It led to scaling upgrade
• Lower cost than replacing the entire scale
• Ensure scale regulations and standards are met
• Scale software upgrade ensures the functionality of the equipment
• Helps in utilizing the latest technology advancement
• Acts as an equipment renovation
• Ensure the worn-out parts are replaced with the manufacturer original spare parts
• Refurbishment of the scale enables its functionality to be in a new state

How do you adjust a Digital bench scale?

The way the digital bench scales are designed to ensure one gets precise and accurate measurement readings. To ensure your scale is accurate, calibrate or adjust the scale settings.

The scale adjustment steps include:

• Turn off the scale
• Locate and remove the battery compartment cover
• Remove the batteries out
• Return the batteries to the compartment and turn the scale upright
• Position your scale on an even and leveled surface.
• Turn on the digital bench scale by pressing the ON button. If the scale does not read zero, press the tare button.
• Position the platform and screw the other scale parts.

Is there a need for a Digital bench scale registration?

The weighing scale is key in business that involves loads weighing, counting, and measuring.

The assessment, inspection, and approval of the weighing scale are vital. The authority governing the weighing equipment ensures that both the manufacturer and the operator adhere to and comply with the set standards and regulations.

The scale purchase can be categorized into two, the scale for commercial use and individual use.

When a business intends to purchase a digital bench scale, the scale will fall under the commercial use category.

As weighing, equipment authorities state that weighing instruments for commercial use should be registered. To register your commercial digital bench scale, you must first attain and fill a registration application form from the weights and measures authority.

Note that you can’t use the new commercial digital bench scale directly after receiving it from the manufacturer as it needs to be inspected and approved by the inspecting officer.

When does the weighing authority inspect commercial Digital bench scale accuracy?

Weighing and measures authority inspect and certify the scales annually. The inspected, approved, and certified scales have the seals that indicate so.