Weighing requires accuracy and specific functionality.
To meet your every day needs, there are three basic factors to consider when choosing the right laboratory balance. Consider the balances readability, the capacity, and other features before you select one for your laboratory needs.
Top three tips for choosing the right laboratory balance
1) Understand readability
How precise of a measurement do you need to record? Choose a laboratory balance that offers an additional decimal point of readability so that you are not limiting yourself.
2) Look at the capacity
What type of measuring container will you be using? What material is to be measured? Add this weight into selection, as it will add to sample weight.
3) Consider a variety of features available on laboratory balances today
Weighing platform
Make sure the size and shape is suitable for your application. Look at the material of the platform to make sure it will stand up to your chemicals should splashed occur.
Computer interface
Many laboratory balances feature USB, RS-232, and and Wi-Fi interfaces for connection to a computer or printer with GLP/GMP compliant output. Make sure the interface is intuitive. You want to make sure your balance is easy to use. There is nothing more frustrating than trying to use a complicated piece of equipment. Who has time to read instruction manuals these days? While we recommend you do review the instruction manual for your balance, we understand it’s not something everyone likes to do because it takes time. So, if you are one of those individuals that likes to plug it in and start, then make sure your interface is intuitive.
Display
Oversized backlit LCD display provides clear visibility of weighing results on any laboratory balance. Ever try to read something and find yourself squinting to see the readout? Make sure your results are showing load and clear!
Touch-screen keypads
Sealed keypads with a splash-proof design protects the keypad. Touchscreens provide simple operation with a slight touch of a button. Ever have to take off your glove to operate a piece of equipment? It is quite an inconvenience. Most touchscreens today are designed to work even when wearing gloves.
Stability filters
When you need to compensate from vibrations, drafts, or temperature changes, digital stability filters are available. Simply touch a button and your balance is set. This is a very convenience function. Did you know even the slightest step of a foot can throw a balance off stability? We aren’t talking jack hammers here. Although, if you are near one, that could certainly affect your balance.
Embedded applications
Put away the notebook, and let your balance do the work for you. Some embedded applications include essential weighing functions, statistics, and formulation
Built-in calibration mass
It’s crucial to calibrate, calibrate, calibrate. We can’t emphasize that enough. Look for laboratory balances that have internal calibration to ensure accuracy. Some balances are available with internal and external calibration.
One final thought on choosing the right balance
When selecting the right laboratory balance, don’t settle for one that won’t meet all your needs or the first one that pops up on your Internet search because you typed in cheap laboratory balance. Look for exactly what you need. Research Investing in a reliable balance will give you years of trouble-free weighing with ease.
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