What is the difference between an analytical balance and a precision balance?

An analytical balance provides readability of 0.1 mg or better, while a precision balance typically reads to 0.001 g or 0.01 g. Analytical balances include draft shields and are designed for highly sensitive measurements. Precision balances handle larger samples and are less affected by environmental conditions.

What readability do I need for my lab application?

You need a readability that is at least one-tenth of your smallest sample weight or required measurement increment. For example, measuring 100 mg samples may require 0.01 mg readability, while gram-level work may only need 0.01 g. Selecting higher readability than necessary increases cost without improving results.

Do lab balances need to be calibrated?

Yes, all lab balances require regular calibration to maintain accuracy. Calibration ensures measurements remain traceable to certified standards. Internal calibration simplifies this process by automating adjustments, while external calibration requires manual verification with certified weights. In regulated environments, calibration records must be documented and retained.

What is the difference between readability and repeatability?

Readability is the smallest increment of weight a balance will display. Repeatability is the degree of agreement between multiple measurements of the same mass, on the same balance, under the same conditions.

What is the best way to clean my balance to ensure accurate readings?

Inspect and clean before each use. A flannel cloth or soft brush works well for dusting and light cleaning. Use a non-abrasive cleaner for light spills, and a dry flannel cloth for glass parts. Set a regular maintenance schedule for deep cleaning to ensure optimal performance and instrument longevity.

Can vibration affect the accuracy of my balance?

Yes — even slight vibration from a heavy footstep can affect accuracy. Place the balance on a sturdy benchtop away from high-traffic areas such as hallways, elevators, stairways, and doors. If that placement is not possible, an anti-vibration table should be considered.

Pre-Order SARS-CoV-2 Omicron Variant Molecular Quality Control

Ideal reference material for molecular diagnostic testing applications.

If you need quality controls for the SARS-CoV-2 Omicron variant, you will be interested to know that the new ZeptoMetrix® SARS-CoV-2 Omicron External Run Control has been added to the company’s expansive line of infectious disease quality controls and is now available for pre-order. SARS-CoV-2 control is a significant part of the testing process—ZeptoMetrix External Run Controls and Verification Panels on a consistent basis helps you to gain additional confidence in test results.

Reliable testing

ZeptoMetrix continues to lead the fight against Omicron as a partner to its customers. The company’s scientists monitor SARS-CoV-2 mutations and move quickly to offer the latest quality controls, so you can provide the most reliable testing for your customers. ZeptoMetrix consistently works to bring you not only quality controls for SARS-CoV-2 but also quality controls for many infectious diseases.

As with this latest Omicron control, all ZeptoMetrix NATtrol™ quality controls undergo a process that renders highly purified microorganisms non-infectious while allowing the internal nucleic acids to remain intact. The resulting product is an ideal reference material for molecular diagnostic testing applications. Representing a total process control, from DNA extraction through amplification and eventual detection, NATtrol products are ready to use, refrigerator stable, and safe for operators to handle. The routine and repetitive use of NATtrol external run controls and verification panels helps scientists monitor performance and identify trends in daily test variations, test kit lot changes, and variations among individual operators.

For more information on SARS-CoV-2 Omicron control, visit www.zeptometrix.com.

[Webinar On-Demand] Reduce Errors and Increase Confidence in Testing with Quality Controls

SARS-CoV-2 Omicron External Run Control Now Available

Ideal reference material for molecular diagnostic testing applications.

Reliable testing

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