How to Record Weight Data from an Analytical Balance

For most lab weighing applications, it’s essential that you record weight data. Keeping records of weight readings from your lab balance – whether that’s an analytical balance or a precision balance - is crucial for a variety of reasons.

By using a printer or Adam DU Data Collection Program software to send the data to a PC, you can guarantee that your records are accurate and reliable for the future.

Why Should You Record Weight Data?

The first reason to record weight data for your analytical balance is to compare the data over time. Being able to look back on results from weeks, months or even years ago will supply valuable insight into whether the mass of specific items may have changed.

Another reason to record weight data is the ability to find inconsistencies. Occasionally you may get a result on your lab balance that you feel is inconsistent with earlier data. Without a record, it’s impossible to compare these results with past data and determine what may have changed between one session and another.

You may already record weight data with the old reliable pen and paper. But is pen and paper truly dependable compared to recording via printer or sending it to a PC? Writing your results down yourself increases the risk of human error, including bad handwriting and copying mistakes that may harm your overall data. Having easy-to-read, hard, accurate proof of each result will guarantee your credibility when it comes time to present your data.

How to Record Your Data

The best way to record weight data is by using a printer and Adam DU software to send the data to a PC. A printer such as Adam Equipment’s ATP2 Thermal Printer will provide you with physical data records that are much clearer and more consistent than handwriting. Simply load the paper into the printer and connect it to your Adam analytical balance through the default RS-232C interface.

Adam’s DU Software will keep your data safe by keeping a digital record, with no printing needed. Adam’s DU Software allows you to easily make graphs, perform statistical analysis, or export data to multiple applications. DU Software makes comparing data, finding inconsistencies and proving your credibility possible with just a click of a button.

What is GLP?

Using a printer or Adam’s DU Software has the added benefit of ensuring that the data recorded is in-line with Good Laboratory Practices (GLP). GLP is a quality assurance system that supplies a framework for how to keep records, including the ID of your lab balance. Being GLP-compliant will help ensure that your records and data are consistent, dependable and reproducible.

Suggested Analytical Balances

Kern ADB/ADJ Analytical Balance

Capacities: 120g – 210 g

Readability: 0.0001g

Kern’s ADB/ADJ Analytical Balance will get you correct results without breaking the bank. This compact model is designed to save space with a sleek and minimal display. With an RS-232 output, it can be connected to a printer or PC easily. The ADB/ADJ is ideal for educational and research facilities and offers parts counting and percentage weighing.

Kern ABS Precision Analytical Balance

Capacities: 80g – 320g

Readability: 0.0001g

Kern’s ABS Precision Analytical Balance is mid-range in both capacity and price. The ABS features shockproof construction, short stabilization time, and an RS-232 interface for a convenient connection to a printer or PC. It features percentage determination, parts counting, check weighing, and more. It’s perfect for higher-level education environments, including research facilities and laboratories.

Adam Equinox Analytical and Semi-Micro Balance

Capacities: 120g – 510g

Readability: 0.0001g – 0.00001g

Adam Equipment’s Equinox balances deliver remarkable precision to labs that perform highly detailed testing. Record weight data by connecting the RS-232 interface with a printer or computer and using the USB host for a memory card. Equinox offers advanced weighing functions such as parts counting, checkweighing, formulation, peak hold, percentage weighing, density determination and dynamic animal weighing. Equinox is at the top of the line in analytical balances.

Need help deciding which method of recording weight data or which analytical balance is right for you? Get In Touch with us!