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Term Definition
Antenna
A device that transmits and receives wireless signals, defined by its type, size, and configuration, which affect signal range, direction, and quality.
  • External antennas on adjustable mounts can improve range and signal directionality
  • Internal antennas help reduce overall device size and simplify enclosure design while still supporting reliable communication in compact systems
Accuracy (% of Span)
The maximum total deviation between the measured value and the true input, expressed as a percentage of the full-scale measurement range. It typically accounts for non-linearity, hysteresis, and repeatability.
  • In many specifications, accuracy may be simplified and presented only as non-linearity, but true accuracy often includes other error sources
  • Accuracy is a key performance indicator in applications that require high precision, such as legal-for-trade weighing, calibration systems, or quality-controlled
  • Accuracy differs from resolution (the smallest measurable increment) and precision (consistency of repeated measurements), and should not be used interchangeably with those terms.
Analog Input Range
The maximum voltage or current range that an analog input channel can safely accept, such as ±30 mV or ±10 V.
  • The input range defines the limits of usable signal that can be digitized without clipping or distortion. Signals outside this range may be clamped, ignored, or cause measurement errors—even if overload protection prevents physical damage.
  • Always allow 10-20% headroom for dynamic signals, electrical noise, or sensor overshoot. For example, a ±10 V input range should not be driven with a signal that peaks near ±10 V if noise or transients are expected.
Analog Input Type
The type and range of analog signals that a device is designed to accept from external sensors, such as 0–30 mV, 0–10 V, or 4–20 mA
  • To ensure proper signal acquisition and scaling, the sensor output type must match the device’s input specification.
  • For example, unamplified sensors like load cells typically output millivolt-level signals (e.g., 0–30 mV) and require devices with mV-range inputs. Connecting them to a 4–20 mA input will result in no usable signal.
  • Always confirm whether the device expects a voltage or current input, and check excitation requirements, especially for bridge-based sensors.
Analog Output Type
The analog signal format and voltage/current range used to retransmit the measured input. Common examples include 0–10 V, ±10 V, and 4–20 mA, representing the full-scale measurement span of the device.
  • Current outputs (especially 4–20 mA) offer superior noise immunity and are less affected by cable length or resistance, making them the preferred choice for industrial environments and long cable runs.
  • Ensure that receiving devices (e.g., PLCs, analog inputs) are compatible with the output signal type and range for accurate interpretation.
Analog Outputs
A retransmission of the measured signal as a continuous voltage (e.g., 0–10 V) or current (e.g., 4–20 mA) to external devices.
  • Typically used in process control systems, PLCs, or data loggers.
  • Less common on basic indicators; more likely on advanced or industrial models.
  • Ensure signal type and scaling are compatible with connected devices.
Batching
A weighing process where components are separated into known quantities, typically set by the user, and dispensed into a container or different part of the production chain.
  • Often used in food, chemical, and material production industries
  • Requires precise control of a large system, including conveyor belt speed, solenoids, and other moving components to synchronize properly with the weighing signals
Binding
A mechanical interference in the weighing system that prevents accurate measurement by bearing weight away from the load cell, removing load from the measured platform or device.
  • Can cause non-linear readings or erratic output.
  • Often caused by misalignment, debris, poor tolerancing, or improper installation, leading to contact of the non-weighed structure, altering the readout.
Bench Scale
A small, low capacity scale with a platform for holding solid weights or containers, typically found in low volume household applications or in high precision measurement environments.
  • Capacity range is typically <30kg but can vary by application.
  • Complete standalone devices featuring a built in calibration function and indicator.
Breaking Overload
The load at which the structure of the load cell will fail.
  • Expressed as a % of rated capacity (i.e. 300%)
  • Strong consideration in safety margins and critical applications (i.e. load pins)
Brightness (mcd)
The luminance of the display, measured in millicandelas (mcd), indicating how visible the screen is under different lighting conditions.
  • Candela measures light intensity in a specific direction, making it appropriate for backlit displays.
  • Not to be confused with lumens, which measure total light output in all directions (e.g., flood lights).
Certification
Regulatory approvals required for legal operation (i.e. NTEP, CE, IECEx, FCC, etc.)
  • Required for compliance in hazardous areas or when financial transactions or regulation affect or are part of the use case of the product
  • Certain approvals can increase cost and lead time of a product (i.e. ATEX)
CMRR
CMRR is a measure of an amplifier or signal conditioner’s ability to reject common-mode signals—voltages that appear identically on both input lines—while amplifying only the differential signal. It is usually expressed in decibels (dB).
  • Higher CMRR improves noise immunity, especially in low-level signal applications.
  • Common-mode noise often comes from EMI, ground loops, or long cables.
Creep
The change in output readout when a constant load is applied for an extended period (typically 30 minutes or more).
  • Shown as a percentage of the FSO and duration (i.e. ±0.02% in 30 minutes)
Counting
A scale weighing mode that measures the quantity of an item taking the total weight and dividing it by a pre-determined mass per quantity.
  • Commonly used in small parts packaging or inventory management of identical parts
  • Requires uniform weight parts as there is only one parameter for divisible weight
Channel Count
Number of independent measurement channels available for simultaneous use.
  • Determines how many load cells or inputs can be connected and measured independently of each other.
Communication Protocol
Supported input/output interface for digital devices (i.e. RS-485, Profinet, etc.)
RS-232 (Recommended Standard 232)

Overview:
Basic point-to-point serial communication, widely used in legacy systems and simple device connections.

Advantages:

  • Simple to implement in embedded systems
  • Full-duplex (simultaneous transmit and receive)
  • Minimal hardware requirements
  • Common in industrial and weighing equipment

Limitations:

  • Short communication distance (~15 meters)
  • Supports only 1-to-1 connections
  • Susceptible to electrical noise

Applications:

  • PC to scale/indicator connections
  • Debug ports for embedded systems
  • Connecting to printers, displays, or converters
RS-485

Overview:
A differential, multi-drop serial protocol ideal for long distances and multiple devices.

Advantages:

  • Reliable over distances up to 1,200 meters
  • Supports up to 32 devices on one bus
  • High noise immunity in industrial settings
  • Common backbone for protocols like Modbus RTU

Limitations:

  • Typically half-duplex (one-way communication at a time)
  • Requires proper termination and grounding

Applications:

  • Digital junction boxes and load cell networks
  • Multi-terminal weighbridge systems
  • Distributed I/O systems in noisy environments
Modbus (RTU and TCP)

Overview:
Widely-used industrial protocol for structured device communication. RTU runs over RS-485; TCP runs over Ethernet.

Advantages:

  • Simple, register-based structure
  • Compatible with a wide range of PLCs, HMIs, and SCADA systems
  • Well-documented and supported by many vendors

Limitations:

  • Polling-based protocol (master-slave)
  • RTU version can be slow for high-frequency data

Applications:

  • Weight transmitters in automation systems
  • PLC-controlled batching or mixing stations
  • Ethernet-based remote monitoring (TCP)
CANopen

Overview:
CAN-based protocol with standardized object dictionaries for real-time automation and control.

Advantages:

  • High reliability in EMI-heavy environments
  • Real-time data exchange with synchronization
  • Modular design via device profiles

Limitations:

  • Requires familiarity with protocol structure and node management
  • Device configuration can be complex

Applications:

  • Multi-channel amplifier systems
  • Robotics, batching equipment, process control
  • Any synchronized multi-device system
CAN J1939

Overview:
CAN-based communication protocol designed for heavy-duty vehicles and off-road machinery.

Advantages:

  • Supports real-time broadcast communication
  • Extremely robust and fault-tolerant
  • Tailored parameter groups for vehicle components

Limitations:

  • Primarily used in mobile/vehicle systems
  • Higher protocol overhead

Applications:

  • Axle load measurement in trucks
  • Agricultural equipment (e.g., tractors, harvesters)
  • Mobile weighing systems
EtherCAT (Ethernet for Control Automation Technology)

Overview:
High-speed Ethernet protocol designed for precision and low-latency industrial control.

Advantages:

  • Ultra-fast data transfer (cycle times < 100 µs)
  • Supports distributed clocks and real-time sync
  • Efficient with large numbers of I/Os

Limitations:

  • Requires compatible slave devices and software
  • More complex setup than basic Ethernet protocols

Applications:

  • High-speed packaging and filling machines
  • Coordinated multi-sensor/actuator systems
  • Servo-controlled weighing automation
PROFINET

Overview:
Ethernet-based protocol used extensively in Siemens automation environments.

Advantages:

  • Deterministic performance for real-time control
  • Parallel TCP/IP and real-time traffic
  • Seamless integration with Siemens TIA Portal

Limitations:

  • Commonly tied to Siemens-based systems
  • Licensing costs may apply for some features

Applications:

  • Factory floor automation
  • Smart weighing terminals in integrated lines
  • Multi-device control via Siemens PLCs
TCP/IP

Overview:
Foundational protocol of the internet, enabling remote and networked communication.

Advantages:

  • Universally supported across platforms
  • Enables remote access, cloud integration, and web dashboards
  • Flexible for multiple services (HTTP, FTP, MQTT, etc.)

Limitations:

  • Non-deterministic (not suitable for hard real-time control)
  • Requires IP addressing and proper network configuration

Applications:

  • Cloud-based monitoring of weighing systems
  • ERP/SCADA integration
  • Web dashboards and remote support tools
Compatible Protocol
The communication standard the device supports for interfacing with external equipment, such as RS-232 or RS-485.
  • Protocol compatibility ensures proper data exchange with indicators, printers, or mirrored remote displays.
Configuration Interface
The method used to configure or program the device, such as HMI buttons, dip switches, or software tools.
  • Software-based interfaces support advanced setup and easy firmware updates
  • HMI button setups offer convenience without external tools
  • Dip switches and hardware jumpers may require access to internal or covered components.
Data Logging
The ability of an indicator to store measurement data in non-volatile internal memory or on removable storage media (e.g., USB, SD card).
  • Some models support customizable log formats for easy export and post-processing in software like Microsoft Excel.
  • In legal-for-trade applications, removable memory may not be used to store calibration or configuration data to maintain compliance.
Dynamic Weighing
Measurement of a weight in motion for real-time data.
  • Found on conveyor belts or rollers for larger products.
  • Requires a high response speed load cell to read stable weights.
Digit Height
Height of the numeric characters on a segmented display.
  • Larger digits enhance readability from a distance, especially in industrial or outdoor settings.
  • This specification is not applicable to fully graphic or touchscreen displays with dynamic UI elements, where font size is variable.
Digital Outputs
Configurable outputs from internal relays or transistor-based circuits used to signal external devices based on set conditions or thresholds.
  • Common uses include printer triggers, external alarms, batching control, or interfacing with PLCs and remote displays.
  • Relay outputs function as binary (on/off) signals, often tied to weight limits, motion detection, or system events.
Display Format
The type of visual interface used, such as numeric/segmented displays or custom graphic layouts, often with additional visual indicators.
  • Programmable units may support custom graphics tailored to site-specific needs.
  • Visual elements like traffic lights, bar indicators, or icons are common in outdoor and industrial process environments.
Environmental Resistance (IP/NEMA)
A standardized rating indicating the enclosure's resistance to dust, water, and other environmental elements, based on IP (Ingress Protection) or NEMA standards.
  • For outdoor or harsh environments, ratings of IP66+ or NEMA 4X are typically required to ensure protection against heavy rain, dust, and corrosion.
  • Always verify the rating based on installation location and exposure conditions.
Frequency Band (MHz/GHz)
The portion of the RF spectrum used for communication (e.g., 902–928 MHz, 2.4 GHz).
  • License-free frequency bands vary by region; always ensure compliance with local regulations (e.g., FCC, IC, CE).
Full Scale Output (mV/V)
Also known as rated output, it is the electrical signal output produced when loaded at its maximum rated capacity (Emax).
  • • Typically in the range of 2-3mV/V
  • A higher FSO value indicates a higher sensitivity, allowing for more precision at lower loads at the expense of overload capacity
Gain (V/V)
The ratio of output voltage to input voltage applied by the amplifier—expressed in volts per volt (V/V). This determines how much the input signal is amplified before being passed to the output or A/D converter.
  • Gain may be digitally programmable (via software or communication interface) or manually adjusted using onboard potentiometers, depending on the device.
  • Selecting the correct gain allows you to scale low-level sensor signals (e.g., mV from a load cell) to match the input range of an ADC or control system, maximizing resolution and accuracy.
  • Improper gain settings may lead to signal clipping (if too high) or reduced sensitivity and poor SNR (if too low).
Hysteresis
The difference in output for the same load depending on whether the load was applied increasing or decreasing from the previous applied load.
  • Typically shown as a percentage of the FSO (i.e. ±0.01%)
  • More important in dynamic applications where weight will fluctuate in both directions
Ingress Protection
IEC 60529 rating that indicates dust and water ingress resistance. The first digit indicates solid particle ingress protection while the second digit indicates water ingress protection.
  • IP67 is typically the minimum recommended rating for washdown applications
  • IP ratings are independent of material and corrosion resistance
Input/Output Resistance (Ω)
Input resistance is measured over the excitation leads (EXC+, EXC-) and output resistance is measured across the signal leads (SIG+, SIG-).
  • Both resistances have different tolerance ranges, with the output resistance typically being tighter
  • Resistances must match to use multiple load cells in a single system with a junction box
Input Power (VDC/VAC)
The voltage range required to power the device. Some models include internal rectifiers to support direct AC connection, while others require a dedicated DC power supply.
  • Most devices are designed to accommodate 100-240VAC or between 8-24VDC without compromising performance, allowing for ease of integration despite different global electronics standards.
  • ANYLOAD units are fully tested within their specified power ranges to ensure consistent operation, stability, and measurement accuracy across the entire range.
Installation Mounting
The physical method by which the device is installed, such as panel-mounted, DIN-rail mounted, or wall-mounted, depending on the application and enclosure design.
  • Proper mounting ensures mechanical stability, vibration resistance, and safe operation in industrial environments.
  • Always verify torque specifications, screw length, and material compatibility when using brackets or adapters to avoid damaging the housing or compromising IP-rated seals.
  • Certain devices may require a specific orientation for ventilation, display visibility, or ingress protection; refer to product documentation.
Isolation
Electrical separation between different parts of a circuit to prevent unwanted current flow and protect against voltage spikes or ground loops.
  • Enhances safety, prevents interference, and protects sensitive components.
  • Common isolation methods include optical, transformer, and capacitive coupling.
  • Especially important in systems with different ground potentials or exposed field wiring.
Legal-for-Trade
A designation given to scales used in commercial transactions where products are sold by weight.
  • Multiple regulatory agencies exist depending on where around the world the product must be certified (i.e. NTEP – U.S., Measurement Canada – Canada, OIML – International, etc.)
  • Standards vary by organization, but products sold must meet regulatory accuracy at a production level before being sold to a customer.
Metrology
The name of scientific measurement, encompassing calibration, verification, and accuracy of measuring instruments both for weight or volume.
  • Includes legal metrology (regulated trade) and research metrology.
Maximum Verification Intervals (nmax)
The highest number of discrete intervals the load cell reading can be divided into while maintaining the specified accuracy.
  • It is an indicator of the load cell’s resolution and precision.
  • A higher nmax indicates a finer resolution, while operating at a high nmax can induce noise due to the sensitivity of the load cell.
Maximum Verification Intervals (nmax)
The highest number of discrete intervals the load cell reading can be divided into while maintaining the specified accuracy.
  • It is an indicator of the load cell’s resolution and precision.
  • A higher nmax indicates a finer resolution, while operating at a high nmax can induce noise due to the sensitivity of the load cell.
Measurement Canada (MC)
The Canadian government agency responsible for regulating weighing instruments used in legal-for-trade applications.
  • Devices typically pass a type or class approval and inspection before commercial use.
  • Comparable in scope to NTEP in the U.S.
Multi-Point Calibration
Calibration performed at multiple known loads across the range of a scale to improve linear accuracy at different weight ranges.
  • Can compensate for any non-linearity of a measurement system.
  • The number of points that can be used in one scale’s calibration depends on the indicator the load cell system is connected to
Mounting Style
Mechanical mounting options for the display (i.e. pole, wall, rack, etc.).
  • Accessories such as swivel brackets or tilt plates can be optioned to increase installation versatility.
Network Topology
The communication structure used between devices, such as point-to-point, star, or mesh networks.
  • A key consideration when designing systems with multiple wireless nodes. Mesh networks offer better scalability and redundancy but may increase complexity and latency compared to simpler topologies.
NTEP
Short for National Type Evaluation Program, this is the certification program in the United States for all commercial weighing devices.
  • Ensures all legal-for-trade systems are compliant with the standards outlined in NIST Handbook 44
  • Depending on the capacity of the scale or system, testing can either be performed in one of their licensed laboratories or tested in house with a local representative present
Non-Linearity
The deviation of the load cell’s output from an ideal straight line response throughout the measurement range.
  • Typically shown as a percentage of the FSO (i.e. ±0.01%)
  • Non-linearity can be improved using multi-point calibration to build a better response profile
Noise
Unwanted electrical disturbances that interfere with the accuracy or stability of an analog or digital signal. Noise can originate from internal circuit behavior or external sources such as electromagnetic fields or ground loops.
  • Effects of additional can be mitigated by converting the signal to a larger, more resilient analogue signal or to a digital signal.
  • High-impedance sensor outputs and long analog cable runs are particularly susceptible to noise.
OIML
International Organization of Legal Metrology, this is the certification body for most global standards for legal metrology and weighing instruments.
  • These standards are updated periodically and sometimes re-testing is required.
  • There are usually cross-certification tests that allow a mutual acceptance agreement between OIML and some North American standards to simplify testing if a product is to be sold internationally.
Onboard Weighing
Weighing system installed on a vehicle or trailer to read payload or weight distribution in real-time.
  • Helps prevent overloading and improves efficiency with legal compliance
  • Found in trucks, forklifts, agricultural machinery and more
Operating Temperature (°C)
The ambient compensated temperature range where the load cell will perform within specifications.
  • Operating outside this range can cause drift, reduced accuracy, or damage.
Power Consumption (W)
The amount of electrical power consumed by the device, typically specified as either a typical operating load or a maximum draw under full functionality.
  • This value is important when selecting an appropriate power supply and ensuring that the device does not exceed available system capacity.
  • In panel-mounted or enclosed installations, power consumption contributes to internal heat generation and may influence thermal management design (e.g., ventilation or heat sinking).
Platform Scale
A scale that uses a flat platform surface to load items or bulk materials.
  • Capacities range from small shipping scales to large floor scales for commercial use.
Process Weighing
Continuous dynamic or integrated weighing as a part of a larger production or assembly line that controls material flow.
  • Can be static (i.e. tank weighing) or dynamic (belt scales) depending on the process stage.
  • Often integrates with a PLC or other automation system for more control.
Range (LoS)
Maximum communication distance under line-of-sight (LoS) conditions.
  • Obstacles, such as walls, machinery, or terrain, can significantly reduce range in real-world deployments.
Recommended Excitation (V)
The optimal voltage range to supply the load cell for reliable operation and reading.
  • Typically consists of a recommendation and a maximum
  • Exceeding the maximum excitation voltage will damage the load cell components
Repeatability
The ability of the load cell to produce consistent output readings when an identical load or force is applied under identical conditions.
  • Typically shown as a percentage of the FSO (i.e. ±0.01%).
  • High repeatability ensures reliable measurements
Response Time (ms)
The time delay between a new input signal and the corresponding change displayed on the screen.
  • Lower response times improve real-time feedback and system responsiveness.
  • Critical for dynamic or high-speed applications, but less important for static displays showing stable values.
Resolution
The smallest change in input signal that a device can detect, typically determined by the bit depth of its analog-to-digital converter (ADC). Resolution is often expressed in bits or counts (e.g., 16-bit or 65,536 steps over the input range).
  • Higher resolution allows finer distinctions between input levels, but also increases sensitivity to electrical noise and signal instability. Not applicable to fully analogue systems
RF Output Power (dBm)
The maximum transmission power of the radio signal, measured in decibels relative to 1 milliwatt (dBm).
  • Higher output power increases communication range, but may reduce battery life and require additional certification in some regions.
Storage Temperature
The allowable ambient temperature range during non-operational periods, such as shipping or long-term storage. This range assumes the device is powered off and properly packaged.
  • The storage temperature range is typically wider than the operating range, but exceeding it may cause irreversible damage to internal components, seals, or display elements.
  • Prolonged exposure to extreme temperatures, high humidity, or rapid thermal cycling can result in condensation, corrosion, or degradation of electronic and mechanical parts.
Shunting Calibration
A calibration method that involves simulating load cell output with a given weight by inserting specific resistances across the bridge circuit.
  • Allows for high capacity field calibration without the need for physical test weights.
  • Useful for troubleshooting or verifying system functionality.
Safe Overload
The maximum load beyond the rated capacity the load cell can sustain without permanent damage or deformation of the structure.
  • Expressed as a % of rated capacity (i.e. 150%).
  • Protects against occasional overloading, accurate weighing at this load is not guaranteed
Scale
A weighing device designed to measure the mass of an object using calibrated devices, such as a load cell or mechanical beam.
  • Accuracy and resolution vary by application and scale type.
  • Can be used in a wide range of capacities, from laboratory precision and use to industrial tension weighing in marine cargo docks.
Tare
A scale function to subtract the vessel weight from the total readout to determine the net weight of the contents being measured.
  • Requires a documented empty vessel weight or first loading the scale with an empty vessel.
  • Tare quantity limits are typically expressed as a percentage of the full scale capacity.
Tare Range
The maximum allowable offset (tare) that can be subtracted from the gross weight, usually expressed as a percentage of full scale.
  • Larger tare capacities can accommodate for large fixtures or container weights.
Update/Sample Rate
The frequency at which the device samples and processes input data, typically expressed in samples per second (SPS) or Hz.
  • Higher sample rates offer faster response times but may increase visible signal noise without filtering.
  • Lower sample rates provide smoother readings but may lag in fast-changing processes.
  • Applications like checkweighing or batching often require update rates of 10 Hz or higher for reliable performance
Viewing Angle
The maximum angle from which the display remains clearly readable without significant loss of contrast or visibility.
  • Important measurement for outdoor installations where the display will be seen from multiple locations, requiring a large usable viewing angle
Weigh in Motion (WIM)
A system that measures the weight of a vehicle in motion while they pass over a scale.
  • Used on highways or railways for law enforcement or cargo weight monitoring.
  • Accuracy depends on calibration, components, speed, and surface imperfections (for portable applications.
  • Can be certified for legal-for-trade use.
Zero
The calibrated reading of an empty scale or unloaded load cell, typically adjusted to ensure accuracy.
  • Most scale indicators also allow for zero tolerances to eliminate drift or offsets from large volumes being loaded/unloaded.
  • Different from a tare, a scale zero follows a rigorous calibration procedure and is part of the overall load cell reading circuit.
Zero Balance (mV/V)
Also expressed as zero offset, it is the output signal of a load cell when no load is applied and is typically very close to zero with a small tolerance listed.
  • Typically in the range of ±0.02mV/V or lower
  • Strongly affected by installation, bolt torque, and mounting surface
  • Can change with material fatigue over longer spans of time
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