METTLER TOLEDO MA Compact Balance

Overview

The METTLER TOLEDO MA Compact Balance is an entry-level yet rigorously engineered laboratory balance designed for routine weighing tasks in quality control, education, and general-purpose labs where space, portability, and operational simplicity are critical. Built upon METTLER TOLEDO’s decades of precision mass measurement expertise, the MA series employs electromagnetic force compensation (EMFC) technology — a principle ensuring high linearity, excellent repeatability, and long-term stability without mechanical wear. Its compact footprint (177 × 253 × 74 mm), lightweight construction, and dual-power capability (AC or internal rechargeable battery) make it uniquely suited for decentralized workflows — including benchtop QC stations, field sampling labs, teaching laboratories, and production line checkpoints. Unlike analytical balances requiring draft shields or climate-controlled environments, the MA operates reliably under typical ambient lab conditions (10–40 °C, ≤80% RH non-condensing), delivering consistent performance across shifts and locations.

Key Features

• Electromagnetic force compensation (EMFC) sensor architecture for high reproducibility and minimal drift over time
• Internal motorized calibration system with integrated test weights — initiated via single-touch keypress, eliminating external calibration masses and reducing operator dependency
• High-contrast, icon-driven LCD display with large numeric characters and contextual on-screen prompts to guide users through tare, unit conversion, and basic statistical functions
• Dual power mode: operates continuously from AC supply or up to 8 hours on rechargeable battery — ideal for mobile applications or temporary setups
• Rugged ABS housing with scratch-resistant glass top panel and sealed keypad for resistance to spills, dust, and cleaning agents
• Stabilization times as low as 1 second (MA6001P) ensure throughput efficiency in high-volume daily weighing routines
• Compliant with ISO 9001 and ISO/IEC 17025 documentation requirements when used with validated procedures and traceable calibration records

Sample Compatibility & Compliance

The MA Compact Balance accommodates a wide range of sample types — from powders and granules to packaged goods and small components — thanks to its 160 × 160 mm stainless-steel pan and generous clearance beneath the pan. It supports standard USP Chapter and minimum weight determination protocols; typical minimum weights are 14 g (MA602P/MA2002P) and 140 g (MA6001P) at 0.10% tolerance, enabling compliance with pharmaceutical and nutraceutical batch release testing. While not certified for GMP-regulated final product release without additional validation, the MA meets prerequisite criteria for equipment qualification (IQ/OQ) when deployed in non-critical weighing steps. Its design aligns with IEC 61000-6-3 (EMC emissions) and IEC 61000-6-2 (immunity), and conforms to CE, UKCA, and RoHS directives.

Software & Data Management

The MA series features a native RS232 interface supporting direct connection to printers (e.g., EPSON TM-T20) or PCs for raw data export. When integrated with METTLER TOLEDO’s LabX Lite software (optional), users gain access to automated report generation, electronic signature support, and audit-trail-enabled data logging — facilitating alignment with FDA 21 CFR Part 11 requirements for electronic records in regulated environments. All internal calibration events, stabilization timestamps, and tare operations are timestamped and can be exported in CSV format for traceability. No proprietary drivers or cloud dependencies are required for basic data transfer, ensuring compatibility with legacy LIMS and ELN systems.

Applications

• Raw material receipt inspection and inventory management in chemical and food manufacturing
• Student experiments and faculty demonstrations in university chemistry and biology labs
• Weighing of reagents, standards, and reference materials prior to titration or spectrophotometric analysis
• Batch preparation in cosmetics and dietary supplement production where intermediate weighings require speed and consistency
• Field-based environmental sampling (e.g., soil, water, sediment) where portability and battery operation are essential
• Pre-weighing of samples for moisture analyzers, particle size analyzers, or thermal analysis instruments

FAQ

Is the MA Compact Balance suitable for GLP or GMP environments?
It can be deployed in GLP/GMP settings for non-critical weighing tasks (e.g., gross weighing, packaging checks), provided it undergoes documented periodic verification, calibration, and risk-based qualification per your site’s SOPs.
Does the MA support automatic tare or unit conversion?
Yes — one-touch tare, % weighing, piece counting, and density determination (with optional accessories) are embedded in the firmware without requiring software installation.
Can the MA be calibrated externally using certified weights?
Yes — external calibration mode is available for users who prefer manual traceable calibration with NIST-traceable standards, though internal calibration is recommended for daily use.
What is the warranty period and service coverage?
METTLER TOLEDO provides a standard 2-year limited warranty covering parts and labor; extended service plans with preventive maintenance are available globally through authorized service partners.
How does the MA handle electrostatic interference during powder weighing?
While not equipped with active anti-static modules, its grounded metal pan and low-noise EMFC sensor design minimize susceptibility — optimal results are achieved when used with grounded anti-static mats and ionizers in high-static environments.