Techcomp FA-C Series Analytical Balance

Overview

The Techcomp FA-C Series Analytical Balance is an entry-level high-precision laboratory balance engineered for routine quantitative analysis in quality control, academic research, and pharmaceutical production environments. Based on electromagnetic force compensation technology, the FA-C series delivers stable, drift-free measurements under standard laboratory conditions (20 ± 5 °C, 40–60% RH). Its 0.1 mg readability (100 µg) and 320 g maximum capacity meet the performance requirements of ASTM E898, ISO 9001, and USP for analytical weighing tasks—including reagent preparation, formulation verification, and sample aliquoting. Designed as a successor to legacy models from the former Shanghai Jingke and SHANGPING instrument factories, the FA-C integrates modern electronic architecture with proven mechanical stability, including a monolithic load cell platform and optimized damping system to minimize settling time.

Key Features

• Backlit dot-matrix LCD display with intuitive bilingual (English/Chinese) menu navigation—no language firmware switching required
• Internal calibration system (standard), with optional SCS (Smart Calibration System) for automated recalibration triggered by temperature drift or time interval
• Modular draft shield design: frameless, removable windscreen for unobstructed access and simplified cleaning—critical for residue-sensitive applications such as cytotoxic compound handling
• EMC-compliant circuitry per IEC 61326-1:2013, ensuring reliable operation in electrically noisy lab environments (e.g., adjacent to centrifuges or RF equipment)
• Real-time clock (RTC) embedded in firmware; timestamps automatically appended to all weight records for audit trail integrity
• Built-in functional modes: piece counting, percentage weighing, density determination (with optional density kit), accumulation, and below-hook weighing

Sample Compatibility & Compliance

The FA-C series accommodates standard weighing vessels—including aluminum pans, glass beakers, and stainless-steel crucibles—within its 120 mm diameter weighing pan. The absence of structural support frames beneath the pan ensures compatibility with tall or irregularly shaped containers. All firmware logic complies with GLP and GMP data integrity principles: weight records include operator ID (manually entered), timestamp, net/gross/tare values, and unit designation. Optional 3Q qualification packages (Installation Qualification, Operational Qualification, Performance Qualification) are provided with documented test protocols, acceptance criteria, and raw data templates aligned with FDA 21 CFR Part 11 expectations for electronic records.

Software & Data Management

Data output is supported via standard RS-232 serial interface (DB9 male connector). A dedicated data transfer cable (sold separately) enables direct connection to Windows-based PCs. No proprietary software installation is required: weight outputs are transmitted as ASCII text streams compatible with Microsoft Excel’s “import text” function. Each record includes date/time stamp, weight value, unit symbol, and mode identifier (e.g., “CNT” for counting, “DEN” for density). Audit trail files retain full metadata for traceability—supporting internal audits and regulatory inspections under ISO/IEC 17025 and Annex 11.

Applications

• Pharmaceutical QC labs: active pharmaceutical ingredient (API) dispensing, reference standard weighing, excipient ratio verification
• Academic chemistry teaching labs: stoichiometric calculations, gravimetric analysis, titration endpoint validation
• Materials science: powder density characterization, catalyst loading precision, thin-film mass deposition monitoring
• Food testing laboratories: moisture content determination (via loss-on-drying), nutritional labeling compliance checks
• Environmental labs: filter weighing for particulate matter (PM₁₀/PM_2.5) analysis per EPA Method 201A

FAQ

Is the FA-C Series compliant with FDA 21 CFR Part 11?
Yes—when used with the optional RTC-enabled firmware and manual operator identification, the device supports attributable, legible, and contemporaneous records meeting ALCOA+ principles. Full electronic signature capability requires external LIMS integration.
What is the warm-up time required before first use?
Minimum 30 minutes at stable ambient temperature (20 ± 2 °C) to achieve thermal equilibrium of the load cell and internal reference components.
Can the balance perform density measurements without additional hardware?
No—a dedicated density measurement kit (including sinker, thermometer, and immersion stand) is required for solid/liquid density determination per ISO 1183-1.
Does the internal calibration system meet ISO 17025 traceability requirements?
The internal calibrator uses factory-traceable weights (certified to ISO/IEC 17025-accredited labs). For accredited calibration, external verification using NIST-traceable standards is recommended annually.
Is the RS-232 interface opto-isolated?
Yes—the interface incorporates galvanic isolation to prevent ground-loop interference and protect connected PCs from voltage transients.