Shimadzu UW/UX Series Precision Electronic Top-Loading Balances

Overview

The Shimadzu UW/UX Series Precision Electronic Top-Loading Balances are engineered for high-reproducibility mass measurement in quality control laboratories, academic research settings, and industrial production environments. Based on Shimadzu’s proprietary Uni Bloc monolithic electromagnetic force compensation sensor architecture—shared with analytical and semi-micro balances—the UW/UX platform delivers metrological stability without compromising compact footprint or operational efficiency. Unlike strain-gauge-based platforms, the electromagnetic sensor ensures linearity across the full range, minimal drift under thermal fluctuation, and immunity to mechanical hysteresis. The UW sub-series integrates Predictive Self-Calibration (PSC), a firmware-controlled routine that monitors sensor output variance and triggers internal calibration prior to user-defined tolerance thresholds being exceeded—eliminating manual intervention while maintaining traceability to national standards. All models feature a real-time clock enabling automatic timestamping of every recorded value, supporting GLP-compliant data integrity requirements.

Key Features

• Uni Bloc electromagnetic force restoration sensor—ensures long-term stability, zero drift suppression, and <0.001 g readability across capacities up to 1020 g
• PSC (Predictive Self-Calibration) system (UW models only): autonomously initiates internal calibration based on environmental drift modeling—not time-based alone—enhancing measurement continuity and reducing operator dependency
• Programmable auto-calibration scheduling: users define exact time intervals or specific clock times for calibration events, synchronized with lab shift patterns or SOP-driven workflows
• Pass-Through Window interface: enables direct serial communication with Windows-based PCs using a single RS-232 cable—no drivers required; compatible with Excel, LabSolutions, and custom LIMS integration
• Analog bar graph display: provides intuitive visual feedback of sample loading status relative to full scale—critical for rapid process verification in high-throughput environments
• Density determination capability: when paired with Shimadzu’s optional density measurement kit (including sinker, thermometer, and liquid support stand), balances comply with ASTM D792 and ISO 1183 for solid/liquid density evaluation
• Multimode weighing: selectable units include grams, milligrams, carats (ct), percent deviation, and piece count (PCS)—with statistical evaluation (mean, SD, CV%) for batch verification
• Compact square pan design: standardized 120 mm × 120 mm stainless steel pan accommodates standard volumetric glassware and sample containers without repositioning

Sample Compatibility & Compliance

The UW/UX series supports non-corrosive, non-magnetic, and thermally stable samples within ambient laboratory conditions (15–30 °C, <80% RH, non-condensing). All models meet JIS B 7721 Class II accuracy requirements for precision balances and conform to OIML R76-1 (2006) as verified by Shimadzu’s factory calibration certificate (NIST-traceable reference masses). For regulated environments, the time/date stamping function, audit-ready calibration logs, and optional password-protected operation mode support compliance with FDA 21 CFR Part 11 (when used with validated software), ISO/IEC 17025, and pharmaceutical GMP Annex 11 documentation protocols. Optional RS-232-to-USB adapters and Shimadzu’s free Balance Data Logger software provide secure, encrypted data export in CSV or XML format—with metadata retention for full traceability.

Software & Data Management

No proprietary operating system is required. The Pass-Through Window protocol allows seamless ASCII transmission at 9600 baud, enabling native integration with Microsoft Excel via DDE or third-party SCADA platforms. Shimadzu’s Balance Data Logger (freely downloadable) adds structured logging, automatic file naming by timestamp, and configurable trigger logic (e.g., stable signal detection before capture). Calibration history—including date/time, operator ID (if entered), and pre/post-calibration deviation—is stored internally and exportable. Firmware updates are delivered via USB memory stick—no internet connection needed—ensuring air-gapped lab compatibility. All data files retain embedded metadata: balance ID, firmware version, ambient temperature reading (from integrated sensor), and calibration status flag.

Applications

• Pharmaceutical QC: active ingredient dispensing verification, excipient ratio validation, and tablet weight uniformity testing per USP
• Materials science: powder density profiling, catalyst loading consistency checks, and composite resin formulation batch release
• Food & beverage: portion control auditing, ingredient substitution verification, and nutritional label compliance testing
• Academic teaching labs: fundamental metrology instruction, error propagation analysis, and comparative sensor performance studies
• Jewelry & gemology: carat-weight verification against calibrated reference stones (traceable to CIBJO standards)
• Environmental testing labs: filter mass gain analysis in particulate matter (PM2.5/PM10) gravimetric sampling per EPA Method IO-4.2

FAQ

What is the difference between UW and UX model designations?
UW models include internal calibration weights and PSC functionality; UX models rely solely on external calibration and lack scheduled auto-calibration—making UW preferred for unattended or GLP-regulated use.
Is density determination performed according to international standards?
Yes—when used with Shimadzu’s certified density kit (Cat. No. AUY-DK), measurements comply with ASTM D792 (plastics), ISO 1183-1 (general solids), and ISO 2737 (liquids), including temperature-compensated buoyancy correction.
Can the balance operate on battery power during power outages?
An optional rechargeable Ni-MH battery pack (Cat. No. UX-BAT) provides up to 8 hours of continuous operation—ideal for field deployment or mobile QC stations.
Does the analog bar graph support dynamic load monitoring during pouring?
Yes—the bar graph updates at 10 Hz and visually indicates proximity to target weight in real time, reducing overshoot during manual dispensing operations.
Are calibration records exportable for internal audit purposes?
All calibration events—including date/time, operator entry (if enabled), pre-calibration deviation, and post-calibration verification—are stored in non-volatile memory and exportable via RS-232 or USB as plain-text CSV with ISO 8601 timestamps.