Truelab FA2104S Analytical Balance

Overview

The Truelab FA2104S is a high-performance analytical balance engineered for precision mass measurement in regulated laboratory environments. Based on electromagnetic force compensation (EMFC) technology, it delivers stable, drift-compensated readings with exceptional thermal stability and minimal sensitivity to environmental vibration or air currents. Designed specifically for applications requiring dual-range capability—0.1 mg resolution up to 210 g and 1 mg resolution up to 60 g—the FA2104S supports flexible workflow configurations without compromising metrological integrity. Its robust mechanical architecture includes a monolithic weighing sensor, anti-static draft shield, and temperature-compensated internal electronics, ensuring consistent performance across ambient conditions from 10 °C to 30 °C and relative humidity ≤80% (non-condensing). The balance conforms to international metrological requirements for Class I analytical instruments per OIML R 76-1 and meets foundational criteria for traceability under ISO/IEC 17025:2017.

Key Features

• Electromagnetic force compensation (EMFC) transducer with auto-zero tracking and dynamic drift correction
• Dual-range mode: 0.1 mg readability at 210 g capacity; 1 mg readability at extended 60 g high-sensitivity range
• External calibration compatible with standard Class E2 or better weights (certified reference masses)
• Integrated draft shield with removable side doors and front sliding window for ergonomic sample access
• Stainless steel pan (Ø90 mm) and corrosion-resistant housing compliant with ISO 8502-3 for cleanroom-compatible operation
• Real-time level indicator with adjustable feet and built-in bubble vial for rapid mechanical leveling
• RS232 interface standard; optional USB-to-serial adapter available for direct PC connectivity

Sample Compatibility & Compliance

The FA2104S accommodates standard laboratory vessels including weighing boats, crucibles, volumetric flasks, and small petri dishes within its Ø90 mm pan area. Its draft shield geometry permits safe handling of volatile, hygroscopic, or thermally sensitive samples while minimizing convective interference. From a regulatory standpoint, the instrument supports Good Laboratory Practice (GLP) and Good Manufacturing Practice (GMP) workflows through configurable user authentication, audit trail–capable event logging (when paired with compliant software), and full documentation of calibration history. While not pre-certified for FDA 21 CFR Part 11, the balance’s hardware architecture—including non-volatile memory for parameter storage and deterministic response timing—enables validation under site-specific Part 11 compliance protocols when integrated into validated software ecosystems.

Software & Data Management

Data output follows NIST-traceable ASCII format via RS232, enabling seamless integration with LIMS, ELN, and statistical process control platforms. The balance supports automatic data streaming upon stabilization (configurable trigger threshold), tare synchronization, and unit conversion (g, mg, oz, ct, etc.). Optional Truelab BalanceLink™ software provides real-time graphing, statistical summary (mean, SD, CV%), outlier detection per Grubbs’ test, and export to CSV or PDF. All measurement records include timestamp, operator ID (if enabled), environmental status flags (level/stability), and calibration verification status—facilitating ISO/IEC 17025 clause 7.7 record retention requirements.

Applications

This analytical balance serves core functions across pharmaceutical QC labs (e.g., active pharmaceutical ingredient (API) assay, reference standard preparation, dissolution tablet weight checks), academic research (gravimetric analysis, catalyst loading, polymer synthesis yield determination), and materials science (powder density measurement, thin-film mass deposition quantification). Its dual-range functionality is particularly advantageous for sequential low-mass and high-mass measurements—such as preparing stock solutions followed by dilution aliquots—without changing instruments or recalibrating between tasks. In environmental testing labs, it supports EPA Method 1664B (n-hexane extractable material) gravimetric determinations where sub-milligram repeatability directly impacts reporting limits.

FAQ

Is the FA2104S suitable for ISO/IEC 17025-accredited laboratories?
Yes—its EMFC sensor design, external calibration support, and stable metrological performance meet the technical prerequisites for use in accredited testing facilities, provided calibration is performed using certified weights and documented per Clause 6.5.
Does the balance support internal calibration?
No—the FA2104S relies exclusively on external calibration; models with internal motorized calibration (e.g., FB-series) are available separately.
Can the draft shield be removed for cleaning?
Yes—the acrylic shield is fully detachable and autoclavable up to 121 °C for decontamination in biosafety-sensitive environments.
What is the warm-up time required before first use?
Minimum 30 minutes at stable ambient temperature (20–25 °C) is recommended to achieve thermal equilibrium of the load cell and optical feedback system.
Is overload protection included?
Yes—a mechanical stop mechanism engages at 120% of maximum capacity to prevent sensor damage during accidental overloading.