Sartorius BSA423S Precision Balance

Overview

The Sartorius BSA423S Precision Balance is an entry-level analytical-grade instrument engineered for routine laboratory weighing tasks requiring consistent 1 mg readability and a 420 g capacity. Based on electromagnetic force compensation (EMFC) transduction technology, it delivers high reproducibility and long-term stability under variable ambient conditions—including minor air currents, temperature fluctuations, and bench vibrations. Its microprocessor-controlled digital signal processing incorporates adaptive filtering algorithms that dynamically compensate for environmental drift, ensuring reliable results without manual recalibration between measurements. Designed and manufactured in Germany, the BSA423S adheres to Sartorius’ global quality standards and serves as a foundational tool in QC labs, university teaching facilities, pharmaceutical formulation units, and materials testing environments where traceable, repeatable mass measurement is required—but full analytical balance certification (e.g., Class I) is not mandated.

Key Features

• 1 mg readability with 420 g maximum capacity—optimized for general-purpose precision weighing of powders, reagents, samples, and small components.
• Backlit LCD display featuring 15 mm high-contrast digits, enabling legible readings under low-light or high-glare conditions common in multi-shift laboratories.
• Integrated level indicator positioned adjacent to the display—allowing immediate visual verification of leveling prior to operation, a prerequisite for metrological integrity per ISO 9001 and GLP requirements.
• Intuitive single-touch keypad layout with dedicated function keys and logical menu navigation—minimizing operator training time and reducing procedural errors during high-throughput workflows.
• Five-language interface support (English, German, French, Spanish, Chinese), configurable via on-screen prompts—facilitating deployment across multinational research consortia or contract manufacturing sites.
• RS-232C bidirectional serial interface as standard—enabling seamless integration with LIMS, ELN systems, or external data loggers; compatible with Sartorius USB adapter cables for modern PC connectivity.

Sample Compatibility & Compliance

The BSA423S accommodates samples up to Ø 115 mm on its stainless-steel weighing pan, supporting volumetric flasks, beakers, crucibles, and standard sample containers used in gravimetric analysis, titrant preparation, and dosage form testing. Its design conforms to key regulatory and quality frameworks: ISO/IEC 17025 for calibration traceability, USP for pharmaceutical weighing accuracy thresholds, and GLP Annex 11 principles for data integrity when paired with compliant printers (e.g., YDP03-0CE). While it does not include internal motorized calibration (CW variants do), its external calibration protocol supports documented, audit-ready adjustment procedures aligned with FDA 21 CFR Part 11 when combined with electronic signature-capable software solutions.

Software & Data Management

Data output is fully configurable via RS-232C, supporting ASCII-based transmission of weight values, unit identifiers, and status flags (e.g., “stable”, “overload”). When connected to the optional YDP03-0CE thermal printer, the balance generates ISO/GLP-compliant printouts including date/time stamps, operator ID (if entered), net/gross/tare values, and calibration status—all essential for audit trails in regulated environments. No proprietary drivers are required; raw serial output integrates natively with Excel, LabArchives, or custom Python-based acquisition scripts. The balance stores no user data internally—ensuring zero risk of residual information leakage during equipment transfer or decommissioning.

Applications

• Pharmaceutical: Weighing active pharmaceutical ingredients (APIs) and excipients during pre-formulation studies and batch record documentation.
• Academic Research: Student-led experiments involving molar mass determination, stoichiometric calculations, and solution preparation.
• Quality Control: Routine checks of filled vial weights, tablet mass uniformity screening (per USP ), and raw material receipt verification.
• Environmental Testing: Soil and sediment sample preparation prior to digestion and ICP-MS analysis.
• Food & Beverage: Nutrient blend formulation, moisture content determination via loss-on-drying protocols, and packaging weight validation.

FAQ

Does the BSA423S support internal automatic calibration?
No—the BSA423S requires external calibration using certified weights. For motorized internal calibration, consider the BSA423S-CW variant.
Is the balance compliant with FDA 21 CFR Part 11?
The hardware itself is Part 11–capable when integrated with validated software and audit-trail-enabled peripherals (e.g., signed printouts via YDP03-0CE and secure LIMS interfaces).
Can the display brightness be adjusted?
Yes—the backlight intensity is fixed but optimized for broad ambient light tolerance; no manual dimming control is provided.
What is the warm-up time before first use?
Recommended stabilization period is 30 minutes after power-on to ensure thermal equilibrium of the EMFC sensor and stable zero point.
Is the weighing pan removable for cleaning?
Yes—the Ø 115 mm stainless-steel pan is tool-free detachable and autoclavable at 121°C for microbiological applications.