Sartorius BSA8201-CW Precision Balance

Overview

The Sartorius BSA8201-CW is a high-capacity precision balance engineered for routine laboratory weighing tasks requiring robustness, repeatability, and regulatory traceability. Designed and manufactured in Germany, it operates on electromagnetic force compensation (EMFC) principle—ensuring stable, drift-free measurement performance across variable ambient conditions. With a maximum capacity of 8200 g and readability of 0.1 g, the BSA8201-CW bridges the gap between analytical and top-loading balances, delivering metrological reliability without compromising operational efficiency. Its architecture integrates real-time digital signal processing and adaptive environmental compensation algorithms, enabling consistent accuracy even under minor temperature fluctuations or air current disturbances typical in non-climate-controlled lab environments.

Key Features

• Motorized internal calibration system with integrated calibration weights—activated via single-key operation for rapid, operator-independent verification and adjustment.
• Backlit LCD display with 15 mm character height ensures legibility under all lighting conditions, including low-illumination or glare-prone workspaces.
• Integrated level indicator positioned adjacent to the display enables immediate visual confirmation of proper leveling—critical for measurement integrity and GLP compliance.
• Intuitive menu-driven interface with five selectable languages (English, German, French, Spanish, Chinese) and context-sensitive prompts simplifies configuration and minimizes training time.
• RS-232C bidirectional communication port supports direct connection to printers (e.g., YDP03-0CE) or PCs for automated data logging and audit trail generation.
• Ergonomic keypad layout with tactile, single-press keys reduces input errors during high-throughput workflows.
• Built-in weighing applications include percentage weighing, net weight summation, dynamic/animal weighing, unit conversion, and basic arithmetic functions (multiplication and division).

Sample Compatibility & Compliance

The BSA8201-CW accommodates samples up to 8.2 kg on its 180 × 180 mm stainless steel pan, making it suitable for bulk reagent dispensing, formulation checks, sample preparation, and quality control in pharmaceutical, chemical, food, and academic laboratories. Its design conforms to international metrological standards including OIML R76 and EN 45501. All calibration and adjustment events—including date, time, user ID (if configured), and deviation values—are timestamped and exportable, satisfying ISO/IEC 17025, GLP, and FDA 21 CFR Part 11 requirements when paired with compliant data capture systems. The balance supports audit-ready documentation through optional printer integration or third-party LIMS-compatible software.

Software & Data Management

While the BSA8201-CW operates as a standalone instrument, its RS-232C interface enables seamless integration into regulated environments. When connected to a certified printer (e.g., YDP03-0CE), it generates ISO/GLP-compliant printouts containing full metadata: balance ID, calibration status, environmental conditions (if external sensors are linked), operator code, and raw measurement values. For electronic data handling, Sartorius provides optional communication software (e.g., LabX Lite) that supports automated data transfer, configurable report templates, and secure user access controls—facilitating alignment with GMP documentation practices and electronic record retention policies.

Applications

• Raw material receipt inspection and batch release testing in pharmaceutical manufacturing.
• Weighing of culture media components, buffers, and excipients in bioprocessing labs.
• Preparation of standard solutions and reference materials in QC/QA departments.
• Dynamic weighing of live specimens (e.g., rodents, small animals) in preclinical research settings.
• Percentage-based formulation checks during R&D scale-up activities.
• Inventory management and packaging line verification where high-throughput, mid-range capacity is required.

FAQ

Does the BSA8201-CW support external calibration with traceable weights?
Yes—the balance accepts external calibration using Class M2 or better weights; however, its motorized internal calibration is recommended for daily verification per ISO 9001 and pharmacopeial guidelines.
Is the display readable in direct sunlight or fluorescent lighting?
Yes—the high-contrast backlit LCD with 15 mm characters maintains clarity under both low-light and high-glare conditions.
Can the balance store calibration history internally?
No—the BSA8201-CW does not retain historical calibration logs in memory; all calibration events must be captured externally via printer or PC interface for archival purposes.
What is the warm-up time required before first use?
A minimum 30-minute stabilization period is recommended after power-on to ensure thermal equilibrium of internal components and optimal repeatability.
Is the RS-232C interface compatible with modern Windows/macOS systems?
Yes—when used with an approved USB-to-RS232 adapter (e.g., Sartorius USB-RS232 cable), the interface supports native COM port recognition on current operating systems.