AND GF-303A Precision Balance with 0.001 g Readability and 320 g Capacity
| Brand | AND/A&D |
|---|---|
| Origin | Japan |
| Model | GF-303A |
| Type | Precision Balance |
| Maximum Capacity | 320 g |
| Readability | 0.001 g |
| Repeatability | ±0.001 g |
| Calibration | External |
| Pan Size | 128 × 128 mm |
| Stabilization Time | ~1.0 s (typical, 5 g load) |
| Dimensions (W×D×H) | 212 × 317 × 171 mm |
Overview
The AND GF-303A Precision Balance is a high-stability, single-pan electromagnetic force compensation balance engineered for laboratory environments requiring consistent 0.001 g readability across a 320 g maximum capacity. Designed and manufactured in Japan by A&D Company, Ltd.—a globally recognized leader in metrological instrumentation—the GF-303A operates on the principle of electromagnetic force restoration (EMFR), where sample mass is determined by the precisely regulated current required to maintain equilibrium of the weighing pan against gravity. This method ensures high reproducibility, minimal drift, and immunity to mechanical wear associated with traditional lever-based mechanisms. The instrument complies with international weighing standards including OIML R76 and ISO/IEC 17025 requirements for calibration traceability, making it suitable for use in accredited quality control laboratories, academic research settings, and regulated pharmaceutical or chemical manufacturing operations where documented measurement uncertainty and audit-ready performance are mandatory.
Key Features
- Electromagnetic force restoration (EMFR) sensor architecture delivering stable, drift-free measurements under ambient temperature fluctuations (operating range: 10–40 °C)
- High-resolution LCD display with backlight and intuitive key layout for rapid operation without training overhead
- Integrated RS-232 interface supporting bidirectional communication with LIMS, ELN, or custom data acquisition software
- Auto-zero tracking and internal environmental compensation algorithms minimizing impact of air currents and minor vibrations
- Stainless steel weighing pan (128 × 128 mm) with corrosion-resistant coating and removable draft shield compatibility (optional accessory)
- Compliance with ISO 9001-certified production processes; factory calibration certificate included with NIST-traceable reference weights
Sample Compatibility & Compliance
The GF-303A accommodates a broad range of solid and granular samples—including powders, tablets, reagents, and small components—within its 320 g capacity and 128 × 128 mm pan footprint. Its 0.001 g readability supports applications demanding conformity to USP weighing tolerances for analytical balances (e.g., minimum weight determination for active pharmaceutical ingredients). The balance meets general requirements for GLP and GMP environments when used with documented calibration procedures, external verification using Class F1 or E2 certified weights, and routine performance checks per ASTM E898–22. While not intrinsically rated for hazardous locations, it may be deployed in standard ISO Class 5–7 cleanrooms when installed on vibration-damped benches and operated within specified humidity limits (30–85% RH, non-condensing).
Software & Data Management
Data output via RS-232 enables seamless integration into enterprise systems supporting ASCII-based protocols (e.g., SICS, MT-SICS, or custom serial parsers). The GF-303A transmits real-time weight values, stability status, unit selection, and tare information—enabling automated logging in validated electronic lab notebooks (ELNs) or statistical process control (SPC) platforms. When paired with AND’s optional WinCT-Balance software (v3.0+), users gain access to audit-trail-enabled data export (CSV/XLSX), customizable report templates, and calibration history archiving compliant with FDA 21 CFR Part 11 requirements—including electronic signatures, user access controls, and immutable timestamping. All firmware updates are delivered through A&D’s secure support portal and undergo functional verification per IEC 62304 software lifecycle standards.
Applications
- Quantitative formulation of reference standards and calibration solutions in analytical chemistry labs
- Weighing of catalysts, excipients, and intermediates during API synthesis and formulation development
- Quality assurance testing of component mass consistency in electronics and precision machining workflows
- Teaching laboratories requiring robust, repeatable instrumentation for gravimetric analysis experiments
- Environmental testing labs performing soil/sediment sample preparation per EPA Method 5035A protocols
- Regulatory submissions requiring documented measurement uncertainty budgets (e.g., ISO/IEC 17025 Clause 7.6.3)
FAQ
What calibration standards are recommended for routine verification of the GF-303A?
External calibration using certified Class F1 or E2 stainless steel weights (e.g., 100 g and 200 g) is required before first use, after relocation, and at defined intervals per your internal SOP—typically daily or per-shift for critical applications.
Does the GF-303A support internal calibration?
No. The GF-303A utilizes external calibration only; it does not include motorized internal weight or automatic calibration mechanism.
Can this balance be connected to a networked LIMS system?
Yes—via RS-232 to USB or RS-232 to Ethernet gateway, provided the host system accepts ASCII-weight-stream protocols with configurable termination characters and baud rates (default: 9600, 8-N-1).
Is the GF-303A compliant with ISO/IEC 17025 for accredited testing labs?
Yes, when operated within its specified environmental conditions, calibrated using traceable standards, and maintained per A&D’s service schedule—including annual full recalibration by an ISO/IEC 17025-accredited provider.
What is the typical warm-up time before achieving full specification performance?
Minimum 30 minutes after power-on under stable ambient conditions (20–25 °C, no drafts); stabilization time for individual readings remains ≤1.0 s after warm-up.
