METTLER TOLEDO ME103/02 Precision Balance

Overview

The METTLER TOLEDO ME103/02 is a high-reliability precision balance engineered for routine laboratory weighing tasks requiring consistent 1 mg readability and robust operational stability. Designed around METTLER TOLEDO’s proven electromagnetic force compensation (EMFC) transduction principle, the ME103/02 delivers traceable, temperature-compensated mass measurements across diverse environmental conditions typical of QC labs, academic teaching environments, and production line quality control stations. Its 120 g maximum capacity and 0.001 g resolution meet the performance criteria defined in ISO/IEC 17025 for non-automatic weighing instruments used in accredited testing laboratories. The balance operates without internal batteries—powered exclusively via an included AC adapter—to ensure continuous uptime and eliminate drift associated with power source fluctuations.

Key Features

• Internal calibration system with integrated test weight: One-button initiation enables full recalibration at any time, supporting compliance with ISO 9001 and GLP documentation requirements.
• Dual-material construction: A die-cast aluminum base provides mechanical rigidity and thermal mass stability, while the stainless-steel weighing pan resists corrosion and facilitates rapid cleaning between samples.
• Overload protection up to 150% of maximum capacity: Prevents sensor damage during accidental overloading—a critical safeguard in high-throughput environments.
• Backlit LCD display with large, high-contrast digits: Ensures legibility under variable ambient lighting, including low-light cleanroom or glovebox settings.
• RS232 interface as standard: Enables direct connection to printers, PCs, or LIMS systems for automated data capture without third-party adapters.
• LevelControl™ integrated leveling system: Visual bubble indicator and adjustable feet simplify setup and verify mechanical alignment prior to operation.
• Stabilization time of ≤1.5 seconds: Optimized damping algorithm reduces waiting time between successive weighings without compromising repeatability.

Sample Compatibility & Compliance

The ME103/02 accommodates a broad range of sample types—including powders, granules, liquids in tared containers, and small solid components—within its 120 mm diameter stainless-steel pan. Its minimum weight of 1.4 g (per USP <0.1% RSD, k=2) defines the lower limit for quantitative applications governed by United States Pharmacopeia Chapter . While the unit itself does not carry CE marking for medical device use or FDA 510(k) clearance, it complies with EN 45501 (formerly OIML R76-1) for non-automatic weighing instruments and meets electromagnetic compatibility (EMC) requirements per EN 61326-1. Documentation includes factory calibration certificate traceable to NIST standards, and users may generate audit-ready calibration logs using optional METTLER TOLEDO LabX Lite software.

Software & Data Management

Data output is fully configurable via RS232 serial protocol using standard ASCII formatting, compatible with Microsoft Excel, LabWare LIMS, and custom SCADA interfaces. Optional Bluetooth connectivity (via add-on module) supports wireless transmission to tablets or networked workstations running METTLER TOLEDO’s free MT-SICS software, which provides real-time data logging, statistical process control (SPC) charting, and electronic signature support aligned with FDA 21 CFR Part 11 principles. All measurement events—including tare, calibration, and error codes—are timestamped and stored in non-volatile memory for post-analysis traceability.

Applications

• Pharmaceutical formulation: Accurate dispensing of active pharmaceutical ingredients (APIs) and excipients during R&D batch preparation.
• Chemical reagent preparation: Weighing catalysts, standards, and reference materials where ±0.001 g uncertainty is required.
• Materials science: Measuring coating weights, thin-film substrates, or composite samples prior to thermal gravimetric analysis (TGA).
• Food quality assurance: Monitoring ingredient ratios in pilot-scale product development and shelf-life stability studies.
• Academic instruction: Teaching fundamental metrology concepts—including uncertainty propagation, calibration hierarchy, and measurement repeatability—using a production-grade instrument.

FAQ

Does the ME103/02 support external calibration with user-provided weights?
No—the ME103/02 is designed exclusively for internal calibration using its built-in test weight; external calibration is not supported by firmware.
Is the balance compliant with ISO/IEC 17025 for accredited testing laboratories?
Yes—when operated within specified environmental conditions (20 ±5 °C, <70% RH, no drafts), and with documented calibration and verification procedures, the ME103/02 satisfies clause 6.4.10 on measurement equipment suitability.
Can the RS232 output be configured for continuous streaming mode?
Yes—baud rate, parity, stop bits, and data format (e.g., “S” for stable reading only or “C” for continuous) are programmable via front-panel menu or MT-SICS.
What is the recommended warm-up time before first use?
A minimum of 30 minutes is advised after power-on to allow internal temperature stabilization and optimal EMFC sensor performance.
Does the unit include GLP/GMP-compliant audit trail functionality?
Not natively—the ME103/02 records basic event timestamps internally, but full electronic audit trails require integration with LabX Lite or third-party validated software platforms.