A&D EM Series Economical Electronic Platform Scale

Overview

The A&D EM Series Economical Electronic Platform Scale is an entry-level yet robust industrial weighing solution engineered for reliability, versatility, and operational efficiency in demanding production, logistics, warehouse, and light manufacturing environments. Built on A&D’s decades of precision weighing expertise, the EM series employs electromagnetic force compensation (EMFC) load cell technology—ensuring stable zero stability, high repeatability, and minimal drift under variable ambient conditions. Unlike strain-gauge-based platforms prone to thermal hysteresis, EMFC architecture delivers consistent performance across temperature fluctuations and mechanical stress cycles. The scale’s modular design separates the load-receiving platform from the rotatable indicator head, enabling ergonomic placement independent of weighing surface orientation. With an IP65-rated stainless steel pan and sealed internal electronics, the EM series meets stringent hygiene and environmental protection requirements for food processing, pharmaceutical packaging, and chemical handling applications where dust ingress and incidental moisture exposure are routine.

Key Features

• Triple-resolution mode selection: Users can switch between high-, medium-, and low-precision modes—supporting readability ranges from 1/3000 to 1/15000 of full-scale capacity—without recalibration, optimizing speed versus resolution trade-offs for dynamic batching or gross-weight verification tasks.
• IP65-rated construction: Fully sealed load cell housing and stainless steel pan resist dust accumulation and water splashes, complying with IEC 60529 standards for use in washdown zones and humid storage areas.
• 360° rotatable indicator head: The display module rotates freely within a full-circle mechanical stop, allowing optimal viewing angles across multi-operator workstations or elevated mounting configurations.
• Dual-power operation: Integrated rechargeable Ni-MH battery supports up to 200 hours of continuous operation; hot-swappable charging via AC adapter ensures uninterrupted workflow during extended shifts.
• Ergonomic and portable design: Compact footprint and low unit mass (as low as 4 kg for EM-30KAM) facilitate relocation between loading docks, inspection bays, and quality control labs without dedicated lifting equipment.
• White-backlit 26 mm LCD: High-contrast digits remain legible under low-illumination conditions typical of cold storage rooms or nighttime logistics operations.

Sample Compatibility & Compliance

The EM series accommodates irregularly shaped, bulky, or palletized loads through its oversized pan options—up to 400 × 500 mm—and built-in mechanical overtravel limiters prevent damage from accidental overloading. All models comply with international metrological standards including OIML R76-1 (non-automatic weighing instruments), JIS B 7310 (Japanese Industrial Standard for platform scales), and EU Measuring Instruments Directive (MID) Annex MI-001 for non-automatic weighing instruments used in legal-for-trade applications (subject to local verification and stamping). While not certified for Class III or higher accuracy classes per EN 45501, the EM series satisfies general-purpose industrial weighing requirements under ISO 9001 process monitoring clauses and supports GLP/GMP documentation workflows when paired with RS-232C data logging.

Software & Data Management

Standard RS-232C serial interface (optional EM-03 module) enables bidirectional communication with host systems—including label printers, PLCs, and MES platforms—for automated weight capture, batch ID association, and audit-trail generation. ASCII protocol output is compatible with common industrial software stacks (e.g., Siemens SIMATIC WinCC, Rockwell FactoryTalk, LabVIEW). When integrated into validated environments, timestamped weight data may be archived with operator ID and process step metadata—supporting FDA 21 CFR Part 11 compliance when deployed with appropriate electronic signature controls and system validation documentation. No proprietary software is required; raw data streams conform to NIST SP 800-53 security guidelines for unencrypted serial transmission in closed-network settings.

Applications

• Warehouse receiving and outbound pallet verification
• Raw material intake and ingredient dispensing in food & beverage facilities
• Finished goods counting and parcel consolidation
• In-process weight checks in automotive component assembly lines
• Inventory reconciliation and cycle counting in distribution centers
• Secondary packaging line integration (e.g., case packing, shrink-wrapping stations)
• Field service and mobile calibration support due to portability and battery endurance

FAQ

Is the EM series suitable for legal-for-trade use?
Yes—when verified and stamped by national metrology institutes (e.g., NMI Japan, PTB Germany, or NIST-accredited bodies), select EM models meet OIML R76-1 Class III requirements for commercial transactions, subject to local regulatory approval.
Can the indicator head be mounted remotely from the platform?
Yes—the indicator connects to the platform via a standard 2 m shielded cable; optional EM-13 desktop/wall-mount bracket allows separation up to 5 m using extended cabling (not included).
What is the calibration procedure?
Internal calibration is performed using factory-supplied weights; external calibration follows ISO/IEC 17025 traceable protocols with certified reference masses—recommended annually or after mechanical shock events.
Does the scale support tare, preset tare, and counting functions?
Yes—all EM models include programmable tare memory, piece-counting mode (with sample size input), and high/low limit checking with visual and audible alerts.
Are firmware updates available?
Firmware revisions are distributed via A&D’s authorized service partners and require proprietary diagnostic hardware; no end-user update capability is provided to maintain measurement integrity and regulatory compliance.