A&D FS-i Series IP65 Waterproof Checkweighing Scale

Overview

The A&D FS-i Series IP65 Waterproof Checkweighing Scale is an industrial-grade, high-speed verification scale engineered for precision, durability, and operational efficiency in demanding production and quality control environments. Designed around the principle of electromagnetic force compensation (EMFC), the FS-i delivers rapid, stable weighing results with a response time of ≤0.5 seconds — enabling real-time inline or post-process weight verification without compromising throughput. Its robust stainless-steel weighing pan and fully sealed display module meet IP65 ingress protection standards, ensuring reliable performance in wet, dusty, or washdown-prone areas common in food processing, pharmaceutical packaging, and chemical manufacturing facilities. The scale supports both static and dynamic checkweighing workflows and integrates seamlessly into regulated production lines requiring traceability, repeatability, and audit-ready documentation.

Key Features

• Rapid stabilization: Achieves stable weight reading in ≤0.5 s — optimized for high-volume packaging lines and sorting stations.
• IP65-rated construction: Stainless-steel pan and sealed display unit resist water jets, dust ingress, and corrosion — compliant with hygiene-critical environments governed by FDA, HACCP, and ISO 22000 requirements.
• Tri-color status indication: Red (underweight), green (in-spec), yellow (overweight) LED comparators provide immediate visual pass/fail feedback — reducing operator error and accelerating decision-making.
• 60-segment backlit analog bar graph: Offers intuitive visual weight representation across four modes — basic weighing, target weight display, limit-check mode, and off — with uniform brightness even under low ambient light.
• Configurable readability: Select from five internal resolution ratios (1/3000 to 1/15000 of full scale) to match application-specific accuracy needs — supporting both general-purpose and high-tolerance verification tasks.
• Dual power architecture: Operates via included AC adapter or optional sealed lead-acid rechargeable battery (80 h runtime after 15 h charge), ensuring uninterrupted operation during line maintenance or mobile deployment.
• Intuitive interface: Dedicated function keys for tare, preset limits, and mode switching — minimizing training time and supporting GLP/GMP-aligned operator protocols.

Sample Compatibility & Compliance

The FS-i accommodates a wide range of product forms — including packaged goods (bottles, pouches, trays), bulk items (capsules, tablets, confectionery), and irregularly shaped components — provided they remain stationary on the pan during measurement. Its electromagnetic force compensation sensor ensures consistent performance across temperature fluctuations (10–40 °C) and minor mechanical vibration. The scale complies with international metrological standards including OIML R76-1 (non-automatic weighing instruments), JIS B 7720-1, and EU Measuring Instruments Directive (MID) Annex MI-001 for non-automatic weighing systems. All firmware and hardware configurations support traceable calibration using certified reference weights — satisfying internal QA audits and external regulatory inspections per ISO/IEC 17025 and FDA 21 CFR Part 11 when paired with validated data logging software.

Software & Data Management

While the FS-i operates as a standalone instrument, optional communication modules enable integration into broader MES or SCADA ecosystems. The FS-03i variant features RS-232 serial output with programmable relay signals (NO/NC) for direct connection to PLCs, label printers, or reject mechanisms. The FS-04i extends compatibility with RS-422/485 differential signaling for noise-immune multi-drop networks over distances up to 1,200 m. All data transmissions adhere to ASCII-based protocol formats, allowing seamless parsing by LabVIEW, WinCC, or custom Python-based QC dashboards. When used with A&D’s optional WinCT software (v4.0+), the FS-i supports full audit trail generation — including timestamped weight records, user ID logs, calibration events, and limit-setting history — meeting ALCOA+ principles for data integrity in GxP-regulated environments.

Applications

• Food & beverage: Final package weight verification for canned goods, frozen meals, snack bags, and ready-to-eat trays — ensuring compliance with net content labeling regulations (e.g., FTC 16 CFR Part 500, EU Directive 2009/78/EC).
• Pharmaceuticals: Batch-weight validation of blister packs, vials, and secondary packaging prior to serialization and release — supporting Annex 11 and ICH Q5E requirements.
• Electronics: Component counting and tray-fill verification for SMT reels, connectors, and PCB assemblies — minimizing shipping discrepancies and assembly-line downtime.
• Chemicals & cosmetics: Precise fill-level confirmation of aerosol cans, lotion bottles, and reagent containers — mitigating overfill waste and underfill liability.
• Logistics & distribution: Parcel weight screening for courier compliance (e.g., UPS/FedEx dimensional weight thresholds) and warehouse inventory reconciliation.

FAQ

What does IP65 rating mean for the FS-i scale?

IP65 indicates complete protection against dust ingress (6) and resistance to low-pressure water jets from any direction (5) — making it suitable for frequent wipe-downs and humid environments but not submersion.

Can the FS-i be calibrated without external tools?

Yes — the FS-i supports internal calibration using its dedicated standard weight; no external calibrator is required for routine daily verification.

Is the battery option compatible with continuous 24/7 operation?

The optional sealed lead-acid battery is designed for intermittent or backup use (up to 80 h on a full charge); for unattended 24/7 deployment, AC power is recommended.

How many preset weight limits can be stored?

The FS-i stores up to 100 independent checkweighing profiles — each with target weight, upper/lower tolerance limits, and associated comparator logic.

Does the FS-i support automatic data export to Excel or CSV?

Direct export is not built-in, but when connected via RS-232/485 to a host PC running WinCT or third-party serial capture software, real-time weight streams can be logged and exported in CSV format.