A&D FX-GD Precision Electronic Balance

Overview

The A&D FX-GD Precision Electronic Balance is an engineered solution for laboratory, quality control, and production environments requiring high repeatability, rapid stabilization, and regulatory traceability. Built on A&D’s proprietary SHS (Super Hybrid Sensor) technology, the FX-GD series employs a dual-electromagnetic force compensation system combined with digital filtering algorithms to achieve sub-millisecond response and mechanical stability under variable environmental conditions—including minor air currents and table vibrations. Unlike conventional strain-gauge-based balances, the SHS architecture delivers inherent linearity correction and temperature drift compensation without requiring frequent internal recalibration. Each unit undergoes factory calibration using NIST-traceable mass standards and is supplied with a certificate of conformity compliant with ISO/IEC 17025 requirements. The compact B5 footprint (193 × 262.5 mm) enables seamless integration into fume hoods, glove boxes, and benchtop analytical workstations where spatial constraints limit instrument selection.

Key Features

• Rapid stabilization in ≤1 second across all models—enabled by adaptive damping control and real-time sensor feedback loop optimization
• High-contrast fluorescent LCD display with adjustable brightness, optimized for low-light cleanroom or ambient-lit QC labs
• Five selectable weighing units (g, pcs, %, ct, mom) supporting direct formulation, inventory counting, and comparative assay workflows
• USB interface operating in CDC ACM class—plug-and-play compatibility with Windows, macOS, and Linux without proprietary drivers
• Ethernet connectivity (FXi-08 variant) enabling multi-balance network deployment via WinCT-Plus software with centralized configuration, firmware update, and audit log export
• Built-in rechargeable lithium-ion battery (FXi-09 option) providing up to 8 hours of continuous operation—ideal for mobile validation tasks or field calibration audits
• GLP/GMP-compliant data handling: automatic timestamping, operator ID entry, and printable reports with full metadata (balance ID, calibration date, ambient T/RH if equipped)

Sample Compatibility & Compliance

The FX-GD series accommodates a broad range of sample types—from fine powders and hygroscopic reagents to small metallic components and pre-weighed reference standards. The stainless-steel weighing pan (130 mm or 150 mm diameter, depending on model capacity) features a polished finish resistant to corrosion from organic solvents and mild acids. All models meet the mechanical and metrological requirements of OIML R76-1 (2021), ANSI/NCSL Z540-1, and JIS B 7721. For regulated pharmaceutical and biotech applications, the balance supports 21 CFR Part 11-compliant electronic signatures when used with WinCT-Plus configured in audit trail mode—capturing all weight events, parameter changes, and user actions with immutable timestamps and role-based access control.

Software & Data Management

WinCT-Plus serves as the certified data acquisition and management platform for the FX-GD series. It provides real-time graphing of dynamic weighing sequences, statistical process control (SPC) charting (X-bar/R, Cp/Cpk), and automated report generation in PDF or CSV format. Raw data files include embedded instrument metadata (serial number, firmware version, calibration history) and are digitally signed to ensure integrity during FDA or EMA inspection readiness assessments. The software supports batch export to LIMS systems via HL7 or ASTM E1384 interfaces and includes configurable data retention policies aligned with ISO 13485 clause 7.5.10 (Control of monitoring and measuring equipment records).

Applications

• Pharmaceutical formulation: active ingredient dispensing, excipient ratio verification, and blend uniformity testing per USP and
• Materials science: density determination of metal alloys, ceramic green bodies, and polymer composites using buoyancy-assisted weighing
• Food & beverage QA: portion control validation, nutritional labeling compliance (FDA 21 CFR 101.9), and moisture content analysis via loss-on-drying protocols
• Academic research: gravimetric titration endpoint detection, catalyst loading precision, and micro-reaction stoichiometry verification
• Reference standard preparation: certified reference material (CRM) sub-sampling under ISO Guide 34 accredited laboratories

FAQ

Does the FX-GD require external calibration weights for daily verification?
No—each unit includes internal calibration capability via motor-driven calibration mass actuation. External weights are only required for initial verification or periodic metrological audit per ISO/IEC 17025 clause 6.5.2.

Is WinCT-Plus validated for use in GxP environments?
Yes—A&D provides a full validation package including IQ/OQ documentation, test scripts, and URS alignment for WinCT-Plus v3.2+, supporting qualification against Annex 11 and ALCOA+ data integrity principles.

Can the FX-GD be integrated into a LabVantage or Thermo Fisher SampleManager LIMS?
Yes—via WinCT-Plus’ configurable ASCII output mode or REST API integration (available in Enterprise license tier), enabling bidirectional sample ID and weight data exchange.

What is the maximum permissible error (MPE) at full capacity for the FX-2000GD model?
Per OIML R76-1 Class II specification, MPE = ±1.5e (where e = 0.01 g), i.e., ±0.015 g at 2200 g load.

How often must the internal rechargeable battery (FXi-09) be replaced?
Rated for ≥500 charge cycles; typical service life exceeds 3 years under normal usage. Battery status and health diagnostics are accessible via WinCT-Plus diagnostic menu.