METTLER TOLEDO MA204E/A Analytical Balance, 220 g Capacity, 0.1 mg Readability

Overview

The METTLER TOLEDO MA204E/A is a high-performance analytical balance engineered for precision mass measurement in regulated laboratory environments, quality control laboratories, and academic research settings. Based on electromagnetic force compensation (EMFC) technology, it delivers stable, drift-free measurements with exceptional reproducibility under varying ambient conditions. Designed to meet the fundamental requirements of ISO/IEC 17025, USP , and ASTM E898–22, the MA204E/A supports traceable weighing workflows where accuracy, audit readiness, and operational robustness are non-negotiable. Its 220 g maximum capacity and 0.1 mg readability enable reliable quantification of small samples—such as active pharmaceutical ingredients (APIs), reference standards, catalysts, and micro-dosed formulations—while maintaining compliance with minimum weight criteria defined by pharmacopeial guidelines.

Key Features

• Electromagnetic force compensation sensor architecture ensuring long-term stability and minimal thermal drift
• Hybrid touch-and-button interface with intuitive, icon-driven menu navigation optimized for glove-compatible operation
• Corrosion-resistant stainless-steel pan and reinforced polymer housing rated for exposure to common solvents (e.g., ethanol, acetone, dilute acids/bases)
• Integrated leveling assistance system with visual bubble indicator and adjustable feet for rapid setup on uneven surfaces
• External calibration capability with support for certified weights compliant with OIML R111 Class E2 or better
• Dual communication interfaces: RS232 for legacy LIMS integration and USB-A for direct data export to USB storage devices or PC-based software
• User access control via password-protected operator levels (e.g., Administrator, Technician, Operator) to enforce role-based workflow integrity
• Overload protection up to 500 g (mechanical stop) safeguarding the load cell from accidental misuse

Sample Compatibility & Compliance

The MA204E/A accommodates standard 90 mm diameter weighing pans and is compatible with disposable weigh boats, aluminum sample pans, and static-dissipative containers. Its design adheres to Good Weighing Practice™ (GWP®) principles and supports full traceability in GLP and GMP environments. The balance meets OIML R76-1 requirements for Class II non-automatic weighing instruments when configured with trade settlement certification (1 mg certified readability). It satisfies critical regulatory expectations including FDA 21 CFR Part 11 (when used with compliant software), EU Annex 11, and ISO 9001 documentation requirements. Minimum weight verification (per USP ) is supported through built-in guided procedures, enabling users to validate method suitability prior to routine use.

Software & Data Management

Data output follows standardized ASCII format over RS232 or USB, facilitating seamless ingestion into ELN systems (e.g., LabArchives, Benchling) or statistical process control platforms. Optional Bluetooth connectivity enables wireless transmission to mobile devices running METTLER TOLEDO’s LabX Lite application for real-time result logging and basic report generation. All weight records include timestamp, operator ID, balance ID, and environmental metadata (if connected to optional temperature/humidity sensors). Audit trail functionality—when paired with LabX software—is fully compliant with ALCOA+ principles (Attributable, Legible, Contemporaneous, Original, Accurate, Complete, Consistent, Enduring, Available).

Applications

• Pharmaceutical QC: Assay determination, content uniformity testing, and residual solvent analysis per ICH Q2(R2)
• Chemical synthesis: Stoichiometric reagent dispensing, yield calculation, and purity assessment
• Materials science: Density determination of powders and thin films using pycnometry protocols
• Environmental testing: Preparation of standard solutions for ICP-MS and GC-MS calibration curves
• Food & beverage: Nutrient labeling compliance, moisture content verification (in conjunction with halogen moisture analyzers)
• Educational labs: Teaching fundamental metrology concepts including uncertainty estimation, repeatability assessment, and calibration hierarchy

FAQ

What is the certified readability for legal-for-trade applications?
The MA204E/A achieves 1 mg certified readability when configured and verified per OIML R76-1 for Class II use.
Does the balance support internal calibration?
No—the MA204E/A requires external calibration using traceable standard weights; it does not feature motorized internal calibration mechanisms.
Can minimum weight be verified in accordance with USP ?
Yes—built-in guided procedures assist operators in performing repeatability tests and calculating minimum weight based on user-defined tolerances (e.g., 0.1%).
Is the display readable under low-light or gloved-hand conditions?
The high-contrast LCD with backlight and large character size (12 mm digit height) ensures legibility across varied lighting conditions and while wearing nitrile or latex gloves.
How is data integrity ensured during transfer via USB or RS232?
All transmitted data packets include checksum validation; no data compression or loss occurs during ASCII-formatted serial or USB mass-storage transfers.