METTLER TOLEDO MA5001 Precision Balance

Overview

The METTLER TOLEDO MA5001 Precision Balance is an entry-level analytical-grade weighing instrument engineered for reproducible mass determination in routine laboratory, quality control, and educational environments. Utilizing electromagnetic force compensation (EMFC) technology, the MA5001 delivers stable, drift-free measurements by dynamically balancing the gravitational load on the weighing pan against a precisely regulated electromagnetic field. This principle ensures high linearity, minimal temperature-induced drift, and long-term stability without mechanical wear—critical for applications requiring consistent traceability under ISO/IEC 17025 or GLP-compliant workflows. Designed for daily use in non-regulated or lightly regulated settings, the MA5001 supports accurate weighing up to 5100 g with 0.01 g readability, making it suitable for formulation, sample preparation, inventory management, and basic titration support.

Key Features

• Electromagnetic force compensation (EMFC) sensor architecture ensuring high repeatability (≤0.01 g standard deviation) and linearity (±0.02 g across full range)
• Internal motorized calibration system with integrated test weight—automatically triggered at user-defined intervals or temperature thresholds (e.g., ±1.5 °C change)
• 180 mm diameter stainless-steel weighing pan with rounded edges for easy cleaning and resistance to chemical splashes
• High-contrast monochrome LCD display (128 × 64 pixels) with backlight and intuitive icon-based navigation
• Capacitive touch keys with haptic feedback—designed for glove-compatible operation and reduced mechanical failure risk
• Rugged ABS housing with reinforced base plate and anti-slip rubber feet for vibration damping on standard lab benches
• Auto-stabilization algorithm reduces settling time to ≤1.5 seconds under typical ambient conditions (20–25 °C, <60% RH)

Sample Compatibility & Compliance

The MA5001 accommodates a wide range of solid and granular samples—including powders, tablets, reagents, and packaged components—without requiring draft shields in low-airflow environments. Its open pan design allows rapid placement and retrieval while maintaining compliance with ISO 9001:2015 requirements for documented measurement processes. Though not certified for USP or ASTM E898-22 Class II applications, the balance meets EN 45501 and OIML R76-1 standards for non-automatic weighing instruments (Class II). All internal calibration events are timestamped and logged in non-volatile memory, supporting basic audit trails required for internal quality audits and supplier qualification protocols.

Software & Data Management

Data export is facilitated via native USB-A host mode (for direct connection to USB printers or flash drives) and RS232 serial interface (compatible with legacy LIMS terminals and label printers). The balance transmits ASCII-formatted data packets—including weight value, unit, date/time stamp, and status flags (e.g., “stable”, “overload”)—without proprietary drivers. Optional METTLER TOLEDO LabX Lite software (sold separately) enables automated report generation, trend analysis, and electronic signature capture aligned with FDA 21 CFR Part 11 Annex 11 principles. All data transfers comply with IEEE 11073-10201 standard messaging syntax for interoperability with third-party laboratory information systems.

Applications

• Raw material receipt inspection and batch release verification in pharmaceutical manufacturing support labs
• Weighing of culture media components and buffer salts in microbiology and cell culture facilities
• Preparation of calibration standards and reference solutions in environmental testing laboratories
• Student experiments in university chemistry and materials science courses requiring sub-centigram precision
• Inventory reconciliation and component counting (piece-counting mode with user-defined reference weight)
• Simple density determination using sinker method with external accessories (e.g., density kit P-DC)

FAQ

Is the MA5001 compliant with FDA 21 CFR Part 11?
No—the MA5001 does not include electronic signature, audit trail encryption, or role-based access control natively. Full Part 11 compliance requires integration with LabX Lite or equivalent validated software and procedural controls.
Can the MA5001 be connected to a network?
Not natively; Ethernet connectivity is only possible via optional USB-to-Ethernet adapter (part no. 30102012), and requires external configuration through connected PC-based software.
What is the recommended recalibration frequency?
METTLER TOLEDO recommends daily internal calibration in environments with temperature fluctuations >2 °C or after power-up, per Good Weighing Practice™ (GWP®) guidelines.
Does the MA5001 support dynamic weighing (e.g., animal weighing)?
No—it lacks real-time filtering algorithms for moving loads and is intended exclusively for static mass determination.
Is the display readable under UV or strong ambient light?
Yes—the high-brightness LCD maintains contrast ratios >5:1 under 10,000 lux illumination, and its anti-glare surface minimizes specular reflection from overhead fluorescent fixtures.