METTLER TOLEDO MX105/A Analytical Balance

Overview

The METTLER TOLEDO MX105/A Analytical Balance is a high-precision laboratory instrument engineered for demanding quantitative analysis in regulated and research-intensive environments. Operating on electromagnetic force compensation (EMFC) principle, it delivers trace-level mass measurement with a readability of 0.01 mg and a maximum capacity of 120 g. Its core architecture integrates temperature-compensated internal calibration (FACT – Fully Automatic Calibration Technology), ensuring long-term stability and metrological integrity without manual intervention. Designed specifically for pharmaceutical, biotechnology, and quality control laboratories, the MX105/A meets critical requirements for accuracy, traceability, and regulatory compliance—including alignment with USP (Balance Performance Verification), USP (Weighing on an Analytical Balance), and ISO/IEC 17025 accreditation criteria. The balance’s SmartPan™ weighing pan minimizes air current interference and reduces stabilization time to just 2 seconds—even under non-ideal draft conditions—enhancing throughput without compromising measurement fidelity.

Key Features

• SmartPan™ technology: Patented pan geometry and airflow management enable rapid settling and improved repeatability in dynamic lab environments.
• 7-inch full-color TFT touchscreen interface: Intuitive, icon-driven navigation supports multi-user workflows and customizable method templates.
• Internal FACT calibration: Dual-sensor temperature monitoring triggers automatic recalibration when thermal drift exceeds defined thresholds, maintaining linearity across ambient fluctuations.
• ErgoDoor™ system: Motorized, soft-closing draft shield doors reduce operator fatigue and minimize mechanical vibration during operation.
• Backlit draft shield with anti-static coating: Ensures optical clarity and electrostatic dissipation for accurate handling of low-mass, high-surface-area samples (e.g., powders, lyophilized APIs).
• Energy-saving mode: Automatically reduces power consumption during idle periods while preserving calibration state and system readiness.
• GxP-ready firmware: Built-in user management (role-based access control), electronic signature support, and audit trail logging compliant with FDA 21 CFR Part 11 when paired with LabX® software.

Sample Compatibility & Compliance

The MX105/A accommodates a broad range of sample types—including solids, powders, granules, and small-volume liquids—within its 80 mm diameter weighing pan. Its minimum weight capability (2.5 mg at U = 1%, k = 2; 25 mg per USP at 0.1% tolerance) ensures reliable quantification for active pharmaceutical ingredients (APIs), reference standards, and formulation intermediates. All hardware and firmware components are designed to support GLP/GMP-aligned workflows: automatic data capture includes timestamp, operator ID, balance ID, environmental conditions (via optional integrated sensors), and result metadata. Documentation output complies with ALCOA+ principles (Attributable, Legible, Contemporaneous, Original, Accurate, Complete, Consistent, Enduring, Available) and supports seamless integration into LIMS or ERP systems via standardized protocols (e.g., ASTM E1382-compliant data export).

Software & Data Management

Native firmware enables direct printing to compatible label or thermal printers via USB or network interfaces. For full data governance, the MX105/A is fully interoperable with METTLER TOLEDO’s LabX® software platform—a validated, server-based solution supporting centralized method deployment, real-time remote monitoring, automated report generation (PDF, CSV, XML), and electronic signature workflows. LabX enforces 21 CFR Part 11 compliance through secure user authentication, immutable audit trails, and configurable retention policies. Data encryption (AES-256), TLS 1.2+ communication, and role-based permissions ensure confidentiality and integrity throughout the data lifecycle—from acquisition to archival.

Applications

• Pharmaceutical quality control: Assay testing, content uniformity, loss-on-drying (LOD), and residual solvent analysis per ICH Q2(R2) guidelines.
• Reference standard preparation: Precise sub-milligram dispensing for certified reference materials (CRMs) and working standards.
• Research chemistry: Stoichiometric reagent weighing, catalyst loading, and reaction yield determination requiring ≤0.01 mg resolution.
• Regulatory submissions: Generation of auditable weighing records meeting EMA, PMDA, and Health Canada documentation expectations.
• Method validation: Performance verification per USP and ISO 17025 clause 6.5.2 for uncertainty estimation and repeatability assessment.

FAQ

What is the minimum weight that can be reliably measured on the MX105/A?
The typical minimum weight is 2.5 mg (at U = 1%, k = 2). For USP compliance with 0.1% tolerance, the minimum weight is 25 mg.
Does the MX105/A support automated data transfer to LIMS?
Yes—via Ethernet or USB-C using ASCII or HL7 protocols; full integration is achieved with LabX software and configurable data mapping rules.
Is FACT calibration traceable to national standards?
FACT is an internal self-calibration mechanism; traceability to SI units is maintained through factory calibration against NIST-traceable mass standards, documented in the Certificate of Conformance supplied with each unit.
Can multiple users be managed with different permission levels?
Yes—the built-in user management system supports up to 100 users with configurable roles (e.g., Operator, Supervisor, Administrator) and password policies aligned with GxP requirements.
What environmental conditions affect performance?
Optimal operation requires ambient temperatures between 10–30 °C, relative humidity <80% RH (non-condensing), and minimal vibration or magnetic field interference. Draft shield integrity and leveling accuracy are critical preconditions for achieving stated specifications.