OHAUS Navigator® NV1201ZH Portable Precision Balance
| Brand | OHAUS |
|---|---|
| Origin | Jiangsu, China |
| Manufacturer Type | Manufacturer |
| Product Category | Domestic |
| Model | NV1201ZH |
| Instrument Type | General-Purpose Portable Balance |
| Maximum Capacity | 1200 g |
| Readability | 0.1 g |
| Repeatability | 0.1 g |
| Calibration Method | External |
| Overload Protection | Up to 400% of max capacity (4800 g) |
| Transport Lock | Integrated mechanical lock for sensor protection |
Overview
The OHAUS Navigator® NV1201ZH is a robust, entry-level portable precision balance engineered for reliable mass measurement in dynamic environments—including quality control labs, production floors, field service operations, and academic teaching laboratories. Utilizing electromagnetic force restoration (EMFR) technology, the NV1201ZH delivers stable, drift-compensated readings with high reproducibility under variable ambient conditions. Its 1200 g maximum capacity and 0.1 g readability meet routine weighing requirements for bulk materials, reagents, packaged goods, and intermediate samples where analytical-grade resolution is not mandated but consistency and durability are critical. Designed with an industrial-grade ABS housing and reinforced load receptor, the unit maintains structural integrity during frequent relocation and incidental mechanical stress—making it particularly suitable for multi-site or mobile workflows.
Key Features
- Electromagnetic force restoration (EMFR) sensor architecture ensures consistent linearity and long-term stability across the full 0–1200 g range.
- Fast stabilization time: typical readout settling within 1.0 second under standard environmental conditions (20–25 °C, <60% RH, no air drafts).
- Mechanical overload protection rated to 400% of maximum capacity (4800 g), safeguarding the load cell against accidental overloading during handling or setup.
- Integrated transport lock prevents sensor displacement during shipping or transit—eliminating the need for recalibration post-delivery.
- Front-panel keypad with intuitive icon-driven interface supports one-touch tare, unit conversion (g, oz, ct, dwt, grain), and auto-zero tracking.
- IP42-rated enclosure provides resistance to dust ingress and vertically dripping moisture—enabling safe operation in non-sterile industrial settings.
Sample Compatibility & Compliance
The NV1201ZH accommodates a wide range of sample forms—including powders, granules, solids in beakers or weigh boats, and pre-packaged items—without requiring specialized accessories. Its open platform design allows compatibility with standard 120 mm diameter weighing pans (OHAUS part # 82100-021, sold separately). While not certified for regulated pharmaceutical or clinical use, the balance supports basic GLP documentation workflows through manual recordkeeping. It complies with international electromagnetic compatibility standards IEC 61326-1 (industrial environment) and meets mechanical safety requirements per IEC 61010-1. External calibration using Class M2 or better weights (per ISO/IEC 17025 traceable standards) is recommended at installation and at defined intervals per internal QA protocols.
Software & Data Management
The NV1201ZH does not feature built-in USB or RS-232 connectivity; data output is limited to visual display only. For traceable documentation, users may employ external logging solutions—such as manual transcription into LIMS-compatible spreadsheets or integration with third-party serial-to-USB adapters (when used with compatible terminal software). The balance supports zero-tracking and automatic internal drift compensation, reducing operator dependency on frequent manual zeroing. All calibration events must be recorded manually per laboratory SOPs; no audit trail, electronic signature, or 21 CFR Part 11 compliance is provided natively.
Applications
- Raw material receipt inspection in food, chemical, and plastics manufacturing facilities.
- Batch ingredient dispensing and formulation checks in pilot-scale production.
- Student laboratory exercises in general chemistry, biology, and materials science curricula.
- Field-based agricultural sampling, including soil, feed, and seed weight verification.
- Inventory management and parcel weighing in distribution centers and maintenance workshops.
- Pre-weighing of samples prior to analysis on higher-resolution instruments (e.g., analytical balances or moisture analyzers).
FAQ
What is the recommended calibration frequency for the NV1201ZH?
Calibration should be performed at initial setup, after relocation, following any mechanical shock, and at user-defined intervals—typically daily or per-shift in regulated environments where process consistency is monitored.
Can this balance be used in a fume hood or near vibrating equipment?
No. The NV1201ZH lacks active vibration damping and is sensitive to airflow and mechanical resonance; operation in fume hoods or on unstable surfaces will degrade repeatability and increase stabilization time.
Is the 0.1 g readability maintained across the entire 1200 g range?
Yes—linearity testing per OHAUS factory specifications confirms ±0.2 g deviation at full scale, ensuring readability fidelity throughout the operational range.
Does the balance include a calibration certificate?
No. A manufacturer’s calibration report is available upon request at time of purchase; traceable certification requires third-party metrology service.
What power source does the NV1201ZH use?
It operates exclusively on AC power via included 100–240 V universal input adapter; no internal battery or DC operation is supported.
