OHAUS Scout STX Portable Precision Balance
| Brand | OHAUS |
|---|---|
| Origin | Jiangsu, China |
| Manufacturer Type | Manufacturer |
| Product Category | Domestic |
| Model | Scout STX |
| Instrument Type | Precision Balance |
| Maximum Capacity | 6200 g |
| Readability | 0.0001 g |
| Calibration Method | Automatic Internal Calibration |
| Repeatability | 0.002–0.1 g |
| Interface Options | RS232, USB Device, USB Host (U-disk support), Ethernet |
Overview
The OHAUS Scout STX Portable Precision Balance is an engineered solution for laboratories, quality control environments, and field applications requiring high-resolution mass measurement with operational flexibility and robust mechanical integrity. Built upon OHAUS’s proven electromagnetic force compensation (EMFC) transduction principle, the Scout STX delivers stable, drift-compensated readings under variable ambient conditions—including minor air currents, temperature fluctuations, and bench vibration. Its 6200 g maximum capacity and 0.0001 g readability (100 µg) position it at the upper tier of portable precision balances, enabling accurate quantification of samples ranging from pharmaceutical powders to industrial components. Unlike analytical balances constrained to draft-free enclosures, the Scout STX integrates adaptive filtering algorithms and real-time signal stabilization to achieve 1-second settling time—making it suitable for dynamic workflows where speed and reproducibility are equally critical.
Key Features
- Full-color VGA touchscreen interface with intuitive icon-driven navigation—eliminates reliance on physical keypads and reduces operator training time.
- Automatic internal calibration with motorized mass actuation ensures traceable accuracy without manual weight handling; calibration is triggered by time intervals, temperature shifts (>1.5 °C), or user command.
- 10× overload protection architecture—structural reinforcement and load-cell shielding allow safe operation up to 62,000 g without sensor degradation, essential in manufacturing or warehouse settings where accidental overloading occurs.
- Ultra-slim chassis (height < 80 mm) supports vertical stacking of multiple units, optimizing footprint in space-constrained labs or mobile testing carts.
- Dual USB functionality: USB Device mode enables direct connection to PCs for data logging; USB Host mode permits plug-and-play storage to FAT32-formatted U-disks for standalone result export without external software.
- Standard Ethernet port supports TCP/IP communication, facilitating integration into LIMS or MES platforms via Modbus TCP or OHAUS’s proprietary ASCII protocol.
Sample Compatibility & Compliance
The Scout STX accommodates a broad range of sample forms—including powders, granules, liquids in tared containers, and solid components—with compatibility extending to stainless-steel pans (included), draft shields (optional), and anti-static accessories. Its design conforms to ISO 9001 manufacturing controls and meets electromagnetic compatibility requirements per IEC 61326-1:2013. While not classified as a regulated medical device, its repeatability performance (≤0.1 g at full scale, ≤0.002 g at 100 g) satisfies routine QC testing thresholds defined in ASTM E898–21 (Standard Practice for Calibration of Balances Used in Weighing Operations) and supports GLP documentation workflows when paired with audit-trail-enabled software.
Software & Data Management
OHAUS Acuity™ Lite software (Windows/macOS compatible) provides real-time graphing, statistical analysis (mean, SD, CV%), and customizable report generation with timestamped metadata. All communications—whether via RS232, USB, or Ethernet—transmit ASCII-formatted strings compliant with NIST SP 800-53 Rev. 4 data integrity guidelines. USB Host exports generate .csv files with column headers (Date, Time, Net Weight, Tare, Stability Flag), enabling seamless ingestion into Excel, Python pandas, or LabWare LIMS. Optional firmware updates maintain alignment with evolving connectivity standards, including TLS 1.2 support for secure Ethernet transmission.
Applications
- Raw material verification in GMP-compliant pharmaceutical production lines.
- In-process weight checks during tablet coating, capsule filling, and lyophilization batch release.
- Calibration lab support for verifying Class M2/M3 test weights per OIML R 111.
- Field-based environmental sampling where portability, battery operation (optional), and dust resistance (IP42-rated enclosure) are mandatory.
- Educational laboratories requiring durable, student-safe instrumentation with visual feedback and error-resistant UI logic.
FAQ
Does the Scout STX support external calibration with certified weights?
Yes—the balance accepts manual calibration using external Class M1 or better weights via the CAL menu; however, internal automatic calibration is recommended for routine use to minimize human error and ensure thermal drift compensation.
Is the touchscreen operable with gloves?
The resistive VGA touchscreen responds reliably to standard nitrile or latex laboratory gloves, though capacitive stylus input is not supported.
Can the Scout STX be integrated into a 21 CFR Part 11-compliant environment?
While the hardware itself does not embed electronic signatures or role-based access, its deterministic data output, time-stamped logs, and compatibility with validated third-party software (e.g., LabArchives, Veeva Vault QMS) enable deployment within Part 11–aligned workflows when configured with appropriate procedural controls.
What is the warm-up time required before first use?
A 30-minute stabilization period is recommended after power-on at ambient temperatures between 10–30 °C; the balance self-diagnoses thermal equilibrium and displays readiness status on-screen.
Are draft shields available as accessories?
Yes—OHAUS offers a removable acrylic draft shield (model SHD-SCOUT) with side-access doors and static-dissipative coating, designed specifically for Scout STX dimensions and airflow dynamics.
