Sartorius CPA4202S Precision Balance

Overview

The Sartorius CPA4202S Precision Balance is an ISO/GLP-compliant laboratory balance engineered for routine and high-integrity mass measurement tasks in quality control, research, and production environments. Utilizing a monolithic electromagnetic force compensation sensor architecture, the CPA4202S delivers exceptional long-term stability and resistance to mechanical stress, thermal drift, and environmental vibration—key requirements for sustained metrological reliability in regulated laboratories. With a 4200 g capacity and 0.01 g readability, it bridges the performance gap between analytical and top-loading balances, offering traceable accuracy without compromising operational speed or ergonomic usability. Designed and manufactured in Germany under stringent DIN EN ISO 9001 quality management systems, the CPA4202S adheres to international metrological standards including OIML R76 and fulfills foundational requirements for GxP-aligned workflows.

Key Features

• Internal motor-driven calibration via isoCAL technology: Fully automated, temperature-triggered recalibration ensures continuous accuracy without manual intervention—critical for unattended operation and multi-shift environments.
• Monolithic sensor design: A single-piece, stress-optimized transducer eliminates micro-fracture risks associated with traditional segmented load cells, delivering superior repeatability (≤ ±0.01 g) and linearity (≤ ±0.02 g) across the full range.
• Backlit LCD display with 16 mm digit height: Optimized for rapid visual verification under variable ambient lighting, minimizing operator fatigue during high-volume weighing sessions.
• RS-232C bidirectional interface: Enables seamless data exchange with PCs, LIMS, or peripheral devices—including Sartorius YDP03-0CE and YDP20-0CE printers—for compliant record generation.
• Built-in application functions: Supports percentage weighing, net summation, animal weighing (dynamic averaging), unit conversion (g, oz, ct, etc.), and piece counting—reducing manual calculation errors and streamlining SOP execution.
• Ergonomic pan geometry: 190 × 204 mm stainless-steel weighing pan accommodates voluminous samples while maintaining optimal center-of-gravity alignment for consistent load distribution.

Sample Compatibility & Compliance

The CPA4202S is validated for use with solid, granular, and low-viscosity liquid samples within standard laboratory temperature (10–30 °C) and humidity (30–80 % RH, non-condensing) ranges. Its draft shield compatibility (optional accessory) extends applicability to hygroscopic or volatile substances. From a regulatory standpoint, the balance supports audit-ready documentation per ISO/IEC 17025, GLP (OECD Principles), and FDA 21 CFR Part 11 when paired with compliant software (e.g., Sartorius LabX or third-party validated data capture tools). All internal calibration events—including date, time, temperature, and deviation logs—are timestamped and stored in non-volatile memory, enabling full traceability during inspections.

Software & Data Management

While the CPA4202S operates as a standalone instrument, its RS-232C port enables integration into broader digital lab infrastructures. When connected to Sartorius LabX software (via optional interface module), users gain automated data logging, electronic signature support, customizable report templates, and role-based access control—fulfilling ALCOA+ (Attributable, Legible, Contemporaneous, Original, Accurate + Complete, Consistent, Enduring, Available) data integrity criteria. For simpler deployments, direct ASCII output to spreadsheets or LIMS satisfies basic 21 CFR Part 11 Annex 11 requirements when combined with procedural controls (e.g., defined user permissions, change logs, and backup protocols).

Applications

The CPA4202S serves core functions across pharmaceutical QC (e.g., active ingredient dispensing, excipient batch verification), chemical formulation (catalyst dosing, reagent preparation), food safety testing (moisture content pre-weighing, sample homogenization), and academic teaching labs (stoichiometry experiments, density determinations). Its robust construction and isoCAL-driven recalibration make it especially suitable for shared instrumentation facilities where usage patterns vary significantly across users and shifts. The balance also supports USP repeatability testing when operated under controlled environmental conditions and verified with Class M2 or better external weights.

FAQ

Does the CPA4202S meet ISO/IEC 17025 requirements for accredited testing laboratories?
Yes—when used with documented procedures, regular verification using traceable standards, and isoCAL calibration records retained per clause 7.7 of ISO/IEC 17025:2017.
Can the balance be integrated into a 21 CFR Part 11-compliant environment?
Yes—through validated software interfaces (e.g., LabX) that provide electronic signatures, audit trails, and data integrity safeguards; standalone use requires procedural controls to satisfy Part 11’s “closed system” criteria.
Is external calibration supported?
Yes—the CPA4202S accepts external calibration via certified weights (Class M2 or higher) using the manual calibration mode; however, isoCAL internal calibration remains the recommended method for routine accuracy assurance.
What is the warm-up time required before first use?
Minimum 30 minutes at stable ambient temperature (±2 °C/hour variation) to ensure thermal equilibrium of the monolithic sensor and internal reference components.
Are service and calibration certificates available from Sartorius?
Yes—factory calibration certificates (traceable to PTB/NIST) and on-site service agreements are available through authorized Sartorius service partners globally.