Top Loading Balance

A top loading balance is a type of scale, usually digital, which measures the mass of an object after that object is placed on a metal platform which rests on top of the scale. Usually a top loading balance measures in grams, but many are also able to convert to other measurement units such as milligrams, ounces or pounds. Generally, this type of scale can measure the weight of items anywhere from one up to three decimal places, which means some can round to the nearest thousandth of a gram. These scales are quite versatile and can be useful in a variety of applications, including laboratory, educational, and industrial settings, and because they are typically fairly small and may be battery powered, top loading balances are often portable.

Features to Look for in a Top Loading Balance

• Typically, a top loading balance will need to be able to be easily cleaned, since sometimes they are used in settings where cross contamination of weighed items could be a concern. Some come with parts that can be easily partially disassembled for a simple and quick cleaning process.
• Many top loading balances come standard with an in use cover for use as an extra guard against spills, as well as to protect the digital display.
• Most top loading balances will have a push button tare. This is a function that weighs a container in advance and then can automatically subtract that weight from the amount of objects weighed in the container. This will result in just the net weight.
• Many scales are outfitted with an RS-232 interface which allows for a connection to a PC or printer and will record gross weight, net weight, tare weight, identification information and date and time. Balance data can also be sent directly into computer software such as Excel or other spreadsheet applications. Newer scales also offer this same capability using the industry standard USB interface.
• Sometimes higher end scales will come outfitted with specialized environmental settings, special filter modes and/or adjustable tracking for balance sensitivity to different environmental factors.
• Some models have an automatic shut off and/or a low battery indicator to prevent energy waste.
• Many top loading balances are equipped with anti-theft devices.

How to Use a Top Loading Balance

One of the benefits of the use of top loading balances is the ease of operation. Note that some top loading balances should always be left on, even when it is not in use. Since the components of a scale that is in the off condition are cold, the warming up process that takes place when the scale is turned on might effect the measurements.

1. Place an empty container on top of the balance pan.
2. Push the TARE button. Once the top loading balance has weighed the container, it will show zeros on the display. It is now ready weigh objects placed inside the container and will automatically subtract the weight of the container from the total weight.
3. Add the items or material to be weighed to the container.
4. Record the weight.
5. Remove the objects from the top loading balance and reset it to zero.