Having the right weight indicator at the weighing area, as well as having the ability to have the data transmitted from the digital weight indicator to your software and control systems, is a critical factor in today’s processing industry.
In addition, it is also critical to ensure the digital weight indicator selected is fully compatible with your data transmission system, and has the features, options and selections required for a specific job. Since many applications will require blending, batching, filling, dispensing or measuring by force, level weight or weight rate measurement a versatile indicator that can handle all those demands is the best option.
Data Entry to the Indicator
When different types of measurements may be required, including converting to net and gross weight in either metric or imperial measurement, having the ability to make the changes right on the terminal will be critical.
The best digital weight indicator will have easy to use buttons that are basically just a push to change system. This is very helpful in virtually eliminating operator error. Complicated systems often cause the greatest number of errors, so simple is always best. Also, consider an indicator with the option to lock out specific buttons to limit the changes that can be made by the operator.
Many of the top models can be fully operated from any web-based application. This means that the scale operator doesn’t have to be at the terminal, or even in the building, to make the necessary adjustments.
Easily Visible
Not all areas where a digital weight indicator needs to be used are going to be areas that are well lit and free of dust and debris. By choosing an indicator with a bright, easy to read LED display data can be captured and recorded right on the site, and also sent through the system or recorded and retained directly by the terminal.
Of course, it is important to verify that the digital weight indicator you select is fully compatible with the communication and networking systems you are using. There are several different possibilities for this including analog systems, Allen-Bradley I/O as well as Profibus and BCD communications.
Some digital weight indicator models allow for remote mounting, allowing up to five feet between the indicator and the scale. This is an important consideration with large loads and in specific scale configurations in a variety of processes and applications.
