One feature that is increasingly more important is the ability
for any laboratory instrument to provide data output for ISO, GLP
(Good Laboratory Practice), GMP compliance or FDA requirements.
In conjunction with this, the ability to interface with a LIMS network
is also significant. This data output helps users provide
traceable documentation when using the balance in a quality management
system. Numerous balance manufactures usually charge anywhere
from $100 to $200 to purchase their balance with the ability to
output data via an RS232 interface but, NOT Scientech.
All Scientech balances are GLP/GMP/ISO compatible and come standard
with a built-in RS232 interface.
 Either
using a computer or Scientech's optional
RS232 printer, you may print a hardcopy of either the GLP/GMP
Compliance Report and/or a Balance Test for ISO calibration compliance
anytime you desire.
This data output helps users provide traceable documentation when
using the balance in a quality management system. The user
can automatically generate a record of each calibration, adjustment,
raw data and related values. This includes date, time, balance model,
balance serial number, and the weight of the mass on the platform.
There is also a spot for the signature of the operator performing
the calibration operation to insure a documented record.
Weight reading by themselves are useless unless they are tagged
with some sort of identification and conforms to GLP, GMP, ISO and
LIMS standards. There are several software programs on the
market such as "The Wedge"
from TAL or Balance Talk™ from Labtronics offering the
ability to import the data outputted from the balance into popular
Windows® applications such as Word or Excel. Another program
readily available and standard with Windows®95, 98, NT or 2000
is "Hyperterminal" (Start
> Programs > Accessories > Communications > Hyperterminal.)
Eliminate manual data entries and increase your efficiency by providing
fast error-free storage of your weighing data directly to your computer.
Scientech balances are DTE (computer) devices. If communicating
to another DTE device (ie computer), a special Scientech RS232 cable
(PN11897) is required.
If you are communicating to a DCE device (printer), a modem cable
is required. Scientech offers an optional modem cable
(PN10170) for your convenience.
All Scientech balances are equipped with a bi-directional RS232
compatible interface. The interface is unidirectional (balance
send only) when the local control is set to ON. To enable
the bi-directional interface, set the local control to OFF.
The RS232 connector is a 9 pin D subminiature connector located
on the balance rear panel.
The pinout and pin descriptions are shown below.
The ext reset, on pin 1, is deactivated on all balances carrying
the CE mark.
Data from balances can be collected and processed
for more advanced applications in the manufacturing and industrial
environments such as pharmaceuticals and bio technology markets.
Contracting a software developer to create a custom program is one
costly option. For additional information on the RS232 format,
commands and specifications we recommend you download the Instruction Manual and review pages 18 -26. |
