Accurate Technology DigiScale 18 User manual

Models 18 & 28
DigiScale™
User Manual

Manual Part # 800-1404-001, Rev B Page 2 of 36

Accurate Technology DigiScale Models 18 & 28 User Manual Page 3 of 36
WARRANTY
Accurate Technology, Inc. warrants the DigiScale Models 18 & 28 against
defective parts and workmanship for 1 year commencing from the date of
original purchase. Upon notification of a defect, Accurate Technology, Inc.,
shall have the option to repair or replace any defective part. Such services
shall be the customer's sole and exclusive remedy. Expenses incidental to
repair, maintenance, or replacement under warranty, including those for labor
and material, shall be borne by Accurate Technology, Inc. (Including freight
or transportation charges during the first 30 days).
Except as expressly provided in this warranty, Accurate Technology, Inc.
does not make any warranties with respect to the product, either expressed
or implied, including implied warranties of merchantability or fitness for a
particular purpose, except as expressly provided in this agreement.
Accurate Technology, Inc. shall not be liable for any special, incidental, or
consequential damages or for loss, damage or expense directly or indirectly
arising from the customer's use of or inability to use the equipment either
separately or in combination with other equipment, or for personal injury or
loss or destruction of other property, or from any other cause.
To request repair work, (either warranty qualified parts or not) contact
Accurate Technology, Inc. directly by phone, fax, or e-mail. A Returned
Merchandise Authorization (RMA) number is required before returning a
product for repair.
Accurate Technology, Inc.
+1 828.654.7920 800.233.0580 828.654.8824 (F)
www.proscale.com [e-mail]
P/N 800-1404-001, Rev B Copyright © 2010, Accurate Techno ogy, Inc. A rights reserved.
S
SA AF FE ET TY Y W WA AR RN NI IN NG G
Before installing DigiScale on any machinery:
Turn off machine and disconnect power.
S
SA AF FE ET TY Y W WA AR RN NI IN NG G

Manual Part # 800-1404-001, Rev B Page 4 of 36
Table of Contents
SECTION 1 GENERAL INFORMATION................................................. 6
INTRODUCTION........................................................................................... 6
ABOUT THIS MANUAL.................................................................................. 6
SPECIFICATIONS......................................................................................... 6
SPECIFICATIONS......................................................................................... 7
ABOUT DIGISCALE...................................................................................... 8
Scale.................................................................................................... 8
Encoder................................................................................................ 8
Digital Readouts................................................................................... 8
SECTION 2 INSTALLATION.................................................................. 9
MODEL 18................................................................................................. 9
MODEL 28................................................................................................11
FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS................................................................13
SECTION 3 DIGI READOUT................................................................14
MOUNTING ...............................................................................................14
THE LCD .................................................................................................15
CHANGING THE BATTERIES.........................................................................15
CHANGING THE BATTERIES.........................................................................16
CALIBRATION ............................................................................................16
CIRCUIT BOARD JUMPERS..........................................................................17
OPERATION ..............................................................................................18
Readout Keys......................................................................................18
TIMING........................................................................................................ 18
ON/OFF ....................................................................................................... 18
UNITS KEY ................................................................................................... 18
+AND -KEYS ............................................................................................... 19
DATUM KEY.................................................................................................. 19
Readout Functions...............................................................................19
REVERSE READINGS...................................................................................... 19
INCREMENTAL MEASUREMENTS....................................................................... 20
KEY LOCK ................................................................................................... 21
RESOLUTION................................................................................................ 21
RESTORE READOUT TO FACTORY SETTINGS....................................................... 21
PROGRAMMING .........................................................................................22
Programming Parameters....................................................................23
Pr 1 – Datum Key Value........................................................................... 23
Pr 2 – Reading Direction.......................................................................... 23
Pr 3 – Key Lockout................................................................................... 23
Pr 4 – Resolution ..................................................................................... 23

Accurate Technology DigiScale Models 18 & 28 User Manual Page 5 of 36
SECTION 4 COMPACT READOUT.......................................................24
MOUNTING ...............................................................................................24
Surface Mount Configuration................................................................24
Panel Mount Configuration...................................................................25
THE LCD .................................................................................................26
CHANGING THE BATTERY ...........................................................................26
CALIBRATION ............................................................................................26
CIRCUIT BOARD JUMPERS..........................................................................27
OPERATION ..............................................................................................28
Readout Keys......................................................................................28
TIMING........................................................................................................ 28
IN/MM KEY................................................................................................... 29
+AND -KEYS ............................................................................................... 29
DATUM KEY.................................................................................................. 30
Readout Functions...............................................................................31
REVERSE READINGS...................................................................................... 31
INCREMENTAL MEASUREMENTS....................................................................... 31
KEY LOCK.................................................................................................... 32
RESOLUTION................................................................................................ 32
RESTORE READOUT TO FACTORY SETTINGS....................................................... 32
PROGRAMMING .........................................................................................33
Programming Parameters....................................................................34
Pr 1 – Datum Key Value........................................................................... 34
Pr 2 – Reading Direction.......................................................................... 34
Pr 3 – Key Lockout................................................................................... 34
Pr 4 – Resolution ..................................................................................... 34
ERROR CODES.........................................................................................35

Manual Part # 800-1404-001, Rev B Page 6 of 36
SECTION 1 GENERAL INFORMATION
Introduction
DigiScale is a general purpose linear measuring system It consists of three
major parts: a SCALE, an ENCODER and a DIGITAL READOUT.
DigiScale is an ideal choice for most measuring requirements up to 60 inches
where affordable digital precision (better than a tape measure) is desired.
Because DigiScale shows the exact measurement on its readout, it
eliminates the ambiguity and mistakes involved when reading and
interpreting tape measures, scales & pointer, or shaft encoders.
Because DigiScale is a solid-state electronic device there's very little to wear
out. The encoder and scale are designed to withstand shop dirt, dust, and
other airborne contaminants. With normal care, DigiScale will last for years.
About This Manual
•This manual includes theory and INSTALLATION information for DigiScale
Models 18 & 28 Scales and Encoders.
•This manual includes OPERATION information for the Digi and the
Compact Readouts used with DigiScale systems.
Digi
Readout
Part #
700-1600-D55
With Firmware Version d 2.xxx & higher
(Firmware version is displayed on power-up)
2AA alkaline batteries
Side input
Compact
Readout
Part #
700-1600-710
With Firmware Version b 2.xxx & higher
(Press and hold the DATUM key for 7 seconds to
display the firmware version.)
1 CR123 Lithium battery
Rear input
Surface or panel mount

Accurate Technology DigiScale Models 18 & 28 User Manual Page 7 of 36
Specifications
Measuring Range: *
Model 18 up to 10 inches
Model 28 up to 60 inches
Accuracy:
Model 18 ± .010 inches
Model 28 ± .012 Inches
Readout Resolution .1inch .1mm or
.01inch .01mm or
.001inch .01mm or
1/16, 1/32 or 1/64 inch
Repeatability: .001inch or .01mm
Readout Range: + 999.999 in; + 399 63/64 in; + 9999.99 mm
Operating Power:
Digi Readout 2 AA Alkaline Batteries
Compact Readout 1 CR123 Lithium Battery
Operating Temp: 40 to 110°F
Slew Rate: 60 inches/second
Encoder cable: 72 inch
* MEASUREMENT range is approximately 4 inches shorter than the PHYSICAL
length of the aluminum scale extrusion.

Manual Part # 800-1404-001, Rev B Page 8 of 36
About DigiScale
All DigiScale systems consist of a SCALE (or track), an ENCODER, (or
readhead) and a DIGITAL READOUT (DRO).
Scale
The scale consists of a series of conductive patterns bonded to an aluminum
extrusion. The Model 18 Scale is .765 inches wide and comes in measuring
lengths up to 10 inches long. The Model 28 Scale is 2.02 inches wide and
comes in measuring lengths up to 60 inches.
All Scales are approximately 4 inches longer in their physical length than
their measuring range.
Encoder
The DigiScale encoder contains electronic circuitry that transmits and
receives signals to and from the scale using a patented technology called
inductive coupling. This data is then sent to the digital readout where it can
be displayed in millimeters, inches, or fractions.
Multiple encoders, each connected to a digital readout, may be used on the
same scale simultaneously.
Models 18 & 28 encoders have black
housings with a cable exiting from one
corner. The encoder orientation on the
scale may be reversed to reverse the
direction of the measurement readings,
or they may be reversed through
programming in the digital readout.
All Models 18 & 28 encoders are supplied
with a 6 foot (72 inch) cable.
Digital Readouts
DigiScale Models 18 & 28 can be used with either of two Digital Readouts.
Refer to SECTION 3and SECTION 4of this manual for information about
programming, installation and operation of these readouts.
DigiScale Models 18 & 28

Accurate Technology DigiScale Models 18 & 28 User Manual Page 9 of 36
Connector Link
SECTION 2 INSTALLATION
Model 18
The Model 18 can be used in many different measurement applications, and
with numerous types of equipment. Therefore all installations will be a little
different and it is the responsibility of the user to choose the bolts, screws, or
other mounting hardware that provides a quality installation and optimum
operation in their application.
Determine an appropriate mounting location and position for DigiScale in
your measuring application. Most installations of the Model 18 will hold the
encoder stationary and allow the scale to pass through the encoder during
measurement. If you choose this installation proceed to Step 1.
However, the DigiScale will also operate correctly is the encoder is moved
along the scale during measurements. If you choose this method, proceed
directly to Step 2
Note: Never drill through the colored portion of the scale at any point over
which the encoder will travel.
1. Stationary Encoder installation
Attach one end of the Connector Link to the scale
using the included screw and fasten the other end of
the connector link to the moving part of the measuring
application or machine. Attach the encoder to a fixed
point using three screws or bolts. Insure that the scale
is properly aligned to pass through the encoder with
the direction of motion of the moving part. Be sure
connections are secure or inaccurate readings could
result. Plug the encoder cable into the readout.
E
nd
v
iew
of
Model 18
DigiScale

Manual Part # 800-1404-001, Rev B Page 10 of 36
Guide Clip
2. Stationary Scale installation
If your application is better suited for the scale to be held stationary and
the encoder moved along it during a measurement, you
should use the Guide Clip to capture the encoder and
move it along the scale (see illustration).
Attach the scale to a fixed point in your application
using the included screw. Place the encoder on the
scale. Attach the guide clip to a moving point in your
application such that the slot on the underside of the
clip engages the post on the top of the encoder and
captures it’s movement along the scale. The guide clip
should exert some pressure on the encoder over the
full range of travel as the two move as a single unit.
Insure the scale and encoder are properly aligned as the encoder is
moved (the guide clip will compensate for slight misalignment in the
direction perpendicular to movement). Adjust the scale alignment if
necessary. Plug the encoder cable into the readout.
Refer to the Digital Readout Operation manual that accompanied your
DigiScale.
Encoder stationary, Scale moving
Scale stationary, Encoder moving
Guide Clip
S cale
Encoder
M oving part
Moving Part
Connector Link
Encoder
Scale

Accurate Technology DigiScale Models 18 & 28 User Manual Page 11 of 36
Guide Clip
Model 28
The Model 28 can be used in many different measurement applications, and
with numerous types of equipment. Therefore all installations will be a little
different and it is the responsibility of the user to choose the bolts, screws, or
other mounting hardware that provides a quality installation and optimum
operation in their application.
Determine an appropriate mounting location and position for DigiScale in
your measuring application. Most installations of the Model 28 will hold the
scale stationary as the encoder moves along it during measurement.
However, the DigiScale will also operate correctly if the scale is moved
through the encoder during measurements; however this type of installation
is not recommended for the Model 28.
Note: Never drill through the colored portion of the scale at any point over
which the encoder will travel.
When installing the Model 28 you should use the Guide Clip to capture the
encoder movement along the scale (see illustrations).
1. Attach the scale to a fixed point in your application
using the included screws. Be sure the screw heads
do not protrude above the surface of the extrusion.
Place the encoder on the scale. Attach the guide clip
to a moving point in your application such that the
slot on the underside of the clip engages the post on
the top of the encoder and captures its movement
along the scale. The guide clip should exert some
pressure on the encoder over the full range of travel
as the two move as a single unit. Be sure the scale
and encoder are properly aligned as the encoder is
End
v
iew
of
Model
2
8
DigiScale

Manual Part # 800-1404-001, Rev B Page 12 of 36
moved (the guide clip will compensate for slight misalignment in the
direction perpendicular to movement). Adjust the scale alignment if
necessary. Plug the encoder cable into the readout.
Refer to the Digital Readout OPERATION manual that accompanied your
DigiScale.
Typical Model 28 Installation
M odel 28
Sca le
En co de r
M ovin g P a rt
G uide Clip
E n c o d e r
M o d e l 28 S c ale
(1 .3 ")
(.8 3 " )
G u ide C lip

Accurate Technology DigiScale Models 18 & 28 User Manual Page 13 of 36
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I mount the Scale/Encoder without the connector link/guide clip?
Yes. However, the connector link and guide clip serve to provide an
accurate method of transferring the movement of the encoder or
scale, while also absorbing any stresses that may occur. If they are
not used, your system could be damaged and the warranty could
be voided.
What does no Enc
no Encno Enc
no Enc mean?
If the encoder is off the scale, or unplugged from the readout,
a no Enc
no Encno Enc
no Enc will appear on the readout. To clear the error:
1. Be sure the encoder is on the scale.
2. Plug the encoder into the readout.
3. Unplug the encoder from the readout for one second then
reconnect it.
How do I calibrate my DigiScale?
There is no calibration available or necessary for the DigiScale.
System accuracy will depend on the accuracy of the DigiScale Scale
itself and the quality of the installation.

Manual Part # 800-1404-001, Rev B Page 14 of 36
SECTION 3 DIGI READOUT
This Section includes information for:
Digital Readout, LCD, DIGI Part Number: 700-1600-D55
With Firmware Version d 2.xxx & higher
(Firmware version is displayed on power-up)
Mounting
The Readout may be mounted:
•Using Velcro or Double sided tape
•Drilling out the 3 holes from the inside of the case
•Using any of the six holes on the back of the case which may tapped for
M2 or 4-40 screws.

Accurate Technology DigiScale Models 18 & 28 User Manual Page 15 of 36
The LCD
The above figure illustrates all the segments available on the Dig Readout.
(Not all segments are used)
CAUTION
Pressing and holding the ON/OFF and UNITS key for 10 seconds
with power off will perform a full segment LCD test, display the
current firmware version, and RESET ALL PROGRAMMING
PARAMETERS TO FACTORY DEFAULTS.

Manual Part # 800-1404-001, Rev B Page 16 of 36
Changing the Batteries
A low battery indicator will appear in the lower left corner of the LCD. When
battery voltage drops below approximately 2.6V the readout will turn itself off
until the batteries are replaced.
To replace the battery remove the screws in the upper right and lower left
corners. Pull the cover off. Remove the old batteries. Reinstall 2 new AA
Alkaline batteries, noting the proper orientation. Replace the cover and
tighten the screws.
CAUTION: DO NOT BEND THE BATTERY CLIPS!
THESE CLIPS ARE DESIGNED TO BE LOOSE WHEN THE CASE
IS OPEN AND WILL COMPRESS AND SECURE THE BATTERIES
IN PLACE WHEN THE CASE HALVES ARE SCREWED TOGETHER.
Calibration
There is no calibration available or necessary for the DIGI readout.
System accuracy will depend on the accuracy of the DigiScale and the
quality of the installation.

Accurate Technology DigiScale Models 18 & 28 User Manual Page 17 of 36
Circuit Board Jumpers
The Digi readout has several user configurable jumpers consisting of three
pins and a ‘shorting block or jumper’.
The center of these three pins is ‘Common’.
One end pin is labeled Aand the other end pin is labeled B.
JP1 FACTORY USE ONLY
JP2 Programming Lockout
Position A, Front Panel Programming is ENABLED
Position B, Front Panel Programming is DISABLED
JP1
JP2

Manual Part # 800-1404-001, Rev B Page 18 of 36
Operation
Readout Keys
TIMING
The keys pictured above, are found on all Digi readouts, and some of them
have multiple functions.
Timing, which is how long a key is depressed, and the combination of the
keys pressed is important. This manual uses the term ‘”momentarily” to
describe a key press of shorter than 1 second. Whereas the term “press and
hold” is used to describe a key press of longer than 1.5 seconds. As an
example; when using a PC keyboard to type a capital letter you would “press
and hold” the SHIFT key and “momentarily depress the LETTER key. In
addition most of the key “functions” are executed on RELEASE, not press.
This is important since some of the same keys execute different functions
based on how long they are pressed and when they are released. These key
operations, once tried will quickly become intuitive.
ON/OFF
Momentarily pressing the ON/OFF key will cause the readout to turn on or off.
The Firmware Version of the readout is displayed on power-up when ON/OFF
key is used. While the readout is on, if the encoder is not moved for 15
minutes, the readout will automatically turn itself off to conserve battery life.
While it is off if the encoder is moved as little as .002in (.05mm), or the
ON/OFF key is pressed, the readout will automatically turn itself back on with
no loss of position.
UNITS KEY
The readout can display position information in decimal inches, fractions, or
millimeters. To change the current display mode, momentarily press the
UNITS key. With each key press the readout will cycle through decimal
inches, fractional inches and millimeters.
When the readout is in 1/16 or 1/32 inch fraction mode, a series of “bars” in
the upper right corner of the display, each representing 1/64th of an inch,
may appear. (ie. When in 1/16 inch mode and three bars are showing, the
measurement displayed is rounded down to the closest 1/16 inch and each
illuminated bar indicates an additional 1/64 of an inch of measurement.) For

Accurate Technology DigiScale Models 18 & 28 User Manual Page 19 of 36
better resolution, switch to 1/32 or 1/64 mode. For the best resolution and
accuracy switch to a decimal mode – inches or millimeters.
When the measurement is greater than 99 63/64 inches, a +100
+100+100
+100 and/or
+200
+200+200
+200 will illuminate in the upper right portion of the display to indicate this
amount must be added to the displayed reading. ie: If the measurement is
154 5/8 inches, 54 5/8 and +100
+100+100
+100 will be illuminated on the display. If the
measurement is -307 23/64 inches, - 7 23/64, +100
+100+100
+100 and +200
+200+200
+200 will be
illuminated on the display.
+AND -KEYS
The + (plus) and –(minus) keys are used to change the currently displayed
position to a different value.
Momentarily depressing the + key increments the current position by one unit
of measurement. Momentarily depressing the –key decrements the current
position by one unit. Pressing and holding the + or –keys will cause the
displayed position to change continuously. Holding down the key will cause
the amount of change to speed up. This allows for quick adjustments over a
range of large values.
DATUM KEY
The DATUM key forces the readout to display a user programmed value.
See Section 3: Programming, Programming Parameter Pr1.
NOTE: While the DATUM key can be used to simply “zero” the currently
displayed value, it can also be programmed to force the readout to a preset
value. This can be zero, or any other displayable value.
Readout Functions
REVERSE READINGS
Reverse readings means changing the direction of readings produced by
moving the encoder. If the readout decrements (reduces or goes negative)
when it should be incrementing (increasing or going positive), the readout will
need to be re-programmed for your application.
See Section 3: Programming, Programming Parameter Pr2.

Manual Part # 800-1404-001, Rev B Page 20 of 36
INCREMENTAL MEASUREMENTS
The readout has two measurement modes, or indexes. One is referred to as
ABS or Absolute, and the other as INC, or Incremental.The absolute
measurement mode allows the operator to read the current position of the
encoder referenced from a fixed or known position-usually zero.
The incremental mode allows the operator to make relative distance
measurements from one arbitrary point to another. The absolute position of
the DigiScale is not lost when using the incremental mode.
Absolute: The readout automatically enters ABS mode when power is first
applied. This is indicated by the ABS
ABSABS
ABS symbol in the upper left corner of the
display. While in the ABS mode, all encoder positions are related to the
current ABS, or absolute system reference point.
Incremental: To enter the INC mode, press and hold the UNITS key for
approximately 3 seconds. The INC
INCINC
INC symbol will appear in the upper left corner
of the display. When the INC mode is entered the readout will display zero
(0) or the last offset if one was entered, and may be changed by using the +
or -keys to provide a different offset. Moving the encoder in either direction
will display the distance moved from the initial INC starting point (plus any
offset). To complete another incremental measurement from the new
position, momentarily press the UNITS key. The readout will again change to
0 (or the previously programmed offset). To return to the ABS mode, press
and hold the UNITS key for approximately 3 seconds.
NOTES: when the readout is in incremental measuring mode the UNITS key
no longer functions to change the measurement units displayed.
The absolute position of the DigiScale is not lost when using the incremental
mode. When the readout is switched back to the absolute mode the readout
reflects the current encoder position relative to your original calibrated
absolute setting.