Digitron ULD User manual

Suspended Scale
Operation Manual
April 2007
Digi-Tron Specialists in Industrial Weighing
www.digitronbalancas.com.br
Index
1. Introduction………3
2. Installation………...4
Accessories provided together with the scale………….4
3. Operation……………….6
Keypad functions……6
Scale functions…………6
Zeroing……………6
Automatic zero………..6
Manual zero………………..6
Weighing with tare……………..7
Weighing tare……………7
Weight counter……………..7
Remote Control…………………..8
Automatic shut-down of the scale…8
Battery Use……………………8
Setting the clock………………9
RS 232 Serial Port………….10
Communication with a computer- terminal mode………10
Label printer…………..11
Maximum limit retention…………12
4. General Configurations…………………15
Digital Filter…………15
Readings per second…………………………16
Serial interface…………………….16
Communication speed……………..17
Display shut off time……………17
Miscellaneous…………………18
Keypad tone………………18
Clock………………18
Activating weight counter…..19
Maximum limit…….19
5. Troubleshooting…………………..21
Error Zero……………………21
Error Five……………..21
Error Six………………..21
Error Seven……………………..21
Error Eight…………………..22
Low battery……………………..22
Excess Weight……………….22
Underweight……………..22
Blinking display……………….22
Display with some segments dimly lit…………………..23
Scale fails to turn on…………………….23
Scale turns off after weighing or counting………….23

1. Introduction
Dear User,
This manual contains instructions on how to install and operate the suspended scale model ULD,
designed with technology and quality standards set by Digi-Tron, a company specialized in
precision instruments.
Its proper functioning, however, depends also on the treatment and care given by the user, as much
in the installation as in its daily use. It is, therefore, necessary to carefully read all the instructions
contained in this manual, as well as abide by them.
Only technicians certified by IPEM (Instituto de Pesos e Medidas/ Weights and Measures Institute)
are allowed to open the instrument’s seal. The breaking of the seal by persons not certified by
IPEM will result in the automatic annulment of the Digi-Tron guarantee and violates federal laws.
We recommend that any technical problem be directed to Digi-Tron´s Technical Assistance
Department so that we may direct you to an authorized technician.
2. Installation
Your product is a mass weighing instrument and you should take certain cautions during its use.
Before putting your scale to use, it is important to observe the following items:
-Verify that the instrument has not suffered any damage during delivery.
-Check accessories
-Take off protective insulation. (Instruments with dimensions up to 700x700mm)
-Fasten the articulated feet that are in the indicator’s packaging. (Scales 800x800mm
and up, follow the following instructions)
-Adjust the level and then lock the articulated feet using the nuts and bolts if the case
may be.
-The scale cannot undergo any kind of impact or overweighing on the weighing
platform so that there is no damage to the load receptor. Always place cargo as close
to the center of the scale as possible so that there is no lateral force on the load
receptors and so that you get the best weight distribution over the entire scale.
-Do not use the keypad with sharp objects in order to avoid damages to the keypad’s
circuits.
-The cleaning and keeping of the entire scale will also avoid unnecessary
maintenance. When possible, clean the scale with a damp cloth.
-Always clean the scale with the power cord unplugged.
-Always make sure that the scale’s cables and connectors are in perfect condition for
they are essential for proper function.
Maximum performance of your instrument depends on proper installation.
2.1 Accessories provided together with the scale:
- 01 Battery charger 12V 110/220V;
- 01 Remote Control to Tare Key (instruments up to 1000Kg);
- 02 Batteries 12V/12Ah (instruments up to 1000Kg);
- 02 Batteries 12V/7Ah (instruments until 500Kg).

3. Operation
3.1 Keypad functions
3.2 Scale Functions
L >>L Access counter mode
L>>T Access Cut edit mode (some models) and
configure user privileges.
L>>Z Activate Maximum Limit Detector Mode
(some models)
L>>I Access clock configuration
3.3 Zeroing
Bias in zeroing occurs due to variations in temperature, residue on the platform, impact
incurred to the weighing platform, or the scale being uneven. If there is nothing on the
platform and the zero indicators is off, it is necessary to zero the scale. There are two ways
to do so:
3.4 Automatic Zero
It is activated periodically and zeroes the reading up to + units. For example: if you have a
10kg scale with 1g divisions, this setting zeroes in the range of -3g to 3g.
3.5 Manual Zero
Press Z with the platform empty to zero the scale.
This setting zeroes the reading up to +20 units. After a successful weighing, the zero
indicator should be lit and the display showing zero. In the case that the indicator does not
light up, the weight is too heavy and is out of the automatic zero range or the platform is
oscillating. In this case press the Z button to zero the reading on the display.
3.6 Weighing without tare
L Turn display on/off
T Set tara
Z Set zero
I Print weight
I (held for 2
seconds) Print total net weight

Before starting a simple weighing, verify these items:
-The platform is empty
-There are no obstructions to the weighing platform
-The zero and kg indicators are lit
With these items in order, you may place the product to be weighed on the scale. Avoid
impacting the platform. When the cargo is on the scale and only the kg indicator is lit, it
means that the cargo is stable and the reading is accurate.
3.7 Weighing with tare
In this process you wish to weigh a product and subtract the weight of packaging, for
example.
-Gross weight: Weight of the packaging plus the material, that is, the total weight that
is on the scale.
-Net weight: is the weight that is inside the packaging.
-Tara: is the weight that will be subtracted. Ex: packaging
3.8 Weight Counter
The sensitivity of the scale counter is 1/10, that is, one tenth of the unit division value. For
example: a scale with a maximum cargo of 100kg with unit divisions of 0.01kg is capable of
counting pieces weighing 0.001kg and up.
To use the counter mode you need to configure the scale giving the weight and number of
samples.
Place the weight to be subtracted on the scale
and press the T button. The scale reads the tare.
The display will blink in the case that the
platform is oscillating or without any cargo.
The tare indicator will stay lit, indicating that the
scale is operating in tare mode.
To exit tare mode, press the T button again.
Note: The button is only accessible from the
moment that the minimum weight limit is
exceeded (20 units), which is indicated on the
keypad.

Set the tare with the packaging that with receive the
sample.
Press the T button to set the tare.
Press the L button two times and the word ``tare´´ will
appear on the display. Press the T button and the text will
start to blink. At this time, do not touch the platform.
OBS: In the case that you are not using any packaging the
display will read `VAZIA´ (empty).
The word PESO (weight) will appear the samples should
be placed in the packaging.
Press ´T`, the word will start to blink. At this time do not
touch the platform. Whatever mistake will cancel the
configuration (message ERRO 6/ error 6) and the
procedure will have to be repeated.
After reading the weight, the message qtd will appear.
Press ´T´ to enter the number of samples.
Note: The qtd message will only appear if the number of
samples is greater than or equal to the minimum weight
(20 unit divisions).
For example, there are 10 pieces to be weighed. Press the
´T` button to see the cursor.
Press the `L` button to change the value.
Press the ´Z´ button to accept the value and start the
counter.

Note 1: The more weight samples you use, the fewer the counting errors, and the closer the
sample’s unit weight will be to the average weight calculated by the scale.
Note 2: To be more efficient in counting, it is essential that the scale be level and away from
any outside interference (air currents, vibrations, etc.).
3.9 Remote Control
This resource is offered only in the capacities up to 1000Kg.
The control provided with the scale performs the “T” key function. It should be used when
there is no possibility to accede manually the Tare key. If a tare is started manually, it should
be cancelled by the remote control or vice versa.
3.10Automatic shut-down of the display.
The scale is configured to shut-down the display automatically when it’s in stand-by loaded
or not. The time is 60s.
In this case, the stable weight LED keeps blinking.
Press the “L” button or move the scale and it will return to the weighing mode.
OBS: To change the automatic shut-down time of the display it is necessary verify the menu
general configurations item 4.1.
3.11Battery Use
The suspended scale is provided with two 12V/12Ah batteries and a battery charger. We
recommend change the battery every twelve hours. The battery charging time is
approximately 6 hours. In the case of using the scale with low battery the display will show
the message “LOW BAT” or “Erro 8”.
Press the ´L`button to alternate between w
eight and
number of pieces.
Finalizing the weight counter mode
To finalize the weight counter mode and return to
weighing mode, press the `L´button two times.

3.12Setting the Clock
The clock displays the time that will be printed on the tickets.
The clock is powered by a long-life lithium battery when the scale is turned off. An error
message is shown when the battery is low, making it necessary to change the battery and
reset the clock. (see error 7)
Pressing the L and I buttons in sequence will
access the clock configuration mode.
Press Z to choose between setting the hour,
date, day of the week, and year.
Press T to set the clock.
Time
Date
Day of
the Week
Year
Press the T button to choose the day of the week or
place the cursor on the time, date, and
year
adjustments.
Press the L button to change the number
above the cursor on the time, date, and year
adjustments.
Press Z to accept the adjusted value.

3.13 RS 232 Serial Port
The scale has a RS232 serial communication port. It is used to connect the scale to a
computer or serial printer to print labels.
OBS: To use the serial port is necessary to install the radio frequency communication kit –
RF.
3.13.1 Communication with a computer- Terminal Mode
This option allows the scale to be connected to a PC so that with the use of
management software it is possible to control the weighing and print reports and
labels. The scale’s communication port has a configurable speed from 300 bps (bits
per second) to 19200 bps. The instrument leaves the factory set at 9600 bps. A
serial cable is required to connect the scale, the weight information is sent
continuously.
The scale continuously transmits a fixed stream of 8 bytes. The data are 8 bits in
size.
The stream for Modo Contadora (Counting Mode) is in the format in Figure 1.
0 primeiro byte - 0 first byte
Contadora - counter
Sobrecarga - excess weight
Quantidade negativa - negative quantity
Equilíbrio - equilibrium
Centro de zero - zero center
Modo tara - tare mode
Quantidade (byte + significativo) - quantity (byte + significative)
Quantidade (byte + signifacativo) - quantity (byte + significative)
Retorno de carro - carriage return
Status- status
Fim de frame- end of frame
Figure 1- Stream for Counter Mode
A stream for WEIGHING MODE has the format shown in Figure 2. This stream is also
appears in COUNTER MODE, when the L button is pressed to alternate between quantity
and weight.
Peso (byte + significado)- weight (byte + significative)
Figure 2- Stream for WEIGHING MODE
For example, a stream transmitted in Counter Mode is
visualized in Hyper Terminal as D00005.
For example, a stream transmitted in WEIGHING
MODE is visualized in Hyper Terminal as E1234.5.

The weight or the quantity is coded in ASC II with decimal point. The carriage return
character is 0x0D (hexadecimal).
The sending of the stream is interrupted in the case that there is no significance. The excess
weight bit is set when there is excess weight (superior trace) or underweight (inferior traces)
or analogical digital converter exceeding (Error 5).
Note: For more details about configuring the serial port, check the general configurations
item.
3.13.2 Printing Labels
The scale offers several label printing options. The serial port just needs to be
configured for such (see general configurations item). There are three printer models
compatible with the scales.
-Epson LX300 / LX300+ Dot Matrix Printer – Adhesive Label Printing
-Epson LX300 / LX300+ Dot Matrix Printer – Adhesive Label Printing
-Bematech MP20MI Dot Matrix Printer – Ticket Printing
- Argox OS 214 Thermal Printer – Bar Code Label Printing
Observation:
-To verify with what printer model your scale is compatible, check the code that appears on
the display when it is turned on.
-When the scale is turned on, the display will show the word `Digi-Tron´ and then the model
and version code will appear.
-Codes starting with the letter E indicate label printing with the Epson LX300 / LX300+.
Press I to print.
The ticket will be printed as long as there is a
net weight greater than or equal to the
minimum weight to print (20 unit divisions)
on top of the platform. If the minimum is
not met, the display will blink, indicating
that there is a pending printing command.
If the minimum weight is met and the
platform is stable, the printing will go
through.
(Hold for 2s)
Ticket totals may be printed at any time. To do this, hold the I
button for more than 2 seconds. It is not necessary to have any
weight on the scale platform nor have it stable.

-Codes starting with the letter `t´indicate ticket printing with the Bematech MP20.
-Codes starting the the letter `b´ indicate label printing with the Argox OS 214.
-If the printing interface is not prompted, the communication default is with the Epson
LX300 / LX300+.
3.14 Maximum Limit Retention
The maximum limit retention function is used to store in the display the highest scale
reading possible, that is, the maximum weight will stay frozen on the display. This function
can be used for demonstrations and tests. For example: resistance tests for materials to be
weighed.
Every time the limit is exceeded the scale will beep. To return to weighing mode, press the
L and Z buttons in sequence again.
4. General Configurations
This menu will guide you through the possible scale configurations and the necessary
adjustments during the use of the instrument. These configurations are related to the
instrument’s performance. We suggest that the manual be read attentively before any
adjustment whatsoever. In the case that you should have a question, please contact our
technical department.
Pressing the L and Z button in sequence will
start the Limit Detection Mode.
The Z button will restart detection.
To access General Configurations, press
the L and T buttons in sequence.
Digital Filter
Readings per second
Serial Interface
Communication Speed
Display turn off time
Miscellaneous
Press Z to advance between
options.

4.1 Digital Filter
The Digital Filter is a mechanism that adjusts platform shock absorption. At the same time,
however, it adjusts the stabilizing time on the display (in other words, it slows down the scale).
You should choose a filter level taking into consideration the compromise between shock
absorption and weighing time. As you gain in one aspect, you loose in the other.
4.2 Reading per Second
Readings per second is the number of readings presented on the display every one second
interval. It also corresponds to the maximum rate by which the streams are sent by the serial
communication port operating in Terminal Mode.
Adjusting the number of readings per second adjusts the scale’s speed, that is, you get faster
weightings. At the same time, however, it reduces the platform’s shock absorption.
4.3 Serial Interface
From item 3 on the configura
tions menu, press the
T button
Press the T button to select the filter value from 0
until the maximum level.
To accept the value selected and return to item 3,
press Z.
From item 4 on the configurations
menu, press the T button.
Press the T button to select the
Readings per Second value.
To accept the selected value and return
to item4, press Z.

4.4 Communication Speed
The Communication Rate affects the minimum rate at which the streams send information by the
serial port operating in Terminal Mode.
4.5 Display shut-off time
This function allows the automatic shut-down of the display, saving battery-life. There is a
large reduction in electricity consumption with this function in use, since the display is the
largest electricity consumer in the scale and can be turned off after a given time of detected
inactivity.
OBS: Function recommended for instruments with batteries.
From item 5 on the configurations menu,
press the T button.
Press the T button to choose the
mode. Terminal Mode
Printer Mode
To accept the selected mode and return
to item 5, press Z.
From item 6 on the Configurations
Menu, press the T button to select the
item Interface Configuration.
Press the T button to edit the bit rate or Z
to skip to the next parameter.
Press the T button to choose the
Communication Rate given in bits per
second.
To accept the selected configuration in
item 6, press Z.

4.6 Miscellaneous
4.6.1 Keypad tone
An audio tone confirmation is emitted every time a button in pressed. It is possible to
activate or deactivate on the Miscellaneous Menu.
Press the Z button to select the SINAL DE TECLA (Keypad Tone) menu.
From item 7 on the Options Menu,
press the T button.
Press the T button to select the
DISPLAY SHUT OFF TIME.
With a selection of zero, the display
will not turn-off.
To select the configured value on item
7, press Z.
From item 8 on the Configurations
Menu, press the T button to enter
the Miscellaneous Menu.
Press the T button to select.
Press the T button to activate (1) or
deactivate (0) the function.
To accept the selected value and skip
to the next step, press Z.

4.6.2 Clock
It is possible to activate or deactivate the clock from the Miscellaneous Menu.
When activated, it is possible to alternate between Weight Mode (or Counter Mode) and the
clock by pressing the L and I buttons in sequence. If deactivated, it is not possible to access
it.
4.6.3 Activating weight counter
It is possible to activate or deactivate the weight counter from the Miscellaneous menu.
From item 8 on the Configurations
Menu, press the T button to enter the
Miscellaneous Menu.
Press the Z button when you get to the
Clock Menu.
Press the T button to select.
Press the T button to activate (1) or
deactivate (0) the function.
To accept the selected value and skip
to the next step, press Z.

When activated, it is possible to alternate between Weighing Mode and Counter Mode by
pressing the L and L buttons in sequence.
4.6.4 Maximum Limit
It is possible to activate or deactivate the Maximum Limit from the Miscellaneous Menu.
Press the Z button until you get to the DETECTOR DE PICO (Limit Detector).
From item 8 on the Option Menu,
press the T button to select the
Miscellaneous Menu.
Press the T button to select.
Press the T button to activate (1) or
deactivate (0) the function.
To accept the selected value and skip
to the next step, press Z.
From item 8 on the configurations menu, press
the T button to select the Miscellaneous menu.
Press the Z button until you reach the
CONTADOR / COUNTER menu.
Press T to select
Press the T button to activate (1) or deactivate
(0) the function.
To accept the configured value and skip to the
next step, press Z.

When activated, it is possible to turn on or off the DETECTOR DE PICO (Limit Detector)
in Counter or Weight Mode by pressing the L and Z button in sequence.
5. Troubleshooting
5.1 Error Zero
-There could be weight on the platform upon turning on the scale. Take the weight
off the platform.
-Moisture in the connectors.
-Breakdown in the cargo cells due to overload (excess weight or impact incurred to
the weighing platform).
-If the error continues, seek technical assistance.
5.2 Error Five
-Look for a bad connection in the cables or a severed cable.
-Cargo cell burned by electrical surge. (solder, lightning, short circuit, etc).
-In the case that there is no problem with the cargo cell, seek technical assistance.
-Breakdown in the cargo cell due to overload (excess weight or impact incurred to the
weighing platform).
-In the case that the error persists, get in contact with technical assistance.
-Note: In the case that error 5 is indicated, be it from impact to or overload of the
weighing platform, it is because there is a discrepancy in the cargo cell. The cargo
cell will have to substitute and a new calibration will have to be done.
5.3 Error Six
- Verify that the values were entered in Counter Mode.
- Verify that the values were entered within the configuration parameters.
Description of error: The weight is 20% heavier
than the Maximum Load upon turning on the
scale.
Description of error: Overload on the scale
beyond the cargo cell’s capacity. This error only
appears during scale operation.
Description of error: Incorrect data input.

5.4 Error 7
5.5 Error Eight
-Recharge the battery.
-Note: If this error appears recharge the battery immediately. Avoid running the
scale by battery.
5.6 Low Battery
-Recharge the battery immediately so that there is no damage to the battery or errors
in the weight readings.
5.7 Overload
-Verify overload condition. The cargo cells can be damaged.
5.8 Under weight.
- Verify the spinning of the weight cell.
- Verify that there aren’t any objects blocking the scale or pulling it on the contrary direction.
In the case that the error persists, get in contact with Technical Assistance.
Description of error: Insufficient operation
tension to give a reliable weight reading.
Description of error: When the battery is low, this
error message is shown every two minutes.
Description of error: The clock battery is low.
This problem only occurs when you check the
clock for the first time after turning it on.
Description of Error: The weight is over 5 unit
divisions of the Maximum Load.
Weight on the scale over a long period of time, can
cause small deformations in the cargo cell and the
loss of the initial zero reading.
Description of Error: The weight is equal to or less
than -20% of the Maximum Load.
Low weight cell indication, due to signal noise and
traction on the contrary direction on the weight cell.

5.9 Blinking Display
-If the display is blinking after a command on the keypad (tare or printing), there is a
pending command waiting for the platform’s stability or the minimum weight set the
tare or to print.
-If the display is blinking after starting up the scale and keeps on blinking for an
extended period of time the instrument is not able to stabilize a zero reading. Check
for vibrations in the platform.
-If the problem persists, seek technical assistance.
5.10 Display with some segments dimly lit
5.11 The Scale doesn’t turn on
Symptom: The start-up message may light up completely but shuts down immediately or lights
up and shuts down before the start-up is finished.
5.12 The scale turns off after weighing or counting
-Recharge the battery
- Check to see if the Display Shut-Off Time function is activated.
Symptom: Digits or LED´s keep blinking or are
dimly lit. Seek technical assistance.
If it turns on with the display brightly lit, there is too
much power. Seek technical assistance.
If it lights up normally but it is not able to finish the
start-up, there is not enough power. Check the
battery and recharge if necessary.
Symptom: The scale turns off after the start-up’s
00000.
Notes