Francotyp-Postalia FlexiScale User manual

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FlexiScale
A Rate Calculating Scale
for Letters and Small Packages
Operation Manual
Version 1.0
November 30 2000

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Contents
1 Introduction ........................................................................... 2
1.1 Intended Use ...................................................................................... 2
1.2 Safety Tips .......................................................................................... 2
2 Installing the FlexiScale............................................................ 3
2.1 Unpacking the FlexiScale ................................................................... 3
2.2 Setting up the FlexiScale .................................................................... 3
3 Display and Keyboard ............................................................. 5-6
3.1 Display ................................................................................................ 5
3.2 Sleep Mode ......................................................................................... 5
3.3 Keyboard............................................................................................. 5
3.3.1 Soft Keys ................................................................................... 5
3.3.2 Numeric Keys ............................................................................ 6
3.3.3 Operator Keys ........................................................................... 6
4 Operation ............................................................................ 7-8
4.1 System Prompts ................................................................................. 7
4.2 Soft Keys ............................................................................................. 7
4.3 Mailing or Shipping an Item ................................................................7
4.4 Weighing a Letter or Package ............................................................ 8
4.5 Selecting Special Services ................................................................. 8
4.6 Operation Examples ........................................................................... 8
5 Advanced Features ............................................................. 10-11
5.1 Multiple Tapes ................................................................................... 10
5.2 Piece Counting ................................................................................. 10
5.3 Remote Rate Change ....................................................................... 11
6 Setup Features (Option Key) ....................................................... 12
6.1 System Setup ................................................................................... 12
6.2 Configuration .................................................................................... 12
6.3 Rate Tables ....................................................................................... 12
6.4 Service .............................................................................................. 12
7 Rate Changes ........................................................................ 13
8 Troubleshooting ..................................................................... 14
9 Cleaning the FlexiScale ............................................................ 16
10 Technical Specifications.......................................................... 17
11 Service ............................................................................... 18
Appendix A .............................................................................. 19
Rates, Special Services and Functions .............................................. 19
Appendix B .............................................................................. 20
International Country Codes ............................................................... 20

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Section 1. Introduction
1.1 Intended Use
The FlexiScale is a rate calculating scale for letters and small packages weigh-
ing between .1 oz. and 15 lb. Rates include international and domestic U.S.P.S.
domestic U.P.S. and domestic Federal Express. Appendix A includes a com-
plete list of included rates.
Prior to using the scale please read this manual carefully and completely.
1.2 Safety Tips
The FlexiScale complies with standard safety regulations for office equipment
of its type. Before operating a FlexiScale read the following tips to assure safe
operation.
• After the FlexiScale has been in weather below 50 degrees Fahren-
heit wait at least two hours before installation.
• If any liquid is spilled onto the FlexiScale disconnect the plug from
the outlet immediately. Before connecting the scale again have it
checked by a local service representative.
• Interface cables should not be handled unless both the scale and
the postage meter are powered off. Never attempt to plug or unplug
the interface cable during a thunderstorm.
• Repairs to the FlexiScale should be conducted by a local service
representative. Attempting to repair the scale yourself will void all
warranty rights.

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Section 2. Installing the FlexiScale
2.1 Unpacking the Fle iScale
Your package includes the following parts:
• FlexiScale
• Weighing platter
• Operator’s manual
• AC Adaptor
• Interface cable
2.2 Setting up the Fle iScale
After unpacking the scale a small amount of preparation is required before the
scale can be used for mailing or shipping. Refer to the diagram below as needed.
Step 1. Remove the platter protection.
Remove the plastic platter by lifting up on it. Then remove the cardboard
protector that is situated between the four legs of the platter. Place the
platter on top of the scale and move it around until the four legs of the
platter line up with the four holes in the top of the scale. When the legs of
the platter are aligned with the holes in the scale press down on the
platter until it rests firmly in place.
Step 2. Install the postage meter.
If you are using the FlexiScale without an FP postage meter continue to
Step 3.
Step 3. Locate the interface cable.
After placing the scale in its area of use locate the interface cable. Con-
nect the small end of the interface cable to the connector on the rear of the
scale. Connect the large end of the interface cable to the connector on the
rear of the meter. Configure the scale for your meter type (See Section 6).
Locate the AC Adapter. Connect the female end of the AC Adapter to the
connector on the back of the scale then plug the opposing end of the
adapter into an AC outlet.

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Step 4. Turn the power switch to the "ON" position to begin Initialization.
Step 5. Initialization – entering the origin postal code.
When the power switch is in the “ON” position for the first time the
scale prompts for the origin postal code. Enter the origin zip code.
The scale displays the postal code entered and prompts you to verify
(Yes or No) if the postal code displayed is correct. If the postal code is
correct press the “ENTER” key to complete the initialization. If the
postal code is incorrect press the “C/CE” key and enter the correct
postal code.

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Section 3. Display and Keyboard
3.1 Display
The display is an LCD (Liquid Crystal Display) capable of displaying various
sizes of characters and graphic images.
As shown in the diagram above the scale displays the class of mail available
selected special services weight and calculated rate. When additional infor-
mation is needed the scale will prompt for the information in pop-up windows
or display other menu selections.
3.2 Sleep Mode
If the scale is left unattended for five minutes it will automatically go to sleep
(darken display) to conserve energy. While in the “SLEEP” mode the scale
retains the last transaction information in memory. When weight is placed on
the platter or a key is pressed the display returns to normal operating mode.
3.3 Keyboard
The keyboard is composed of numeric keys operator keys and four soft keys.
The four operator keys are located directly beneath the display. The numeric
keys are grouped on the far right side of the keyboard while the four soft keys
are located directly to the right of the display.
3.3.1 SOFT KEYS
The four keys located to the right of the graphic display are the
soft keys. These keys interact with the graphic display and are
used to make menu selections that guide you through the rate
calculation process. The two arrow keys to the right of the soft
keys allow you to move the soft key selections up and down as
indicated by the arrow in the display.

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3.3.2 NUMERIC KEYS
The numeric keys (0-9) are used when numeric data needs to be
entered into the system. The ENTER key is used to enter the dis-
played data while the C/CE key is used to clear the current nu-
meric entry. The C/CE key also returns you to the previous screen.
3.3.3 OPERATOR KEYS
The four keys shown in the diagram below are located below the
display and perform a variety of operator functions related to rate
calculations as well as actual scale operation. In each case press-
ing the key will activate the chosen function or display multiple
selections.
Courier Key. The "COURIER" key is used to select one of the available
carriers (e.g. U.S.P.S. FedEx or U.P.S.) to use for rate calculation.
Options Key. The "OPTIONS" key allows access to the scale’s extra fea-
tures including piece counting service menus and system setup.
Refer to Section 6 for the system setup procedures.
Label Key. The "LABEL" key is used to print either single or multiple post-
age tapes. If a U.S.P.S. postage value appears in the display press-
ing the "LABEL" key once will send the charges to the meter gen-
erating a postage tape. Pressing and holding the "LABEL" key for
three seconds activates the function to generate a quantity of la-
bels on the postage meter. Refer to Section 5.1 for the multiple
labels procedure.
Zero Key. The "ZERO" key is used to zero or tare the scale. When the
scale is in the weighing mode with nothing on the weighing platter
and this key is selected the scale zeroes the weight. If a con-
tainer is on the scale and the key is selected the weight of the
container is tared.

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Section 4. Operation
4.1 System Prompts
The FlexiScale prompts for information in two ways.
• Numeric Entry – This type of prompt appears as a text box with
underscores. Use the numeric keys to enter the requested data and
press the "ENTER" key to complete the entry. If you make a mistake
during the entry press the "C/CE" key to start over.
• Menu – These prompts are answered by selecting the appropriate
keyboard soft key.
4.2 Soft Keys
During normal operation the soft keys represent class of mail and special
service keys that are not present on the keyboard. The following are notes on
the soft keys:
• The scale displays the selected soft key selection in a reverse video
mode. This will only be seen at the special services level.
• If more than four menu selections are available an arrow appears
indicating that additional selections are available by pressing either
the up or down arrow key.
4.3 Mailing or Shipping an Item
There are a number of basic steps to shipping a letter or package. Some carri-
ers may require fewer steps. Refer to Section 4.6 for detailed examples.
1. Place the letter or package on the scale’s platter and allow the
weight indication to stabilize. For more information on weighing
an item see Section 4.4.
2. Press the "C/CE" key until the class of mail and rate no longer
appear on the left side of the display.
3. Press the soft key corresponding to the desired class of mail.
4. If necessary press the soft key corresponding to the item’s sub-
class of mail e.g. letter for international rates.
5. If desired select a special service (i.e. registered insurance etc.).
For more information on selecting special services see Section 4.5.

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4.4 Weighing a Letter or Package
Before weighing an item make sure the scale shows a zero weight indication.
If it does not remove all items from the platter and press the "ZERO" key.
To weigh an item place it on the center of the weighing platter. Once the weight
stabilizes the scale displays the weight. If the scale detects motion it blanks
the weight display. If the scale detects motion for an extended period of time it
displays "UNSTABLE." If the item weight exceeds the scale’s weight capacity it
displays "OVER WEIGHT."
4.5 Selecting Special Services
After selecting the class of mail press the corresponding "SPECIAL SERVICES"
soft key to select a service.
When a value must be entered to determine the special service fee the scale
allows for a numeric entry. As the number is entered the value shifts to the left
until the required value is indicated. Press the "ENTER" key to accept the input.
To select another special service press another "SPECIAL SERVICES" soft
key. To cancel a selected special service press the "highlighted" soft key again.
4.6 Operation E amples
To calculate a first class rate:
Action Resulting Display
1. Press the C/CE key un-
til you see the "READY
SCREEN" as shown at
right. NOTE: If this
screen does not ap-
pear press the "COU-
RIER KEY" and select
U.S.P.S.
2. Place your mail on the
weighing platter and
select first class rates
by pressing the "1ST
CLASS" soft key.

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To calculate an international rate:
Action Resulting Display
1. Press the "C/CE" key until
you see the "READY
SCREEN" as shown at
right. NOTE: If this screen
does not appear press the
"COURIER" key and select
"U.S.P.S."
2. Place your mail on the
weighing platter and press
the "INTERNATIONAL" soft
key.
3. Press the "AIR LETTER"
soft key. The display will
prompt for a country code.
4. Use the numeric keypad to
enter the country code for
your letter's destination
from Appendix B. (In this
example the country code
is 137 for Canada.) After
entering a valid country
code the calculated rate will
appear.

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Section 5. Advanced Features
5.1 Multiple Labels
The Multiple Labels function is used to print a quantity of labels. The maximum
number of labels that may be printed is 99.
1. Press "ZERO" key.
2. Place an item on the scale.
3. Select a class of mail and the desired special services.
4. Press and hold the "LABEL" key for three seconds. The scale prompts
for the number of labels to be printed.
6. Enter the number of labels you want to print.
7. Press the "ENTER" key to print the labels.
5.2 Piece Counting
This function is used to count items of identical weight.
•All items placed on the scale must be of the same weight.
•The minimum sample count is 10.
•The minimum weight per piece must be 0.1 ounces.
•The total weight of the items sampled must be 1.0 ounces or greater.
1. Remove all items from the scale.
2. Press the "ZERO" key.
3. Press the "OPTIONS" key.
4. Press the "PIECES" soft key. The scale prompts you to place a 10
piece sample count on the scale.
5. Place the 10 piece sample count on the scale and press the "EN-
TER" key. The scale displays the item count.
6. Remove the sample count from the scale.
7. Place the items to be counted on the scale. As items are added to or
removed from the scale the display reflects an accurate count.
8. Press the "C/CE" key to return to normal scale operation.
5.3 Remote Rate Change
This function is used to download rates from the remote service center.
•Before starting the scale must be connected to an FP T-1000 meter
with modem switching capability and that meter must be connected to
an available phone line.
• Once underway you may press the "C/CE" at any time to exit the
remote rate change.

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1. Remove all items from the scale.
2. Press the "ZERO" key.
3. Press the "OPTIONS" key.
4. Press the "RATE CHANGE" soft key. The scale prompts you to
press the "ENTER" key to begin or the "C/CE" key to exit.
5. Press the "ENTER" key to begin. The scale displays the current
status of the remote rate change. NOTE: You may be required to
press the "ENTER" key at certain times during this process.
6. Upon successful completion of the remote rate change press the
"C/CE" key to return to normal scale operation.

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Section 6. Setup Features/Options Key
6.1 System Setup
The system setup function configures the scale for the customer’s specific
application. The service menu is accessed through this menu.
Press the "OPTIONS" key. The scale displays the available selections on the
soft keys. To exit the system setup press the C/CE key.
6.2 Configuration
The configure menu is used to configure the meter type endorsement type
beep on/off and origination ZIP code.
1. Perform directions in section 6.1.
2. Press the "CONFIGURE" soft key. The scale lists the available
areas to setup.
3. Choose the soft key that corresponds to the area you wish to
setup. Follow the instruction on the screen or choose the appro-
priate soft key.
6.3 Rate Tables
The rate tables menu displays the current rate table that the scale is using.
When a rate table is selected the menu shows the table's version number and
effective date.
1. Perform directions in section 6.1. The scale lists the available
areas to setup.
2. Choose the "RATE TABLES" soft key.
3. Choose the rate table for which you wish to view information.
6.4 Service
This menu is reserved for Francotyp-Postalia technical personnel and requires
a password to gain entry.

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Section 7. Rate Changes
When the U.S.P.S changes their rates you can use the Rates-by-Modem fea-
ture or the rate card in your scale will need to be replaced. A new rate card can
be obtained from your local FP dealer. To install proceed as follows:
1. Turn the scale’s AC power switch to the "OFF" position.
2. Remove the weighing platter from the scale.
3. Remove the rate card cover from the scale.
4. Install the rate card in the scale with the component side of the
module facing the rear of the scale.

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Section 8. Troubleshooting
Problem Possible causes and solutions
Display is blank. No power:
•Check to make sure FlexiScale is
plugged in and the switch is in the "ON"
position.
Weighing tray is empty but Scale did not automatically reset:
displayed weight is not zero. •Press the "ZERO" key to reset displayed
weight.
Postage values are not Meter without power:
transferred from scale •Check to see if meter is plugged in and
to the postage meter. the switch is in the "ON" position.
Data transfer interrupted:
•Check if interface cables are tightly
connected to both units.
“Scale interface” key is not activated
on meter
•Check if the scale symbol appears in the
meter display. If not press the “scale
interface” key.
Chosen rates are not U.S.P.S.:
•U.P.S. and FedEx rates cannot be
transferred to the meter.

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ERROR MESSAGES
If the scale encounters an error condition caused either by the operator or the
meter the scale will beep and display a message to alert the operator. A de-
scription of each error follows:
Message Error Condition
Invalid ZIP Code Indicates that an invalid ZIP code
was entered.
Invalid Ctry Code Indicates that an invalid country code
was entered.
Over Weight Indicates that the weighing capacity of
the scale has been exceeded.
Ov Limit Indicates that the weight for the class
of service selected is too heavy.
Under Indicates that the weight for the class
of service selected is too light.
Invalid Indicates that the selected function
service or rate is invalid.
Not Avl Indicates that the selected special
service is not available with the
selected class of mail.
Cty Err Indicates that the selected country
code is not valid.
RRC is not supported Indicates that the meter currently
connected to the scale does not support
a remote rate change.
MODEM is not available Indicates that the meter’s MODEM is
not functioning for some reason.
Any other error codes encountered during the remote rate change process
should be noted and communicated to remote service center personnel.

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Section 9. Cleaning the FlexiScale
If you choose to clean your scale never allow liquid to get inside the housing.
Clean only the outside of the scale using a damp cloth. A small amount of
rubbing alcohol may be used.

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Section 10. Technical Specifications
Capacity: 0–15 lb x 0.1 oz
Display: 128 x 48 dpi graphic LCD
Keypad: 24-key silicone rubber type
Legal-for-Trade Operating Temperature Range:
41°F to 95°F
(5°C to 35°C)
Non-Legal-for-Trade Operating Temperature Range:
32°F to 104°F
(0°C to 40°C)
Power Source: AC Adapter 9VDC 350 mA included
Serial Port: Full Duplex RS-232
Male DSUB9
Weight: Net Weight: 7.9 lb (3.6 kg)
Shipping Weight: 11.5 lb (5.3 kg)
Dimensions: 224mm x 288mm x 96mm (Width x Depth x Height)
FCC Warning: This equipment generates uses and can radiate radio frequency
energy and if not installed and used in accordance with the instruction manual
may cause interference to radio communication. It has been tested and found
to comply with the limits for Class “A” computing devices pursuant to Subpart J
of part 15 of FCC rules which are designed to provide reasonable protection
against such interference when operated in a commercial environment.

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Section 11. Service
Every FlexiScale is checked thoroughly before leaving the factory. Should any
faults occur in spite of our extensive quality control please contact your local
servicing dealer listed below or call [phone] to locate a dealer near you.
_____________________________________________________
FP Authorized Dealer
Francotyp-Postalia Inc.
140 N. Mitchell Court
Suite 200
Addison IL 60101