KERN FTC User manual

KERN & Sohn GmbH
Ziegelei 1
D-72336 Balingen-Frommern
Postfach 40 52
72332 Balingen
Tel. 0049 –[0]7433-9933-0
Fax. 0049 –[0]7433-9933-149
e-mail: [email protected]
Web: www.kern-sohn.com
Operating Instructions
Compact scales
KERN FTC
Version 2.0 01/2007
FTC-BA-e-0720
ME-Nr.: 22017145

Table of contentsFTC-BA-e-0720
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Table of contents
Page
1 Introduction .....................................................................................5
1.1 Safety instructions .............................................................................5
1.2 Description ......................................................................................6
1.3 Putting into operation ......................................................................10
2 Operation ......................................................................................13
2.1 Switching on and off .......................................................................13
2.2 Zeroing / Zero point correction ..........................................................13
2.3 Simple weighing .............................................................................13
2.4 Weighing with tare ..........................................................................14
2.5 Calling up the gross weight and tare value .........................................15
2.6 Displaying weight values with a higher resolution ...............................15
2.7 Displaying the capacity available ......................................................15
2.8 Dynamic weighing ..........................................................................15
2.9 Printing results ...............................................................................16
2.10 Switching scales .............................................................................16
2.11 Cleaning ........................................................................................17
3 Counting .......................................................................................18
3.1 Counting parts into a container .........................................................18
3.2 Counting parts out of a container ......................................................19
3.3 Counting with variable reference quantity ...........................................19
3.4 Counting with minimum accuracy ....................................................19
3.5 Reference optimization ....................................................................20
3.6 Counting with automatic reference determination ................................20
3.7 Counting with two scales .................................................................20
4 Settings in the menu ......................................................................23
4.1 Operating the menu ........................................................................23
4.2 Overview .......................................................................................25
4.3 Scale settings (SCALE) ....................................................................28
4.4 Application settings (APPLICATION) ..................................................32
4.5 Terminal settings (TERMINAL) ..........................................................34
4.6 Configuring interfaces (COMMUNICATION) .........................................35
4.7 Diagnosis and printing out of the menu settings (DIAGNOS) ................38
5 Interface description ......................................................................39
5.1 SICS interface commands ................................................................39
5.2 TOLEDO Continuous mode ..............................................................42
6 Event and error messages ..............................................................44
7 Technical data and accessories ......................................................46
7.1 Technical data ................................................................................46

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8 Appendix ......................................................................................50
8.1 Table of Geo Values ........................................................................50
8.2 Sample protocols ...........................................................................53
9 Index ............................................................................................54

IntroductionFTC-BA-e-0720
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1 Introduction
1.1 Safety instructions
DANGER!
Electric shock hazard!
▲Always pull out the mains plug before any work on the device.
DANGER!
Electric shock hazard if the mains cable is damaged!
▲Check the mains cable for damage regularly and replace it immediately if it is dam-
aged.
▲On the rear side of the device, maintain a clearance of at least 3 cm in order to
prevent the mains cable bending too much.
CAUTION!
On no account open the device!
The warranty is void if this stipulation is ignored. The device may only be opened by
authorized persons.
CAUTION!
Do not use the scale in hazardous areas!
Our product range includes special devices for hazardous areas.

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Introduction
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CAUTION!
Handle the compact scale with care.
The scale is a precision instrument.
▲When the weighing pan has been removed, never clean the area under the load
plate holder with a solid object!
▲Do not put excessive loads on the scale.
▲Avoid banging the weighing pan.
Note Use with foodstuffs
Parts coming into contact with foodstuffs have smooth surfaces and are easy to clean.
The materials used do not splinter and are free of harmful substances.
With foodstuffs, it is recommended to use the supplied protective cover.
➜Clean the protective cover regularly and carefully.
➜Replace damaged or very dirty protective cover immediately.
1.2 Description
The compact scales are available in a small and large size in various capacities and
resolutions.
The power supply is carried out via a built-in power supply device, an internal
rechargeable battery with an external mains adapter or an external battery.
One of the following options can also be ordered:
•Additional interface RS232
•Ethernet interface
•Analog second scale interface
Disposal
➜Observe the valid environmental regulations when disposing of the scale.
If the device has a rechargeable battery:
The battery contains heavy metals and therefore must not be disposed of with normal
waste.
➜Observe the local regulations for disposing of environmentally hazardous materi-
als.

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1.2.1 Overview
1Display
2Scale specifications
3Load plate
4Adjustable foot
5Keys
1Power supply
connection
2Optional interface
3RS232 interface
321

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1.2.2 Display
17-segment display, 7 digits, with decimal point
2Active interface
3Symbol for displaying gross and net values
4Active scale
5Weighing range display
6Battery charge level; only present on scales with a battery
7Weight units
8Selected reference quantity
9Symbols for optimizing the average piece weight
10 Symbol for dynamic weighing
11 Graphic display of the weighing range
12 Stability monitor (goes out when a stable weight value is reached)
13 Sign
14 Identification for changed or calculated weight values, e.g. higher resolution,
minimum weight not reached
Opt Auto
Com 231231
Pcs
%
kg
10010050500
%
134 5
6
7
8
91011
12
13
14
OK
2

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1.2.3 Keypad
Main functions
Additional functions
Key Function in operating mode Function in the menu
Switching device on / off, abort To the last menu item –End-
Setting scale to zero Scrolling back
Taring scale Scrolling forward
Transfer key
Long key press: Calling up menu
Activating menu item
Accepting selected setting
Key Function
Switching between gross and net weight; displaying tare specification
Calling up additional information, e.g. gross weight, average piece weight, higher
resolution ...
Switching the scale
Switching between weight value and number of pieces
Determining average piece weight from 10 pieces
Determining average piece weight from any number of pieces

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1.3 Putting into operation
1.3.1 Selecting or changing the location
The correct location is crucial to the accuracy of the weighing results!
Major geographical
location changes
The manufacturer adjusts each scale to the local gravity conditions (GEO value). In
the event of major geographical location changes, this setting must be adjusted by a
service technician. Certified scales must also be recertified observing the national cer-
tification regulations. These steps are not necessary for scales with an internal cali-
bration weight.
➜Select a stable, vibration-free and if possible a horizontal location.
The ground must be able to safely bear the weight of the fully loaded scale.
Observe the following environmental conditions:
•No direct sunlight
•No strong drafts
•No excessive temperature fluctuations
Aligning the scale
Only scales that have been aligned precisely horizontally provide accurate weighing
results. The certified scales have a spirit level to simplify alignment.
➜Turn the adjustable feet of the scale until the spirit level’s air bubble is inside the
inner circle.

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1.3.2 Connecting the power supply
CAUTION!
Before connecting the scale to the mains, check whether the voltage value printed on
the rating plate corresponds with the local mains voltage.
▲Never connect the device if the voltage value printed on the rating plate is different
to the local mains voltage.
➜Plug the mains plug into the socket.
After connection, the device performs a self-test. When the zero display appears,
the device is ready to weigh.
➜Calibrate the device in order to obtain the greatest possible precision, see
Section 4.3.1.
Note The battery’s charging capacity can be reduced under continuous mains operation.
➜To maintain the charging capacity, after a maximum of 4 weeks discharge the bat-
tery completely before recharging it.
1.3.3 Monitoring the test substances
The metrology features of the balance and any possible available adjusting weight
must be checked at regular intervals within the scope of quality assurance. For this
purpose, the answerable user must define a suitable interval as well as the nature and
scope of this check. Information is available on KERN’s home page (www.kern-
sohn.com) with regard to the monitoring of balance test substances and the test
weights required for this. Test weights and balances can be adjusted quickly and at
a reasonable price in KERN’s accredited DKD calibration laboratory (return to national
normal).
Scales with a built-in battery can work independently from the mains for approxi-
mately 30 hours in normal operation. A prerequisite for this is that the background
lighting is switched off and that no peripheral devices are connected.
The device automatically switches to battery operation as soon as the mains supply
is interrupted. When the mains supply is restored, the device automatically switches
back to mains operation.
The battery symbol indicates the present charging level of the battery. 1 segment cor-
responds to approx. 25 % capacity. When the symbol flashes the battery must be
charged (min. 4 hours). The charging period is extended if work is continued during
charging. The battery is protected against overcharging.

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1.3.4 Adjustment
General:
According to the EU guideline 90/384/EEC balances must be verified officially if they
are to be used as follows (legally regulated area):
•For commercial transactions if the price of goods is determined by weighing
•For the production of medines in pharmacies as well as for analyses in the medical
and pharmaceutical laboratory
•For official purposes
•For the production of finished packages
In case of doubt, please contact your local office of weights and measures.
Verification Information:
An EU qualification approval is available for those balances marked as appropriate for
verification in the technical data. In the event that the balance is applied in an area
subject to verification as described above, it must be officially verified and re-verified
at regular intervals.
Re-verification of a balance is carried out in compliance with the respective legal pro-
visions of the states. The term of verification validity for balances in Germany, for
example, is normally 2 years.
The legal provisions of the country of use are to be observed.

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2 Operation
2.1 Switching on and off
Switching on ➜Press .
The scale conducts a display test. When the weight display appears, the scale is
ready to weigh.
Switching off ➜Press .
Before the display goes out, -OFF- appears briefly.
2.2 Zeroing / Zero point correction
Zeroing corrects the influence of slight changes on the load plate.
Manual 1. Unload scale.
2. Press .
The zero display appears.
Automatic In the case of scales that cannot be certified, the automatic zero point correction can
be deactivated in the menu or the amount can be changed.
As standard, the zero point of the scale is automatically corrected when the scale is
unloaded.
2.3 Simple weighing
1. Place weighing sample on scale.
2. Wait until the stability monitor goes out.
3. Read weighing result.

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2.4 Weighing with tare
2.4.1 Taring
➜Place the empty container on the scale and press .
The zero display and the symbol NET appear.
The tare weight remains saved until it is cleared.
2.4.2 Clearing the tare
➜Unload scale and press .
The symbol NET goes out, the zero display appears.
If A.CL-tr is activated in the menu, the tare weight is automatically cleared as soon
as the scale is unloaded.
2.4.3 Automatic taring
Prerequisite
A-tArE is activated in the menu, the symbol Tflashes in the display.
➜Place the container or packaging material on the scale.
The packaging weight is automatically saved as the tare weight, the zero display
and the symbol NET appear.
2.4.4 Chain tare
Prerequisite
The tare function CHAIn.tr is activated in the menu.
With this function it is possible to tare several times if, for example, cardboard is
placed between individual layers in a container.
1. Place the first container or packaging material on the scale and press .
The packaging weight is automatically saved as the tare weight, the zero display
and the symbol NET appear.
2. Weigh the weighing sample and read/print out the result.
3. Place the second container or packaging material on the scale and press
again.
The total weight on the scale is saved as the new tare weight. The zero display
appears.
4. Weigh the weighing sample in the second container and read/print the result.
5. Repeat the last two steps for other containers.

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2.5 Calling up the gross weight and tare value
1. Press .
The gross weight is displayed for 2 seconds.
2. Press again while the gross weight is displayed.
The tare value is displayed. After a few seconds, the scale changes back to the net
weight display.
2.6 Displaying weight values with a higher resolution
➜Press .
The current weight value is displayed for 2 seconds in a higher resolution. The
scale then changes back to the normal resolution.
2.7 Displaying the capacity available
The scale has a graphic display of the scale capacity available. The bar indicates how
many per cent of the scale capacity is already occupied and what capacity is still
available. In the example, approx. 65 % of the scale capacity is occupied.
2.8 Dynamic weighing
With the dynamic weighing function, it is possible to weigh restless weighing samples
such as live animals. If this function is activated, the symbol appears in the dis-
play.
With dynamic weighing, the scale calculates the mean value from 56 weighing oper-
ations within 4 seconds.
With manual start Prerequisite
AVErAGE -> MAnuAL is selected in the menu.
The weighing sample must be heavier than 5 scale divisions.
1. Place the weighing sample on the scale and wait until it has stabilized.
2. Press to start dynamic weighing.
During dynamic weighing, horizontal segments appear in the display, and the
dynamic result is then displayed with the symbol *.
3. Unload the scale to be able to start a new dynamic weighing operation.

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With automatic start Prerequisite
AVErAGE -> AUtO is selected in the menu.
The weighing sample must be heavier than 5 scale divisions.
1. Place the weighing sample on the scale.
The scale starts the dynamic weighing automatically.
During dynamic weighing, horizontal segments appear in the display, and the
dynamic result is then displayed with the symbol *.
2. Unload the scale to be able to perform a new dynamic weighing operation.
2.9 Printing results
If a printer or computer is connected to the scale, the weighing results can be printed
out or sent to a computer.
➜Press .
The display contents are printed out and transferred to the computer. See
Section 8.2 for sample protocols.
2.10 Switching scales
If a second scale or a weighing platform is connected, e. g. via the optional analog
second scale interface, the currently active scale is shown in the display.
The second scale can be operated in exactly the same way as the first scale.
➜Press .
The display changes from one scale to the other.

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2.11 Cleaning
CAUTION!
Electric shock hazard!
▲Before cleaning with a damp cloth, pull out the mains plug to disconnect the unit
from the power supply.
CAUTION!
When the weighing pan has been removed, never clean the area under the load plate
holder with a solid object!
This could damage the weighing cell.
Other cleaning information:
•Use damp cloths.
•Do not use any acids, alkalis or strong solvents.
•Do not clean using a high-pressure cleaning unit or under running water.
•If very dirty, remove the weighing pan, protective cover (if present) and adjustable
feet and clean these items separately.
•Follow all the relevant instructions regarding cleaning intervals and permissible
cleaning agents.

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3 Counting
The compact scales FTC have additional functions for piece counting. The relevant set-
tings in the menu are described in Section 4.4.1.
3.1 Counting parts into a container
1. Place the empty container on the scale and press .
The container is tared and the zero display appears.
2. Place 10 reference parts on the scale and press .
-or-
➜Place the number of pieces displayed above the key on the scale and press
.
The scale determines the average piece weight and then shows the number of
pieces.
3. Add more parts to the container until the required number of pieces is reached.
Note •The average piece weight remains saved in the factory setting until a new average
piece weight is determined.
•With it is possible to switch between the number of pieces and the weighing
units preset.
•When the number of pieces is displayed, it is possible to display with the
average piece weight, i. e. the weight of a single reference part, for 2 seconds.
•If A.CL-APW ON is set in the menu, the average piece weight is automatically
cleared after each counting operation. The average piece weight must be deter-
mined again for the next counting operation.
•If ACCurCY ON is set in the menu, the accuracy achieved is briefly shown after
the number of pieces is determined.

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3.2 Counting parts out of a container
1. Place the full container on the scale and press .
The container is tared and the zero display appears.
2. Remove 10 reference parts and press .
-or-
➜Remove the number of pieces displayed above the key and press .
The scale determines the average piece weight and then shows the number of
pieces removed, together with a minus sign.
3. Remove more parts from the container until the required number of pieces is
reached.
3.3 Counting with variable reference quantity
If VAr-SPL ON is set in the menu, it is possible to select from 5 preset reference
quantities via .
➜Press as often as necessary until the display above the key has changed to
the desired reference quantity.
The rest of the counting process is as described earlier.
3.4 Counting with minimum accuracy
The item Min.rEFW in the menu allows to preset a minimum accuracy of 97.5 %,
99.0 % or 99.5 %. On the basis of this, the scale calculates the minimum reference
weight necessary to reach the defined accuracy.
1. Place the reference parts on the scale and press or .
2. If the average piece weight is not sufficient to ensure the desired accuracy,
Add x PCS appears.
3. Add the displayed number of pieces.
The scale then automatically determines the average piece weight with the larger
reference quantity.
The rest of the counting process is as described earlier.

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3.5 Reference optimization
The greater the reference quantity, the more accurately the scale determines the
number of pieces.
3.5.1 Automatic reference optimization
rEF.OPt -> AUtO must be set in the menu for this. The symbol Auto Opt appears
in the display.
1. Place the reference parts on the scale and press or .
2. Place additional reference parts, max. the same number as for the first reference
determination, on the scale.
The scale automatically optimises the average piece weight with the larger number
of reference parts.
The rest of the counting process is as described earlier.
Note The reference optimization can be performed several times.
3.6 Counting with automatic reference determination
Prerequisite
A-SMPL ON is set in the menu.
➜Place the number of pieces displayed above the key into the container.
The scale automatically determines the average piece weight and then shows the
quantity.
The rest of the counting process is as described earlier.
3.7 Counting with two scales
For piece counting, it is possible to connect a second scale or weighing platform, e. g.
a floor scale for counting a large number of pieces via the optional analog second
scale interface.
The necessary settings for the application and interface parameters are described in
the Sections 4.4.1, 4.6.1 and 4.6.4.