LMS Volume 33 Issue 2 | Page 14

14  C LMS  Issue 2 | 2014 Balances Streamlining Data Collection onnecting ba lances to other devices is more than helpful; it has become imperative for many laboratories. The ability to connect speeds up research processes, allowing faster data recording and the conversion of the data into tables, charts, graphs or other formats. Efficiency skyrockets when time isn’t wasted manually inputting results into a computer. When a balance connects directly to another device, it decreases the chance of security compromises. This is important in research laboratories, where workers sometimes tap into highly classified information and formulae. It also can minimise or eliminate human error during manual data logging. These errors could lead to miscalculations or failed tests, experiments and trials. Data collection is accomplished by different devices, including computers or data loggers. A data logger is a separate instrument that connects to the balance for the sole purpose of collecting and recording the figures provided by the balance. Information collected by the data logger can be accessed and analysed at a later point, or stored for compliance recording. Alternatively, balances can be connected directly to other laboratory devices, allowing data from the balance to be incorporated into calculations made by that equipment. This type of data collection enables examination and further analysis of results using other types of laboratory equipment. Computer-based data collection provides the benefit of being able to use the computer’s processor, data storage, display and interfaces. Adam Equipment balances include standard connection ports that enable data transmission to any computer, making them affordable and attractive choices for laboratories on a budget. Some balance manufacturers provide an interface only as an option. It is important to ascertain, which features are included on a balance when considering data collection in the laboratory. Connectivity has opened the door for companies like Adam to offer software such as Adam DU ™ to accomplish the transfer of measurement data. Using Adam DU, users can quickly and easily capture data from any Adam balance having RS 232 or USB connection. Adam DU also collects information from up to eight balances simultaneously, while monitoring, configuring and customising the data to the user’s requirements. They can also provide basic remote control of the balance, in addition to graphing data and exporting the readings to other applications. Laboratory users can perform statistical analysis on readings and capture custom data, since it supports up to six additional user-defined data fields. It also is capable of logging calibration reports, allowing complete tracking of calibration records. Used in tandem with Adam Equipment balances, Adam DU can provide users with enhanced data collection capabilities, along with analysis and tracking. ⚛ Adam Equipment Data collection from a precision balance via a data logger is possible with various types of network connections. Once it has been collected, the data can be downloaded to a computer Tel: 011-974‑9745 Fax: 011-392‑2587 Email: [email protected] A Tradition of Weighing Expertise A round the turn of the 20th century, precision weighing was a timeconsuming practice performed only by experienced operators. The introduction of the direct reading analytical balance (patented in Japan in 1948) signified a new era in mass-loading work. This reduced weighing time by 66% and, subsequently, reduced the demand for conventional balances. Shimadzu then added the top-loading direct reading balance with Roerval’s mechanism in 1959, releasing its first electronic balance in 1971, marking a milestone in precision weighing, introducing simplicity and ease of use to analytical weighing. Today, Shimadzu offers their new line of top-loading balances that are engineered with the UniBloc mechanism, resulting in unrivaled response, stability and durability. There is excellent performance of the UniBloc moisture analyzer MOC63U for a wide variety of applications in multiple industries including, quality assurance, harvest inspection, paint quality control, material inspection, polluted sludge measurement, biofuel measurement, drug quality assurance and cosmetics inspection. Powerful features support any imaginable weighing application. The UW series includes internal calibration and fully-automatic calibration functions. Some of the features include: • PSC, fully-automatic calibration that is carried out when a temperature change has been detected • Clock-CAL, fully automatic calibration that is carried out at user-preset times (up to three times a day), ensuring operators can work without unexpected interruptions • Backlight LCD can be read with ease and comfort under any lighting condition • Unit conversion and piece counting function. Weight value can be presented in 22 different units and modes. Users can pre-register any combination of units depending on their needs. The piece counting function is standard. As the pioneers and committed innovators in enhanced performance and accuracy in balance and weighing technologies, backed by their ground-­ breaking five-year warranty for added peace of mind, Shimadzu SA are committed to challenging the limits of weighing and balance expertise. ⚛ Shimadzu South Africa (Pty) Ltd Tel: +27 11 795 2608 Fax: +27 11 795 1493 E-mail: [email protected]