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Scale Indicator Buyer’s Guide: How to Choose the Right Indicator

Choosing the right scale indicator is critical for accurate weighing, efficient workflows, and reliable communication with your equipment. This guide explains the features to evaluate when selecting an indicator for industrial, commercial, and medical weighing applications.

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What Does a Scale Indicator Do?

A scale indicator powers the load cell, receives its electrical signal, and converts it into a readable weight value. Many models also include:

  • Display screens for operators

  • Connectivity to computers, printers, and PLCs

  • Control functions for automation

  • Legal-for-trade certification where required

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Types of Scale Indicators

Different applications require different feature sets:

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Basic Weigh Indicators
Designed for standard weighing tasks and simple operations. They’re cost-effective and easy to use.

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Washdown Indicators
Ideal for food, chemical, agricultural, and wet environments. These models offer sealed stainless-steel construction to resist corrosion and moisture.

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Batching / Process Control Indicators
Best for automation and industrial production lines. They include relays and I/O for activating motors, valves, or other devices during filling or batching.

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Checkweighing Indicators
Used in packaging or quality control. These indicators visually alert operators when weight is above, below, or within acceptable limits.

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Wireless / Network-Connected Indicators
Support Bluetooth, Wi-Fi, or Ethernet for sending data to PCs, cloud systems, or inventory software.

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Medical / Healthcare Indicators
Designed for hospitals and clinics, often with BMI functions and compliance with medical device standards.

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Do You Need NTEP Certification?

If the scale will be used to sell products by weight, the indicator must be legal-for-trade.

Look for:
NTEP Certification listed in the product specifications.

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Connectivity & Communication Options

Ensure the indicator can talk to the devices you use. Popular interface types include:

  • RS-232 Serial

  • USB

  • Ethernet or Modbus TCP

  • Wi-Fi or Bluetooth

  • Analog output such as 4–20mA

  • Relay output for motors and automation

If you’re integrating with a system or PLC, we can help match the correct communication protocol.

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Housing Durability & Environmental Needs

Indicator construction should match its installation environment:

  • ABS plastic for clean, dry areas

  • Stainless steel for washdown or corrosive settings

  • Panel-mount models for OEM equipment or control panels

If the location has moisture, dust, or chemical washdown, look for higher durability ratings like IP66/IP67 or NEMA 4X.

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Display & User Interface

For operator-friendly use, consider:

  • LED or LCD display style

  • Screen brightness in your lighting environment

  • Backlighting for low visibility areas

  • Large keys for gloved hands

  • Multi-line displays for more process information

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Power & Installation

Choose based on how and where the scale is used:

  • AC power for fixed installations

  • Rechargeable battery operation for mobile scales

  • Wall, column, desk-top, and panel mounting options

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Common Applications

  • Industrial floor scales

  • Warehouse, shipping, and receiving

  • Food and beverage production

  • Chemical plants and washdown environments

  • Medical and healthcare scales

  • Automation, batching, and process control

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👇 Need Help Selecting the Right Indicator?

We’ll recommend the correct model based on your scale type, environment, and connectivity needs.

📧 Cody@AmericanScaleSupply.com
➡ Shop All Scale Indicators →

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