2nd Sight uses high quality scales that, when properly cared for, should weigh accurately. If you believe that your scale is inaccurate, one of these reasons may be the cause. If you believe that you need to recalibrate your scale, see FairPick: Scale Calibration. For additional help, please contact 2nd Sight at 509-381-2112 or
- Total Combined Error: All measurement devices will have some degree of error that is unavoidable. This is acceptable as long as the error is less than the error tolerance of the device. (0.05 lb.)
- Temperature Changes: Dramatic temperature changes may cause metal to warp. Traditional load cells are built using strain gauges, which are delicate metal pieces. Dramatic temperature changes may affect the strain gauge function and the load cell. If the load cell is exposed to cold nights and then hot, direct sunlight, scale accuracy may be affected. Scale accuracy may also be affected by heat from surrounding equipment. Consider shielding the scale from excess sun or other equipment if exposure causes dramatic temperature shifts.
- Creep: Sustained pressure on a load cell makes the cell susceptible to creep. If you leave a bucket on the scale for extended periods (i.e., to fill a bucket), the scale may experience creep.
- Load Cell Response: Load cells must return to zero for a set time before they can accurately measure a new load. If a container begins to refill before the load cell returns to zero, the measurement won’t be accurate within the error tolerance. Allow enough time between measurements for the load cells to stabilize and reset.
- Balanced Load: The load must be properly balanced on the load cell. In short, the scale should be level and the bucket placed in the center of the scale platter.
- Vibration: Excessive vibration, usually from passing trucks or equipment, can disrupt the scale reading and produce an inaccurate measurement.
- Wind: Air currents exert force on a load cell that can disrupt the weight. Usually, this is not enough to cause significant inaccuracy, but strong, consistent wind can disrupt the reading.
- Noise: When the load cell transmits its electrical signal to the weight controller, interference, or noise, can disrupt it. Radio signals, electromagnetic signals, electrical currents, data transmission signals, and even strong wireless signals can cause interfering noise.
- Moisture: Moisture can also interfere with the signal from the load cell to the weight controller.
- Signal Jitter: Container movement while weighing, fruit and produce settling, or the uneven contents, an agitator preventing sticking, or unshielded noise can all interfere with the weight signal from a load cell.
- Damaged Load Cell Connections: Faulty connections between the load cells and the instrument can interfere with the signal. Faulty connections may be caused by a number of things, including connection corrosion from acids or salts.
- Conductive Dust: Just as moisture can disrupt the load cell’s function, so can conductive metal dust and debris.
- Damaged Components: Though the scales 2nd Sight cells contain a load cell that has been reinforced to withstand difficult environments, the internal components can be damaged by neglect, accidents, and misuse.