Pocket scales are devices that use pressure gauges to measure the weights of objects, and they are portable, too, as the name implies.
They are commonly used in business centers and stores, but they can also be found in homes and are used for shipping purposes.
Today’s commonest among the various types of pocket scales is the digital pocket scale, which uses digital pressure gauges to weigh objects.
These scales come in different sizes and different weight capacities, depending on where and what it is used for.
One similarity with all the varying sizes of these scales is that they can sometimes give inaccurate readings, as used regularly.
But as much as this is a problem, there is a solution. When a scale starts to give inaccurate readings, the best-known solution is calibration.
Calibration is marking or adjusting the scale of a measuring object, which is often a deliberate measure to avoid false readings.
This article highlights simple and less expensive steps and guides on calibrating pocket scales, the items required, and other maintenance tips for pocket scales.
How to Calibrate Pocket Scales
Certain items are required when calibrating a pocket scale. They are:
- Pocket Scale
- Weights
- System mouse pad
- Brush or duster
- Plumb rule
These items are needed to make the calibration process easier.
Here are the steps to follow to carry out a calibration process on a pocket scale successfully.
- Ensure that the surface where the scale will be placed is smooth, stable, clean, and dry, as this can disturb the whole process of calibration.
- To be on the safe side, you can use a plumb rule to check if the surface is level and stable.
- Place one or more system mouse pads on the table. This serves as a dampener that helps to reduce vibrations, as these vibrations can affect the calibration process.
- Place the scale on the mouse pad and dust off any dirt or particles on the scale as this could affect the scale readings.
- Ensure the scale is well charged if it uses dry cell batteries. You can replace the old batteries with new ones to ensure there are no problems when calibrating.
Turn On The Scale
Press and hold the TARE or ZERO button to reset the scale to Calibration mode.
If your scale does not have any of these buttons, press and hold the MODE key until the display reads CAL.
This step helps to ensure that the scale is set for calibration.
Once the scale is in calibration mode, add the weights on the scale, input the object’s weight, and press enter.
Repeat this step for different weights until the scale’s weight limit is reached.
Turn the scale off and then back on. Then cross-check the weights on the scale to ensure the calibration process was successful.
Bottom Line
Calibrating a scale can only be successful with the right tools and when the steps are followed accordingly. In the absence of weights, coins or any other object can be used, as long as you know what each object weighs.
It is also important to note that although coins are a very cheap and readily available alternative. However, they are not advisable for continuous use because of certain factors that can affect their weight over time. Hence, it is important to use actual weights for the process.
In summary, pocket scales are quite useful for everyday activities, but they can only be helpful if they are in perfect conditions.
