Rice Lake Digi DS-160

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Summary

Features

Unlocking Procedure

Procedure for unlocking the scale, involving removing and installing screws.

Specifications

General Specifications

Details power source, operating temperature, humidity, weighing device, and dimensions.

Approved Standards

Lists the standards the DS-160 model complies with.

Weighing Specification

Details internal and display resolution, and single interval method.

A;D Converter Specification

Specifies the A/D conversion method, sampling rate, and load cell ranges.

Set-up Procedure

Initial Set-Up Procedure

Steps for initial setup, including removing covers, soldering load cell wires, and connecting power.

Start-up

Procedure for starting the scale, including software version display and low voltage indication.

SPECs Data Setting for RS232 C Communication

Instructions for setting SPEC data related to RS232C communication.

SPECs Data Setting for Weight & Measure

Procedure for setting SPEC data for weight and measure functions.

How to Set;Change Spec Data

Explains the two procedures for entering and modifying SPEC data values.

SPEC Data List

Provides a comprehensive list of SPEC numbers and their corresponding data settings for RS-232C and W&M.

Weight Calibration (SPAN Adjustment)

Detailed procedure for performing weight calibration, including pre-checks and step-by-step adjustments.

Machine Operation

Key Functions

Description of the primary function keys: ON/OFF, RE-ZERO, T, ^, and ←.

Sign Lamps

Explains the indicator lamps: ZERO Lamp, TARE Lamp, and STABLE Lamp.

ZERO Resetting

Procedure for resetting the zero point of the scale after placing weight on the platform.

One Touch Tare Reduction

Step-by-step guide for using the one-touch tare function with an example.

Digital Tare Weight Reduction

Instructions for setting a digital tare weight by adjusting individual digits.

Error Display

Lists common error codes, their probable causes, and recommended remedies.

Quick Maintenance Operation Table

A table detailing key operations for maintenance checks like LCD, SPAN SW, and SPEC settings.

RS-232 Data Output

General

Overview of the RS-232 data output function for transmitting weight data to external units.

Transmission Specification

Defines transmission parameters for RS-232, including baud rate, data bits, and parity.

Text Commands (ASCII Code)

Lists text commands used in ASCII code for data transmission, like CR, LF, and numeric data.

Connector and Signals

Details the 8-pin modular connector and pin configuration for RS-232 communication.

Text Format

Describes the structure and format of transmitted data, including net weight, tare weight, and examples.

Transmission Procedures

Illustrates the communication flow and procedures between the DC160 and PC using ACK, NAK, ERROR.

Disassembling

Disassembling of Indicator Block

Steps for disassembling the indicator block, including removing screws from housing and PCBs.

The DS-160 is a digital weighing scale designed for benchtop use, offering a range of features for accurate and efficient weighing operations. It is suitable for various industrial applications where precise weight measurement is crucial.

Function Description

The primary function of the DS-160 is to provide accurate digital weight measurements. It operates by converting the output from a load cell into a digital display, allowing users to read weights in a clear and precise manner. The scale supports both net and tare weight measurements, which are essential for many weighing tasks. It also includes a zero-setting function to ensure that measurements start from a true zero point, compensating for any initial load or drift.

A key capability of the DS-160 is its RS-232C interface, which enables data output to peripheral units such as a personal computer (PC). This feature is vital for data transaction and analysis, allowing for the recording, processing, and management of weighing data. The scale can transmit various data types, including net and tare weight, in a standard ASCII code format. This connectivity makes the DS-160 an integral part of automated or data-driven weighing processes.

The device also supports remote display functionality, allowing for the connection of up to four external displays, which can be beneficial in environments where the primary display is not easily visible or where multiple viewing points are required. For level detection, an Hg (Mercury) SW I/F is available, ensuring that the scale is properly leveled for accurate readings.

Usage Features

The DS-160 is designed for ease of use with a straightforward operation panel. It features five operation keys: [ON/OFF], [RE-ZERO], [T], [↑], and [←].

[ON/OFF] key: Used to power the scale on or off.
[RE-ZERO] key: Re-zeros the scale during operation, ensuring accurate measurements from a clean starting point.
[T] key: Sets the tare weight, allowing users to subtract the weight of a container or packaging from the total weight. It also clears the tare weight.
[↑] key: Used to set digital tare weight values and to change numeric data during settings. In calibration mode, it sets the minimum division and enters capacity weight.
[←] key: Shifts the indicator to the next programming position for digital tare weight setting and moves the cursor during data entry.

The scale's display consists of a 7-segment, 6-digit LCD panel, providing clear visibility of weight readings and operational messages. Several sign lamps indicate the scale's status:

ZERO Lamp: Illuminates when the current zero point is within a specified range of the true zero.
TARE Lamp: Lights up when a tare weight has been set.
STABLE Lamp: Indicates that the weight on the platform is stable, ensuring a reliable reading.

The DS-160 offers both one-touch and digital tare weight reduction. One-touch tare involves placing the tare weight on the platform and pressing the [T] key. Digital tare allows users to manually input a tare weight using the arrow keys, which is useful when the tare weight is known beforehand or cannot be placed on the platform.

The scale also includes an "Animal mode" (SPEC 11 BIT 0), which, when activated, locks out calibration, suggesting a specialized function for weighing live animals where a stable reading might be challenging to obtain.

Maintenance Features

The DS-160 incorporates several features to facilitate setup, calibration, and troubleshooting, ensuring long-term accuracy and reliability.

Setup Procedure: Initial setup involves removing the rear lid and a shield sheet to access the PCB, where load cell wires are soldered to specified points. This process ensures proper electrical connections for the weighing device. The manual provides detailed instructions for connecting the load cell wires, including specific color codes and soldering points (e.g., BLK for F.G., GRN* for LOAD CELL OUTPUT(+)).

Start-up and Diagnostics: Upon power-on, the scale displays its software version number, followed by a segment count-up and an "all 8's" display, indicating a successful self-test. The "Lo-Vol" display error warns of insufficient input voltage, preventing mal-function. This diagnostic feature helps identify power supply issues early.

Calibration (SPAN Adjustment): The scale requires weight calibration for proper operation. This involves a multi-step process:

Setting the minimum division using the [↑] key.
Entering the capacity weight using the arrow keys.
Placing a known calibration weight on the platform.
Calibrating the zero point and the SPAN (internal count). The calibration process is critical for maintaining the scale's accuracy over time and after any significant changes or repairs. The manual specifies that the DS-160 pole must be mounted to the base and the unit assembled before calibration, as frame grounding of the load cell is essential for correct weighing.

SPEC Data Setting: The DS-160 allows for detailed configuration through "SPEC Data Setting." This includes:

RS-232C Communication Settings: Users can configure baud rate, stop bit, data length, parity bit, communication method (stream output, output with key press, or external command), stable of text data, header of text data, and transmission condition (stable only or both stable/unstable). These settings are crucial for ensuring proper communication with external devices.
Weight & Measure (W&M) Settings: These settings include load cell output sensitivity, decimal point position, zero tracking when tare, digital tare, tare accumulate, and tare range. These parameters directly influence the scale's weighing characteristics and compliance with measurement standards.

Error Display: The scale provides error messages to assist in troubleshooting:

"888888 Lock – up" / "888888 Lighting": Indicates that the zero point is out of range or the Span SW is still on, suggesting a need for re-calibration or turning off the Span SW.
"Lo-VOL": Signals low power supply voltage, prompting a check of the power supply.
"IF-ERR": Denotes a time-out error in data transmission or an unlevel Mercury SW, requiring a check of the Hg SW or data connection.

Quick Maintenance Operation Table: This table provides shortcuts for common maintenance tasks, such as:

LCD Segment Check: Verifies all LCD segments are functioning.
SPAN SW ON/OFF Check: Confirms the status of the Span SW.
Internal Count Display: Shows A/D raw data, useful for advanced diagnostics.
SPAN Adjustment: Direct access to the calibration procedure.
SPEC Setting for RS-232C and W&M: Quick access to configuration menus.

Disassembly: The manual includes instructions for disassembling the indicator block, which involves removing screws from the housing cover and the PCB. This information is valuable for technicians performing repairs or component replacements.

Overall, the DS-160 is a robust digital weighing scale with comprehensive features for accurate measurement, data integration, and user-friendly maintenance, making it suitable for demanding industrial environments.