If you are upgrading your scales, or perhaps just looking for a more effective and more advanced weighing terminal, choosing a model for features and functionality is an important consideration.
Many of the top manufacturers of scales offer a line of weighing terminal designs that are fully compatible with most other scale brands and lines. They are also fully compatible with all weighing devices from the same manufacturer.
For a built-in style of weighing terminal, there are several functions and features to keep in mind when making a final choice. This decision will also be somewhat aligned with the scales and systems you use, as it will be important to choose a terminal that can be easily and fully integrated with all existing equipment and systems.
Visibility
While this may seem more than obvious, having a clear display and excellent visibility of the readout even from a distance is a major component of any decision. The background color of the readout area on the weighing terminal and the contrast with the display is essential to consider given the lighting conditions in your facility.
Other factors include the size of the readout and the size of the buttons or keyboard features on the unit. Again, color and contrast will be an important consideration in both very bright and darker working conditions.
Housing and Construction
In many industrial and manufacturing applications, the actual construction of the weighing terminal is going to be important to consider. Look for durable options such as stainless steel and aluminum construction and ensure they are suitable for the environment where the device will be used.
This will also include mounting options, which are typically wall, column or panel for stand-alone types of terminals.
Integration with Existing Devices
Another option, and one that is increasingly more common and more important is to choose a weighing terminal that can be read out on your existing devices and equipment. Having the scale connect to a PC, PLC or DCS through any option of connection from direct wired plug-in to wireless interfaces such as Ethernet IP or TCP, ControlNet, Modbus TCP, Profibus DP, or remote I/O is another consideration.
This is often the most preferred choice in modern plants, production lines, and manufacturing companies. This provides the best opportunity to streamline operations, control and monitoring all from one central location.
For any style of weighing terminal, including for connectivity with existing technology, see Hardy Solutions.
