A&D EK-300i Counting, Percent, RS-232, GLP & Battery Guide
- pete8781
- Jul 31
- 3 min read
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The A&D EK-300i counting and data functions give a small 300 g × 0.01 g balance capabilities normally associated with larger production instruments: ACAI parts counting, percent weighing, comparator logic, standard bidirectional RS-232C and quality-system output. Optional relay or rechargeable battery hardware can tailor the station, but those two internal options conflict, and EK-300i does not support the EKW-07i underhook. It remains a non-NTEP process balance regardless of which communications or counting functions are used.
ACAI counting: 0.01 g minimum unit weight
EK-300i supports a minimum unit weight of 0.01 g, sample sizes of 5, 10, 25, 50 and 100, and a maximum count around 30,000 pieces when capacity allows. ACAI refines average unit weight as more pieces are added. For light or variable items, start with a larger sample and validate against a known hand count. The 0.01 g unit-weight capability matches the balance’s 0.01 g weighing readability, but count accuracy still depends on part uniformity.
Percent mode: 1 g minimum reference
Percent weighing stores a reference as 100% and displays later samples as a percentage. EK-300i requires at least a 1 g reference for 100%. This is useful for formulation ratios, loss/gain comparisons and production deviations. Make sure the reference itself is stable and representative; changing containers or moisture conditions can alter the comparison even when the balance is functioning correctly.
Standard RS-232C
Bidirectional RS-232C is standard. The balance can send weights/counts to supported printers, PCs and loggers and accept compatible commands. Document baud, parity, data length, output mode, unit and decimal position. Test known weights through the complete data path so stored values match what the operator saw. Serial communication problems should be diagnosed separately from calibration problems.
External USB, Ethernet and Bluetooth conversion
A&D offers external converters that translate the standard serial interface to Quick USB, Ethernet or Bluetooth workflows. Because they are external serial accessories rather than internal metrological changes, they are useful when modern connectivity is needed without replacing the balance. Confirm regional Bluetooth certification and the receiving software’s expected protocol before purchasing.
GLP/GMP/GCP/ISO-style output
EK-i can output manufacturer/model/ID and calibration-related information intended to support quality documentation. That reduces transcription but does not automatically make a laboratory GLP/GMP compliant. The complete system still needs controlled calibration/verification, user procedures, record retention and validated software where required.
Comparator relay versus rechargeable battery
EKW-04i provides comparator relay output; EKW-09i provides internal rechargeable Ni-MH battery operation. A&D states the two cannot be used simultaneously. Decide whether the station’s priority is built-in relay automation or cordless mobility. Standard RS-232C remains available either way, so external automation/data options can still be designed around the selected internal hardware.
No EKW-07i underhook support
Do not order EKW-07i for EK-300i. A&D limits the underhook to specified larger EK-i models. If a density/suspended-weighing workflow is required, select a compatible model such as EK-4100i/6000i/6100i/12Ki or another appropriate balance. Accessory compatibility should be confirmed before designing fixtures.
Non-NTEP reminder
Counting, percent and data-output functions do not make EK-300i legal for trade. A&D’s current U.S. catalog does not identify EK-300i as an NTEP model. If the scale determines a regulated customer transaction, use the exact certified model/configuration required for that application.
Frequently asked questions
What is the minimum counting unit weight? 0.01 g. Maximum count? Around 30,000 pieces when capacity allows. Minimum percent 100% reference? 1 g. Is RS-232C standard? Yes. Can it use USB/Ethernet/Bluetooth? Through supported external converters. Can EKW-04i relay and EKW-09i battery be installed together? No. Does EK-300i support an underhook? No. Is it NTEP? No. Does GLP-style output make the system automatically compliant? No; the full quality system still matters.
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