A&D FG-150KAL Setup, Counting, RS-232 & Troubleshooting Guide
- pete8781
- Jul 31
- 5 min read
Need more details or help choosing the correct item? Call MNM Scales at (832) 290-3120 or email mnmscales@yahoo.com.
A&D FG-150KAL setup is straightforward when the platform is level, clear of contact and configured for the job, but counting, comparator limits, selectable resolution and optional RS-232C introduce enough settings that a good troubleshooting process saves time. Most problems can be separated into four categories: mechanical installation, weighing configuration, sample/counting technique, or power/interface issues.
Start with the platform and level
Set the scale on a solid surface and use the leveling feet and spirit level before judging accuracy. Make sure the stainless pan is seated correctly and can move without touching the column, wall, table, conveyor or stored material. A&D specifically warns against shock loads and loads above capacity. If the display is unstable at power-up, check whether something is touching the pan and look for wind or vibration before changing filters or recalibrating.
Power-on zero and tare behavior
At startup the FG waits for stable weighing data and performs power-on zero within its permitted range. During normal use, ZERO or RE-ZERO works near the calibrated zero point, while a larger positive load may be treated as tare depending on model configuration. If a container is being used, establish a consistent tare procedure and watch the NET indicator. A common operator error is leaving an old tare active and then comparing net readings with gross specifications.
Choosing NORMAL, HIGH or HIGHER resolution
FG-150KAL supports 0.1, 0.05 and 0.02 lb readability. A&D labels these NORMAL, HIGH and HIGHER classes, with HIGH as the factory setting in the manual. If the display appears too coarse for a controlled job, confirm the F2 resolution setting. If it appears overly active or noisy in a warehouse environment, a coarser setting may be more practical. In some jurisdictions or approved configurations, resolution settings can be restricted, so do not use this adjustment to imitate a different certified model.
Counting mode: getting reliable piece counts
Select pcs with MODE, enter sample-unit-weight storage, and choose 5, 10, 20, 50 or 100 sample pieces. Tare the empty container if needed, then place exactly the selected sample count on the pan and store the unit weight. For FG-150K, A&D requires the total sample to exceed 125 g and lists a minimum unit weight of 1.25 g. If the scale reports a unit-weight error, increase the sample quantity rather than trying to force an unrealistically light sample into memory.
Counting by weight assumes the pieces are reasonably consistent. Castings, fasteners or molded parts with wide unit-weight variation can create count error even when the scale itself is functioning correctly. For light pieces, use a larger sample and periodically verify the calculated count by an independent method. Remember that the stored unit weight remains after power-off, so confirm that the correct part’s unit weight is loaded before starting a new counting job.
Comparator HI / OK / LO problems
If comparator results seem wrong, first confirm the upper and lower limit values and the current weighing unit. A&D uses the logic LO < lower limit ≤ OK ≤ upper limit < HI. The same stored numerical limits can apply across weighing/counting modes with decimal interpretation handled by the active mode, so careless unit or mode changes can make a previously sensible limit look wrong. Recheck the limits after changing workflow or resolution.
RS-232C: optional hardware and four output modes
RS-232C requires optional FG-23 or FG-24 hardware. The manual documents stream mode, command mode, Print-switch mode and auto-print mode. Communication settings include 2400, 4800 or 9600 bps, 7 data bits with even parity, one start bit, one stop bit and CR/LF termination. If a computer receives gibberish or nothing at all, verify that the interface is actually installed, use the correct cable, match the serial parameters, and confirm the F5 output mode. A USB-to-serial adapter alone does not change the scale’s RS-232 protocol.
In stream mode, the FG can output current display data at approximately 10 times per second. Print-switch mode sends stable data when PRINT is pressed. Auto-print transmits when its stability and threshold conditions are met. Command mode supports requests such as Q for current data and control commands documented in the manual. Choose the mode that matches the workflow rather than assuming continuous streaming is always best.
Low battery and low power
A&D identifies separate low-battery and low-main-power warnings. With battery operation, replace all four C cells together and do not mix old/new batteries or different battery types. With AC operation, confirm the correct adapter and a stable supply. If power warnings occur during critical weighing, correct the power problem before accepting results; repeated re-zeroing does not fix a weak supply.
Overload and range-over errors
The overload indication means an object beyond scale capacity has been placed on the pan; remove it. A range-over notice can also occur when the sensor receives strong upward force, such as when the pan contacts something or there is obstruction in the base. Inspect the mechanical installation. Do not solve either condition by recalibrating the scale to accept an improper load or contact condition.
Memory-writing errors
The manual notes that a memory-writing error can appear when the scale fails to store calibration, function settings, unit weight or comparator limits. Turn the scale off and retry the procedure. If the error repeats, A&D says there may be a memory-device defect and service is required. This is different from a weighing-calibration problem, so repeated span adjustments are not the right response.
Cleaning and routine maintenance
Keep the pan and base free of foreign objects. A&D advises against organic solvents and recommends a warm lint-free cloth dampened with mild detergent. The FG-150KAL is not presented as an IP washdown scale, so do not hose the display or base. Periodically inspect the power cable, column, leveling feet, pan and option connectors, and verify the scale with known weights according to the site’s quality schedule.
FAQ
Why does the FG-150KAL display move even with no package? Check vibration, drafts, pan contact, floor movement and power before changing calibration. Why will counting mode reject my sample? The total sample may be too light; FG-150K requires more than 125 g and the listed minimum unit weight is 1.25 g. Can I use 100 sample pieces? Yes. A&D supports 5, 10, 20, 50 or 100. Why does my computer receive no RS-232 data? Confirm FG-23 or FG-24 is installed, verify cable and port settings, and select the correct data-output mode. What are the available baud rates? The manual lists 2400, 4800 and 9600 bps for the FG RS-232C options. Can I make the display 0.02 lb? Yes on FG-150KAL’s HIGHER-resolution setting, subject to the model’s allowed configuration. What should I do after an overload? Remove the load, inspect for contact or damage, and verify zero and known-weight performance before returning the scale to service. Can I wash it down with a hose? The standard FG-150KAL is not the dedicated waterproof FG-CWP series; clean it according to the standard FG maintenance instructions instead.
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