A&D FX-500i for Laboratory, Quality Control, Formulation & Small Parts
- pete8781
- Jul 31
- 3 min read
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The A&D FX-500i laboratory balance combines 520 g capacity with 0.001 g readability for samples and formulations that are too heavy for many analytical-style milligram balances yet still need milligram display. It supports statistics, ACAI counting, percent, comparator, standard RS-232C and underhook weighing. FX-500i is not an NTEP legal-for-trade model in A&D’s current U.S. matrix, so its value is internal scientific/process measurement rather than regulated customer sale by weight.
Laboratory sample preparation
The 520 g capacity lets users tare medium beakers, sample boats and fixtures while retaining useful headroom. A&D lists 0.001 g repeatability and ±0.002 g linearity. For methods with tight uncertainty requirements, qualify the actual installation and use controlled reference weights rather than assuming the last displayed digit represents total measurement uncertainty.
Pharmaceutical and USP-context work
A&D’s current FX/FZ-i literature lists a typical USP Chapter 41 minimum-weight figure around 1.4 g for the 0.001 g models. That is a useful manufacturer benchmark, not an automatic compliance claim. A pharmaceutical or regulated lab should establish minimum weight for the specific balance, location, calibration/verification program and SOP, with appropriate performance tests and uncertainty/allowable error criteria.
Formulation and compounding
For multi-component formulations, tare the vessel, add components against written targets and record actual additions. The milligram display makes small overshoots visible, but the procedure should define what to do when a component is exceeded; removing mixed material rarely restores the original ratio. Percent mode can help with relative formulations, and standard RS-232C can reduce transcription error by sending results directly to the recording system.
Quality control and statistical calculation
FX-i’s statistical function can summarize repeated measurements for samples, components and packaged goods. Use mean/variation as quick process indicators, but retain individual results when traceability or investigation matters. Comparator limits can create a simple pass/fail decision. Verify the balance with known weights before a critical batch/inspection and after relocation, impact or major temperature change.
Electronics and small components
For electronic assemblies, coatings, adhesives and small components, 0.001 g readability can reveal changes hidden on 0.01 g equipment. ACAI counting helps with reasonably uniform parts. Static is a major risk with plastic trays and lightweight electronics, so use antistatic control when the reading responds to a hand approaching the container or seems to drift in dry air.
Underhook and density-style applications
Underhook weighing supports suspended fixtures and density-related setups. The hanging load and support must be mechanically isolated so they do not touch the bench/floor. Verify the balance in the actual underhook configuration if the result matters. Do not assume the FXi-12 animal pan is compatible with FX-500i; A&D maps that specific accessory to larger 1200/2000/3000 models.
Data capture and interfaces
RS-232C is standard. Quick USB or Ethernet can be selected as internal options, and Bluetooth is available through supported hardware depending on country. The internal rechargeable battery competes for the same option position as Quick USB/Ethernet, so plan connectivity before purchase. Validate units, decimal position and stable-data behavior in the complete electronic record path.
When FX-500i is not the right model
Choose FZ-500i for internal calibration. Choose FX-300i if 320 g is enough and the same 0.001 g readability is desired. Choose a 0.01 g higher-capacity FX model for kilogram-scale loads. Choose an explicitly certified NTEP balance for customer sale-by-weight transactions. Choose a higher-sensitivity analytical balance when the method needs 0.0001 g resolution or lower minimum weight.
Frequently asked questions
Is FX-500i good for lab/QC/formulation? Yes when 520 g × 0.001 g fits the method. Is it NTEP? No. What are repeatability/linearity? 0.001 g and ±0.002 g. Typical A&D USP minimum-weight reference? About 1.4 g, subject to site validation. Does it have statistics? Yes. RS-232C? Yes. Underhook? Yes. Does it have internal calibration? No; choose FZ-500i for that.
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