Brecknell SBI-505 Digital Weight Indicator Guide: NTEP, IP65
- pete8781
- Jul 16
- 3 min read
What is the Brecknell SBI-505?
The Brecknell SBI-505 is a general-purpose digital weight indicator for compatible scale bases and load-cell systems. It is also searched as Salter Brecknell SBI 505, SBI505 readout, NTEP floor-scale indicator and Brecknell scale head. The indicator is not a complete scale by itself: it still needs a suitable load receptor, load cell or cells, junction box when required, cable, power and calibration.
Display, enclosure and load-cell capability
Brecknell specifies a six-digit red LED display with 0.8-inch digits, up to 30,000 displayed divisions and an internal A/D count of 2,000,000. The indicator can excite up to six 350-ohm load cells. Its painted mild-steel enclosure and stainless desk stand carry an IP65 rating, which supports demanding environments but does not authorize submersion or unrestricted pressure washing.
Standard functions and communications
Functions include general weighing, gross/net and tare, parts counting, checkweighing, accumulation/total and printing. Standard RS-232 through a DB9 connection can communicate with a printer or computer when cable pinout, baud rate, data format and receiving software are correctly matched. The display annunciators indicate conditions such as zero, motion, gross, net, tare, total, pieces, units and checkweighing status.
NTEP and Measurement Canada approvals
Published documentation lists NTEP Certificate 11-082 and Measurement Canada approval AM-5885. Commercial approval applies to the configured weighing device, not an indicator sitting on a shelf. Confirm the load cells, base, capacity, division size, sealing and complete installation meet the certificate and local rules, then arrange field testing when required.
Compatibility checks before replacement
Do not replace an indicator based only on brand or connector shape. Verify load-cell excitation, total resistance, mV/V signal, four- or six-wire wiring, connector type and pinout, capacity, decimal position, desired graduations, units, legal-for-trade status, communications and mounting. A five-pin SBI-505 cable may have bare conductors at the junction-box end, so wiring must follow the actual schematic rather than color assumptions.
Calibration requirements
The SBI-505 manual allows zero and span calibration through its setup menu. Brecknell states that at least 10 percent of configured capacity is required as dead weight and recommends loading close to full capacity for span calibration. Use suitable traceable standards and a test plan appropriate to the scale. If an official seal must be broken to access settings, recertification by local weights-and-measures officials may be necessary.
Power and installation
The indicator operates from the supplied AC adapter or a customer-supplied external 12 VDC source meeting the manufacturer’s requirements. Mount it where the display is readable, the enclosure is protected from impact and cables are strain-relieved. Keep signal cable separated from high-voltage and noisy electrical wiring, ground the system appropriately and protect connectors from moisture.
When the SBI-505 is a good fit
It suits bench, floor, tank and custom industrial systems that need a straightforward LED indicator, multiple load-cell support, basic counting/checkweighing functions and RS-232. Before ordering, verify whether a newer SBI-240 replacement is preferred for the application, especially when the existing SBI-505 is obsolete, damaged or unsupported.
Frequently asked questions
How many load cells can the SBI-505 operate?
Brecknell specifies up to six 350-ohm load cells, subject to correct wiring and system design.
Is the Brecknell SBI-505 NTEP approved?
Published documentation lists NTEP CC 11-082. The complete configured scale must still meet certificate and local installation requirements.
Is the SBI-505 waterproof?
It is rated IP65, not submersible. Follow enclosure, connector and cleaning limitations.
Does the SBI-505 have RS-232?
Yes, standard RS-232 is provided through a DB9 connection. Communication settings and cable pinout must match the connected device.
How much calibration weight is required?
The manual specifies at least 10 percent of configured capacity and recommends a span load close to full capacity when practical.
Can I connect an SBI-505 to any floor scale?
No. Confirm load-cell electrical characteristics, wiring, connector, capacity, graduations, approvals and calibration compatibility first.
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