MNM Scales MS-1-5K 5,000 lb S-Type Load Cell Guide: 3 mV/V, Wiring & Full Specs
- pete8781
- Jul 29
- 3 min read
For wiring, indicator compatibility or replacement help, call MNM Scales at (832) 290-3120 or email mnmscales@yahoo.com.
The MNM Scales MS-1-5K 5,000 lb S-type load cell is a bare alloy-steel strain-gauge transducer for tension, compression, hanging-scale, force-test and OEM weighing applications. Unlike a complete crane-scale package, the MS-1-5K is the sensing element itself, so buyers need to match it to suitable mechanical hardware and a compatible load-cell indicator, transmitter or amplifier. MNM publishes a 3.00 ± 0.01 mV/V rated output, a nominal 350-ohm output bridge and a 20-foot four-wire cable, giving technicians the electrical data needed for system integration.
MS-1-5K Published Specifications
MNM publishes the following specifications for the MS-1-5K: 5,000 lb capacity; rated output 3.00 ± 0.01 mV/V; nonlinearity ±0.02% full scale; hysteresis ±0.02% full scale; repeatability ±0.01% full scale; 30-minute creep ±0.02% full scale; zero balance ±1.00% full scale; temperature effect on zero ±0.02% full scale per 10°C; temperature effect on output ±0.02% full scale per 10°C; input resistance 385 ± 15 ohms; output resistance 350 ± 5 ohms; insulation resistance at least 5000 megaohms; 10 V DC/AC excitation; compensated range -10°C to 50°C; operating range -20°C to 60°C; safe overload 120% full scale; and a 20-foot cable.
Four-Wire Color Code
The exact MNM wiring code is red = positive excitation/input, black = negative excitation/input, green = positive signal/output, and white = negative signal/output. Those colors should be verified against the MS-1-5K listing rather than assumed from another brand because load-cell color codes are not universal. If an indicator uses terminals marked E+, E-, S+ and S-, connect the corresponding MS-1-5K conductors to those functions. If the indicator has six-wire sense terminals but the load cell has only four conductors, follow the indicator manufacturer’s instructions for internal/remote sense jumpers.
What Does 3 mV/V Mean?
Rated output describes the full-scale bridge signal relative to excitation voltage. A nominal 3 mV/V load cell excited at 10 V produces roughly 30 mV of differential signal at rated full load, subject to the individual cell’s calibration value and zero offset. The indicator or transmitter must be able to excite a 350-ohm bridge and measure low-level millivolt signals. The display capacity and engineering units are then established during indicator configuration and calibration.
Mechanical Installation
S-beams work best when force enters through the threaded ends along the sensor’s primary axis. Use properly rated rod ends, clevises, eye hardware or adapters that allow the assembly to self-align. Avoid using the cell as a rigid hinge or letting it carry large bending moments. In tension fixtures, protect personnel from stored energy and component failure. In compression fixtures, keep the load centered and prevent the S-beam from buckling or being forced sideways.
Indicator and Transmitter Compatibility
A compatible instrument should accept a strain-gauge bridge around 350 ohms, provide suitable excitation and support a full-scale signal near 3 mV/V. Beyond those electrical basics, confirm connector pinout, display resolution, units, Peak Hold needs, analog or serial outputs and whether the intended application requires a legal-for-trade system. An electrically compatible indicator still has to be calibrated to the actual load cell and fixture before its displayed value is meaningful.
Applications and Related Guides
For OEM force fixtures, cable testing and manufacturing test stands, read the MS-1-5K industrial force-measurement guide. If you are replacing another S-beam, use the 5,000 lb replacement compatibility checklist. After installation, follow the MS-1-5K calibration guide
Frequently Asked Questions
Is the MS-1-5K a complete scale? No; this listing is the bare load-cell sensor. Does it measure tension and compression? S-type geometry is used for both when mechanically installed correctly. What is the output? MNM publishes 3.00 ± 0.01 mV/V. What is the bridge resistance? Input is 385 ± 15 ohms and output is 350 ± 5 ohms. What are the wire colors? Red +excitation, black -excitation, green +signal and white -signal. Can I connect it to any indicator? Only if the indicator’s electrical input, excitation, connector/wiring and calibration capabilities are compatible. Does the 120% safe-overload rating mean I should routinely use it above 5,000 lb? No; normal measurement should remain within the rated 5,000 lb capacity.
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