Balance Data Logger: Weigh Straight Into Excel
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Not connected.
| # | Sample ID | Time | Reading | Unit | Status |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| No readings yet. | |||||
Raw data from the balance
Readings stay in this browser only. Nothing is sent to us or anyone else.
What you need
- A balance with an RS-232 port. That includes our HC Series Computer Connection models, HTP312, YP Series, FA224 analytical balances, the DHS16A moisture analyzer and the HCS3011D counting scale.
- A USB-to-RS-232 (DB9) adapter cable, ideally with an FTDI chip. See Parts & Accessories for one that works.
- Google Chrome or Microsoft Edge on a computer. No software to install.
How to use it
- Plug the adapter into the balance and the computer, and turn the balance on.
- Match the settings to your balance (most of ours use 9600 baud, 8 data bits, no parity, 1 stop bit; check the RS-232 section of your manual) and click Connect balance. Choose the USB serial port in the pop-up.
- Press Print on the balance. Each reading appears in the table with the sample ID and time. If your balance streams readings continuously, switch to Only when I click Capture and press the space bar to record.
- Click Download CSV or Copy for Excel when you're done.
Can it put readings straight into Excel?
A web page can't type into a workbook that's open on your computer; browsers block that for security. So there are two ways to get readings into Excel:
- Use this page (any computer with Chrome or Edge): log your readings here, then click Copy for Excel and paste, or Download CSV. Sample IDs, times and units come across in separate columns.
- Live into a worksheet (Excel for Windows): Microsoft's free Data Streamer add-in, which comes with Excel for Microsoft 365 on Windows, reads a serial device straight into a worksheet. Turn it on under File > Options > Add-ins (COM Add-ins > Microsoft Data Streamer for Excel), connect the balance with the USB adapter, choose its COM port on the Data Streamer tab and set the same baud rate as the balance. Readings then appear in the Data In sheet as the balance sends them.
Why log directly from the balance?
Copying numbers by hand is slow, and transcription errors are among the most common findings in lab audits. Logging straight from the balance gives you a time-stamped record with the balance's raw output, ready for a notebook, LIMS or spreadsheet. With 10 or more readings of one test weight, the USP <41> minimum weight calculator works out your repeatability in one click.
Troubleshooting
- Nothing appears: check the baud rate and parity match the balance, and that the balance's print or output mode is enabled.
- Garbled characters: the baud rate or parity is wrong. Try 9600 / 8 / none / 1 first, then 2400 or 4800.
- The port doesn't show up: install the adapter's driver (FTDI or Prolific), then unplug and replug it.
- Readings marked unstable: wait for the stability indicator before printing, or tick Skip unstable readings.
Questions about connecting a Fristaden Lab balance? Contact us. More free lab tools.
