FAQ's
Search model specs, calibration guides, and spare parts below—or ask our AI chat assistant anytime. Still need help? Contact our team directly.
Analytical Balances How do I perform an external calibration on the HC2104 Analytical Balance?
Ensure the balance has warmed up for at least 30-60 minutes. Press the CAL button. When the display flashes a specific weight value, place the certified calibration weight of that exact value on the center of the pan. Wait for the display to stabilize and return to the weighing mode.
Analytical Balances What are the specifications (Accuracy, Repeatability, Linearity) for the HC2104N Analytical Balance?
The HC2104N has a maximum capacity of 220g with a readability (accuracy) of 0.0001g (0.1mg). Typical repeatability is ±0.0002g, and linearity error is ±0.0003g.
Centrifuges & Specimen Preparation Do you offer adapters to use 2mL tubes in the LC-6S or blood centrifuges?
Yes, we offer tube sleeve adapters that allow you to spin smaller 2mL or 5mL tubes in standard 15mL rotor buckets. Please check our accessories page or contact support.
Centrifuges & Specimen Preparation What are the recommended RPM and RCF settings for PRP and PRF extraction?
Protocols vary by doctor and tube manufacturer. However, standard PRP is often spun at 1500-2000 RPM for 10 minutes (soft spin) followed by 3000-3500 RPM (hard spin). PRF typically requires a slower spin (e.g., 700-1300 RPM / ~200-400 RCF) for 8-10 minutes without anticoagulants. Always verify with your specific tube instructions.
Counting Scales How do I change the RS-232 output mode on the HCS3011D counting scale?
"1. Turn on the scale and quickly press 7 → 8 → 9. The display will show 'diu' (Fun-01).
2. Press PCS/SET until you reach 'ode' (Fun-09).
3. Press ALARM to enter settings.
4. Press PCS/SET to select mode 1 (Button), 2 (Stable output), 3 (Continuous), or 4 (Command 'R' output).
5. Press ALARM to confirm, then power off and on."
Counting Scales How do I calibrate a Fristaden Lab Counting Scale (e.g., HCS series)?
"1. Turn the scale off, then on. Before 0.0000 appears, press ZERO three times quickly.
2. The screen will show AU-CAL.
3. Place a known calibration weight (must be ≥20% of maximum capacity) on the pan.
4. Wait for the reading to stabilize, then remove the weight. The scale is calibrated."
Counting Scales How do I enable and use the piece-counting (PCS) function?
1. Place a known quantity of the sample on the scale.
2. Press the PCS/SET button once.
3. Enter the exact quantity of the sample currently on the pan using the keypad.
4. Press PCS/SET again to confirm. The scale will now count pieces as you add more.
Counting Scales My counting scale is stuck in weigh-only mode or won't enter calculation mode. How do I change modes?
Ensure you are following the correct sequence: place sample -> PCS/SET -> enter quantity -> PCS/SET. If the unit button or zero button is unresponsive, power cycle the scale. If the keypad fails to input numbers, the membrane or motherboard may require repair.
Filtration, Glassware & Vacuum Pumps Can the plastic top cap on the vacuum filtration apparatus be autoclaved?
No, the plastic components on the standard vacuum filtration apparatus are not designed to withstand the high heat of an autoclave and will warp or melt. Only the borosilicate glass components can be autoclaved.
Filtration, Glassware & Vacuum Pumps Can I replace the 2000mL flask with a 1000mL flask on the filtration apparatus?
Yes, the upper funnel and clamp assembly can fit on our 1000mL conical filtration flasks, provided the neck diameter matches the standard ground glass or silicone stopper size.
Filtration, Glassware & Vacuum Pumps What CFM or Pa rating vacuum pump do I need to pull viscous liquids through the filtration apparatus?
For highly viscous liquids (like oils or heavy distillates), you need a strong vacuum pump capable of at least 1-2 CFM and a high ultimate vacuum (e.g., deep vacuum rotary vane pump). Standard water-aspirator or light diaphragm pumps will struggle with thick fluids.
General / All Products My scale or equipment will not power on. How can I fix this?
1. Verify you are using the original power cord and check the output voltage on the label (e.g., 9V for most scales). 2. Test the power outlet and cord output with a multimeter if available. 3. Ensure local power is stable; use a surge protector if necessary. If the cord is faulty, replace it. If the cord works but the unit won't turn on, the internal mainboard may need replacement.
General / All Products My scale stopped taking a charge but works when plugged into the wall. What is wrong?
This indicates that the internal rechargeable battery has reached the end of its lifespan and can no longer hold a charge. The scale is functioning normally on AC power. To restore portable functionality, open the battery compartment and replace the battery with the correct specification for your model.
General / All Products Do your scales come with a calibration certificate, and how long is it valid?
Many of our precision and analytical balances include a factory calibration certificate. Factory certificates represent the calibration state at the time of manufacture. For regulatory compliance (ISO, USP), you must hire a local certified metrology lab to perform an on-site NIST-traceable calibration upon installation, valid typically for 1 year.
General / All Products Do Fristaden Lab balances meet USP minimum weight tolerances?
Our Analytical Balances (0.1mg) can meet USP chapter <41> minimum weight requirements for specific ranges. However, USP compliance requires on-site calibration and environmental testing by a certified technician to establish the minimum weight threshold for your exact laboratory conditions.
General / All Products Are replacement parts available if my equipment arrives damaged or scratched?
Yes, we stand by our products. If an item arrives damaged, please contact our support team with your order number and photos of the damage. We can send replacement parts (glassware, housing, displays) or a full replacement unit under our warranty policy.
General / All Products Is everything on your site in stock and ready to ship, or are items made to order?
Most items listed on our website are in stock and ready to ship from our US warehouses. Certain specialized or high-capacity equipment may have a lead time. Stock status is indicated on the product page.
pH Meters & Electrodes Do you sell replacement pH meter probes?
Yes, we sell replacement electrodes (e.g., the E-201-9 electrode for the PHS-3C meter). Please contact our support team to purchase a replacement.
pH Meters & Electrodes Does the pH meter work for testing juices and food products?
Yes, our pH meters can test juices and other liquid food products. For highly viscous or semi-solid foods, you may need to dilute the sample with distilled water or use a specialized spear-tip electrode.
pH Meters & Vacuum Pumps What is the voltage and power supply requirement for the PHS-3C pH meter and VP-10L vacuum pump?
Please refer to the user manual or the specification label on the back of the device. If your power cord is lost or broken, contact support with your exact model (PHS-3C or VP-10L) to order the appropriate factory replacement cord.
Precision Balances My scale reads a lower weight (e.g., 350g) when I place a larger weight (e.g., 500g) during calibration. How do I fix this linear error?
This requires a multi-point linear calibration. This process resets the scale's internal reference points across its entire range. Please contact support with your exact model number, and we will provide the specific step-by-step linear calibration instructions for your mainboard.
Precision Balances How do I change the units on my scale (e.g., model YP50002C or HCS3015HD)?
Use the UNIT button to toggle between available units (e.g., grams, ounces, pounds, carats). On some models, you must hold the UNIT button, or enter the settings menu to enable/disable specific startup units.
Precision Balances & Analytical Balances How do I configure the RS-232 data output on HC Series and Precision Balances?
"1. Turn on the scale. Before the display resets to zero, press TAR/CAL twice, then PCS once to enter setup mode (01-diu).
2. Press the Unit button until 09-odE appears.
3. Press TAR/CAL, then use Unit to choose the mode: 0 (Command 'R'), 2 (Send on stable weight), or 3 (Continuous send).
4. Press TAR/CAL to confirm, then restart the scale."
Precision Balances & Analytical Balances What should I do if my balance shows negative numbers before placing anything on the pan?
This is a zero-drift issue caused by environmental factors. Ensure the scale is on a perfectly flat, anti-vibration table, away from drafts, HVAC vents, and heat sources. Press the TARE/ZERO button to reset the baseline to 0.00g before weighing.
Precision Balances & Analytical Balances Why isn't my scale registering very small amounts of powder as I add them, but suddenly jumps in weight?
When weighing fine powders drop-by-drop, the scale's auto-zero tracking might mistake tiny, slow additions as environmental drift and filter them out. Try adding material faster, or weigh the powder in a secondary container, taring the container first, and taking the container off and back on to check total weight.
Precision Balances & Counting Scales What type of replacement battery do I need for my Counting Scale?
Counting scales typically use a 6V 4Ah rechargeable sealed lead-acid battery. You can find replacements online (e.g., Mighty Max Battery ML4-6).
Precision Balances & Counting Scales What type of replacement battery do I need for my HC Series Precision Balance?
Most HC Series models (like the HC150001XG) use a 7.4V Li-ion rechargeable battery pack with a JST PH2.54/2P connector (e.g., 2600mAh). If the scale works plugged in but fails to hold a charge, replacing this internal battery will resolve the issue.
Precision Balances, Counting Scales & Analytical Balances What are the power adapter specifications for Fristaden Lab balances and counting scales?
Our HC Series, HTP Series, and Counting Scales generally require a power adapter with Input: AC 100-240V 50/60Hz and Output: DC 9V (400mA, Max 1000mA). The DC plug tip size must be 5.5mm x 2.1mm. Do not use adapters with different voltage outputs as it can damage the mainboard.
Stirrers, Mixers & Heating Mantles Where can I find a replacement power cord for my digital overhead stirrer or hot plate?
Depending on the model (e.g., OC-10L, OCS-20L, HS5), we carry replacement power supplies. Please check the voltage requirements on your unit's specification plate and contact support with your model number for the correct part link.
Stirrers, Mixers & Heating Mantles How do I get the thermometer/temperature probe to work on my magnetic hotplate stirrer?
Plug the external temperature probe into the port on the back of the hotplate. Place the probe into your liquid (ensure it does not touch the bottom of the beaker). The digital display will automatically switch to read the liquid's temperature from the probe rather than the hotplate surface.
Stirrers, Mixers & Heating Mantles Are magnetic stirrer bars included with hot plates and heating mantles?
Yes, a standard PTFE magnetic stir bar is included. It is usually packed inside the box alongside the user manual.
Stirrers, Mixers & Heating Mantles Are there different paddles for the overhead stirrers, and are they food safe?
We provide standard stainless steel stir paddles. While stainless steel is generally safe, our paddles are intended for laboratory and industrial use and do not carry specific FDA food-safe certifications.

