Product Faq

Frequently Asked Questions

Answers to the most common questions about setup, accuracy, error codes, and care.

Start by replacing the batteries with a new set and calibrating the scale according to your model's instructions. Low batteries and improper calibration are the two most common causes of inaccurate readings.

Also confirm the scale is:

On a hard, flat, stable surface
Away from drafts, fans, and open windows
Protected from vibration and electronic interference
Within its recommended operating temperature
Free of dirt, moisture, and debris

Replace the batteries with a brand-new set and confirm they are installed in the correct direction. Batteries installed during manufacturing may lose power during storage or transport.

If your scale uses an AC adapter, unplug it and test with batteries. If it works on batteries but not the adapter, the adapter may need replacing.

A dim backlight is commonly caused by weak batteries. Replace all batteries with a new matching set. Some models also have adjustable backlight settings or auto-dim to conserve power — check your manual.

Partial digits may indicate a loose or damaged display connection, which can occasionally happen during shipping. If new batteries don't resolve it, contact American Weigh Scales before attempting any repair — opening the scale may void warranty coverage.

Calibration compares the scale's reading to a known reference weight. Many digital scales include a user-calibration mode that adjusts the scale using a specific calibration weight. Because the procedure and weight differ by model, always follow your product manual.

There is no single schedule — it depends on usage, accuracy requirements, and environment. Check or recalibrate when:

Readings appear inconsistent
The scale has been moved or dropped
The batteries have been replaced
The operating temperature has changed significantly
The scale has been stored for an extended period
A known test weight produces an incorrect reading

Use the exact weight specified in your manual or shown on the display during calibration mode. The required weight varies by model and capacity. Do not use coins or household objects — their actual weights may vary due to wear, residue, and manufacturing differences.

Digital scales are sensitive instruments. Readings may fluctuate because of air currents, vibration, uneven surfaces, temperature changes, low batteries, nearby electronics, static electricity, moisture, or movement of the item being weighed.

Place the scale on a hard, level, vibration-free surface and keep it away from fans, speakers, appliances, and wireless devices.

This is called "drifting" or "creeping." It may occur when the scale is adjusting to temperature, or is affected by airflow, vibration, low batteries, or electronic interference. Allow the scale to acclimate to room temperature, replace batteries, and recalibrate.

An overload message means the weight placed on the scale exceeds its maximum capacity. Remove the item immediately — continued overloading may permanently damage the load cell. Remember the total load includes the item and any container, bowl, or tray.

On many American Weigh Scales models, this indicates the scale needs recalibration. Use the correct calibration weight and follow the procedure in your model's manual. Error codes can vary, so always consult the correct manual before service.

"UNST" means the scale cannot obtain a stable reading — caused by movement, vibration, drafts, an uneven surface, or a sensor problem. Remove everything from the platform, reposition on a stable surface, and restart. If it continues after replacing batteries and recalibrating, contact support.

Tare subtracts the weight of a container so the display shows only the net weight of its contents.

Place the empty container on the platform
Wait for the reading to stabilize
Press TARE or ZERO
Confirm the display returns to zero
Add your material

The combined weight of container + contents must stay within the scale's maximum capacity.

Capacity is the maximum weight the scale can hold.
Readability is the smallest increment the scale displays.

A scale listed as 500 g × 0.01 g has a 500-gram capacity and displays measurements in 0.01-gram increments.

Choose enough capacity for your heaviest total load — including any bowl, tray, or container. A small amount of extra capacity prevents accidental overloading. However, a capacity far above what you need may result in larger increments and less detailed readings.

Start with the smallest change you need to detect. Your scale's readability should be smaller than that amount. If you need to observe 0.1 g changes, choose a scale reading in 0.1 g or finer. High-precision work may need 0.01 g, 0.001 g, or less.

Readability alone doesn't guarantee accuracy — calibration, repeatability, operating conditions, and technique also matter.

Turn the scale off and wipe with a soft, slightly damp cloth. Remove powders and residue before they enter the scale. Do not:

Immerse the scale in water
Pour liquid directly onto it
Use harsh chemicals or abrasives
Allow moisture into the display or buttons
Press heavily on the weighing platform

Store in a clean, dry location at moderate temperature. Keep the platform free from pressure — don't stack heavy objects on top. Use the protective cover when included. If unused for an extended period, remove the batteries to prevent leakage.

Only a scale approved for commercial transactions should be used when price is determined by weight. In the U.S., this generally means an NTEP-certified scale that meets state and local requirements. A scale marketed as "precise" or "professional" is not automatically legal for trade. Contact your local weights and measures authority to confirm requirements for your business.

How to Calibrate a Digital Pocket Scale

Calibration takes only a few minutes. Complete it whenever readings are inconsistent, after replacing batteries, or after moving or storing the scale.

⚠️ Important

Calibration steps and required weights vary by model. Always check your scale's instruction manual before beginning. Never substitute coins or household objects — use the exact calibration weight for your model.

1

Place on a Stable Surface

Set the scale on a hard, level surface. Avoid carpets, uneven counters, fans, open windows, and vibrating appliances.

2

Let it Adjust

If the scale was moved between different temperatures, allow it to sit at room temperature before calibration.

3

Turn On

Make sure the platform is empty. Press ON/OFF and wait until the display shows zero.

4

Enter Calibration Mode

Press and hold CAL or MODE until the display shows "CAL." Button names vary by model — check your manual.

5

Confirm

Press the CAL or MODE button again if prompted. The display shows the required weight (e.g., 100.00 g, 200.00 g, 500.0 g).

6

Add the Weight

Place the correct calibration weight in the center of the platform. Do not press down or move the scale.

7

Wait for PASS

The display may show "PASS," return to the weight reading, or exit calibration mode automatically. Remove the weight and turn off the scale.

8

Verify

Turn the scale back on, wait for zero, then place the calibration weight again. Confirm the reading matches its stated value.

When Should You Calibrate?

Measurements appear inconsistent
A known weight reads incorrectly
Batteries have been replaced
Scale has been dropped or moved
Significant temperature change
Precision application coming up

Troubleshooting

Problem	Fix
Won't enter calibration mode	Check the correct button sequence for your model — some use MODE, others use a dedicated CAL button.
Display shows an error	Remove the weight, turn off, restart. Make sure the platform is empty when entering calibration mode.
Reading is still incorrect	Check batteries, move to a stable surface, repeat. Inspect platform for debris.
Reading changes repeatedly	Drafts, vibration, uneven surfaces, nearby electronics, and temperature changes can affect sensitive scales. Move to a more controlled location.
Calibration continues to fail	Refer to the product manual or contact American Weigh Scales support.

Weighing Glossary

Quick definitions for the terms you'll see in manuals, product listings, and calibration guides.

Common Units of Measurement

Gram (g)Metric unit for food, jewelry, ingredients

Kilogram (kg)1,000 grams

Milligram (mg)1/1,000 of a gram — 1,000 mg = 1 g

Ounce (oz)16 oz = 1 lb

Pound (lb)Body weight, shipping, heavier items

Troy Ounce (ozt)Precious metals — different from standard ounce

Pennyweight (dwt)Precious metals — 20 dwt = 1 ozt

Carat (ct)Gemstones — 5 ct = 1 g

Grain (gn)Reloading, archery, precious metals

How to Choose a Scale

Three things matter most: capacity, readability, and platform size. Match them to your application.

1 Capacity

What's the heaviest total load you'll place on the scale? Include the weight of any bowl, tray, or container.

2 Readability

What's the smallest change you need to detect? Choose a scale that reads in increments smaller than that amount.

3 Platform Size

Will your item fit securely without touching the surrounding surface or blocking the display?

Find the Right Category for Your Application

Filter by application:

Cooking & bakingKitchen

Coffee preparationKitchen (0.1g)

Portion controlKitchen

Jewelry & precious metalsPocket / Milligram

ReloadingPocket (grain)

Hobbies & craftsPocket

Shipping & postalShipping

Personal health & fitnessBathroom

Travel & luggageHanging

Laboratory & educationMilligram / Balance

Retail & business (by weight)NTEP only