Power line protection/filtering for electronic scales

[Goatsnguns]

Have heard several times that it beneficial to use a "Line Filter" with your electronic scale. Just googled line filters/regulators and am now more confused! Does anyone have a recommendation for an appropriate and reasonably price device? I have a RCBS 1500 Charge Master.

Thanks to all, I have no doubt I will get some good information,

Gary

 

[savageshooter86]

I got the ones you get from radio shak and put them on my GP 250 scale. One at the end that plugs into the wall and another up by the back of the scale where it plugs in. I think the pair was like $3

http://www.radioshack.com/product/index.jsp?productId=3012599

 

[Gillie Dog]

I have been using ChargeMaster for years now just plugged into the outlet in the shop but some folks have commented on issues with this scale as well as other scales.

Whether you have surges, brown outs, spikes, harmonics, radio frequency noise other problems there are several possible devices to help:

The ferrite chokes SS86 used will eliminate some RF noise in certain ranges and there are different sizes of these available.

Many standard multiple plug in strips have voltage chokes and some spike and noise suppression and might work.

The best you will probably do is a uninterruptable power supply (UPS) like many people have on their PCs to prevent power loss to the computer and thus data loss. These offer the best power conditioning.

You would have to test each method with good equipment, oscilloscope possibly, to see if if solved your issue but if you just want peace of mind a UPS is the best bet and the quite expensive soultion. For sure, none of these methods will hurt.

That said I just plug mine into the wall and am successful. No wandering or bad weights when I regularly check against a 10-10 scale during the loading sessions.

Good luck,

GD

 

[brxbrad]

Get a Tripplite Isobar Surge Suppressor. Best on the Planet.
http://www.tripplite.com/en/products/product-series.cfm?txtSeriesID=825
available at Amazon...
http://www.amazon.com/Tripp-Lite-ISOBAR4ULTRA-Isobar-Protector/dp/B0000513O4/ref=sr_1_3?ie=UTF8&qid=1373827992&sr=8-3&keywords=triplite+isobar
I've been using them since the early 90's.
The ISOBAR4ULTRA provides 3330 joules of surge protection for connected equipment. (More joules = more protection.) Tripp Lite's exclusive Isobar surge suppression technology, combined with a nearly indestructible metal case, stops even the strongest surges before they can damage or destroy sensitive equipment. The ISOBAR4ULTRA also features unique isolated filter banks that block disruptive EMI/RFI line noise interference and prevent mutual interference between connected components. These premium features make the ISOBAR4ULTRA ideal for a wide range of applications, from data centers to desktop computer systems.

The ISOBAR4ULTRA provides 4 AC outlets arranged in 4 isolated filter banks (2 per bank). Outlets are widely spaced to accommodate up to 2 large transformers without blocking remaining outlets. Diagnostic LEDs confirm power availability, line fault and surge protection status at a glance. The ISOBAR4ULTRA features a 6-ft. foot power cord with space-saving right-angle plug, keyhole mounting tabs and a set of 4 covers to safeguard unused outlets. The ISOBAR4ULTRA comes with $50,000 Ultimate Lifetime connected equipment insurance (USA/Canada only) and a lifetime manufacturer's product warranty.

 

[kelbro]

I got the ones you get from radio shak and put them on my GP 250 scale. One at the end that plugs into the wall and another up by the back of the scale where it plugs in. I think the pair was like $3

http://www.radioshack.com/product/index.jsp?productId=3012599

Loop you power cord once through one of these up near the measure and snap it closed. It will take care of most harmonics that would affect your load cell.

 

[savageshooter86]

so don't do the one on the cord close to the outlet? Just the one up by where it plugs into the scale?

*when you say loop, what do you mean? I just opened the choke and put the cord in it and snapped it closed? *

brad- that looks good to have since I unplug mine here lately due to everyday thunderstorms here in South GA. That appears to allow me to keep my scale plugged in all the time and not worry it will get ruined during a storm?

 

[TonyR]

I have been using an APC Line-R 1200 Line Conditioner I got at BestBuy for several years. I believe it helps particularly if you are at the end of the grid somewhere and subject to spikes like I am. The little magnets that wrap around the scale's power cord also help along with keeping the temperature in the room steady.