Introduction: Balancing Heavy Samples with High Accuracy
Not all laboratory weighing involves milligrams. Many applications in industrial QC, materials testing, and field research require precise measurement of samples in challenging environments. The Adam Highland series of portable precision balances is designed specifically for this task. Offering advanced features in a compact, durable balance that stacks for easy storage, the Highland provides fast, accurate weighing in a number of different environments—from science research in the laboratory or field, to manufacturing operations . As your equipment partner, Applied Analytical Systems Ltd recommends the Highland for any Nigerian industry requiring accuracy on the go.
The User Experience: Handling the Big Jobs with Confidence
Imagine this: You are working in a construction materials testing lab in Lagos, verifying the composition of concrete additives. Your samples are heavy, often exceeding a kilogram, and you need to take the balance to different testing sites across the city. The environment varies from air‑conditioned labs to hot, dusty warehouses.
The Highland portable precision balance is your perfect solution. Its compact, stackable design saves valuable bench space when not in use . The internal rechargeable battery allows you to work almost anywhere—no need to search for power outlets or run extension cords across busy work areas. The ShockProtect® three‑point overload protection gives you confidence that accidental overloads won’t damage the internal mechanism . And with HandiCal® internal calibration, you can verify accuracy at any location without carrying external calibration weights .
Key Features & Technological Superiority
The Highland series is built for portability without compromising on accuracy.
ShockProtect®: Three‑point overload protection helps prevent damage to internal components from heavy overloads, extending the life of your balance . This feature is essential in industrial environments where users may accidentally place excessive weight on the pan. The audible overload alarm warns when capacity has been exceeded, giving operators immediate feedback .
HandiCal® Internal Calibration: HandiCal® facilitates internal calibration without the need for external weights . With the push of a button, the balance automatically calibrates itself using internal reference masses. This ensures accuracy wherever you are—in the lab, in the field, or on the production floor.
Portable and Stackable Design: The compact design and stackable feature (on models with 120mm pan size) allow for efficient storage when balances are not in use . This is particularly valuable in laboratories with limited bench space and for organizations that maintain multiple balances. The internal rechargeable battery enables operation almost anywhere .
Vivid Backlit LCD: The backlit LCD is easily visible in any lighting conditions, with a programmable backlight that can be set to “always on,” “always off,” or “light only when weighing” . A capacity tracker built into the display allows operators to monitor possible overloads at a glance, preventing accidental overloading.
Dual Tare Keys: The Highland features dual tare keys that facilitate operation with either the left or right hand . This ambidextrous design improves workflow efficiency, allowing users to work in the orientation that feels most natural.
Versatile Connectivity: USB and RS‑232 interfaces provide speedy communication with computers and printers . Data can be collected using the AdamDU Data Collection Program for analysis and record‑keeping.
Multiple Applications: The Highland supports weighing, parts counting, percentage weighing, and accumulation of weight . These core applications cover the most common industrial weighing needs.
Sturdy ABS Construction: The solid ABS housing is durable for industrial uses . The large, grade 304 stainless steel pan allows easy cleaning, and the level indicator and adjustable feet ensure proper balance setup for optimum weighing results.
Below‑Balance Weighing Hook: A hook is included for weighing below the balance . This feature is essential for density determination of objects that cannot be placed on the pan, such as irregularly shaped solids.
Selectable Digital Filtering: Selectable digital filtering helps minimize effects of vibration and disturbances . This allows the Highland to be used in environments that would otherwise compromise accuracy, such as near heavy machinery or in moving vehicles.
Zero‑Tracking Feature: The zero‑tracking feature ensures the display returns to zero reading, maintaining accuracy over extended use .
Security Features: A security slot for an optional Kensington‑type lock and cable helps prevent theft in shared or high‑traffic environments .
Rechargeable Battery: The included rechargeable battery provides operation almost anywhere, without the need for constant connection to mains power . This is essential for field work and mobile applications.
Programmable Auto Power‑Off: The programmable auto power‑off feature saves energy by automatically turning off the balance after a period of inactivity .
Applications in the Nigerian Market
The Highland is perfectly suited for the demanding needs of Nigerian industries:
Construction Materials Testing: From concrete additives to steel reinforcements, the Highland provides the accuracy required for materials testing while withstanding the harsh conditions of construction sites. The rechargeable battery allows testing to be performed on‑site rather than transporting samples to a central lab.
Industrial Formulation: Paint manufacturers, chemical processors, and food producers use the Highland for preparing batches of products. The accumulation feature allows operators to sum multiple ingredients, while the parts counting function speeds up inventory management.
Field Research: Environmental scientists and agricultural researchers use the Highland for field work, from soil sampling to crop analysis. The rugged construction and rechargeable battery make it ideal for remote locations.
Educational Institutions: The stackable design and portable operation make the Highland ideal for teaching labs with limited space. Students can learn weighing fundamentals on a balance that mimics the functionality of larger lab balances.
Quality Control in Manufacturing: Manufacturing facilities across Nigeria use the Highland for incoming material inspection, in‑process verification, and finished product testing. The checkweighing feature speeds up batch verification.
Technical Specifications Overview
| Model | Capacity | Readability | Repeatability | Linearity | Pan Size | Calibration | Key Features |
| HCB 153 | 150g | 0.005g | 0.005g | 0.01g | Ø 120mm | Internal/External | ShockProtect®, HandiCal® |
| HCB 302 | 300g | 0.01g | 0.01g | 0.02g | Ø 120mm | Internal/External | Portable, rechargeable battery |
| HCB 602 | 600g | 0.01g | 0.01g | 0.02g | Ø 120mm | Internal/External | Stackable design |
| HCB 1202 | 1,200g | 0.01g | 0.01g | 0.02g | Ø 120mm | Internal/External | Higher capacity precision |
| HCB 2202 | 2,200g | 0.01g | 0.01g | 0.02g | 145x145mm | Internal/External | Larger pan for bigger samples |
| HCB 3001 | 3,000g | 0.1g | 0.1g | 0.2g | 145x145mm | Internal/External | Industrial applications |
| HCB 6001 | 6,000g | 0.1g | 0.1g | 0.2g | 145x145mm | Internal/External | Maximum capacity model |
Technical Specifications (HCB 153)
| Parameter | Specification |
| Capacity | 150g |
| Readability | 0.005g |
| Repeatability | 0.005g |
| Linearity | 0.01g |
| Pan Size | Ø 120mm (4.7″) |
| Weighing Units | g, lb, oz, N, GN, ct, dr, dwt, mm, ozt, T, tl.H, tl.S, tl.T |
| Stabilization Time | 2 seconds |
| Interface | RS‑232, USB |
| Calibration | External / Internal manual (HandiCal®) |
| Display | Backlit LCD with 18mm high digits |
| Power Supply | 12VDC 800mA adapter / Internal rechargeable battery |
| Operating Temperature | 0°C to 40°C |
| Housing | ABS plastic |
| Overall Dimensions | 174 x 252 x 80mm |
| Net Weight | 2kg |
Accessories for Enhanced Functionality
| Accessory | Part Number | Description |
| Hard carrying case with lock | 308002042 | Protects balance during transport |
| In‑use cover (pack of 5) | 308232034 | Protects balance during operation |
| In‑use cover (pack of 10) | 308232035 | Bulk pack for multiple balances |
| ATP thermal printer | 1120011156 | Fast, quiet printing of results |
| Kensington‑type lock and cable | 700100046 | Theft prevention |
| AdamDU Data Collection Program | 600002028 | Software for data logging |
| Calibration certificate | 700660290 | Certified traceability |
| F1 calibration weights | Various | External verification |
Highland® Portable Precision Balances-HCB 153
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