Scale Error Codes Explained: OHAUS Scout Err 8.4, A&D CAL E and More
Short answer: On an OHAUS Scout, Err 8.4 means underload: the scale sees less weight than it expects at zero, almost always because the pan is off or not seated. Turn the scale off, seat the pan, turn it on and recalibrate. Err 8.3 is overload, Err 8.1/8.2 mean the weight at power-on was outside the zero range, and CAL E means calibration failed. On A&D FX-i and FZ-i balances, E is overload, -E is a pan error and CAL E means the calibration weight read too heavy. If a code returns after these steps, the scale needs service.
Most error codes are the scale telling you something simple: the pan is off, the load is too heavy, or the reading was not stable. Below are the codes from the OHAUS Scout SPX and A&D FX-i/FZ-i instruction manuals, what each one means, and what to try before calling for service. MNM Scales repairs all brands we carry and has been fixing scales for over 30 years.
OHAUS Scout error codes (SPX)
These are the codes in the troubleshooting table of the OHAUS Scout SPX manual, with the cause OHAUS lists and our recommended fix.
| Code | Meaning (OHAUS manual) | What to do |
|---|---|---|
| Err 8.1 | Weight exceeds the power-on zero range | Remove everything from the pan, restart and recalibrate. |
| Err 8.2 | Weight below the power-on zero range | The pan was probably off at power-on. Seat the pan, restart and recalibrate. |
| Err 8.3 | Overload (weight exceeds rated capacity) | Remove the load. Use a higher-capacity scale for that item. |
| Err 8.4 | Underload (pan removed) | Seat the pan correctly; check nothing is lifting it. Restart. |
| Err 8.5 | Tare out of range | Clear the tare and use a lighter container. |
| Err 8.6 | Displayed value exceeds 999999 (possible in totalization mode) | Clear the total or change to a larger unit. |
| ref.Err | Parts counting or percent error: sample weight below 1 division | Use more pieces for the reference sample. |
| Lo.ref | Percent reference weight or average piece weight too low | Use a heavier reference or a finer balance. |
| CAL E | Calibration failed | Use the correct calibration weight, on a stable surface, and retry. |
| USB.Err | Menu or application file not found on the USB drive | Check the file on the USB drive and reinsert it. |
OHAUS Scout Err 8.4: step by step
- Turn the scale off.
- Remove the pan and check underneath for debris, tape or anything touching the pan support.
- Seat the pan firmly on its support.
- Turn the scale on with nothing on the pan and let it zero.
- If the code is gone but readings look off, recalibrate with the correct weight (see calibration weight classes).
- If Err 8.4 returns with the pan seated, the load cell or its connection may be damaged, usually from a drop or an overload. Send it in for repair.
Scouts such as the SPX222 and SPX2202 are portable, so they get carried, dropped and stacked, and that is how most Err 8.4 repairs start. Comparing OHAUS families? See OHAUS Valor vs Ranger vs Scout.
A&D FX-i and FZ-i error codes
These codes appear on the A&D FX-i and FZ-i precision balances, such as the FX-120i. The serial code in the second column is what the balance sends to a PC when error output is turned on.
| Display | Serial code | Meaning (A&D manual) | What to do |
|---|---|---|---|
| E | Overload: sample beyond capacity | Remove the sample from the pan. | |
| -E | Weighing pan error: the weight value is too light | Check the pan is installed properly, then calibrate. | |
| CAL E | EC, E20 | Calibration weight too heavy | Check the pan and the calibration weight value; press CAL to return to weighing. |
| -CAL E | EC, E21 | Calibration weight too light | Same checks as above. |
| Lo | Sample mass error: counting or percent sample too light | Use a heavier sample. | |
| Error 1 | EC, E11 | Stability error: the balance cannot stabilize | Remove vibration, drafts, temperature changes, static and magnetic fields; press CAL. |
CAL E on an FX-120i is usually the wrong weight value or a weight that is out of tolerance. The FX-120i calibrates with a 100 g weight, and the A&D 100 g calibration weight is sold separately (see how to calibrate the FX-120i). Models with an internal weight report an internal mass error instead (see internal vs external calibration). Error 1 is common on 0.001 g balances near air vents (see analytical vs precision balance for placement tips).
Problems that do not show a code
- Reading drifts: drafts, temperature change, static from plastic containers or a sample that is gaining or losing moisture.
- Will not return to zero: debris under the pan, a cable or cord touching the platform, or a damaged load cell.
- Weights are off by a percentage: calibration has drifted; recalibrate or send it in (see capacity and readability).
- Counting is inaccurate: too few pieces in the reference sample (see our counting scale guide).
- Floor or bench scale jumps: a wet or damaged load cell cable or junction box (see our load cell buying guide).
When to call for repair
Call us or see our scale repair and scale services pages when a code returns after the fixes above, when the scale was dropped or overloaded, or when it will not hold calibration. MNM Scales repairs all brands we carry, and we can provide repair and calibration services for other scale companies. Mail-in repair is available, and mail-in TDA/NIST calibration usually takes 1 to 3 business days. In Houston and the suburbs, on-site service is $295 plus $2 per mile round trip, once per visit, with calibration priced per scale; Dallas, Austin and San Antonio are available on request. For emergency or same-day service, call for availability. You can reach us 24/7, and the shop at 21249 FM 529 Rd, Cypress TX 77433 is open by appointment.
A repaired scale should be recalibrated before use. Calibration pricing follows maximum capacity (see calibration pricing):
Up to 2.2 kg (FX-120i, Scout SPX222 to SPX2202): In-house calibration + certificate ($95) NIST calibration + NIST-traceable certificate ($395)
Over 2.2 to 6.2 kg (Scout SPX6201): In-house calibration + certificate ($195) NIST calibration + NIST-traceable certificate ($495)
Over 6.2 to 35 kg (Scout SPX8200, 30 and 60 lb bench scales): In-house calibration + certificate ($250) NIST calibration + NIST-traceable certificate ($595)
Frequently asked questions
What does Err 8.4 mean on an OHAUS Scout?
Err 8.4 is underload: the pan is removed or not seated. Turn the scale off, seat the pan, turn it on with nothing on it and recalibrate if needed. If it returns with the pan seated, the scale needs repair.
What does Err 8.3 mean on an OHAUS scale?
On the OHAUS Scout SPX, Err 8.3 means overload: the weight on the pan exceeds the rated capacity. Remove the load.
What does CAL E mean on a scale?
On OHAUS Scout and A&D FX-i balances, CAL E means calibration failed. On the A&D FX-i it means the calibration weight read too heavy; -CAL E means too light. Check the pan and the weight value and retry.
What does -E mean on an A&D balance?
On A&D FX-i and FZ-i balances, -E is a weighing pan error: the weight value is too light. Confirm the pan is installed properly, then calibrate the balance.
Why does my scale say Error 1?
On A&D FX-i and FZ-i balances, Error 1 (EC, E11) is a stability error. Remove vibration, drafts, temperature changes, static and magnetic fields, then press CAL to return to weighing.
Do you repair scales with error codes?
Yes. MNM Scales repairs all brands we carry. Mail-in repair is available, and on-site service is available in Houston and the suburbs. Call (832) 290-3120.