MNM Scales stocks scale indicators, the digital readouts that turn load cell signals into weight, from A&D, Brecknell, CAS, Detecto, Optima and our own MNM Scales line. Use them to replace a failed display, build a floor or bench system, or add printing and data output. As one of the largest scale distributors in Texas, we ship indicators free from Cypress, TX, and our technicians can install and calibrate them.
How to choose a weighing indicator
- NTEP approval. If the scale is used to sell by weight, both the indicator and the base need NTEP approval. The Brecknell SBI-505 and SBI-240, CAS CI-100A and Detecto 190 Storm are NTEP approved.
- Load cell count. Floor scales and kits typically run four load cells through a junction box. The A&D AD-4406A drives up to four 350 ohm load cells directly. See load cell junction boxes.
- Display and housing. LED displays read well in dim warehouses, and LCD displays save battery power. Stainless, sealed housings such as the Detecto 190 Storm (IP69K) suit washdown areas.
- Connections. RS-232C or USB output sends weights to a printer, computer or label system. See connecting a scale to a computer.
Popular scale indicators in stock
- A&D AD-4406A: compact portable or mountable indicator, up to 20,000 display divisions, four load cells, AC or battery power, $349.
- Brecknell SBI-505: NTEP LED indicator with RS-232C, $299.
- Brecknell SBI-240: NTEP indicator with RS-232C and USB, the replacement for the SBI-505, $279.
- Brecknell SBI-210: replacement for the SBI-100 and a replacement head for Brecknell scales such as the MS-1000, $299.
- CAS CI-100A: NTEP LCD indicator for floor scales, RS-232C, $219.
- Detecto 190 Storm: NTEP IP69K washdown indicator, $614.
- MNM Scales 7510B: bright LCD indicator in a waterproof stainless steel housing, $299.
- MNM Scales 7510-A: bright LED indicator in a waterproof stainless steel housing, $299.
- MNM Scales LP7510-C: LCD indicator with 5-prong connection and 15 ft cable included, $149.
- Optima OP-902: indicator with 5-prong connection and RS-232C, $139.
Shop related parts and systems
Browse Optima indicators and parts, load cells, NTEP floor scales and bench scales. For Brecknell models, see Brecknell scales.
Choosing the right indicator
Replacing a failed display
Match the connector and the number of load cells, then calibrate. Brecknell users can move from an SBI-505 to the SBI-240, and many 5-pin systems take the LP7510-C or OP-902. See scale error codes explained before you replace a working indicator.
Building a floor or platform scale
A four-load-cell floor kit needs an indicator that matches its cells and junction box. See our floor scale buying guide and load cell buying guide.
Washdown and food plants
Choose a stainless, sealed indicator such as the Detecto 190 Storm or MNM 7510B. See the washdown scales guide.
Printing and data
Pick an indicator with RS-232C or USB, and pair it with a ticket printer or PC software. A&D options such as the AD-4407-07 4–20 mA analog output and the AD-4405-06 built-in printer add outputs to supported A&D indicators.
Installation and calibration
A new indicator has to be calibrated to its scale base. Calibration is priced by the system’s maximum capacity:
| Scale maximum capacity |
In-house calibration with NIST-tested weights |
NIST calibration with NIST-traceable certificate |
| 6.2–35 kg (13.7–77 lb) |
$250 |
$595 |
| 35–150 kg (77–330 lb) |
$350 |
$750 |
| Over 150 kg (330 lb) |
$495 |
$995 |
A scale whose capacity is exactly at a tier limit uses the lower tier.
Most floor and platform systems are over 150 kg (330 lb) and fall in the top tier. Calibration usually takes 1–3 business days in our Cypress, TX shop, and our mail-in scale calibration service covers bench systems. MNM Scales is TDA licensed with registered technicians for all scale classes, and we handle the RWM-780 and RWM-700 paperwork when a trade scale is placed in service in Texas.
Our technicians install indicators and repair scales on-site across the Houston area and surrounding suburbs, with Dallas, Austin and San Antonio on request. On-site service is $295 plus $2 per mile round trip, charged once per visit, with calibration priced per scale on top. See industrial scale calibration in Houston.
Volume orders
Outfitting several scales or an OEM build? Our wholesale scales program quotes volume pricing. Call (832) 290-3120, or contact us any time, 24/7.
Scale indicator FAQ
What does a scale indicator do?
It powers the load cells, reads their signal and shows the weight. Many also print, total, count and send data to a computer.
Will a new indicator work with my old scale base?
Usually, if the connector and load cell wiring match. Call us with the base model and we will confirm the fit.
Do I need an NTEP indicator?
Yes, when the scale is used to sell by weight. Each component in a legal-for-trade system has to be NTEP approved.
Does a new indicator need calibration?
Yes. Every indicator has to be calibrated to the base it reads, and a trade scale in Texas then has to be placed in service.
Can you install an indicator on-site?
Yes. Our technicians install, wire and calibrate indicators across the Houston area.
How fast is calibration?
Usually 1–3 business days in our shop after we receive the scale.
Is shipping free?
Yes. Indicators ship free, and we offer UPS 2nd Day and Next Day for faster delivery.