FAQs (Frequently Asked Questions)

1. *My VICON reads "uL"?
2. Where is/are my calibration weight(s) for my new VICON (VIC) scale?
3. (all models) How do I calibrate my scale or balance?
4. Even though there is no load on the scale, the weight readout shown on the scale slowly increases as a result of drift. Only after 30-120 min. does the readout stop increasing.

1. My VICON reads "uL"?

Explanation of the error message: The unit is manufactured in Arvada, Colorado. There, initial calibration is performed and the zero point is set during production. It is possible that the zero point excessively shifted or the calibration factor was lost during transportation or handling of the product.

Setup: Please ensure that the pan is positioned properly, transportation cardboard has been properly removed from under the pan and scale is placed on a solid and even surface. Also, please be sure that the environment is stable (free of currents, drafts, vibration, exposure to direct sunlight or extreme temperatures, etc.).

Did the unit ever work? If your answer is yes, it is likely an electronic or mechanical problem has occurred (the unit may need to be returned for service if the following procedure does not work). If "uL" is shown "out of box," proceed as follows:

Weights or objects (5g, 10g, 20g, etc.) are needed for preloading the scale. (Please note: If you do not have weights, using coins such as nickels and quarters may work). If your scale was supplied with a calibration weight, do not use this weight for preloading. You will need this weight to calibrate the scale during this procedure.
Turn the unit on (for milligram models please allow 2 to 3 hours' warm-up). After power-up, the unit will show "uL."
Start placing small weights (or coins) on the scale pan until the display shows a reading (example: 0.0 g).
Press and release the "zero" key (scale/balance will zero).
Once a stabile zero reading is display, press and release the "CAL" key (to access the calibration sequence, proceed with calibration [refer to page 12 in the manual]).
After calibration has been completed, remove the calibration weight, but leave increment weights on; then shut off the scale.
After turning off the scale, remove increment weights.
Turn scale back on and if it reads zero, immediately recalibrate (after calibration, the scale is ready to use)
If scale continues to show "uL," repeat steps 3 through 8 (please note that you should load "fewer" increment weights each time as you gradually adjust the zero point back to the proper preload setting (with just the pan in place).

We recommend that the unit be calibrated regularly. If the scale is used daily, then calibrate the unit at least once a week.

2. Where is/are my calibration weight(s) for my new VICON (VIC) scale?

Certain VICON models (up to a 711-gram capacity) are supplied with a calibration weight or weights. The weight(s) are located within the balance (see picture) and can be removed by turning the access compartment, located in the right rear of the scale, counterclockwise and pulling it out.

3. (all models) How do I calibrate my scale or balance?

Calibration instructions will depend on the model of your scale or balance. Calibration/adjustment instructions are outlined in the operator's manual supplied with your scale. If you have lost your manual, you can download a copy from this website.

4. Even though there is no load on the scale, the weight readout shown on the scale slowly increases as a result of drift. Only after 30-120 min. does the readout stop increasing.

Problem: The scale has not warmed up or has not been acclimated to the ambient temperature. This effect occurs in particular with scales that have a readability ranging from 0.01 g to 0.0001 g.

Generally, measuring instruments react to temperature changes. The higher the sensitivity of the measuring instrument, the more pronounced the reaction will be. Our scales are designed so that they automatically compensate for normal and slow fluctuations in temperature. This has to be set accordingly in the menu of the scale.

For this reason, please be sure to do the following:

Allow the scale sufficient time to adapt to the ambient temperature. Depending on the level of temperature fluctuations, this can take up to 24 hours.
Allow the electronic components sufficient time to warm up (just like the engine of your car). If the scale is plugged into an electrical outlet, but the power is turned off, the standby mode of the scale will maintain the electronic components at their required operating temperature. The entire electronic weigh cell takes 30 to 60 minutes to warm up.
Be sure that the scale is exposed to the same temperature from all sides. Prevent exposure of the scale to sources that heat the scale from one side only, such as heat radiators or strong one-sided exposure to sunlight.
Before starting any weighing procedure, always zero the scale first (set the readout to zero by pressing the tare key) and, if you have moved the scale to a new location, be sure to calibrate it again.