Rice Lake 150-10-6 Digital Physician Scale Waist-Level Technical Manual
Software Version 11525
Revision History
This section tracks and describes the current and previous manual revisions for awareness of major updates and when the updates took place.
Revision | Date | Description |
---|---|---|
B | August 18, 2022 | Established a revision history; formatted content to match other medical manuals; software version 11525 |
C | December 9, 2024 | Revised battery replacement instructions |
D | August 6, 2025 | Updated specifications |
Contents
1.0 Introduction
The 150-10-6 Digital Physician Scale is efficiently designed to provide accurate, reliable and repeatable weight measurements. It is equipped with a handle and two heavy-duty rear wheels for easy portability.
Manuals are available from Rice Lake Weighing Systems at www.ricelake.com/manuals
Warranty information is available at www.ricelake.com/warranties
1.1 FCC Compliance
United States
This equipment has been tested and found to comply with the limits for a Class A digital device, pursuant to Part 15 of the FCC Rules. These limits are designed to provide reasonable protection against harmful interference when the equipment is operated in a commercial environment. This equipment generates, uses, and can radiate radio frequency energy and, if not installed and used in accordance with the instruction manual, may cause harmful interference to radio communications. Operation of this equipment in a residential area is likely to cause harmful interference in which case the user will be required to correct the interference at his own expense.
Canada
This digital apparatus does not exceed the Class A limits for radio noise emissions from digital apparatus set out in the Radio Interference Regulations of the Canadian Department of Communications.
Le présent appareil numérique n'émet pas de bruits radioélectriques dépassant les limites applicables aux appareils numériques de la Class A prescrites dans le Règlement sur le brouillage radioélectrique édité par le ministère des Communications du Canada.
1.2 Disposal
Product Disposal
The product must be brought to appropriate separate waste collection centers at the end of its life cycle. Proper separate collection to recycle the product helps prevent possible negative effects on the environment and to health, and promotes the recycling of the materials. Users who dispose of the product illegally shall face administrative sanctions as provided by law.
Battery Disposal
Dispose of batteries at appropriate waste collection centers at the end of their life cycle in accordance with local laws and regulations. Batteries and rechargeable batteries may contain harmful substances that should not be disposed of in household waste. Batteries may contain harmful substances including but not limited to: cadmium (Cd), lithium (Li), mercury (Hg) or lead (Pb). Users who dispose of batteries illegally shall face administrative sanctions as provided by law.
WARNING: Risk of fire and explosion. Do not burn, crush, disassemble or short-circuit lithium batteries.
1.3 Safety
Safety Definitions:
- DANGER: Indicates an imminently hazardous situation that, if not avoided, will result in death or serious injury. Includes hazards that are exposed when guards are removed.
- WARNING: Indicates a potentially hazardous situation that, if not avoided, could result in serious injury or death. Includes hazards that are exposed when guards are removed.
- CAUTION: Indicates a potentially hazardous situation that, if not avoided, could result in minor or moderate injury.
- IMPORTANT: Indicates information about procedures that, if not observed, could result in damage to equipment or corruption to and loss of data.
General Safety
Do not operate or work on this equipment unless this manual has been read and all instructions are understood. Failure to follow the instructions or heed the warnings could result in injury or death. Contact any Rice Lake Weighing Systems dealer for replacement manuals.
WARNING
Failure to heed could result in serious injury or death.
- Ensure every individual who operates or works with this unit has read and understands all safety information.
- Do not transport the scale while someone is on the scale.
- Do not allow minors (children) or inexperienced persons to operate this scale.
- Do not use in the presence of flammable materials.
- Do not use this product if any of the components are loose or cracked.
- Do not use near water.
- Do not use the scale on slippery surfaces, such as a wet floor.
- Do not use this scale when a person's body or feet are wet, such as after taking a bath.
- Do not place fingers into slots or possible pinch points.
- To avoid cross contamination, the scale should be cleaned regularly.
- Prior to cleaning, make sure the scale is disconnected from the power source.
- People with disabilities, or who are physically frail, should always be assisted by another person when using this scale.
IMPORTANT
- Do not drop the scale or subject it to violent shocks.
- Do not jump on the scale.
- For accurate weighing, the scale must be placed on a flat, stable surface.
- Operating at voltages and frequencies other than specified could damage the equipment.
- Avoid contact with excessive moisture.
- Do not make alterations or modifications to the scale.
- Rice Lake Weighing Systems offers optional AC adapters; utilizing an adapter not supplied by Rice Lake Weighing Systems voids all warranties and approvals.
- Weight exceeding the maximum capacity may damage the scale.
2.0 Assembly
2.1 Unpacking
Place the carton on a hard, level surface for unpacking, preferably in the area where it will be used.
Parts contained in the shipping box include:
- Scale (the base and attached column)
- This manual
- White box labeled Parts Inside which contains the following:
- Wheels (2)
- Wheel hinge (1)
- Pan head screws (8)
- AA batteries (6)
2.1.1 Repacking Scale
All component parts have been wrapped in plastic. Retain the packaging for use in the event that the scale must be returned or moved. It must be properly packed with sufficient packing materials. Whenever possible, use the original carton when shipping the scale back.
IMPORTANT: Damage caused by improper packaging is not covered by the warranty.
2.2 Scale Assembly
Use the following steps to set up the scale.
NOTE: A Phillips head screwdriver will be needed for installation.
- Place the scale on a hard, level surface for the most accurate weighments in an area where the weighing process will occur.
- Carefully lift the scale out of the packaging material; lifting by the scale base.
IMPORTANT: The scale base and scale column are connected by a cable and requires great care when removing from the box so that the cabling does not get damaged.
Figure 2-1. Cabling Connecting the Scale Platform and Scale Column
- Gently thread the excess cable through the top of the scale column to eliminate any excess cable at the bottom of the column. This will eliminate the chance of pinching the cable as the column is being connected to the scale base.
- Attach the scale column to the base as shown in Figure 2-2 making sure not to pinch the cable.
Figure 2-2. Attach Scale Column to Scale Base
- Using the enclosed screws, attach the column to the scale base as shown in Figure 2-3.
Figure 2-3. Attach With Screws
2.2.1 Wheel Assembly
Attach the wheel assembly to the scale prior to connecting the second column. To attach the wheels, use the following steps.
- Attach the two wheels to the wheel assembly rod as shown in Figure 2-4.
Figure 2-4. Attach Wheel Assembly
- Attach the wheel assembly to the scale using a Phillips head screw and tighten with a screwdriver.
2.2.2 Attach Second Column to First Column
Once the wheel assembly is attached, finish the scale assembly using the following instructions.
NOTE: Ensure that the cable is extending through the top of the lower column so that it can be plugged into the second (upper) column.
- Plug the cable from the lower column into the upper column.
Figure 2-5. Extend Cable Through Scale Column
- Once the cable is connected, place the upper column onto the lower column, aligning the screw holes. Ensure the cable does not get pinched.
Figure 2-6. Insert Upper Column into Lower Column
- Secure with two screws using a Phillips head screwdriver.
2.3 Inserting Batteries
The six AA batteries that come with the scale offer an average of 25 hours of continuous use.
To install the batteries:
- Turn thumbscrew counterclockwise then remove battery cover.
- Insert batteries into the battery chamber.
Figure 2-7. Batteries in Battery Chamber
- Put the cover in place and turn the thumbscrew clockwise to secure.
2.4 AC Power Connections
Use the optional 120 VAC adapter or 230 VAC adapter when power is available. The optional AC power adapter plugs into the back of the indicator as shown below. Rice Lake Weighing Systems offers optional AC adapters, utilizing an adapter not supplied by Rice Lake Weighing Systems voids all warranties.
Figure 2-8. Power Connection
2.5 Leveling the Scale
Use bubble level to check for level and adjust feet as needed. On a flat surface, adjust the scale feet until the bubble indicates that the scale is level.
Figure 2-9. Bubble Indicates Scale Is Level
Figure 2-10.
3.0 Operation
This section describes the front panel and includes procedures for operation of the scale.
Figure 3-1. Front Panel Keypad
Key Descriptions
The unit has nine front panel keys. Key functions are described in the table below.
IMPORTANT: The front panel keys are very sensitive, so only a gentle press is required.
Key | Name | Function |
---|---|---|
On/Off | On/Off | Powers the scale on or off. |
Print LB/KG | Print LB/KG | Sends data out from the RS-232 port. Allows to toggle between kilograms and pounds providing that it is enabled in Configuration mode. Cannot toggle while in the BMI mode. |
Zero | Zero | Only functions if the current weight is stable and less than 2% of the capacity of the scale. Anything over 2% requires a recalibration. |
Hold Release | Hold Release | Displays most current weight value on the display and holds that value when the patient is off the scale. A second press releases the weight value. Not active while in BMI mode. |
BMI | BMI | Pressing the BMI key enables access to the BMI (Body Mass Index) mode (defaults when scale is turned on). The patient is gets on the scale, weight stabilizes and press the BMI key. The display then asks for the patient height to calculate out the patient BMI. When using the BMI function, the display will be looking for a height entry. Pressing Clear changes this entry back to 190.0 cm (default) or 5 ft, 7.5 in. Once BMI is displayed, pressing the Clear key exits BMI. |
CLEAR | CLEAR | When using the BMI function, the display will be looking for a height entry. Pressing Clear changes this entry back to 190.0 cm (default) or 5 ft, 7.5 in. Once BMI is displayed, pressing the Clear key exits BMI. |
ENTER | ENTER | Used to accept height in BMI mode; accepts the value of the parameter last entered and moves to the next stage. Pressing and holding Enter during startup will display ID. This is the first setup on entering into configuration mode. |
Up/Down Arrows | Up/Down Arrows | Adjusts height input (0.5 in/0.5 cm) while in BMI mode. |
3.1 Weighing
Use the following steps to weigh a patient.
- Press On/Off to turn on the scale. 0.0 displays along with ZERO on the upper display.
- Have the patient step on the scale. The patient's weight is displayed, the LOCK annunciator is on and the indicator beeps to indicate the end of the weighing process.
- Press Print LB/KG to change the display from lb to kg and vice-versa.
- Press and hold On/Off until OFF displays to turn off the scale.
3.2 Hold/Release Function
Use the following steps to use the Hold/Release function:
- Press On/Off to turn on the scale. 0.0 displays along with ZERO on the upper display.
- Have the patient step on the scale.
- Press Hold Release once the patient's weight stabilizes. The patient's weight and the HOLD and LOCK annunciators remain on the display when the patient is off the scale.
- Press Hold Release again to return the scale to zero.
NOTE: Pressing Hold Release prior to the patient getting on the scale will also hold the weight display.
3.3 Using the Body Mass Index (BMI) Function
Use the following steps in determining the BMI.
LB Mode
- Ensure the scale is at zero.
- Have the patient step onto the scale.
- Have the person step on the scale to obtain a weight. The LOCK annunciator appears on the display.
- Press BMI. The BMI and FT/IN annunciators light and a default height value of 5 feet and 7.5 inches (5-07.5) flashes.
- Use Up/Down Arrows to adjust the height value, and press ENTER.
- The BMI value and BMI annunciator are shown on the display. Press CLEAR to return to weighing mode and the BMI function will be turned off.
KG Mode
- Ensure that the scale is at zero.
- Have the patient step on the scale to obtain a weight. The LOCK annunciator appears on the display.
- Press BMI. The BMI and CM annunciators appear and a default height value of 170.0 cm (170.0) flashes.
- Use Up/Down Arrows to adjust the height value.
- Press ENTER.
- The BMI value and BMI annunciator appear on the display. Press CLEAR to return to weighing mode and the BMI function.
3.4 Troubleshooting
Refer to the following table to check and correct any failure before contacting service personnel.
Symptom | Possible Cause | Corrective Action | |
---|---|---|---|
Scale does not turn on | Dead batteries | Replace batteries or connect to AC power | |
Faulty electrical outlet | Use a different electrical outlet | ||
Bad power supply | Replace adapter | ||
Questionable weight or the scale does not zero | External object is interfering with the scale | Remove the interfering object from the scale | |
Display did not show 0.0 before weighing | Scale is not placed on a level floor | Help the patient off the scale, zero the scale and begin the weighing process again | |
Scale is out of calibration | Ensure scale is level and begin the weighing process again | ||
The display shows a STOP message | The load on the scale exceeds the capacity of the scale | Check the weight with a certified calibration weight | |
Remove the excess weight and use the scale according to manufacture specifications | |||
The display shows LO Bat message | The battery is low | Replace batteries | |
The display shows E and Err messages as detailed below | Identifier - ADC | AD too high | |
E06 | AD too low | ||
E07 | Overload | Scale has been overloaded. Remove load from scale | |
E10 | BAT | Battery low, but still usable - one bar left on indicator display | |
E4L | Battery low and unstable - no bars left on indicator display | ||
E4U | CAL | Calibration Error - recalibrate scale | |
E11 | Load cell cable may be plugged into wrong connection port | Ensure cable is connected to the load cell connection port. Note: Load cell connection point is located underneath the curved plastic cover of the indicator. Remove four back retaining screws, remove curved back cover to access load cell connection point. | |
Err 1 | Low saturation state (low A/D) | The load cell is not connected properly; Check the cables and mechanical connections; if the problem persists, replace the set of load cells | |
Err 2 | High saturation state (high A/D) | See Err 2 | |
Err 3 | Unstable weight; Cannot calibrate | Check the load cell mechanical surroundings and ensure nothing is contacting the load cell and that the cables are properly welded | |
Err 6 | Scale isn't moving | Make sure feet are installed on the scale. Turn the feet all the way in and then back them out three full turns, then level the scale | |
Err 7 | Damaged load cell cable | Replace load cell cable | |
SAT | Load cell cable may be plugged into wrong connection port | Ensure cable is connected to the load cell connection port. Note: Load cell connection point is located underneath the curved plastic cover of the indicator. Remove four back retaining screws, remove curved back cover to access load cell connection point. |
4.0 Configuration
Options and parameter setup are done through the scale configuration. Access to the setup switch is located inside the battery cover (shown below).
Figure 4-1. Setup Switch Location
4.1 General Navigation
Use the buttons on the front panel to navigate through the menus and parameters.
4.1.1 Change Parameters
- Press BMI to scroll through the menus and/or parameters
- Press ENTER to enter a displayed menu and/or parameter
- Press Up/Down Arrows or Down Arrow to scroll through values
- Press ENTER to save the displayed selection and move to the next parameter
4.1.2 Enter Numbers
- Press ENTER to enter parameter value
- Press Up/Down Arrows or Down Arrow to increment/decrement numbers
- Press BMI to move to the next digit
- Press ENTER to save value and move to the next parameter
4.1.3 Save and Return to Main Menu
- When a parameters selection/value is correct, press ENTER. The next parameter displays
- When all parameters selections/values are correct, SAVE displays
- Press ENTER. DONE displays.
- Press ENTER to save settings and return to weigh mode.
4.2 Configuration Mode
Use the following steps to enter into Configuration mode.
- Ensure the scale is turned off.
- Turn the scale on by simultaneously pressing On/Off and ENTER. Continue to hold both keys until Id appears. The unit cycles through its startup function and continues to display the software version.
- Access the setup switch located in the back of the scale to enter the setup parameters for the scale. Use a small paper clip, small screwdriver or other similar object to press the setup switch.
- Once the setup switch is pressed, PROG displays.
- Scale can be configured using a series of menus accessed through the front panel when the scale is in Setup mode.
Figure 4-2. Top Level Menu
- Press BMI to advance to the desired menu.
- Press ENTER and advance in the manual to the related menu selection for further instructions.
4.3 Programming Mode Menu
Various parameters can be set while in Programming mode.
Figure 4-3. Programming Mode Menu Structure
The following table lists the display messages and sequence when setting up the scale.
Parameter | Description | Choices | Steps |
---|---|---|---|
FULL | Full capacity of the scale | Value (capacity of scale) | The display toggles between a numeric value and FULL; If you do not want to change the value, press the BMI key to move to the next setting; Example: from FULL to LOAD. If you want to change the value, use the following steps: 1. Press ENTER key to change value starting with the right most digit. 2. Use the Up/Down arrow keys to increment/decrement numbers. 3. Press BMI key to move to the left. 4. Use the Up/Down arrow keys to increment/decrement numbers. 5. Press BMI key again to move to the left 6. Use the Up/Down arrow keys to increment/decrement numbers. 7. When done press ENTER key to move to the next parameter (LOAD). |
LOAD | This is the amount of weight applied during calibration; Can also be changed in the calibration menu | Value (200 lb) | The display toggles between a numeric value and LOAD; If you do not want to change this value, press the BMI key to move to the next setting; Example: from LOAD to ASTART; If you want to change the value, use the following steps: 1. Press ENTER to change value starting with the right most digit. 2. Use the Up/Down arrow keys to increment/decrement numbers. 3. Press BMI key to move to the left. 4. Use the Up/Down arrow keys to increment/decrement numbers. 5. When done, press ENTER key to move to next parameter (G-CAL). |
4.4 Default Menu
The default menu is used to return the scale back to its factory settings and is shown below.
Figure 4-4. Default Menu
Use the following steps to return the settings back to their factory default.
- Press ENTER. The display shows a default value of NO.
- To change to YES, use Up/Down Arrows or Down Arrow to adjust the value.
- Press ENTER and the display shows DONE.
- Press BMI to return to PROG/CALIB/DEF/DONE upper level menu.
NOTE: Selecting YES and pressing ENTER will reset to factory defaults settings without changing the calibration and will return you to Weigh mode.
4.5 Scale Calibration
Use the following steps to calibrate the scale.
- Press On/Off and ENTER simultaneously to power on the scale.
- The unit cycles through its startup function and continues to display the software version. Continue to hold both keys until Id appears.
- Access the setup switch located in the back of the scale to enter the setup parameters for the scale. Use a small paper clip, small screwdriver or other similar object to press the setup switch on the back of the indicator (under the cover).
- Prog displays. Press BMI to toggle along the parameter menu.
- Calib displays and enter the calibration parameters.
- Press ENTER and a numeric value is displayed which represents the amount of weight that is used for calibration. Lb will be flashing. To switch between lb and kg, press Print LB/KG or Zero. Once a unit is selected, press ENTER and the right most digit will be flashing.
- To change the calibration load value, press Up/Down Arrows or Down Arrow to increment/decrement the flashing digit.
- Use BMI to move the flashing digit to the left or right.
- Once all the digits have been entered, press ENTER and Clear displays.
- Make sure the scale platform is clear of weight and press ENTER again then ===== displays.
- A request to put the chosen load on the platform is displayed by Put xxx.xx.
- Put the chosen weight on the platform and press ENTER ===== displays then Save displays.
- Press ENTER again and the display indicates Done.
- Press BMI three times to exit back out to the top level Done parameter.
- Press ENTER to return to Weigh mode.
- To exit calibration without changing zero or span existing calibration, press CLEAR, then press BMI.
4.6 Test Menu
To access the TEST menu, use the following steps.
- Simultaneously press On/Off and ENTER to power on the scale until ID flashes.
- Press ENTER. Press ENTER to access the test menu.
- Continue to press BMI to scroll through the various menu items.
- Once complete, press BMI until Done displays.
- Press ENTER to start the weighing process.
Figure 4-5. Test Menu
Parameter | Choice | Description |
---|---|---|
RID | Value | Internal ID number |
VER | Value | Displays the current software version |
VALUE | Value | Displays the actual value |
A2D | Value | Displays the actual raw counts of the scale |
5.0 Communication
The unit comes with an RS-232 port that enables weight data to be transmitted to other equipment, such as a computer or printer. The RS-232 cable with DB-9 connector (PN 100719) is available from Rice Lake Weighing Systems. That connection is shown in USB Connection section.
The RS-232 parameters are:
- 9600 baud (selectable in the programming mode)
- 8 data bits
- 1 stop bit
- No parity
- No handshaking
There are three methods of communication:
- Push-button keypad print
- Standard remote protocol
- Escape protocol
5.1 Push-button Keypad Print
With a stable, in-range weight, press and hold Print LB/KG for at least three seconds, or until the scale emits two quick beeps.
NOTE: If the scale does not beep after five seconds, release Print LB/KG as the weight was either in motion or out of range.
If displaying weight and not BMI, the scale will send out the following 21 character string:
xxxxxxxxx
Token | Description |
---|---|
XXXXXXXXX | Weight with decimal point and “-” sign |
Space | |
uu | Unit - Ib or kg |
mmmmm | Mode - gross or net |
Carriage return | |
Line feed (moves cursor down to the next line) |
60.1 KG=
In BMI mode (displaying the BMI value), the scale will send out the following data:
PATIENT WEIGHT 60.1 KG
PATIENT HEIGHT 170.0 CM
PATIENT BMI 20.8
Example in KG:
Example in LB:
In case of under weight or over weight, the word Under or Over will be sent correspondingly.
5.2 Communication Protocols
The scale has two communication protocols, escape and maintenance protocol.
5.2.1 Escape Protocol
An escape protocol is where the escape (0X1B or ASCII 27) is used to indicate that there is a command following. On the PC side there must be a listener created by the vendor that will interpret this protocol. This listener must also take care of all the issues regarding data integrity to make sure that the data that was sent and received is valid.
Two examples include:
- Scale initiated communication
- PC initiated communication
The escape protocol commands table shows (below) what can be sent across communications lines.
PC Initiated | ESC Value |
---|---|
Request current values/settings | R |
Diagnostics | A |
Send scale control messages | C |
PC Initiated | ESC Value |
Send single reading | R |
Send diagnostic response | R |
ESC characters that will be used is shown below.
Name | ESC Character | ESC Value with Parameters | Description |
---|---|---|---|
Reading | R | R | Tells PC the scale is sending a reading; immediately following this is the value that is sent Example: |
Weight | W | Wnnn.n | The patient weight (Example: W02000 means 200.0). If scale is overloaded or under loaded, 999.99 is returned |
Height | H | Hnnn.n | Patient height |
BMI | B | Bnn.n | Patient BMI |
Units | N | Nc | Indicates the units the values have been taken (m=metric, c=constitutional). |
End of Packet (EOP) | E | E | Indicates the end of the command has been reached. |
Diagnostics (request) | A | Accc | A request for a diagnostic test on certain parts of the scale (like battery life, load cells). |
Diagnostics (response) | Z | Zccc | The response of the diagnostics done on the scale; values include error codes to indicate an issue, or all zeros (Z000) to indicate the scale is performing properly |
Control (set a value) | C | Cccc=c | Sets the value of the scale's global settings Example: |
Figure 5-1. Escape Protocol Examples
Figure 5-2. Diagnose Battery Examples
5.2.2 Maintenance Protocol
Maintenance protocol commands are listed below.
Command | Definition |
---|---|
R | Reboot |
V | Firmware ID + development version |
W | Current weight |
A | Current AD |
Z | Zero the scale |
F | Show flash values (used for the first flash process) |
L | USB On/Off (not available on USB communication) |
6.0 Maintenance
The following section provides instructions for maintaining and cleaning the unit.
IMPORTANT: Do not immerse the scale in cleaning or other liquid solutions.
Do not use Isopropyl alcohol or other solutions to clean the indicator display surface.
6.1 Basic Maintenance
Before the first use of the scale and after periods of non-use, check the scale for proper operation and function. If the scale does not operate correctly, contact a qualified service personnel.
Go through the following steps for basic maintenance.
- Check the overall appearance of the entire scale for any obvious signs of damage
- Inspect the condition of the AC power adapter cord for cracking, fraying or for broken or bent prongs
6.2 Cleaning
Proper care and cleaning is essential to ensure a long life of accurate and effective operation. Before beginning the cleaning process, disconnect the scale from the AC power source.
- Clean all external surfaces with a clean, damp cloth or tissue. Mild soap and water solution may be used. Dry with a clean soft cloth
- Do not immerse the scale into cleaning or other liquid solutions
- Do not use Isopropyl alcohol or other solutions to clean the display surface
7.0 Specifications
Power
120 VAC - 9VDC-60Hz/230 VAC - 9VDC - 50Hz
Battery Type
6 AA size Alkaline batteries
Battery Use
25 hours continuous use
Automatic power-off can be configured
Data Communications
RS-232 with RJ-45 jack
Selectable baud rate, default - 9600
8 bits
No parity
1 stop bit
No handshaking
Environmental
Operating Temperature: 50°F to 104°F (14°C to 40°C)
Storage Temperature: 32°F to 158°F (0°C to 70°C)
Humidity: 85% relative humidity
Capacity
550 lb x 0.2 lb (250 kg x 100 g)
Dimensions
Scale Platform: 14.7 in W x 14.7 in L x 3 in H (37.5 cm W x 37.5 cm L x 7.6 cm H)
Overall Height: 48.4 in (123 cm)