Beurer BG 40 Glass Body Analysis Scale
This manual provides instructions for the Beurer BG 40 Glass Body Analysis Scale.
Introduction
The Beurer BG 40 digital body analysis scale is designed to measure body weight and provide an analysis of your personal fitness data. It is intended for household use only. In addition to measuring body weight, this scale also includes the following functions and features:
- Body fat percentage
- Body water content
- Muscle percentage
- Bone mass
- Basal metabolic rate and active metabolic rate
- Switches between kilograms (kg), pounds (lb), and stones (st)
- Interpretation of body fat percentage
- Automatic shutoff
- Low battery indicator
The scale works on the principle of Bioelectrical Impedance Analysis (BIA), involving a quick calculation of body content using a harmless electric current. By analyzing electrical resistance (impedance) alongside data like age, height, gender, and activity level, body fat percentage and other variables can be calculated. Muscle tissue and water conduct electricity well, resulting in lower resistance, while bones and fat tissue have higher resistance due to lower conductivity.
Calculated values are approximations. Medical methods are required for precise determination of body fat, water, muscle percentage, and bone structure.
Tips for accurate measurements:
- Weigh yourself at the same time daily, ideally in the morning, after using the restroom, on an empty stomach, and with minimal clothing.
- Body fat percentage calculation requires bare feet; lightly damp soles are recommended for better conductivity. Dry or calloused feet may yield unsatisfactory results.
- Stand straight and still during weighing.
- Wait a few hours after significant physical exertion.
- Allow about 15 minutes after waking for body water content to normalize.
- Focus on long-term trends; short-term weight deviations are usually due to fluid loss.
Limitations: Varying or unexpected results may occur when calculating body fat and other values for:
- Children under 10 years of age
- Performance athletes and bodybuilders
- Pregnant women
- Persons with fever, undergoing dialysis, edema symptoms, or osteoporosis
- Persons taking cardiovascular, vasodilating, or vasoconstricting medication
- Persons with significant anatomical deviations in leg length.
Parts and Controls
The scale features the following components:
- Electrodes
- LCD Display
- Up button (▲)
- SET button
- Down button (▼)
- Battery Compartment (on rear)
- Rear of the Scale
- Unit selector button
Diagram description: A top-down view of the Beurer BG 40 scale showing numbered components. A rear view shows the battery compartment and unit selector button.
Initial Use
Battery Handling Safety Precautions
- Use only specified battery sizes and types.
- Ensure correct polarity when installing batteries; reversed batteries can damage the device.
- Do not mix battery types (e.g., alkaline, carbon-zinc, rechargeable) or old and new batteries. Replace all batteries simultaneously.
- Remove batteries if the device will not be used for an extended period to prevent leakage damage.
- Do not attempt to recharge non-rechargeable batteries.
- Do not dispose of batteries in fire.
- Clean battery contacts and device contacts before installation.
- Dispose of used batteries according to applicable laws.
- Keep batteries away from children and pets. Seek immediate medical assistance if swallowed.
Inserting the Batteries
The product requires 3 x AAA 1.5V batteries (included). Remove the plastic battery isolator strip from the battery compartment cover. If the scale does not function, remove and reinsert batteries, ensuring correct polarity.
Changing the Weight Unit
The scale is factory-set to weigh in pounds (lb). To change the unit, briefly apply pressure to the top surface with your foot for 1-2 seconds until "lb" appears. Press the Unit Selector Button on the rear until the desired unit (kg or st) is displayed.
Positioning the Scale
Place the scale on a hard, flat surface without carpet or rugs for accurate measurements.
Entering User Data
To calculate body fat percentage and other values, you must save personal user data. The scale stores 10 users.
- With the scale on a hard, flat surface, switch it on by applying brief pressure with your foot (approx. 1-2 seconds) until "0.0" and the selected unit appear on the LCD.
- Press the SET button. The first memory space flashes.
- Press the ▲/▼ buttons to select the desired memory space and confirm with the SET button.
- Make the following settings:
| User data | Set values |
|---|---|
| Users/persons | 1 to 10 |
| Height | 3' 3.5" to 7' 2.5" (100 to 220 cm) |
| Age | 10 to 100 years |
| Gender | Male (♂), Female (♀) |
| Activity level | 1 to 5 |
Activity Levels
Select an activity level that best reflects your lifestyle:
| Activity Level | Physical Activity |
|---|---|
| 1 | None |
| 2 | Low: Small amount of light physical exertion (e.g., walks, gardening, simple gymnastics) |
| 3 | Medium: Physical exertion at least 2 to 4 times a week for 30 minutes each |
| 4 | High: Physical exertion at least 4 to 6 times a week for 30 minutes each |
| 5 | Very high: Intense physical exertion, training or hard physical work at least 1 hour every day |
1. Use the ▲/▼ buttons to change values or press and hold to scroll quickly. 2. Confirm entries with the SET button. 3. Once values are set, "0.0 lb" displays. 4. Stand on the scale barefoot while "0.0 lb" is displayed. 5. After your weight displays, body fat (BF), water, muscle percentage, bone mass, BMR, and AMR will be displayed. Your measured weight is now assigned to the selected user.
Taking Measurements
Weighing and Performing Diagnostics
NOTE: Ensure feet, legs, calves, or thighs do not touch each other for correct measurement. Wearing socks will also yield incorrect results.
- Switch on the scale and wait for "0.0 lb" (Fig. 2) to appear.
- Select the desired memory space using the ▲ or ▼ buttons.
- Step onto the scale barefoot, standing still with weight evenly distributed on both sensor sets.
The weight displays first. If barefoot, BIA diagnostics will also display. If a user is assigned, the user number (e.g., P-1) briefly appears, followed by:
- Weight
- Body fat % with interpretation (BF)
- Body water in %
- Muscle percentage in %
- Bone mass
- Basal metabolic rate in kcal (BMR)
- Active metabolic rate in kcal (AMR)
Weight Measurement Only
Tap the scale firmly; "8888" (Fig. 1) appears, then "0.0 lb" (Fig. 2). Step onto the scale wearing shoes, standing still with weight evenly distributed until your weight displays. BIA diagnostics cannot be calculated when wearing shoes. The scale shuts off automatically after approximately 10 seconds.
Evaluating Results
Body Fat Percentage
The following body fat percentages are guidelines only; consult your doctor for more information.
Male
| Age | Low | Normal | High | Very high |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 10-14 | <11% | 11-16% | 16.1-21% | >21.1% |
| 15-19 | <12% | 12-17% | 17.1-22% | >22.1% |
| 20-29 | <13% | 13-18% | 18.1-23% | >23.1% |
| 30-39 | <14% | 14-19% | 19.1-24% | >24.1% |
| 40-49 | <15% | 15-20% | 20.1-25% | >25.1% |
| 50-59 | <16% | 16-21% | 21.1-26% | >26.1% |
| 60-69 | <17% | 17-22% | 22.1-27% | >27.1% |
| 70-100 | <18% | 18-23% | 23.1-28% | >28.1% |
Female
| Age | Low | Normal | High | Very high |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 10-14 | <16% | 16-21% | 21.1-26% | >26.1% |
| 15-19 | <17% | 17-22% | 22.1-27% | >27.1% |
| 20-29 | <18% | 18-23% | 23.1-28% | >28.1% |
| 30-39 | <19% | 19-24% | 24.1-29% | >29.1% |
| 40-49 | <20% | 20-25% | 25.1-30% | >30.1% |
| 50-59 | <21% | 21-26% | 26.1-31% | >31.1% |
| 60-69 | <22% | 22-27% | 27.1-32% | >32.1% |
| 70-100 | <23% | 23-28% | 28.1-33% | >33.1% |
Athletes typically have lower values. Extremely low values may indicate a health risk.
Body Water Content
Normal body water content (%):
Male
| Age | Poor | Good | Very good |
|---|---|---|---|
| 10-100 | <50% | 50-65% | >65% |
Female
| Age | Poor | Good | Very good |
|---|---|---|---|
| 10-100 | <45% | 45-60% | >60% |
High body fat can lead to lower body water percentages. Athletes may have higher percentages due to low fat and high muscle mass. This calculation is not for medical diagnosis. Consult a doctor if necessary.
Muscle Percentage
Normal muscle percentage (%):
Male
| Age | Low | Normal | High |
|---|---|---|---|
| 10-14 | <44% | 44-57% | >57% |
| 15-19 | <43% | 43-56% | >56% |
| 20-29 | <42% | 42-54% | >54% |
| 30-39 | <41% | 41-52% | >52% |
| 40-49 | <40% | 40-50% | >50% |
| 50-59 | <39% | 39-48% | >48% |
| 60-69 | <38% | 38-47% | >47% |
| 70-100 | <37% | 37-46% | >46% |
Female
| Age | Low | Normal | High |
|---|---|---|---|
| 10-14 | <36% | 36-43% | >43% |
| 15-19 | <35% | 35-41% | >41% |
| 20-29 | <34% | 34-39% | >39% |
| 30-39 | <33% | 33-38% | >38% |
| 40-49 | <31% | 31-36% | >36% |
| 50-59 | <29% | 29-34% | >34% |
| 60-69 | <28% | 28-33% | >33% |
| 70-100 | <27% | 27-32% | >32% |
Bone Mass
Bone mass naturally changes with age. It increases during childhood, peaks between 30-40, and decreases with age. A healthy diet (calcium, Vitamin D) and exercise can help. This scale calculates bone mass based on components (organic matter, inorganic matter, water), not calcium content. There are no specific guidelines for influencing bone mass.
IMPORTANT: Bone mass is not the same as bone density. Bone density requires medical examination.
BMR (Basal Metabolic Rate)
BMR is the energy the body requires at rest to maintain basic functions, depending on weight, height, and age. It's calculated using the Harris-Benedict equation and indicates daily energy needs.
AMR (Active Metabolic Rate)
AMR is the energy consumed by an active body daily. It increases with physical activity level (1-5). Maintaining weight requires replacing energy used. Insufficient intake leads to weight loss; excess intake is stored as fat, leading to weight gain.
Context of Results Over Time
NOTE: Focus on long-term trends. Short-term weight changes are usually fluid loss.
Interpreting results involves tracking changes in weight, body fat, water, and muscle over time. Short-term changes (days) are often fluid-related, while medium-term (weeks) and long-term (months) changes can reflect fat and muscle mass changes. If weight decreases but body fat stays the same or increases, only water was lost. If weight increases and body fat decreases or stays the same, muscle mass may have increased. Simultaneous decreases in weight and body fat indicate successful fat loss. Supporting diet with exercise can increase muscle percentage.
Do not add body fat, water, and muscle percentages, as muscle tissue contains body water.
Other Functions
Replacing Batteries
The scale has a low battery indicator. When batteries are low, "Lo" appears, and the scale shuts off. Replace batteries with three new "AAA" size batteries.
Care and Maintenance
Clean the scale periodically with a damp cloth and mild detergent. IMPORTANT:
- Do not use aggressive cleaning agents or solvents.
- Never immerse the unit in water.
- Do not wash the unit in a dishwasher.
Disposal
Dispose of electrical appliances separately from municipal waste using designated collection facilities. Contact local authorities for information on collection systems. Improper disposal can lead to hazardous substances entering the environment and affecting health.
Troubleshooting Guide
If the scale displays an error:
| Display | Cause | Solution |
|---|---|---|
| Only weight displayed, no diagnostic values | Person is not standing barefoot on the scale. | Repeat measurement barefoot, or with slightly dampened soles if necessary. |
| Err 1 | Maximum load capacity (330 lb / 149.7 kg / 23 st:8.7 lb) exceeded. | The load must not exceed 330 lb (149.7 kg/23 st:8.7 lb). |
| Fat percentage is outside measurable range (less than 5% or greater than 50%). | Repeat measurement barefoot, or slightly dampen soles if necessary. | |
| Lo | Batteries are nearly depleted. | Replace the batteries. |
| Err 2 | Scale zero setting is incorrect. | Wait for the scale to switch off automatically. Activate correctly, wait for "0.0 lb" to appear, and repeat measurement. |
| 8888 | Self-test. | Place scale on an even, hard surface and wait for "0.0 lb" to appear. |
Specifications
- Batteries: 3 x AAA 1.5V
- Weight Limits: 11 lb to 330 lb (5 kg to 149.7 kg / 11 lb to 23 st:8.7 lb)
- Working Environment: 5 °C to 40 °C (41 °F to 104 °F), ≤ 90% RH, 80 kPa to 106 kPa
- Storage Environment: -20 °C to +60 °C (-4 °F to 140 °F), ≤ 93% RH, 50 kPa to 106 kPa
- Protection against ingress of water: IP21
CLASSIFICATION
- Internally powered equipment
- Type BF applied part
- IP21
- Not intended for sterilization or disinfection
- Not AP / APG equipment
- Mode of operation: continuous
FCC Information
IMPORTANT INFORMATION REQUIRED BY THE FCC Changes or modifications not expressly approved by the party responsible for compliance could void the user's authority to operate the equipment.
NOTE: This equipment has been tested and found to comply with the limits for a Class B digital device, pursuant to Part 15 of the FCC Rules. These limits are designed to provide reasonable protection against harmful interference in a residential installation. This equipment generates, uses, and can radiate radio frequency energy, and if not installed and used in accordance with the instructions, may cause harmful interference to radio communications. However, there is no guarantee that interference will not occur in a particular installation. If this equipment does cause harmful interference to radio or television reception, which can be determined by turning the equipment off and on, the user is encouraged to try to correct the interference by one or more of the following measures:
- Reorient or relocate the receiving antenna.
- Increase the separation between the equipment and receiver.
- Connect the equipment into an outlet on a circuit different from that to which the receiver is connected.
- Consult the dealer or an experienced radio/TV technician for help.
Warranty
Limited Lifetime Warranty For Original Purchaser
Your Beurer glass body analysis scale, Model BG 40 (excluding the battery), is warranted against defects in materials and workmanship for the product's life under normal intended use and service. This warranty applies only to the original retail purchaser and not to subsequent owners.
Beurer will, at its option, repair or replace the scale without additional charge for covered parts. No refunds will be issued. If replacement parts are unavailable, Beurer may substitute products. For warranty service, contact Beurer customer service at 1-800-536-0366 or info@beurer.com. Provide a problem description. If covered, you will be asked to mail the product at your expense with proof of purchase, name, address, and phone number. If not covered, a quote for repair/replacement and shipping will be provided.
This warranty does not cover damage from misuse, abuse, accident, unauthorized accessories, alterations, improper installation/application, lack of reasonable care, unauthorized repairs/modifications, improper power use, worn batteries, normal wear, power loss, drops, malfunctions due to failure to follow instructions or maintenance, transit damage, theft, neglect, vandalism, or environmental conditions. It is void if used commercially. Beurer's maximum liability is limited to the purchase price paid by the customer, confirmed by proof of purchase.
This warranty is effective only if the product is purchased and operated in the country of purchase. Modifications or adaptations for use in other countries are not covered.
This warranty is the sole and exclusive warranty. Implied warranties, including merchantability and fitness for a particular purpose, are limited to this written warranty's duration. Some states do not allow limitations on implied warranty duration.
BEURER IS NOT LIABLE FOR SPECIAL, INCIDENTAL, INDIRECT, OR CONSEQUENTIAL DAMAGES. Some states do not allow exclusion/limitation of such damages.
Beurer does not authorize anyone to obligate them beyond these terms. This warranty does not cover opened, used, repaired, repackaged, or resold products. Warranties cease upon repair, replacement, alteration, or modification without Beurer's written consent.
This warranty grants specific legal rights, which may vary by state.
For more information on Beurer products in the USA, visit: www.beurer.com.
Manufactured for: Beurer North America LP, 900 N Federal Highway, Suite 300, Hallandale Beach, FL 33009, USA. www.beurer.com
Questions or comments? Call toll free 1-800-536-0366 or contact info@beurer.com.
