Rice Lake 350-10-4 Dual-Ramp Wheelchair Scale with Seat
Operation Manual
Software Version: 11525
Document Revision: PN 151806 Rev F
Date: August 6, 2025
Introduction
The 350-10-4 digital wheelchair scale with seat is a user-friendly, quality scale designed for safe weighing of handicapped and mobility-challenged individuals. Its movement compensation technology ensures accurate weighments, and it features roll-on ramp access and a comfortable seat. The scale has a non-skid rigid platform and two rear heavy-duty wheels for easy maneuverability. It utilizes motion sensing technology to determine the actual weight of a moving patient, with weight displayed in pounds or kilograms, and a tare weight that can be entered. Section 3.0 details scale operation and tare weight procedures.
The wheelchair scale features a unique folding design for easy transportation and simplified assembly, eliminating the need for field wiring and recalibration. Manuals are available at www.ricelake.com/manuals. Warranty information is available at www.ricelake.com/warranties.
Revision History
This section tracks manual revisions, detailing major updates and their dates.
Revision | Date | Description |
---|---|---|
D | August 17, 2022 | Established revision history; formatted content for medical manuals; software version 11525. |
E | November 22, 2024 | Revised battery replacement instructions. |
F | August 6, 2025 | Updated specifications and indicator photos. |
Technical training seminars are available through Rice Lake Weighing Systems. Course descriptions and dates can be viewed at www.ricelake.com/training or by calling 715-234-9171.
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 operated in a commercial environment. Operation in a residential area may cause harmful interference, requiring the user to correct it at their 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 édicté 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 collection helps prevent negative environmental and health effects. Illegal disposal may result in administrative sanctions.
Battery Disposal
Dispose of batteries at appropriate waste collection centers in accordance with local laws. Batteries may contain harmful substances (e.g., cadmium, lithium, mercury, lead). Illegal disposal may result in administrative sanctions.
WARNING: Risk of fire and explosion. Do not burn, crush, disassemble, or short-circuit batteries. Do not replace batteries with an incorrect type.
1.3 Safety
Safety Definitions:
- DANGER: Imminent hazardous situation; death or serious injury if not avoided.
- WARNING: Potentially hazardous situation; serious injury or death if not avoided.
- CAUTION: Potentially hazardous situation; minor or moderate injury if not avoided.
- IMPORTANT: Information about procedures; damage to equipment or data loss if not observed.
General Safety
Read and understand this manual before operating. Failure to follow instructions or warnings could result in injury or death. Contact a Rice Lake Weighing Systems dealer for replacement manuals.
WARNING: Failure to heed could result in serious injury or death.
- Ensure all operators understand safety information.
- Do not transport the scale with a person on it.
- Do not allow minors or inexperienced persons to operate the scale.
- Do not use near flammable materials.
- Do not use if components are loose or cracked.
- Do not use near water.
- Do not use on slippery surfaces (e.g., wet floors).
- Do not use with wet body or feet.
- Keep fingers away from slots or pinch points.
- Clean the scale regularly to avoid cross-contamination. Disconnect from power before cleaning.
- People with disabilities or who are physically frail should be assisted by another person.
IMPORTANT:
- Do not drop the scale or subject it to violent shocks.
- Do not jump on the scale.
- Place the scale on a flat, stable surface for accurate weighments.
- Operating at incorrect voltages/frequencies can damage the equipment.
- Avoid excessive moisture.
- Do not make alterations or modifications. Using unauthorized AC adapters voids warranties.
- Exceeding maximum capacity may damage the scale.
2.0 Assembly
2.1 Unpacking
Place the unopened box in an open area. Inspect scale and components for damage. Notify Rice Lake Weighing Systems and the shipper immediately if parts are damaged. Shipping box contents include: Scale, Manual, Box with six AA batteries and four feet.
2.1.1 Repacking
Retain packaging for returns or moves. Pack properly with sufficient materials, preferably the original carton. IMPORTANT: Damage from improper packaging is not covered by warranty.
2.2 Scale Setup
Move the scale to the weighing area. A hard, level surface is recommended for accuracy; thin carpeting is acceptable but not recommended. CAUTION: Use two people for lifting to prevent injury.
- With two people, lift the scale out of the packaging by its base. IMPORTANT: Do not lift by the handle, as this can break hinges or affect operation.
- Gently set the scale base on the floor.
2.2.1 Attach Feet to Scale
The scale comes with four feet to be attached to the base. Locate them in the parts box. Before placing the base on the floor:
- Screw the four round feet clockwise into the scale base. (See Figure 2-1: Screw Feet Into the Scale Platform)
- Screw each foot out counterclockwise two full turns to ensure adequate clearance between the base and the floor.
- There should be minimal clearance, with the base not touching the floor. (See Figure 2-2: Clearance Between Scale Base and Floor, illustrating finger-width clearance).
- Ensure the scale is level by gently pressing down on all corners. Adjust feet as needed. IMPORTANT: An unleveled base produces inaccurate readings.
2.2.2 Handle Setup
- Loosen the handles and unfold the scale to set the upright position. (See Figure 2-3: Secure the Handrail by Tightening the Durable Hinges).
- Tighten the two hinges by rotating the handles to secure the handrail-mounted indicator.
The wheelchair scale with seat comes fully assembled. (See Figure 2-4: Wheelchair Scale with Seat in an Upright Position).
2.2.3 Insert Batteries
The six AA batteries provide approximately 25 hours of continuous use.
- Turn the thumbscrew counterclockwise and remove the battery cover.
- Insert batteries into the battery chamber as illustrated. (See Figure 2-7: Battery Chamber).
- Replace the cover and turn the thumbscrew clockwise to secure.
NOTE: Remove batteries for extended storage. If the "LO BAT" indicator appears, replace batteries or connect to AC power soon.
2.2.4 Power Connection
An optional AC power adapter can be used when a power outlet is available. IMPORTANT: Use only power adapters supplied by or purchased from Rice Lake Weighing Systems; unauthorized adapters void the warranty.
(See Figure 2-8: Power Connection Site). The battery indicator turns off when using AC power. Backlight brightness is reduced to 60% on battery power.
3.0 Operation
This section describes the front panel and scale operation procedures. (See Figure 3-1: Front Panel Keypad).
3.1 Key Descriptions
The display has 10 front panel keys. IMPORTANT: Keys are sensitive; use a gentle press.
Key | Name | Function |
---|---|---|
[On/Off] | On/Off | Powers the scale on or off. |
[Print LB/KG] | Print LB/KG | Sends data via RS-232. Toggles between kilograms and pounds if enabled in Configuration mode. Cannot toggle in BMI mode. |
[Zero] | Zero | Functions if current weight is stable and less than 2% of capacity. Over 2% requires recalibration. |
[Hold/Release] | Hold Release | Displays current weight and holds it when the patient is off the scale. A second press releases the value. Not active in BMI mode. |
[BMI] | BMI | Enables Body Mass Index (BMI) mode. After patient weight stabilizes, press BMI to input height for BMI calculation. |
[TARE] | TARE | Removes the weight of items not intended to be included in the patient's total weight. |
[CLEAR] | CLEAR | In BMI mode, pressing CLEAR resets height to default (190.0 cm or 5 ft 7.5 in). Pressing CLEAR after BMI is displayed exits BMI mode. |
[ENTER] | ENTER | Accepts height input in BMI mode and moves to the next stage. Holding ENTER during startup displays ID for configuration mode setup. |
[Up Arrows] | Up Arrows | Adjusts flashing digit/number. Adjusts height input by 0.5 in/0.5 cm in BMI mode. |
[Down Arrows] | Down Arrows | Adjusts flashing digit/number. Adjusts height input by 0.5 in/0.5 cm in BMI mode. |
3.2 Weighing
Follow these steps to weigh:
- Press [On/Off]. "0.0" and the ZERO annunciator appear.
- Place the patient on the scale. The patient's weight displays, LOCK annunciator is on, and the indicator beeps when weighing is complete.
- Press [LB/KG] to change display between lb and kg.
- Press and hold [On/Off] until "OFF" displays to turn off the scale.
3.3 Hold/Release Function
Use the Hold/Release function as follows:
- Press [On/Off]. "0.0" and ZERO annunciator appear.
- Press [Hold/Release] once the patient's weight stabilizes. The weight, HOLD, and LOCK annunciators remain displayed when the patient is off the scale.
- Press [Hold/Release] again to return the scale to zero.
NOTE: [Zero] does not work with Hold/Release. Pressing [Hold/Release] before a patient is on the scale will hold the weight display.
3.4 Preset Tare
Use Preset Tare for additional items before patient weighing:
- Press [On/Off]. "0.0" and ZERO annunciator appear.
- Place additional item(s) on the scale.
- Press [TARE] until the display shows "0.0" and the NET annunciator appears.
- Remove the additional item(s). The weight displays with a negative symbol. (Note: Leaving items on also works).
- Position the patient and additional item(s) on the scale. The display shows the patient's weight, with NET active. The item weight is stored.
- To cancel tare, remove the patient and press [TARE] until NET disappears and "0.0" and GROSS appear. Tare is also canceled when the scale is turned off.
3.5 Toggle Tare
Use Toggle Tare for known additional items:
- Press [TARE] when the scale is empty and "0.0" displays. Default values (e.g., 33.0 lb / 15.0 kg) prompt with "0.0" flashing.
- Use [Up Arrows] and [Down Arrows] to adjust the value. Press [ENTER] to start tare. The NET annunciator turns on instead of GROSS.
3.6 Using the Body Mass Index (BMI) Function
3.6.1 LB Mode
- Ensure the scale is at zero.
- Place the patient on the scale for weight. The LOCK annunciator appears.
- Press [BMI]. The BMI and FT/IN annunciators appear, with a default height of 5 ft 7.5 in (5 - 07.5) flashing.
- Use [Up Arrows] and [Down Arrows] to adjust height.
- Press [ENTER].
- The BMI value and BMI annunciator are shown. Press [CLEAR] to return to Weighing mode and turn off BMI function.
3.6.2 KG Mode
- Ensure the scale is at zero.
- Place the patient on the scale for weight. The LOCK annunciator appears.
- Press [BMI]. The BMI and CM annunciators appear, with a default height of 170.0 cm flashing.
- Use [Up Arrows] and [Down Arrows] to adjust height.
- Press [ENTER].
- The BMI value and BMI annunciator are shown. Press [CLEAR] to return to Weighing mode and turn off BMI function.
3.7 Troubleshooting
Refer to the table below for troubleshooting.
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 scale does not zero | External object interfering with scale | Remove interfering object. |
Display did not show 0.0 before weighing | Help patient off scale, zero scale, and restart weighing process. | |
Scale not placed on a level floor | Ensure scale is level and restart weighing process. | |
Scale is out of calibration | Check weight with a certified calibration weight. | |
Scale base touching floor during weighment | Adjust feet so fingers can slide between base and floor all around the platform. | |
Display shows a STOP message | Load exceeds scale capacity | Remove excess weight and use according to specifications. |
Display shows LO Bat message | Battery is low | Replace batteries. |
Display shows E and Err messages | E06: AD too high | Replace batteries. |
E07: AD too low | Use a different electrical outlet. | |
E10: Overload | Replace adapter. | |
E4L: Battery low (one bar) | Remove interfering object. | |
E4U: Battery low (no bars) | Help patient off scale, zero scale, and begin weighing process again. | |
E11: CAL (Calibration Error) | Ensure scale is level and begin weighing process again. | |
Err 1: Load cell cable plugged incorrectly | Ensure cable is connected to the load cell connection port (under indicator's plastic cover). | Check cables and mechanical connections; replace load cells if problem persists. |
Err 2: Low saturation state (low A/D) | Load cell not connected properly. | See Err 2. |
Err 3: High saturation state (high A/D) | See Err 2. | Check load cell mechanical surroundings and ensure cables are properly welded. |
Err 6: Unstable weight; Cannot calibrate | Check load cell mechanical surroundings and ensure nothing is contacting the load cell and that the cables are properly welded. | Make sure feet are installed. Turn feet in fully, then back out three turns, then level scale. |
Err 7: Scale isn't moving | Make sure feet are installed. Turn feet in fully, then back out three turns, then level scale. | Replace load cell cable. |
SAT: Damaged load cell cable | Load cell cable plugged into wrong connection port. | Ensure cable is connected to the load cell connection port. |
4.0 RS-232 Communication
The unit has an RS-232 port for transmitting weight data to computers or printers. The RS-232 cable (PN 100719) is available from Rice Lake Weighing Systems.
RS-232 Parameters:
- 9600 baud (selectable)
- 8 data bits
- 1 stop bit
- No parity
- No handshaking
Methods of communication:
- Push-button keypad print
- Standard remote protocol
- Escape protocol
4.1 Push-button Keypad Print
With a stable weight, press and hold [Print] for at least three seconds or until two quick beeps are heard. NOTE: If no beep after five seconds, release as weight may be in motion or out of range.
When displaying weight (not BMI), the scale sends a 21-character string: xxxxxxxxx<SP>uu<SP>mmmmm<SP><CR><LF>
Token | Description |
---|---|
xxxxxxxxx | Weight with decimal point and "-" sign |
<SP> | Space |
uu | Unit - lb or kg |
mmmmm | Mode - gross or net |
<CR> | Carriage return |
<LF> | Line feed (moves cursor down) |
Example:
- -10 Lb net = <SP><SP><SP><SP>-10.0<SP>lb<SP><SP>Net<SP><SP><SP><CR><LF>
- 10 Lb gross = <SP><SP><SP><SP><SP>10.0<SP>lb<SP>Gross<SP><CR><LF>
When in BMI mode, the scale sends BMI data:
Setting | Value |
---|---|
Gross Weight | 215 Lb |
Tare Weight | 0.0 Lb |
Net Weight | 215 Lb |
Patient Height | 6-01.0 ft |
Patient BMI | 28.4 |
4.2 USB Connection
The scale can connect to a Windows® PC using a USB cable (not included) and a terminal emulation program for data transfer. (See Figure 4-1: Connection Ports).
NOTE: Apple® and Macintosh® computers cannot transfer data. Use a PC only.
Consult your IT department for software/downloads and driver installation. Driver protections on Windows 10+ may need temporary disabling.
- Connect the scale indicator to a PC using a USB-Type B to USB-Type A cable.
- Turn the indicator on. The PC should automatically find and configure the driver.
- Open a terminal emulation program (e.g., Hercules).
- Connect to the assigned serial port (e.g., COM5) found in Device Manager. Press Open. (See Figure 4-2: Connecting to a Serial Port).
- With weight on the scale, press and hold the [Print] button for three seconds to send the patient's weight to the PC. (See Figure 4-3: Patient Weight Displayed).
5.0 Maintenance
Proper maintenance and cleaning ensure long life and effective operation. IMPORTANT: Do not immerse the scale in cleaning solutions. Do not use isopropyl alcohol or other solutions on the display.
5.1 Basic Maintenance
Before first use and after periods of non-use, check the scale for proper operation. If issues arise, contact qualified service personnel. Perform these steps:
- Check the scale's overall appearance for damage.
- Inspect the AC power adapter cord for cracks, fraying, or bent prongs.
5.2 Cleaning
Before cleaning, disconnect the scale from the AC power source.
- Clean 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 in cleaning or other liquid solutions.
- Do not use isopropyl alcohol or other solutions on the display surface.
6.0 Specifications
Power: 120 VAC - 9 VDC - 60Hz / 230 VAC - 9 VDC - 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
- USB Connection
- Selectable baud rate, default - 9600
- 8 bits
- No parity
- 1 stop bit
- No handshaking
Environmental:
- Operating Temperature: 50°F to 95°F (10°C to 35°C)
- Storage Temperature: 32°F to 122°F (0°C to 50°C)
- Humidity: 85% relative humidity
Capacity and Graduation: 1000 lb x 0.2 lb (453 kg x 0.1 kg)
Dimensions: Platform Dimensions: 48.5 in W x 29.5 in L x 2.3 in H