Understanding “d” and “e” on a Laboratory Balance

When using a laboratory balance, some users may notice two values in the specifications or on the nameplate: d and e.

A common question is:

When the balance shows a weighing result, is it showing according to “d” or “e”?

The simple answer is:

The normal weighing display is based on “d”. “e” is mainly used for metrological verification.

They are two different technical parameters, not two weighing modes.

What Is “d”?

d = Actual Scale Interval / Display Division

It represents the smallest increment normally displayed by the balance.

For example, if:

d = 10 mg = 0.01 g

the balance can display:

100.00 g → 100.01 g → 100.02 g

So when you use the balance for normal weighing, the value shown on the screen is displayed according to d.

What Is “e”?

e = Verification Scale Interval

It is mainly used for metrological verification and evaluation of permissible weighing error.

For example, the balance shown above is marked:

Max: 4200 g
Min: 0.5 g
d = 10 mg (0.01 g)
e = 100 mg (0.1 g)

For this balance:

e = 10d

However, this does not mean that the balance has two weighing resolutions that the operator needs to select.

The balance still displays the normal weighing result according to d = 0.01 g, while e = 0.1 g is used for verification purposes.

Why Can Some Balances Look Different?