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An Automated Sample Weighing System¹

A rapid weighing system was developed in order to eliminate reading and transcription errors during the recording of weights of large numbers of plot samples. The weighing system described consists of a digital electronic scale with parallel BCD outputs, an interface (described in detail), and an IBM 029 card punch. Computer cards were prepunched with the same identification code as the labels on the samples and are arranged in the same order. When initiated, the interface automatically reads the BCD output on the scale, converts it to a serial decimal form and sequentially supplies signals to the card punch simulating pressing the corresponding numeric characters on the card punch keyboard. When all digits have been punched, the card punch program automatically releases the card, feeds the next card and advances it to the correct column for the next weight to be punched.

Key Words: Scale • Computers

² Design engineer and research scientist, Res. Stn., Res. Branch, Agric. Canada, Swift Current, Saskatchewan. S9H 3x2.

Received for publication September 24, 1979.