Report of the

**Committee on** **Specifications and Tolerances**

Jack Kane, Chairman

Bureau of Weights and Measures

Department of Labor and Industry

Montana

###### 300 INTRODUCTION

This is the final report of the Committee on Specifications and
Tolerances (S&T) (Committee) for the 90th Annual Meeting of the National
Conference on Weights and Measures (NCWM). The report is based on the
90th Interim Report offered in NCWM Publication 16, "Committee Reports,"
the Addendum Sheets issued at the Annual Meeting, and actions taken by
the membership at the Voting Session of the Annual Meeting.

Table A identifies the agenda items in the report by Reference Key
Number, Item Title, and Page Number. The item numbers are those assigned
in the Interim Meeting Agenda. Voting items are indicated with a
**"V,**" or if the item was part of the consent calendar by the suffix
**"VC"** after the item number. Items marked with an **"I"** after the
reference key numbers are information items. Items marked with a **"D"**
after the key numbers are developing issues. The developing designation
indicates an item that while it has merit, it may not be adequately
developed for action at the national level. Developing items inform
parties about issues that are developing in different localities or in
the regional associations. A developing item is returned to the
submitter to develop further before any action is taken at the national
level. The Committee withdrew items marked with a **"W."** Items marked
with a **"W"** generally will be referred to the regional weights and
measures associations because they either need additional development,
analysis, and input, or did not have sufficient Committee support to
bring them before the NCWM. Table B lists the Appendices to the report,
and Table C provides a summary of the results of the voting on the
Committee\'s items and the report in entirety.

This Report contains many recommendations to revise or amend National
Institute of Standards and Technology (NIST) Handbook 44 (HB-44),
2005 Edition, "Specifications, Tolerances, and Other Technical
Requirements for Weighing and Measuring Devices." Proposed revisions to
the handbook(s) are shown in **bold face print** by **~~striking out~~**
information to be deleted and **[underlining]{.underline}** information
to be added. Proposed nonretroactive requirements are printed in
**bold-faced *italics.***

**Note:** The policy of NIST is to use metric units of measurement in
all of its publications; however, recommendations received by the NCWM
technical committees have been printed in this publication as they were
submitted and may, therefore, contain references to inch-pound units.

**Table A**

**Index to Reference Key Items**

**Reference**

**Key No. Title of Item Page**

[**300 INTRODUCTION 1**](#introduction)

[310 GENERAL CODE 4](#general-code)

[310-1 W G-A.1. Commercial and Law Enforcement, G-S.1. Identification;
Built-for-Purpose Software Based Devices, Table G-S.1. Identification,
G‑S.1.1. Location of Marking Information for Not Built-For-Purpose,
Software-Based Devices, and Appendix D; Definition of Built-for-Purpose
Device, Measuring Device (General), Measuring System (General),
Electronic Devices, Not-Built-for-Purpose Device, Metrological Software
Version (Revision), and Weighing Device (Instrument)
4](#__RefHeading___Toc97739447)

[310-2 I G-T.1. (e) Acceptance Tolerances
8](#i-g-t.1.-e-acceptance-tolerances)

[320 SCALES 9](#scales)

[320-1 I S.1.1. (c) Zero Indication; Requirements for Markings or
Indications for Other than Digital Zero Indications
9](#i-s.1.1.-c-zero-indication-requirements-for-markings-or-indications-for-other-than-digital-zero-indications)

[320-2 VC S.1.8.4. Recorded Representations, Point-of-Sale Systems;
Footnote 1
11](#vc-s.1.8.4.-recorded-representations-point-of-sale-systems-footnote-1)

[320-3 I UR.1.6. Computing Scale Interfaced to a Cash Register
12](#i-ur.1.6.-computing-scale-interfaced-to-a-cash-register)

[320-4 VC S.2.1.3. Scales Equipped with an Automatic Zero-Setting
Mechanism (Zero Tracking), S.2.1.3.1. For Scales Manufactured Between
January 1, 1981 and January 1, 2007; Maximum Load Rezeroed, S.2.1.3.2.
For Scales Manufactured On or After January 1, 2007; Maximum Load
Rezeroed, and S.2.1.3.3. Automatic Zero-Setting Mechanism (Zero
Tracking) on Class III L Devices
14](#vc-s.2.1.3.-scales-equipped-with-an-automatic-zero-setting-mechanism-zero-tracking-s.2.1.3.1.-for-scales-manufactured-between-january-1-2007-maximum-load-rezeroed-s.2.1.3.2.-for-scales-manufactured-on-or-after-january-1-2007-maximum-load-rezeroed-and-s.2.1.3.3.-automatic-zero-setting-mechanism-zero-tracking-on-class-iii-l-devices)

[320-5 VC Table S.6.3.b. Notes For Table S.6.3.a. Note 3; Nominal
Capacity and Value of the Scale Division and Appendix D; Definition of
Reading Face
16](#vc-table-s.6.3.b.-notes-for-table-s.6.3.a.-note-3-nominal-capacity-and-value-of-the-scale-division-and-appendix-d-definition-of-reading-face)

[320-6 I N.1.3.1. Bench or Counter Scales, N.1.3.8. All Other Scales
Except Crane Scales, Hanging Scales, Hopper Scales, Wheel--Load
Weighers, and Portable Axle-Load Weighers, and Appendix D; Definitions
of Bench Scale and Counter Scale
19](#i-n.1.3.1.-bench-or-counter-scales-n.1.3.8.-all-other-scales-except-crane-scales-hanging-scales-hopper-scales-wheelload-weighers-and-portable-axle-load-weighers-and-appendix-d-definitions-of-bench-scale-and-counter-scale)

[320-7 I Table 6 Tolerances 22](#i-table-6-tolerances)

[320-8 V T.N.4.5. Time Dependence, General, T.N.4.5.1. Time Dependence;
Class II, III, and IIII Non-automatic Weighing Instruments, T.N.4.5.2.
Time Dependence; Class III L Non-automatic Weighing Instruments,
T.N.4.6. Time Dependence (Creep) for Load Cells During Type Evaluation,
T.N.4.6.1. Permissible Variations of Readings, T.N.4.6.2. Apportionment
Factors, and Definitions of D~max~, E~max~, and Non‑automatic Weighing
Instrument
23](#v-t.n.4.5.-time-dependence-general-t.n.4.5.1.-time-dependence-class-ii-iii-and-iiii-non-automatic-weighing-instruments-t.n.4.5.2.-time-dependence-class-iii-l-non-automatic-weighing-instruments-t.n.4.6.-time-dependence-creep-for-load-cells-during-type-evaluation-t.n.4.6.1.-permissible-variations-of-readings-t.n.4.6.2.-apportionment-factors-and-definitions-of-dmax-emax-and-nonautomatic-weighing-instrument)

[320-9 I List of International Symbols Noted as Acceptable
27](#i-list-of-international-symbols-noted-as-acceptable)

[321 BELT-CONVEYOR SCALE SYSTEMS 29](#belt-conveyor-scale-systems)

[321-1 VC UR.3.4. Diversion or Loss of Measured Product
29](#vc-ur.3.4.-diversion-or-loss-of-measured-product)

[322 AUTOMATIC BULK WEIGHING SYSTEMS
30](#automatic-bulk-weighing-systems)

[322-1 W Tolerances 30](#w-tolerances)

[330 LIQUID-MEASURING DEVICES 32](#liquid-measuring-devices)

[330-1 V S.1.6.1. Indication of Delivery; Electronic Devices.
32](#v-s.1.6.1.-indication-of-delivery-electronic-devices)

[330-2 VC N.4.2.2. Retail Motor-Fuel Devices
33](#vc-n.4.2.2.-retail-motor-fuel-devices)

[331 VEHICLE-TANK METERS 35](#vehicle-tank-meters)

[331-1 I Temperature Compensation 35](#i-temperature-compensation)

[331-2 VC S.1.4.1. Display of Unit Price
38](#vc-s.1.4.1.-display-of-unit-price)

[331-3 VC S.2.4. Zero Set-Back Interlock, Vehicle-Tank Meters,
Electronic.
39](#vc-s.2.4.-zero-set-back-interlock-vehicle-tank-meters-electronic)

[331-4 VC N.4.2. Special Tests (Except Milk-Measuring Systems), N.4.5.
Product Depletion Test, T.4. Product Depletion Test, and Table T.4.
Tolerances for Vehicle-Tank Meters n Product Depletion Tests, Except
Milk Meters
39](#vc-n.4.2.-special-tests-except-milk-measuring-systems-n.4.5.-product-depletion-test-t.4.-product-depletion-test-and-table-t.4.-tolerances-for-vehicle-tank-meters-on-product-depletion-tests-except-milk-meters)

[336 WATER METERS 41](#__RefHeading___Toc97739471)

[336-1 I Table N.4.2. Flow Rate and Draft Size for Water Meters Special
Tests
41](#i-table-n.4.2.-flow-rate-and-draft-size-for-water-meters-special-tests)

[360 OTHER ITEMS 42](#other-items)

[360-1 V Proposed Section 5.59. Electronic Livestock, Meat, and Poultry
Evaluation Systems and/or Devices -Tentative Code
42](#v-proposed-section-5.59.-electronic-livestock-meat-and-poultry-evaluation-systems-andor-devices--tentative-code)

[360-2 V Appendix A Fundamental Considerations 3. Testing Apparatus; 3.1
Adequacy, 3.2 Tolerances for Standards and Footnote 2, and 3.3 Accuracy
of Standards
45](#v-appendix-a-fundamental-considerations-3.-testing-apparatus-3.1-adequacy-3.2-tolerances-for-standards-and-footnote-2-and-3.3-accuracy-of-standards)

[360-3 I International Organization of Legal Metrology (OIML) Report
47](#i-international-organization-of-legal-metrology-oiml-report)

[360-4 I Add International Terms that are Synonymous to NIST Handbook 44
Terms in Appendix D; Definitions
47](#i-add-international-terms-that-are-synonymous-to-nist-handbook-44-terms-in-appendix-d-definitions)

[360-5 D Developing Issues 48](#d-developing-issues)

**Table B**

**Appendices**

**Appendix Title Page**

[A Item 360-1: Proposed Section 5.59 Electronic Livestock, Meat, and
Poultry Evaluation Systems and/or Devices -- Tentative Code
A1](#AppendixA)

[B Item 360-2: Appendix A Fundamental Considerations 3. Testing
Apparatus; 3.1 Adequacy, 3.2 Tolerances for Standards and Footnote 2,
and 3.3 Accuracy of Standards B1](#AppendixB)

[C Item 360-5: Developing Issues C1](#AppendixC)

[Part 1, Item 1 General Code: G-S.5.6.1. Recorded Representation of
Metric Units on Equipment with Limited Character Sets C1](#Part1)

[Part 2, Item 1 Scales: Table 4. Minimum Test Weights and Test Loads
C1](#Part2)

**Table C**

**Voting Results**

  ---------------- ------------------- ---------- ------------- ---------- --------------
  **Reference Key  **House of State               **House of               **Results**
  Number**         Representatives**              Delegates**              

                   **Yeas**            **Nays**   **Yeas**      **Nays**   

  300 (Consent     36                  0          36            0          Passed
  Calendar)                                                                

  320-8            27                  10         28            8          Passed

  330-1            37                  0          36            0          Passed

  360-1            32                  3          31            3          Passed

  360-2            37                  0          33            1          Passed

  300 (Report in   All Yeas            No Nays    All Yeas      No Nays    Passed
  its Entirety                                                             
  Voice Vote)                                                              
  ---------------- ------------------- ---------- ------------- ---------- --------------

**Details of all Items**

(In order by Reference Key Number)

###### 310 GENERAL CODE

####### 310-1 W G-A.1. Commercial and Law Enforcement, G-S.1. Identification; Built-for-Purpose Software Based Devices, Table G-S.1. Identification, G‑S.1.1. Location of Marking Information for Not Built-For-Purpose, Software-Based Devices, and Appendix D; Definition of Built-for-Purpose Device, Measuring Device (General), Measuring System (General), Electronic Devices, Not-Built-for-Purpose Device, Metrological Software Version (Revision), and Weighing Device (Instrument)

(This item was withdrawn.)

[]{#__RefHeading___Toc97739447 .anchor}**Source:** Carryover Item 310-1.
(This proposal first appeared on the Committee's 2003 agenda.)

**Recommendation:** Amend General Code paragraph G-A.1. Commercial and
Law Enforcement Equipment as follows:

> **G-A.1. Commercial and Law Enforcement Equipment. -** These
> specifications, tolerances, and other technical requirements apply as
> follows:
>
> \(a\) To commercial weighing and measuring [devices or
> systems]{.underline} equipment; that is, to weights, and
> measures[,]{.underline} and weighing and measuring devices [or
> systems]{.underline} com­mercially used or employed in establishing the
> size, quantity, extent, area, or meas­urement of quantities, things,
> produce, or articles for distribution or consumption, purchased,
> offered, or submitted for sale, hire, or award, or in computing any
> basic charge or payment for services rendered on the basis of
> [quantity determination]{.underline} weight or measure.
>
> \(b\) To any accessory attached to or used in connection with a
> commercial **~~weighing or~~** measuring device when such accessory is
> so designed that its operation affects the accuracy of the device.
>
> \(c\) To ~~weighing and~~ measuring devices or systems ~~equipment~~
> in official use for the enforcement of law or for the collection of
> statistical information by government agencies.
>
> (These requirements should be used as a guide by the weights and
> measures official when, upon request, courtesy examinations of
> noncom­mercial equipment are made.)

**[(Amended 200X)]{.underline}**

Amend General Code paragraph G-S.1. Identification as follows:

> **G-S.1. Identification. -** All equipment, except weights and
> separate parts necessary to the measurement process but not having any
> metrological effect, shall be clearly and permanently marked **[in
> accordance with Table G-S.1.]{.underline}** for the purposes of
> identification with the following information:
>
> \(a\) the name, initials, or trademark of the manufacturer or
> distributor;
>
> \(b\) a model designation that positively identifies the
> pattern[,]{.underline} ~~or~~ design**[, or metrological version or
> revision]{.underline} of the device [in accordance with Table
> G-S.1.]{.underline};**
>
> *1. The model designation shall be prefaced by the term \"Model,\"
> \"Type,\" or \"Pattern.\" These terms may be followed by the term
> \"Number\" or an abbreviation of that word. The abbreviation for the
> word \"Number\" shall, as a minimum, begin with the letter \"N\"
> (e.g., No or No.). The abbreviation for the word "Model" shall be
> "Mod" or "Mod." Prefix lettering may be initial capitals, all capitals
> or all lower case.*
>
> *\[Nonretroactive as of January 1, 2003\]*
>
> (Added 2000) (Amended 2001)
>
> **[(Amended 200X)]{.underline}**
>
> *(c) a nonrepetitive serial number, except for equipment with no
> moving or electronic component parts and not built-for-purpose,
> **~~software-based~~ [electronic]{.underline}** devices;*
>
> *\[Nonretroactive as of January 1, 1968\]*
>
> **(Amended 2003 and 200X)**

1.  *The serial number shall be prefaced by words, and abbreviation, or
    a symbol, that clearly identifies the number as the required serial
    number.*

> *\[Nonretroactive as of January 1, 1986\]*

2.  *Abbreviations for the word "Serial" shall, as a minimum, begin with
    the letter "S," and abbreviation*

> *for the word "Number" shall, as a minimum, begin with the letter "N"
> (e.g., S/N, SN, Ser. No., and S.* *No.).*
>
> *\[Nonretroactive as of January 1, 2001\]*
>
> ***~~(d) the current software version designation for not
> built-for-purpose, software- based devices;~~***
>
> ***~~\[Nonretroactive as of January 1, 2004\]~~***
>
> **~~(Added 2003)~~**
>
> ***(~~e~~[d]{.underline}) an NTEP Certificate of Conformance (CC)
> number or a corresponding CC Addendum Number for devices that have a
> CC. The CC Number or a corresponding CC Addendum Number shall be
> prefaced by the terms "NTEP CC," "CC,\" or \"Approval.\" These terms
> may be followed by the term \"Number\" or an abbreviation of that
> word. The abbreviation for the word \"Number\" shall, as a minimum,
> begin with the letter \"N\" (e.g., No or No.)***
>
> ***\[Nonretroactive as of January 1, 2003\]***

The required information shall be so located that it is readily
observable without the necessity of the disassembly of a part requiring
the use of any means separate from the device.

(Amended 1985, 1991, 1999, 2000, 2001 and 2003)

Delete General Code paragraph G-S.1.1. Location of Marking Information
for Not-Built-for-Purpose, Software-based Devices and renumber G-S.1.2.
Remanufactured Devices and Remanufactured Main Elements as follows:

G-S.1.1. Location of Marking Information for Not-Built-for-Purpose,
Software-based Devices. - For not-built-for-purpose, software-based
devices, the following shall apply:

> ***~~(a) the manufacturer or distributor and the model designation
> shall be continuously displayed or marked on the device (see note
> below), or~~***
>
> ***~~(b) the Certificate of Conformance (CC) Number shall be
> continuously displayed or marked on the device (see note below),
> or~~***
>
> ***~~(c) all required information in G-S.1. Identification. (a), (b),
> (c), and (e) shall be continuously displayed. Alternatively, a clearly
> identified "view only" System Identification, G-S.1. Identification,
> or Weights and Measures Identification shall be accessible through the
> "Help" menu. Required information includes that information necessary
> to identify that the software in the device is the same type that was
> evaluated.~~***
>
> ***~~Note: Clear instructions for accessing the remaining required
> G-S.1. information shall be listed on the CC. Required information
> includes that information necessary to identify that the software in
> the device is the same type that was evaluated.~~***
>
> ***~~\[Nonretroactive as of January 1, 2004\]~~***
>
> **~~(Added 2003)~~**
>
> ***G‑S.1.[1]{.underline}~~2~~. Remanufactured Devices and
> Remanufactured Main Elements. -** All remanufactured devices and
> remanufactured main elements shall be clearly and permanently marked
> for the purposes of identification with the following information:*
>
> *(a) The name, initials, or trademark of the last remanufacturer or
> distributor;*
>
> *(b) The remanufacturer\'s or distributor\'s model designation if
> different than the original model designation.*
>
> *\[Nonretroactive as of January 1, 2002\]*
>
> (Added 2001)
>
> **Note:** Definitions for "manufactured device," "repaired device,"
> and "repaired element" are also included (along with definitions for
> "remanufactured device" and "remanufactured element") in Appendix D,
> Definitions.

Add a new Table G-S.1. Identification as follows:

+----+----------------------+----------------------+-----------------+
| ## |                      |                      |                 |
| ## |                      |                      |                 |
|  [ |                      |                      |                 |
| Ta |                      |                      |                 |
| bl |                      |                      |                 |
| e  |                      |                      |                 |
| G- |                      |                      |                 |
| S. |                      |                      |                 |
| 1. |                      |                      |                 |
|  I |                      |                      |                 |
| de |                      |                      |                 |
| nt |                      |                      |                 |
| if |                      |                      |                 |
| ic |                      |                      |                 |
| at |                      |                      |                 |
| io |                      |                      |                 |
| n] |                      |                      |                 |
| {. |                      |                      |                 |
| un |                      |                      |                 |
| de |                      |                      |                 |
| rl |                      |                      |                 |
| in |                      |                      |                 |
| e} |                      |                      |                 |
+----+----------------------+----------------------+-----------------+
|    |                      | **[Built-for-Pu      | **[Not-Bu       |
|    |                      | rpose]{.underline}** | ilt-for-Purpose |
|    |                      |                      | ]{.underline}** |
|    |                      | **[Instruments,      |                 |
|    |                      | Elements, or         | **[Devices or   |
|    |                      | Sy                   | Elements        |
|    |                      | stems]{.underline}** | ]{.underline}** |
+----+----------------------+----------------------+-----------------+
| ** |                      | **[M]{.underline}**  | **[D^2^         |
| [N |                      |                      | ]{.underline}** |
| am |                      |                      |                 |
| e, |                      |                      |                 |
| i  |                      |                      |                 |
| ni |                      |                      |                 |
| ti |                      |                      |                 |
| al |                      |                      |                 |
| s, |                      |                      |                 |
| or |                      |                      |                 |
| t  |                      |                      |                 |
| ra |                      |                      |                 |
| de |                      |                      |                 |
| ma |                      |                      |                 |
| rk |                      |                      |                 |
| of |                      |                      |                 |
| t  |                      |                      |                 |
| he |                      |                      |                 |
| ma |                      |                      |                 |
| nu |                      |                      |                 |
| fa |                      |                      |                 |
| ct |                      |                      |                 |
| ur |                      |                      |                 |
| er |                      |                      |                 |
| or |                      |                      |                 |
| di |                      |                      |                 |
| st |                      |                      |                 |
| ri |                      |                      |                 |
| bu |                      |                      |                 |
| to |                      |                      |                 |
| r] |                      |                      |                 |
| {. |                      |                      |                 |
| un |                      |                      |                 |
| de |                      |                      |                 |
| rl |                      |                      |                 |
| in |                      |                      |                 |
| e} |                      |                      |                 |
| ** |                      |                      |                 |
+----+----------------------+----------------------+-----------------+
| ** |                      | **                   | **[D^2^         |
| [M |                      | [M^1^]{.underline}** | ]{.underline}** |
| od |                      |                      |                 |
| el |                      |                      |                 |
| de |                      |                      |                 |
| si |                      |                      |                 |
| gn |                      |                      |                 |
| at |                      |                      |                 |
| io |                      |                      |                 |
| n] |                      |                      |                 |
| {. |                      |                      |                 |
| un |                      |                      |                 |
| de |                      |                      |                 |
| rl |                      |                      |                 |
| in |                      |                      |                 |
| e} |                      |                      |                 |
| ** |                      |                      |                 |
+----+----------------------+----------------------+-----------------+
| *  |                      | **[M^1^ or           |                 |
| *[ |                      | D]{.underline}**     |                 |
| Sp |                      |                      |                 |
| ec |                      |                      |                 |
| if |                      |                      |                 |
| ic |                      |                      |                 |
| m  |                      |                      |                 |
| od |                      |                      |                 |
| el |                      |                      |                 |
| d  |                      |                      |                 |
| es |                      |                      |                 |
| ig |                      |                      |                 |
| na |                      |                      |                 |
| ti |                      |                      |                 |
| on |                      |                      |                 |
| ^3 |                      |                      |                 |
| ^] |                      |                      |                 |
| {. |                      |                      |                 |
| un |                      |                      |                 |
| de |                      |                      |                 |
| rl |                      |                      |                 |
| in |                      |                      |                 |
| e} |                      |                      |                 |
| ** |                      |                      |                 |
+----+----------------------+----------------------+-----------------+
| *  |                      | **[M]{.underline}**  | **[Not          |
| *[ |                      |                      | required        |
| Se |                      |                      | ]{.underline}** |
| ri |                      |                      |                 |
| al |                      |                      |                 |
| n  |                      |                      |                 |
| um |                      |                      |                 |
| be |                      |                      |                 |
| r] |                      |                      |                 |
| {. |                      |                      |                 |
| un |                      |                      |                 |
| de |                      |                      |                 |
| rl |                      |                      |                 |
| in |                      |                      |                 |
| e} |                      |                      |                 |
| ** |                      |                      |                 |
+----+----------------------+----------------------+-----------------+
| ** |                      | **N/A**              | **[D            |
| [M |                      |                      | ]{.underline}** |
| et |                      |                      |                 |
| ro |                      |                      |                 |
| lo |                      |                      |                 |
| gi |                      |                      |                 |
| ca |                      |                      |                 |
| l] |                      |                      |                 |
| {. |                      |                      |                 |
| un |                      |                      |                 |
| de |                      |                      |                 |
| rl |                      |                      |                 |
| in |                      |                      |                 |
| e} |                      |                      |                 |
| v  |                      |                      |                 |
| er |                      |                      |                 |
| si |                      |                      |                 |
| on |                      |                      |                 |
| or |                      |                      |                 |
| [  |                      |                      |                 |
| re |                      |                      |                 |
| vi |                      |                      |                 |
| si |                      |                      |                 |
| on |                      |                      |                 |
| d  |                      |                      |                 |
| es |                      |                      |                 |
| ig |                      |                      |                 |
| na |                      |                      |                 |
| ti |                      |                      |                 |
| on |                      |                      |                 |
| ^3 |                      |                      |                 |
| ^] |                      |                      |                 |
| {. |                      |                      |                 |
| un |                      |                      |                 |
| de |                      |                      |                 |
| rl |                      |                      |                 |
| in |                      |                      |                 |
| e} |                      |                      |                 |
| ** |                      |                      |                 |
+----+----------------------+----------------------+-----------------+
| *  |                      | **[M or              | **[D^2^         |
| *C |                      | D]{.underline}**     | ]{.underline}** |
| er |                      |                      |                 |
| ti |                      |                      |                 |
| fi |                      |                      |                 |
| ca |                      |                      |                 |
| te |                      |                      |                 |
| of |                      |                      |                 |
| C  |                      |                      |                 |
| on |                      |                      |                 |
| fo |                      |                      |                 |
| rm |                      |                      |                 |
| an |                      |                      |                 |
| ce |                      |                      |                 |
| (C |                      |                      |                 |
| C) |                      |                      |                 |
| nu |                      |                      |                 |
| mb |                      |                      |                 |
| er |                      |                      |                 |
| ** |                      |                      |                 |
+----+----------------------+----------------------+-----------------+
| ** | **Physically and     |                      |                 |
| [M | permanently marked** |                      |                 |
| :] |                      |                      |                 |
| {. |                      |                      |                 |
| un |                      |                      |                 |
| de |                      |                      |                 |
| rl |                      |                      |                 |
| in |                      |                      |                 |
| e} |                      |                      |                 |
| ** |                      |                      |                 |
+----+----------------------+----------------------+-----------------+
| ** | ***[Either: (1)      |                      |                 |
| [D | displayed by         |                      |                 |
| :] | accessing a clearly  |                      |                 |
| {. | identified view only |                      |                 |
| un | System               |                      |                 |
| de | Identification,      |                      |                 |
| rl | G-S.1.               |                      |                 |
| in | Identification, or   |                      |                 |
| e} | Weights and Measures |                      |                 |
| ** | Identification       |                      |                 |
|    | accessible through   |                      |                 |
|    | the "Help" menu.     |                      |                 |
|    | Required information |                      |                 |
|    | includes that        |                      |                 |
|    | information          |                      |                 |
|    | necessary to         |                      |                 |
|    | identify the         |                      |                 |
|    | software in the      |                      |                 |
|    | device is the same   |                      |                 |
|    | type that was        |                      |                 |
|    | evaluated,           |                      |                 |
|    | or]{.underline}***   |                      |                 |
|    |                      |                      |                 |
|    | ***[(2) continuously |                      |                 |
|    | displayed. Note: For |                      |                 |
|    | revision or software |                      |                 |
|    | version number,      |                      |                 |
|    | clear instructions   |                      |                 |
|    | for accessing this   |                      |                 |
|    | information shall be |                      |                 |
|    | listed on the CC in  |                      |                 |
|    | lieu of the "Help"   |                      |                 |
|    | menu. Required       |                      |                 |
|    | information includes |                      |                 |
|    | that information     |                      |                 |
|    | necessary to         |                      |                 |
|    | identify the         |                      |                 |
|    | software in the      |                      |                 |
|    | device is the same   |                      |                 |
|    | or subsequent type   |                      |                 |
|    | that was             |                      |                 |
|    | evalua               |                      |                 |
|    | ted.]{.underline}*** |                      |                 |
|    |                      |                      |                 |
|    | ***[(Nonretroactive  |                      |                 |
|    | as of January        |                      |                 |
|    | 2                    |                      |                 |
|    | 004)]{.underline}*** |                      |                 |
+----+----------------------+----------------------+-----------------+
| *  | ***[As a minimum,    |                      |                 |
| *[ | the model            |                      |                 |
| No | designation          |                      |                 |
| te | (positively          |                      |                 |
| 1  | identifying the      |                      |                 |
| :] | pattern, design,     |                      |                 |
| {. | type, series,        |                      |                 |
| un | generic, or          |                      |                 |
| de | trademark            |                      |                 |
| rl | designation) must be |                      |                 |
| in | marked on the        |                      |                 |
| e} | device. If the model |                      |                 |
| ** | designation changes  |                      |                 |
|    | with differing       |                      |                 |
|    | parameters such as   |                      |                 |
|    | size, features,      |                      |                 |
|    | options, intended    |                      |                 |
|    | application, not     |                      |                 |
|    | Handbook 44          |                      |                 |
|    | compliant,           |                      |                 |
|    | construction, etc.,  |                      |                 |
|    | the specific model   |                      |                 |
|    | designation shall be |                      |                 |
|    | physically marked or |                      |                 |
|    | continuously         |                      |                 |
|    | displayed or be      |                      |                 |
|    | capable of being     |                      |                 |
|    | displa               |                      |                 |
|    | yed.]{.underline}*** |                      |                 |
|    |                      |                      |                 |
|    | ***[(Nonretroactive  |                      |                 |
|    | as of January        |                      |                 |
|    | 2                    |                      |                 |
|    | 00X)]{.underline}*** |                      |                 |
+----+----------------------+----------------------+-----------------+
| *  | ***[As a minimum,    |                      |                 |
| *[ | either the           |                      |                 |
| No | manufacturer or      |                      |                 |
| te | distributor and the  |                      |                 |
| 2  | model designation,   |                      |                 |
| :] | or the CC Number     |                      |                 |
| {. | shall be             |                      |                 |
| un | continuously         |                      |                 |
| de | displayed. Clear     |                      |                 |
| rl | instructions for     |                      |                 |
| in | accessing the        |                      |                 |
| e} | remaining required   |                      |                 |
| ** | G‑S.1. information   |                      |                 |
|    | shall be listed on   |                      |                 |
|    | the CC~~, which may  |                      |                 |
|    | be available as an   |                      |                 |
|    | unaltered copy of    |                      |                 |
|    | the CC or printed by |                      |                 |
|    | the device or        |                      |                 |
|    | through another      |                      |                 |
|    | on-site              |                      |                 |
|    | devic                |                      |                 |
|    | e~~.]{.underline}*** |                      |                 |
|    |                      |                      |                 |
|    | ***[(Nonretroactive  |                      |                 |
|    | as of January        |                      |                 |
|    | 2                    |                      |                 |
|    | 00X)]{.underline}*** |                      |                 |
+----+----------------------+----------------------+-----------------+
| *  | ***[Metrological     |                      |                 |
| *[ | version or revision  |                      |                 |
| No | designation for      |                      |                 |
| te | devices with         |                      |                 |
| 3  | downloadable or      |                      |                 |
| :] | field programmable   |                      |                 |
| {. | softw                |                      |                 |
| un | are.]{.underline}*** |                      |                 |
| de |                      |                      |                 |
| rl |                      |                      |                 |
| in |                      |                      |                 |
| e} |                      |                      |                 |
| ** |                      |                      |                 |
+----+----------------------+----------------------+-----------------+

(Table Added 200X)

Add new terms and definitions to Appendix d, Definitions, as follows:

> **[measuring device (general) -- A device (instrument) intended to be
> used to make measurements, alone or in conjunction with supplementary
> devices. (VIM)\[1.10\]]{.underline}**
>
> [measuring system (general) - An instrument or group of instruments
> that serves to make measurements, alone or in conjunction with
> supplementary devices. (VIM)\[1.10\]]{.underline}
>
> [electronic devices -- A device operating by the principles of
> electronics, which may consist of one or more subassemblies and
> performs a specific function(s). (ASTM)\[1.10\]]{.underline}
>
> [not-built-for-purpose device \-- Any electronic peripheral or
> auxiliary device or element which was not originally manufactured with
> the intent that it be used as, or part of, a weighing or measuring
> device or system. \[1.10\]]{.underline}
>
> [metrological software version (revision) -- A designation that
> specifically defines the metrological software version used in a
> measuring instrument, system, or peripheral/auxiliary device with
> field programmable or downloadable metrological software).
> \[1.10\]]{.underline}
>
> [weighing device (instrument) \-- A measuring instrument that serves
> to determine the mass of a body by using the action of gravity on said
> body. The instrument may also be used to determine other quantities,
> magnitudes, parameters or characteristics related to the determined
> mass. According to its method of operation, a weighing instrument is
> classified as an automatic or non-automatic instrument. (OIML
> R76)\[1.10\]]{.underline}

Amend the definition for "built-for-purpose device" as follows:

> built-for-purpose device - Any main[, peripheral, or
> auxiliary]{.underline} device or element which was manufactured with
> the intent that it be used as, or part of, a ~~weighing or~~ measuring
> device or system.

**Background/Discussion:** In 2003, paragraph G-S.1.1. was added to
allow manufacturers of "not-built-for-purpose" devices to "display" the
markings required in paragraph G-S.1. as an alternative to physically
marking the required information on the device. Manufacturers of
"built-for-purpose" devices have requested that paragraph G-S.1. be
amended to provide a similar option for the "display" of the paragraph
G-S.1. required markings on "built-for-purpose" devices.

At the 2004 NCWM Annual Meeting, the Committee made this proposal an
information item because of concerns stated by some manufacturers that
"built-for-purpose" devices were being treated differently than
"not-built-for-purpose" devices. In response to this concern, the
Committee asked that the Weighing and Measuring Sectors develop language
acceptable to both weighing and measuring device manufacturers.

At its Fall 2004 meeting, the Weighing Sector reviewed the information
from the Committee, previous Sector recommendations, and information
regarding international requirements. The Sector also reviewed an
alternate recommendation from NIST Weights and Measures Division (WMD),
which included changes to paragraph G‑A.1. The most significant change
to paragraph G-A.1. was the elimination of the term "weighing" and
utilization of the more general term "measuring" for devices or systems
that measure mass, length, or volume. The WMD alternate proposal
included new and amended definitions and addressed concerns raised
during the Committee's deliberations on this item. The WMD proposed
definition for a "weighing device" describes it as a "measuring
instrument" that serves to determine the mass of a body by using the
action of gravity on said body. Although this change is a departure from
conventional terminology for "scales," it is consistent with OIML
recommendations and facilitates harmonization between Handbook 44 and
international standards. WMD revised the definition for
"not-built-for-purpose" devices to clarify that they are auxiliary or
peripheral equipment devices and systems, but they are part of the
weighing or measuring system process. Some of the private Sector members
repeated their earlier comments that current technology permits the
electronic display of required identification information and there is
no technical justification for treating "built-for-purpose" devices
differently than "not-built-for-purpose" devices. Additionally, WMD's
proposed definitions would reclassify most measuring devices according
to the physical property being measured. Since WMD's proposed definition
for measuring devices applies to all types of devices, some concern was
expressed that laws and regulations would need to be changed because
many state statutes refer to both "weighing and measuring" devices. The
Weighing Sector supported the WMD alternate proposal; however, the
Sector changed the marking requirement for metrological version or
revision designation in Table G-S.1. for "built-for-purpose"
instruments, elements, or systems from WMD's proposed designation of
"marked or displayed (M or D)" to "not applicable (NA)" and added a
definition for "weighing device." The Weighing Sector agreed to send the
WMD alternate proposal with these modifications to the NTETC Measuring
Sector and regional associations for their review and comments.

At the October 2004 Northeastern Weights and Measures Association
Meeting, several participants indicated that the requirements for
"built-for-purpose" and "not-built-for-purpose" devices should be the
same. An Associate member commented that manufacturers should be trusted
to report metrological updates to software since requirements for
reporting current software version numbers hampers innovations in
software development.

At its October 2004 meeting, the Measuring Sector also reviewed the
recommendation developed by WMD since that was the only alternate
proposal ready for review. The members agreed that the majority of the
changes proposed to include "built-for-purpose" devices are more
applicable to weighing devices than they are to measuring devices. One
member objected to the proposal to eliminate references in paragraph
G-A.1. to the term "weighing" and the dual use of the term "measuring"
to refer to all forms of measurement including weighing. The member
stated that the proposal was in conflict with the historic use of the
term "measurement" in the United States. The Sector agreed to forward a
recommendation to the Committee that the proposal to include marking
requirements for "built-for-purpose" devices in paragraph G-S.1.
Identification be withdrawn from the S&T agenda.

At its October 2004 meeting, the Southern Weights and Measures
Association (SWMA) S&T Committee did not include this or other items
requiring further development on its agenda for a vote of the members;
however, the SWMA did accept comments during the open hearings. The SWMA
learned that the Scale Manufacturers Association (SMA) wanted the
requirements in Table G-S.1. for "built-for purpose" instruments,
elements, or systems to allow markings for name, model, and serial
number to be either physically marked (M) or displayed (D) just like
requirements in the table for specific model designation or CC. One
manufacturer of retail motor-fuel dispensers supported the
recommendation on the condition that the requirement for metrological
revision designation for "built-for purpose" instruments, elements, or
systems is changed from "M" or "D" to "N/A" as recommended by the
Weighing Sector. The SWMA forwarded these comments to the Committee
without taking a position on the proposal.

At the 2005 NCWM Interim Meeting, the SMA opposed this item because it
did not treat "built-for-purpose" and "not-built-for-purpose" devices
equally and recommended the NCWM form a Work Group to further develop
the proposal. The Committee heard support for the alternate proposal as
modified by the Weighing Sector. The Committee considered withdrawing
this item due to a lack of support from the group of manufacturers that
originally submitted the proposal. After some discussion the Committee
agreed to retain the Weighing Sector's latest alternate language shown
in the recommendation above as an information item and urged the NTETC
Sectors and SMA to develop a proposal they all support prior to the 2006
Interim Meeting. If the NTETC Sectors and SMA do not provide an
alternative proposal that resolves their concerns with the current
proposal, the Committee may withdraw this item from its agenda.

At the 2005 NCWM Annual Meeting, the Committee concluded that there was
no support for this proposal and decided to withdraw it. The regional
associations, the NTETC Sectors, and associations of device
manufacturers may develop and submit a new proposal if they are able to
resolve the concerns discussed above.

For more background information, refer to the 2003 and 2004 S&T Final
Reports.

####### 310-2 I G-T.1. (e) Acceptance Tolerances 

**Source:** National Type Evaluation Technical Committee (NTETC)
Measuring Sector:

**Recommendation:** Modify Section 1.10 Paragraph G-T.1. (e) Acceptance
Tolerances as follows:

> **G-T.1. Acceptance Tolerances. - Acceptance tolerances shall apply
> to:**
>
> \(a\) equipment to be put into commercial use for the first time;
>
> \(b\) equipment that has been placed in commercial service within the
> preceding 30 days and is being officially tested for the first time;
>
> \(c\) equipment that has been returned to commercial service follow­ing
> official rejection for failure to conform to per­formance requirements
> and is being offi­cially tested for the first time within 30 days after
> corrective service;
>
> \(d\) equipment that is being officially tested for the first time
> within 30 days after major reconditioning or overhaul; and
>
> \(e\) equipment undergoing type evaluation **[(special test tolerances
> are not applicable)]{.underline}**.
>
> (Amended 1989 **[and 2005]{.underline}**)

**Discussion/Background:** At its October 2004 Meeting, the NTETC
Measuring Sector noted that the intent of paragraph G‑T.1. (e) is to
specify that acceptance tolerances apply to all equipment undergoing
type evaluation; however, the language is not clear regarding what
tolerance would apply during "special tests."

Special test tolerances recognize that a larger tolerance for test
drafts conducted under certain conditions, such as at a slow flow rate,
is appropriate for meters in normal service. Normal wear of the
measuring elements frequently produces larger performance errors when
testing at a slow flow rate, compared to testing at full flow rate. The
Sector agreed that devices submitted for NTEP evaluation should be held
to a higher standard than devices in normal service and special test
tolerances should not be applicable during an NTEP evaluation. The
Sector also agreed to forward the proposal to modify Handbook 44
paragraph G-T.1. (e) Acceptance Tolerances to the NCWM S&T Committee
NCWM and Southern Weights and Measures Association for consideration.

At its October 2004 Meeting, the SWMA reviewed the recommendation and
agreed to forward it to the Committee with the recommendation that it be
a voting item on the 2005 NCWM S&T Agenda.

At the 2005 NCWM Interim Meeting, the Committee received no opposition
to this item and, therefore, agreed to present it for a vote at the
Annual Meeting.

At the 2005 NCWM Annual Meeting, members of the Meter Manufacturers
Association (MMA) said that they had not understood that the proposal
from the Measuring Sector would only apply to liquid measuring devices
undergoing NTEP evaluation. They explained that without special test
tolerances most meters, especially those installed in vehicle-mounted
applications, would not meet tolerances for low flow tests during either
field testing or NTEP evaluations. Based on this information the
Committee agreed to make this an information item to allow the MMA and
the Measuring Sector to further develop the proposal and submit it for
reconsideration.

###### 320 SCALES

####### 320-1 I S.1.1. (c) Zero Indication; Requirements for Markings or Indications for Other than Digital Zero Indications

**Source:** Carryover Item 320-8. (This item originated from the
Committee and first appeared on its 2004 agenda.)

**Recommendation:** Amend paragraph S.1.1. (c) as follows:

> S.1.1. Zero Indication.
>
> \(a\) On a scale equipped with indicating or recording elements,
> provision shall be made to either indicate or record a zero-balance
> condition.
>
> \(b\) On an automatic-indicating scale or balance indicator, provision
> shall be made to indicate or record an out‑of-balance condition on
> both sides of zero.
>
> \(c\) A zero-balance condition may be indicated by other than a
> continuous digital zero indication, provided that an effective
> automatic means is provided to inhibit a weighing operation or to
> return to a continuous digital indication when the scale is in an
> out‑of‑balance condition **[and is marked or includes supplemental
> indications or markings to indicate that the "other than digital zero
> indication" represents a no-load condition of the
> scale]{.underline}.**
>
> Added 1987 **(**Amended 1993 **[and 2005]{.underline})**
>
> **[\[Note: The markings or supplemental indications in S.1.1.(c) are
> not required if, prior to the start of a transaction: (1) operator
> intervention is required to verify the zero balance condition with a
> digital zero indication, or (2) the scale automatically represents the
> zero-balance condition with a digital zero
> indication.\]]{.underline}**
>
> **[(Added 2005)]{.underline}**
>
> (Amended 1987)

**Background/Discussion:** The Committee proposes to modify paragraph
S.1.1.(c) to clarify the requirement's original intent for marking zero
indications on scales and point-of-sale systems where a zero-balance
condition is represented by other than a digital zero indication. The
proposal is the Committee's response to the 2003 NTETC Weighing Sector's
request for clarification on whether or not scales that use scrolling
messages, dashes, etc., to indicate zero require additional markings or
indications to: (1) inform customers that the scales are at a
zero‑balance condition and (2) properly identify the feature as
specified in General Code paragraph G-S.6. Marking Operational Controls,
Indications, and Features.

The proposal is consistent with other Handbook 44 code requirements
adopted to ensure that customers have sufficient information to make an
informed decision during a direct sale. These codes require marking
and/or identification of values, graduations, units, and indications in
the displayed and recorded transaction information. Handbook 44 includes
requirements for clearly identifying operational controls and features
used in weighing applications. Additionally, Handbook 44 requirements
specify that the size, proximity, and position of that information shall
be such that it is easily read and is appropriate for that application.

In 2003 the Weighing Sector reported there was ongoing disagreement
among NIST Weights and Measures Division (WMD), the NTEP Participating
Laboratories, and manufacturers regarding the interpretation of Handbook
44 General Code paragraph G-S.6. Marking Operational Controls,
Indications, and Features; Scales Code paragraph S.1.1. Zero Indication;
and related discussions in the 78^th^ (1993) NCWM Specifications and
Tolerances (S&T) Final Report Item 320-1 S.1.1. Zero Indication. These
disagreements resulted in inconsistencies between type evaluations and
field enforcement for scales and point‑of‑sale systems interfaced with
scales that use methods such as screen savers, power savers, scrolling
displays, and modes of operation other than a digital zero indication to
indicate that a device is at a no-load condition. WMD and some
representatives of several NTEP Participating Laboratories agreed that
General Code paragraph G-S.6. requires weighing devices to be marked or
provide an indication that states the zero-balance is represented by
other than a digital zero indication. WMD and the representatives noted
this interpretation was supported by the 1993 S&T Final Report, and NCWM
Publication 14 clearly states such markings are required. Other
Participating Laboratories and some manufacturers stated that the
markings were not necessary because Handbook 44 paragraph S.1.1. (c)
does not specifically state that the additional markings are required
and the actions of the 78^th^ NCWM to amend paragraph S.1.1.(c) provided
sufficient customer protection for devices that use this feature.

Weights and measures officials indicated there may be
"not-built-for-purpose" devices that do not comply with the proposed
interpretation. These "not-built-for-purpose" devices are interfaced
with approved devices; however, the system continues weighing when the
scale is off zero. Consequently, officials questioned whether the
proposed changes to paragraph S.1.1.(c) are intended to be
nonretroactive requirements.

In July 2004 the Committee agreed that its proposal to modify paragraph
S.1.1.(c) was consistent with the original intent of the requirement.
After hearing comments about how some systems are designed to operate,
the Committee decided that additional language was needed to clarify
that no marking is required if operator intervention is necessary to
verify a zero condition before the start of a transaction. In July 2004,
the Committee made this an information item to provide sufficient time
for input from the Weighing Sector (that did not have this proposal at
its 2003 meeting) and to receive a proposal that addresses operator
intervention.

The Committee believes the proposal provides a record of how to apply
the requirement. The Committee agreed that the original intent of the
requirement was that all primary indicators comply with paragraph
S.1.1., therefore, the proposal should be a retroactive requirement.

At its August 2004 meeting the Weighing Sector agreed with the
Committee's interpretation, but did not find it necessary to modify
paragraph S.1.1.(c) because NCWM Publication 14 was expanded in 2003 to
include in type evaluation checklist procedures criteria to verify that
digital electronic scales equipped with other than a continuous digital
zero-balance indication comply. Publication 14 test procedures specify
methods for defining the zero indication when the zero condition of the
scale is represented by other than a continuous digital zero indication.
The Weighing Sector agreed the type evaluation aspects of this issue
have been resolved.

The Northeastern Weights and Measures Association (NEWMA) indicated
there is little support for this proposal. Many at NEWMA believe the
NTEP laboratories already have the necessary information to properly
perform evaluations.

The Central and Western Weights and Measures Associations recommended
the proposal be withdrawn because appropriate protections and labeling
criteria are applied during type evaluation.

The Scale Manufacturers Association agreed that the current type
evaluation process based on paragraph S.1.1.(c) prevents facilitation of
fraud.

During the 2005 NCWM Interim Meeting, the Committee agreed that past
inconsistencies in the interpretation of paragraph S.1.1.(c) warrant
clarifying the intent of the paragraph in Handbook 44. Even though the
regional weights and measures associations recommended a different
approach, their positions do not disagree with the technical content of
the proposal. The Committee further modified paragraph S.1.1. to include
a new note recommended by WMD to clarify that no markings are necessary
when operator intervention is required to return the indication to a
digital zero balance before conducting a transaction.

At the July 2005 NCWM Annual Meeting, the Committee changed the status
of the item from "voting" to "information" to allow additional time to
determine whether or not the markings could be displayed as part of the
indication rather than being physically marked on the device. This will
also allow additional time for the Committee to gather information on
whether or not self-service systems provide information about the
zero-balance condition of scales prior to each weighment.

####### 320-2 VC S.1.8.4. Recorded Representations, Point-of-Sale Systems; Footnote 1

(This item was adopted.)

**Source:** National Type Evaluation Technical Committee (NTETC)
Weighing Sector

**Recommendation:** Amend paragraph S.1.8.4. Recorded Representations,
Point-of-Sale Systems; Footnote 1 as follows:

> **S.1.8.4. Recorded Representations, Point-of-Sale Systems. -** The
> sales information recorded by cash registers when interfaced with a
> weighing element shall contain the following information for items
> weighed at the checkout stand:
>
> \(a\) the net weight,^1^
>
> \(b\) the unit price,^1^
>
> \(c\) the total price, and
>
> \(d\) the product class or, in a system equipped with price look-up
> capability, the product name or code number.
>
> ^1^**~~Weight values shall be identified by kilogram, kg, grams, g,
> ounces, oz, pound, lb, or the sign "#."~~** For devices interfaced
> with scales indicating in metric units, the unit price may be
> expressed in price per 100 grams. **[Weight values shall be identified
> by kilogram, kg, grams, g, ounces, oz, pound, or lb. *The "#"symbol is
> not acceptable.*]{.underline}**
>
> ***[\[Nonretroactive as of January 1, 2006\]]{.underline}***
>
> (Amended 1995 **[and 2005]{.underline}**)

**Discussion/Background:** In 1976, the Committee reviewed numerous
examples of point-of-sale systems' transaction information and provided
clarification on how that information should be formatted on recorded
representations. At that time, the Committee indicated the "#" symbol
was an acceptable representation for "pound" on point-of sale system's
receipts. The Committee noted that the "#" symbol was acceptable because
it was recognized in a widely used dictionary. In addition, printer
technology at that time could better accommodate the "#"symbol since it
required only one column, whereas the two characters in "lb" needed two
columns.

Currently, NCWM Publication 14 "NTEP Technical Policy, Checklists and
Test Procedures," Section 75, List of Acceptable Abbreviations/Symbols
recognizes the "#" symbol as acceptable, but discourages using the "#"
symbol for recorded representations for electronic cash registers (ECR)
and point-of-sale (POS) systems. One manufacturer reasoned that if the
symbol is suitable for recorded representations for ECRs, then there is
no justification for prohibiting use of the "#" symbol for other
recorded representations or markings. The manufacturer argued that the
"#" symbol should be acceptable in all instances or not acceptable in
any weighing applications, but was amenable to the Weighing Sector's
proposal to remove the "#" symbol from Footnote 1.

The Committee considered several proposals to modify paragraph S.1.8.4.
Footnote 1, including recommendations from the Western and Central
Weights and Measures Associations outlined above and the Weighing Sector
to remove reference to the "#" symbol as shown below:

> ^1^Weight values shall be identified by kilogram, kg, grams, g,
> ounces, oz, pound, [or]{.underline} lb~~, or the sign "#~~.~~"~~ For
> devices interfaced with scales indicating in metric units, the unit
> price may be expressed in price per 100 grams.
>
> (Amended 1995 [and 200X]{.underline})

The Weighing Sector proposed removing the "#" symbol from paragraph
S.1.8.4. Footnote 1 because the symbol represented a multitude of terms
used in many unrelated disciplines and because of advances in printer
technology. The Western, Central, Northeastern, and Southern Weights and
Measures Associations and Scale Manufacturers Association agreed the "#"
symbol is no longer acceptable, but this should not be applied
retroactively.

At the 2005 NCWM Annual Meeting the Committee heard unanimous support
for removing reference to "#" from the list of acceptable symbols used
to identify weight values. The Committee agreed to present the proposal
as a voting item with an effective date of January 1, 2006. This
prohibition on the use of the "#" will be nonretroactive.

####### 320-3 I UR.1.6. Computing Scale Interfaced to a Cash Register

**Source:** Southern Weights and Measures Association (SWMA)

**Recommendation:** Add a new paragraph UR.1.6. to the Scales Code as
follows:

> **[UR.1.6. Computing Scale Interfaced to a Cash Register. -- A
> computing scale may interface with a cash register provided all
> displayed and recorded indications agree:]{.underline}**
>
> **[(a)]{.underline} [the cash register only records (serves as
> printer) the information received from the scale,]{.underline}**
>
> **[(b)]{.underline} [the computing scale has tare
> capability,]{.underline}**
>
> **[(c)]{.underline} [the computing scale is not equipped with PLU
> capability,]{.underline}**
>
> **[(d)]{.underline} [The electronic cash register does not have any
> input to the computing scale in the process of determining the total
> price of a weighed item.]{.underline}**
>
> **[(Added 200X)]{.underline}**

**Discussion:** This proposal is intended to add new device-specific
requirements to the Scales Code to address the interface of computing
scales with electronic cash registers (ECR) and to clarify how each
component must display transaction information. The requirements also
prescribe how such devices must operate in taking tare and how
Price‑Look‑Up (PLU) features must function. Currently, a General Code
Specification (G-S.2.) specifying that weighing and measuring equipment
and associated devices shall not facilitate fraud is not sufficient to
clarify how a computing scale interfaced with an ECR must operate.

In Spring 2004, the NTEP Participating Laboratories learned that
officials in one jurisdiction were finding computing scales interfaced
with ECRs, where the ECR accepts weighing results from the computing
scale and uses the ECR\'s price look-up (PLU) feature to retrieve tare
and unit price information to calculate the total price. Officials
reported that a different unit price, tare, and total price could be
manually entered and displayed on the computing scale at the same time.
In this instance, what the customer views on the computing scale as the
net weight, unit price, and total price may not be what is actually used
by the ECR to calculate the customer's charge. Additionally, the NTEP
Certificate of Conformance (CC) for devices with such areas of
noncompliance did not list the interface as an approved application.

The Participating Laboratories recognized that NCWM Publication 14 type
evaluation criteria address how computing scales must interface with
ECRs and decided to use that criteria to propose the following new
specification for the Scales Code that would be used by field officials
in their inspection and test of these systems:

> [S.1.8.5. Computing Scale Interfaced to a Cash Register. - A computing
> scale may interface with a cash register provided:]{.underline}
>
> [(a)]{.underline} [the cash register only records (serves as printer)
> the information received from the scale,]{.underline}
>
> [(b)]{.underline} [the computing scale has tare
> capability,]{.underline}
>
> [(c)]{.underline} [the computing scale is not equipped with PLU
> capability, and]{.underline}
>
> [(d)]{.underline} t[he electronic cash register does not have any
> input to the computing scale in the process of determining the total
> price of a weighed item.]{.underline}

The proposal was distributed at the 2004 fall meetings of the NTETC
Weighing Sector, Western Weights and Measures Associations (WWMA) and
SWMA. The WWMA withdrew the item from its agenda because there was only
minimal support for the proposal from the Weighing Sector. The Scale
Manufacturers Association (SMA) opposed the proposed specification
because SMA members believed it would, as worded, inadvertently impose
design restrictions on devices. SMA recommended the following language
as an alternative:

> [S.1.8.5. Computing Scale Interfaced to a Cash Register. - A computing
> scale may interface with a cash register provided all displayed and
> recorded indications agree.]{.underline}

The SWMA supported the original proposal because it provided clear
guidance for officials and SWMA also believed it would be easier to
enforce than G-S.2. Facilitation of Fraud. The SWMA agreed to forward
the proposal to the NCWM S&T Committee for consideration as a voting
item.

During the 2005 NCWM Interim Meeting, the Committee agreed that adding
specific language to the Scales Code would make it easier for the field
official to ensure that equipment is operating in an approved manner.
The language clarifies that it is acceptable for the ECR and computing
scale to communicate the total price, but not to the point where the
input process involves the ECR calculating the total price. The
Committee recommended that jurisdictions, if they have not already done
so, establish specific examination procedures (e.g., enter a new price
per pound at the ECR) so that officials verify that both the ECR and the
computing scale interface are in compliance.

The Committee heard numerous comments opposing the proposed
specification. Industry representatives said the proposal might limit
future technology used to interface equipment and that it would be too
restrictive when applied to a point-of-sale system that reads UPC codes
and computes prices for frequent shopper discounted prices. The
Committee was advised that, since type evaluation already verifies the
requirements proposed in new paragraphs S.1.8.5.(a) through (d), that
the Committee should consider an alternate proposal that only specifies
"all indications must agree," similar to the language in the SMA
proposal. The Committee also concluded that the term "input" should be
expanded to more provide more detail to officials about how the
interface must work and that a requirement was needed to ensure
equipment in commercial use is interfaced as approved by NTEP and as
intended by the manufacturer's design. Consequently, the Committee
modified the proposal to make it a user requirement with the
recommendation that it be adopted by the NCWM.

During the 2005 NCWM Annual Meeting, the Committee again heard that
there are instances in which a computing scale may be interfaced with an
ECR to create a point-of-sale system that is contrary to the device
application covered on the device's Certificate of Conformance.
Additionally, the Committee was told that neither of the proposals
discussed above address computing scales with multiple sales
accumulation capability. Several comments suggested that the current
definition of point‑of‑sale system (POS) may also need modification to
clarify the specific type of weighing element that is permitted as part
of the POS assembly. Based on the comments it received the Committee
believed that developing a new specification rather than a user
requirement was the most appropriate way to address the problems that
have been reported. Consequently, the Committee changed the item to
"information" so that it can be further developed. The Committee
recommends that the SWMA rework the proposal as a specification that (1)
provides details to officials users about how cash registers must
function, (2) provides guidance to assist device manufacturers who are
considering design modifications to a computing scale or cash register,
and (3) is not in conflict with requirements in related paragraphs such
as S.1.8.4. Recorded Representations, Point-of-Sale Systems.

####### 320-4 VC S.2.1.3. Scales Equipped with an Automatic Zero-Setting Mechanism (Zero Tracking), S.2.1.3.1. For Scales Manufactured Between January 1, 2007; Maximum Load Rezeroed, S.2.1.3.2. For Scales Manufactured On or After January 1, 2007; Maximum Load Rezeroed, and S.2.1.3.3. Automatic Zero-Setting Mechanism (Zero Tracking) on Class III L Devices

(This item was adopted.)

**Source:** National Type Evaluation Technical Committee (NTETC)
Weighing Sector

**Recommendation:** Modify paragraphs S.2.1.3. and S.2.1.3.1. and add
new paragraphs S.2.1.3.2.and S.2.1.3.3.as follows:

> ***S.2.1.3. Scales Equipped with an Automatic Zero-Setting Mechanism
> [(Zero Tracking)]{.underline}. ~~- Under normal operating conditions
> ~~***
>
> ***[S.2.1.3.1. Zero-Tracking for Scales manufactured Between January
> 1, 1981 and January 1, 2007. - T]{.underline}**~~t~~he maximum load
> that can be "rezeroed," when either placed on or removed from the
> platform all at once **[under normal operating
> conditions]{.underline}**, shall be:*
>
> *(a) for bench, counter, and livestock scales: 0.6 scale division;*
>
> *(b) for vehicle, axle-load, and railway track scales: 3.0 scale
> divisions; and*
>
> *(c) for all other scales: 1.0 scale division.*

**[(Amended 2005)]{.underline}**

> ***[S.2.1.3.2. Zero-Tracking for Scales manufactured On or After
> January 1, 2007. - The maximum load that can be "rezeroed," when
> either placed on or removed from the platform all at once under normal
> operating conditions, shall be:]{.underline}***
>
> ***[(a) for vehicle, axle-load, and railway track scales: 3.0 scale
> divisions; and]{.underline}***
>
> ***[(b) for all other scales: 0.5 scale division.]{.underline}***
>
> **[(Added 2005)]{.underline}**
>
> ***S.2.1.3.~~1~~[3]{.underline}. ~~Automatic Zero-Setting Mechanism~~
> [Means to Disable Zero-Tracking]{.underline} on Class III L
> Devices** - Class III L devices equipped with automatic zero setting
> mechanisms shall be designed with a sealable means to allow the
> automatic zero setting to be disabled during the inspection and test
> of the device.*
>
> *\[Nonretroactive as of January 1, 2001\]*
>
> (Added 1999) **[(Amended 2005)]{.underline}**

**Discussion**: This issue revisits the 2003 Weighing Sector's concerns
about holding a device to different AZSM requirements based solely on
whether or not it is located on a counter or floor. The confusion over
how to apply AZSM requirements is compounded when a family of scales
covered on an NTEP Certificate of Conformance includes both
bench/counter scales and other platform-type scales. Currently,
paragraph S.2.1.3. specifies a different maximum load that can be
rezeroed under normal operating conditions for bench/counter scales (0.6
scale division) from that for all other scales (1.0 scale division).

The proposal is also intended to partially align the automatic zero
tracking requirements in paragraph S.2.1.3. with those of Measurement
Canada and OIML R76 "Non-automatic Weighing Instruments." AZSM
requirements for Class III L vehicle, axle-load, and railway track
scales will remain unchanged.

The Weighing Sector asked that the proposal be a developing item on the
NCWM S&T Agenda while the regional weights and measures associations
consider its effect on field evaluations. The Sector's public members
questioned how field officials will determine the date of manufacture
and whether training is needed. The Weighing Sector's industry members
requested a delayed enforcement date to allow sufficient time for
changes to be made to devices nearing the end of their production cycle.

The Western Weights and Measures Association (WWMA) believed there is
sufficient time between September 2004 and July 2005 to gather data to
determine if there will be enforcement issues. The WWMA agreed that
while input from field officials is necessary the proposal should move
forward as a voting item.

The Central Weights and Measures Association received no comments on the
proposal and recommended it move forward as a voting item.

The Southern Weights and Measures Association agreed with the concern
stated by public members of the Sector that it is difficult for field
officials to determine when a device was manufactured and recommended
the proposal be an information item.

NIST Weights and Measures Division (WMD) believes field officials will
have no difficulty with enforcing the proposal based on the equipment
manufacture date since officials already successfully establish that
criteria when enforcing other nonretroactive requirements.

The Scale Manufacturers Association (SMA) believes the proposal has no
technical merit and is only an attempt to harmonize United States and
OIML requirements. SMA is concerned about the potential for
unnecessarily increasing evaluation costs. However, the SMA supported
this effort toward harmonization provided NTEP does not require
reevaluation of devices already covered by NTEP Certificates of
Conformance.

At the 2005 NCWM Interim Meeting, the Committee agreed that the proposal
is a good move in the direction of harmonization of standards and should
not lose momentum. The Committee concluded that sufficient data could be
easily gathered by July 2005 on new production lots of existing products
to demonstrate if a January 1, 2006, effective date was appropriate. The
Committee encouraged manufacturers, officials, and Participating NTEP
Laboratories to gather data since it is easy for each group to verify if
bench, counter, livestock scales, and scales classified as other types
can meet the proposed ASZM requirement during their regular duties. The
Committee indicated it is willing to modify the date to January 1, 2007,
if any group submitted data at the July 2005 NCWM Annual Meeting to
support extending the period in which manufacturers have to comply. The
Committee agreed with WMD's assessment that jurisdictions continually
prove their ability to determine manufacture dates when devices are
subject to nonretroactive requirements. The Committee indicated its full
support of an NTEP policy that does not require additional evaluation
for existing equipment since the proposal appears to have little effect
on most bench or counter scales. Consequently, the Committee agreed the
proposal was ready for a vote at the 2005 NCWM Annual Meeting.

During the July 2005 NCWM Annual Meeting, the Committee acknowledged
that officials may experience delays during inspections if they have to
verify the date that a device was manufactured. However, it believes
these delays are manageable and are no different than those experienced
when verifying compliance with other nonretroactive requirements.
Typically, date of manufacture information is readily available from the
manufacturer. The Committee heard opposition to an alternate SMA
proposal that based the enforcement date on the Certificate of
Conformance (CC) issue date. A CC can be updated or revised for any
number of reasons consequently there are variations in subsequent CC
numbers and model features that would require even more investigative
work by officials. The Committee did not support the alternate proposal
since it would also set a precedent for enforcing Handbook 44
nonretroactive requirements based on the CC issue date rather than the
manufacture date. The Committee also recognized that there may be some
models nearing the end of their production life, where it may not be
economically practicable to modify them to meet the proposed maximum
0.5 d load requirement. The Committee heard from industry that most
equipment is already designed to operate to the proposed standard and
that large numbers of devices are not built in advance; however,
additional time is necessary for existing field devices to reach the end
of their life cycle. Consequently, the Committee modified the proposal
to extend the enforcement date to January 1, 2007.

####### 320-5 VC Table S.6.3.b. Notes For Table S.6.3.a. Note 3; Nominal Capacity and Value of the Scale Division and Appendix D; Definition of Reading Face

(This item was adopted.)

**Source:** National Type Evaluation Technical Committee (NTETC)
Weighing Sector

**Recommendation:** Amend Table S.6.3.b. Notes For Table S.6.3.a. Note 3
and revise the definition for "reading face" to include a reference to
Scales Code Section 2.20 as follows:

> *3.* **[The device shall be marked with the nominal
> capacity.]{.underline}** The nominal capacity *~~and~~ shall be shown
> together **[with the]{.underline}** value of the scale division (e.g.,
> **~~50 000 x 5 kg, 100 000 x 10 lb,~~** 15 x 0.005 kg , ~~or~~ 30 x
> 0.01 lb, **[or capacity = 15 kg, d = 0.005 kg]{.underline}**)
> **~~adjacent to the weight display~~ [in a clear and conspicuous
> manner and be readily apparent when viewing the reading face of the
> scale indicator unless]{.underline}** **~~when the nominal capacity
> and value of the scale division are not immediately~~
> [already]{.underline}** apparent **[by the design of the
> device]{.underline}**. Each scale division value or weight unit shall
> be marked on multiple range or multi-interval scales.*
>
> *\[Nonretroactive as of January 1, 1983\]*

**[(Amended 2005)]{.underline}**

> **reading face.** That portion of an automatic-indicating weighing or
> measuring device that gives a visible indication of the quantity
> weighed or measured. A reading face may include an indicator and a
> series of graduations or may present values digitally, and may also
> provide money-value indications. \[1.10**[, 2.20\]]{.underline}**
>
> **[(Amended 2005)]{.underline}**

**Discussion:** The proposed change is intended to eliminate any
differences in the interpretation of where to place the required nominal
capacity and scale division markings on equipment. Currently, Table
S.6.3.b. Note 3 specifies that the nominal capacity and the scale
division shall be shown together adjacent to the weight display. In
1990, the Committee was unable to arrive at definitive guidelines on
what is meant by "adjacent" and left the interpretation to NTEP
Participating Laboratories. Any manufacturer's challenge to the
laboratory's interpretation was to be heard by the NTEP Board of
Governors (now the NCWM NTEP Committee).

NCWM Publication 14, "NTEP Technical Policy, Checklists, and Test
Procedures" for Digital Electronic Scales Section 2.13. states:

> 2.13. The nominal capacity by minimum scale division shall be clearly
> and conspicuously marked adjacent to the weight display. (Acceptable
> location depends on conspicuousness).

Repeated attempts by the NTEP Laboratories and manufacturers to
uniformly apply this marking requirement have resulted in conflicting
interpretations. The NTEP Laboratories believe the criteria in paragraph
2.13. implies that "conspicuousness" should be the primary objective,
rather than proximity of the information. However, the NTEP Laboratories
agree that until the term "adjacent" is removed from Handbook 44 Table
S.6.3.b. Note 3, the Laboratories are tied to requiring the nominal
capacity and scale division values be marked adjacent to the weight
display as shown below in Example 1.

The NTEP Laboratories maintain that the information must be marked next
to the weight display on the face of a scale, as shown below in Example
1, but that they continue to receive devices with the required markings
located elsewhere on the face of the scale such as shown below in
Example 2.

![](media/image1.png){width="3.097244094488189in"
height="1.544488188976378in"}![](media/image1.png){width="3.097244094488189in"
height="1.544488188976378in"}

The NTEP Laboratories agreed that at this point in time Example 2 shown
above is incorrect according to Handbook 44 because the markings do not
appear adjacent to or as close as practical to the weight display as
required in General Code paragraph G‑S.5.2.4. Values. The NTEP
Laboratories believe that the operator is already familiar with the
device and the customer does not fully understand the significance of
this information. The NTEP Laboratories also believe that the markings
in the examples above are "conspicuous" enough for the inspector and
service technician who rely most heavily on the information. However,
Example 2 is only acceptable if Note 3 could be amended to allow for
placing the markings conspicuously on the face of the indicating portion
of the scale.

The Weighing Sector agreed with the Laboratories that both Example 1 and
2 represent the acceptable placement of markings since they are either
adjacent to or conspicuous on the reading face of the weight display.
The Weighing Sector also proposed to modify the existing definition of
"reading face" to include a reference to Section 2.20. Scales Code since
the term would also apply to scale indications.

The Central Weights and Measures Association and Scale Manufacturers
Association (SMA) supported the Sector's proposal shown in the
recommendation above. The Scale Manufacturers Association asked for
further clarification on the meaning of the phrase "already apparent by
the design."

The Western Weights and Measures Association (WWMA) discussed how
paragraph G-S.5.2.4. requirements for values are not intended to apply
to the nominal capacity statement and do little to help the customer
determine the acceptability of a weight value. The WWMA agreed to the
same wording shown in the Weighing Sector's proposal and recommended the
proposal move forward as a voting item.

The Northeastern Weights and Measures Association concluded that this is
an NTEP issue and "adjacent" is the correct terminology since it
represents "abutting" or "next to."

The Southern Weights and Measures Association (SWMA) agreed with the
Weighing Sector's proposal provided the unit of weight is identified in
a manner that is consistent with requirements in paragraph
G-S.5.2.4. Values for placing, as close as practicable, adequate and
sufficient information to define graduations, indications, or recorded
representations. The SWMA agreed that Example 2 is not correct; however,
the placement of the nominal capacity and division marking would be
correct if the unit of weight were properly marked adjacent to the
weight display shown in Example 3.

![](media/image1.png){width="3.1251968503937007in" height="1.5in"}

The NIST Technical Advisor to the Weighing Sector requested that the
Sector consider an alternate NIST Weights and Measures Division (WMD)
proposal amending Note 3 in Table S.6.3.b. to require markings "near"
the weight display that do not reference the reading face as follows:

> *3. The nominal capacity and value of the scale division shall be
> shown together (e.g., ~~50 000 x 5 kg, 100 000 x 10 lb,~~ 15 x 0.005
> kg , or 30 x 0.01 lb) [near]{.underline} ~~adjacent to~~ the weight
> display when the nominal capacity and value of the scale division are
> not immediately apparent. Each scale division value or weight unit
> shall be marked on multiple range or multi-interval scales.*
>
> *\[Nonretroactive as of January 1, 1983\]*

[(Amended 200X)]{.underline}

The WMD proposal would also more closely align U.S. terminology with
that used in OIML R76 "Non-automatic Weighing Instruments" paragraph
7.1.4 Presentation of descriptive markings, which specifies the
descriptive markings shall be grouped together shall identify the Max,
Min, e, and d, if "d" does not equal "e", and shall be shown near the
display of the weight result if they are not already located there.

WMD was concerned that the Sector's proposal deviates from the intent of
General Code paragraph G‑S.5.2.4. Values, which specifies that values
shall be adequately defined and placed as close as practicable to the
corresponding indication. WMD noted the Sector's proposal allows
information to be placed further away from the display and this becomes
more difficult to locate as the font size of the lettering decreases.
WMD disagreed with the premise that consumers do not value this
information. WMD believes the information should be available to the
customer as well as officials and service representatives. As currently
written, Note 3 is not in conflict with the General Code paragraph
G-S.5.2.4. Values. However, the proposal creates a conflict since it
would permit markings that may not be placed as close as practical to
the weight display.

The Committee agreed that the Sector's proposal shown above is
acceptable and ready for a vote since it provides guidelines on the
required information, yet allows some flexibility in the placement of
that information. The Committee concurred with officials that the phrase
"already apparent by the design" is a carryover from language developed
to address mechanical beam and dial type scales, where the beam capacity
and its "d" and the complete revolution of the dial and its "d" provided
the nominal capacity and value of the scale division without the need
for additional markings. The Committee concluded that Example 1 and
Example 3 both comply with the proposal and show acceptable ways to mark
the nominal capacity and value of the scale division (d) even though
there is a difference in where the information is placed on the display.
Example 2 is not encouraged since it is the conspicuous supplemental
marking of "LB" on the weight display that makes all of the information
crystal clear.

During the July 2005 NCWM Annual Meeting, the Committee modified the
proposal to also recognize formats used in international markings to
designate the capacity and d, such as "max = 15 kg, d = 0.005 kg, where
text or abbreviations may identify the required capacity and division
size information. Marking the capacity and division information in the
alternate format also requires that the information is located near the
weight display.

####### 320-6 I N.1.3.1. Bench or Counter Scales, N.1.3.8. All Other Scales Except Crane Scales, Hanging Scales, Hopper Scales, Wheel--Load Weighers, and Portable Axle-Load Weighers, and Appendix D; Definitions of Bench Scale and Counter Scale

**Source:** National Type Evaluation Technical Committee (NTETC)
Weighing Sector

**Recommendation:** Delete paragraph N.1.3.1. and renumber subsequent
paragraphs.

> **N.1.3. Shift Test.**
>
> **~~N.1.3.1. Bench or Counter Scales. - A shift test shall be
> conducted with a half-capacity test load centered successively at four
> points equidistant between the center and the front, left, back, and
> right edges of the load-receiving element.~~**

Renumber and amend paragraph N.1.3.8. All Other Scales Except Crane
Scales, Hanging Scales, Hopper Scales, Wheel--Load Weighers, and
Portable Axle-Load Weighers as follows:

> **N.1.3.~~8~~[7]{.underline}. All Other Scales Except Crane Scales,
> Hanging Scales, Hopper Scales, Wheel-Load Weighers, and Portable
> Axle-Load Weighers.** A shift test shall be conducted using the
> following prescribed test loads and test patterns.
>
> **[(a)]{.underline}** For **~~livestock~~** scales**~~, the~~ [with a
> nominal capacity greater than 150 kg (300 lb), a]{.underline}** shift
> test **~~load shall not exceed one-half the rated section~~ [may be
> conducted by either using one-third nominal]{.underline}** capacity
> **~~or one-half the rated concentrated load~~ [test load centered as
> nearly as possible at the center of each quadrant of the
> load-receiving element as shown in Figure 1 below, or by using
> one-quarter nominal]{.underline}** capacity**~~, whichever is
> applicable. A shift~~ test ~~shall be conducted using either:~~ [load
> centered as nearly as possible, successively over each corner of the
> load-receiving element as shown in Figure 2 below.]{.underline}**
>
> **(~~a~~[b]{.underline}) ~~A one-quarter~~ [For scales with
> a]{.underline}** nominal capacity **[of 150 kg (300 lb) or less, a
> shift]{.underline}** test **~~load~~** **[shall be conducted using
> one-third nominal capacity test load. The]{.underline} ~~centered as
> nearly as possible, successively over each main~~** load **[shall be
> applied centrally in the quadrant if a single weight is used, or
> applied uniformly over the quadrant, if several weights are
> used.]{.underline}~~support as shown in the diagram below; or~~**
>
> **(~~b~~[c]{.underline}) ~~A one-half nominal capacity~~ [For
> livestock scales, the shift]{.underline}** test load **~~centered as
> nearly as possible, successively at the center of each quarter of the
> load-receiving element~~ [shall not exceed one-half the rated section
> or concentrated load capacity using the prescribed test
> pattern]{.underline}** as shown in **~~the diagram~~** **[Figure 1, or
> one quarter the section or concentrated load capacity as shown in
> Figure 2]{.underline}** below.

(Added 2003)

> (Amended 1987**[,]{.underline} ~~and~~** 2003**[, and
> 200X)]{.underline}**

Delete Appendix D definitions for "bench scale" and "counter scale" as
follows:

**~~bench scale. See \"counter scale.\"\[2.20\]~~**

> **~~counter scale. One that, by reason of its size, arrangement of
> parts, and moderate nominal capacity, is adapted for use on a counter
> or bench. Sometimes called \"bench scale.\"\[2.20\]~~**

The Central Weights and Measures Association (CWMA) recommended an
alternate proposal to modify paragraph N.1.3.8. as follows:

> **N.1.3.~~8~~[7]{.underline}. All Other Scales Except Crane Scales,
> Hanging Scales, Hopper Scales, Wheel-Load Weighers, and Portable
> Axle-Load Weighers.** A shift test shall be conducted using the
> following prescribed test loads and test patterns.
>
> **[(a)]{.underline}** For **~~livestock~~** scales**~~, the~~ [with a
> nominal capacity greater than 150 kg (300 lb) a]{.underline}** shift
> test **~~load shall not exceed one-half the rated section~~ [may be
> conducted by either using one-third nominal]{.underline}** capacity
> **~~or one-half the rated concentrated load~~ [test load centered as
> nearly as possible at the center of each quarter of the load-receiving
> element as shown in Figure 1 below, or by using one-quarter
> nominal]{.underline}** capacity**~~, whichever is applicable. A
> shift~~ test ~~shall be conducted using either:~~ [load centered as
> nearly as possible, successively over each corner of the
> load-receiving element as shown in Figure 2 below.]{.underline}**
>
> **(~~a~~[b]{.underline}) ~~A one-quarter~~ [For scales with
> a]{.underline}** nominal capacity **[of 150 kg (300 lb) or less, a
> shift]{.underline}** test **~~load~~ [shall be conducted using
> one-third nominal capacity test load. The]{.underline} ~~centered as
> nearly as possible, successively over each main~~** load **[shall be
> applied centrally in the segment if a single weight is used, or
> applied uniformly over the segment, if several small weights are
> used]{.underline} ~~support~~ as shown in ~~the diagram~~ Figure 1
> below~~; or~~[.]{.underline}**
>
> **(~~b~~[c]{.underline}) ~~A one-half nominal capacity~~ [For
> livestock scales the shift]{.underline}** test load **~~centered as
> nearly as possible, successively at the center of each quarter of the
> load-receiving element~~ [shall not exceed one-half the rated section
> or concentrated load capacity using the prescribed test
> pattern]{.underline}** as shown in **~~the diagram~~** **[Figure 1, or
> one-quarter of the section or concentrated load capacity as shown in
> Figure 2]{.underline}** below.

(Added 2003)

> (Amended 1987**[,]{.underline} ~~and~~** 2003**[, and
> 200X)]{.underline}**

**Discussion:** The Committee was requested to reconsider a 2003
Weighing Sector proposal to clarify the appropriate shift test pattern
and test loads for bench/counter scales and other platform-type scales.
Currently, bench and counter scale shift tests are conducted with a
one-half capacity test load centered successively at four points
equidistant between the center and the front, left, back, right edges of
the load-receiving element. Other platform scale shift tests are
conducted with a one-half capacity test load centered, as nearly as
possible, successively at the center of each quadrant. The proposal
eliminates the bench and counter scale device types and prescribes the
shift test load and test pattern based on either the scale's nominal
capacity or because the scale is used to weigh livestock. It should be
noted that the proposal does not permit corner testing for scales with a
nominal capacity less than or equal to 150 kg. Corner testing is allowed
within permissible load limits if the scale has four load supports for
scales with a nominal capacity greater than 150 kg. Currently, Table 4
Minimum Test Weights requires that scales with a capacity of 150 kg or
less have test weights up to 100 % of the scale capacity.

The Scale Manufacturers Association (SMA) supported the Sector's
proposal, but pointed out that Figure 2 was inconsistent with the
proposed requirement that describes the location of the test load.
Consequently, the SMA recommended an alternate Figure 2, where the test
loads were located on the outer corners of the platform. The SMA also
noted other inconsistencies in the terminology in the proposal. Proposed
paragraph N.1.3.7.(a) included the term "quarter," whereas proposed
paragraph N.1.3.7.(b) specified the term "segment." The SMA recommended
replacing both terms with the word "quadrant."

The SMA agreed that the Sector's proposal provided for a shift test that
is independent of the device's design. The proposal is an improvement
over the corresponding R76 requirement, which is design dependent. In
keeping with the spirit of harmonization, the SMA recommended that NIST
Weights and Measures Division (WMD) submit a similar proposal to OIML.

The Committee heard similar comments from all regional weights and
measures associations indicating that additional study is needed before
presenting the issue for a vote. The associations indicated that
additional data should be collected on shift tests to verify that the
proposed test loads and positions are equivalent to existing test loads.
On a general note regarding harmonization with OIML, the Northeastern
Weights and Measures Association believes there may be instances where
OIML should harmonize with U.S. requirements. Participants at the
regional meetings were advised that all shift test data comparing
existing and proposed test loads and positions should be sent to Steve
Cook, NIST Technical Advisor to the NTETC Weighing Sector, at
<steven.cook@nist.gov>, by fax at 301‑926‑0647 or at NIST WMD, 100
Bureau Drive MS 2600, Gaithersburg, MD 20899-2600.

The Committee made the proposal an information item to allow sufficient
time for comparison of data using existing and the proposed shift test
procedures to ensure that devices passing current tests also meet the
proposed requirements. The Committee acknowledged that the Weighing
Sector proposal addressed the Committee's 2004 requests for a procedure
where the official was not required to determine the scale's design in
order to conduct a shift test. In the spring of 2005, the proposal was
posted on the Weights and Measures List Server to generate further
discussion and data. The Committee agreed that the corrections noted by
SMA to the Figure 2 diagram and terminology were appropriate and,
therefore, modified the proposals accordingly.

During the July 2005 NCWM Annual Meeting, the Committee further modified
Figure 2 by showing the test loads as squares because circles are used
in other sections of Handbook 44 to represent load bearing points. The
Committee kept the proposal as an information item to enable officials
and the NTEP Laboratories to continue forwarding data on the proposed
and current shift tests to the NIST Technical Advisor for evaluation.

####### 320-7 I Table 6 Tolerances

**Source:** NIST Weights and Measures Division (WMD)

**Recommendation:** Amend Table 6 Maintenance Tolerances as follows:

+-------+----------+-------+------+-----------+---------+-------------+
| **    |          |       |      |           |         |             |
| Table |          |       |      |           |         |             |
| 6.**  |          |       |      |           |         |             |
|       |          |       |      |           |         |             |
| **    |          |       |      |           |         |             |
| ~~Mai |          |       |      |           |         |             |
| ntena |          |       |      |           |         |             |
| nce~~ |          |       |      |           |         |             |
| To    |          |       |      |           |         |             |
| leran |          |       |      |           |         |             |
| ces** |          |       |      |           |         |             |
|       |          |       |      |           |         |             |
| *     |          |       |      |           |         |             |
| *(All |          |       |      |           |         |             |
| v     |          |       |      |           |         |             |
| alues |          |       |      |           |         |             |
| in    |          |       |      |           |         |             |
| this  |          |       |      |           |         |             |
| table |          |       |      |           |         |             |
| are   |          |       |      |           |         |             |
| in    |          |       |      |           |         |             |
| [     |          |       |      |           |         |             |
| verif |          |       |      |           |         |             |
| icati |          |       |      |           |         |             |
| on]{. |          |       |      |           |         |             |
| under |          |       |      |           |         |             |
| line} |          |       |      |           |         |             |
| scale |          |       |      |           |         |             |
| divi  |          |       |      |           |         |             |
| sions |          |       |      |           |         |             |
| [e]   |          |       |      |           |         |             |
| {.und |          |       |      |           |         |             |
| erlin |          |       |      |           |         |             |
| e})** |          |       |      |           |         |             |
+-------+----------+-------+------+-----------+---------+-------------+
| *     |          |       |      |           |         |             |
| *Tole |          |       |      |           |         |             |
| rance |          |       |      |           |         |             |
| in    |          |       |      |           |         |             |
| [     |          |       |      |           |         |             |
| verif |          |       |      |           |         |             |
| icati |          |       |      |           |         |             |
| on]{. |          |       |      |           |         |             |
| under |          |       |      |           |         |             |
| line} |          |       |      |           |         |             |
| scale |          |       |      |           |         |             |
| divi  |          |       |      |           |         |             |
| sions |          |       |      |           |         |             |
| [e    |          |       |      |           |         |             |
| ]{.un |          |       |      |           |         |             |
| derli |          |       |      |           |         |             |
| ne}** |          |       |      |           |         |             |
+-------+----------+-------+------+-----------+---------+-------------+
|       | **1**    | **2** |      | **3**     |         | **5**       |
+-------+----------+-------+------+-----------+---------+-------------+
| **Cl  | ## T     |       |      |           |         |             |
| ass** | est Load |       |      |           |         |             |
+-------+----------+-------+------+-----------+---------+-------------+
| I     | 0 ‑ 50   | 50    | 200  | 20­0 001 + |         |             |
|       | 000      | 001 ‑ | 000  |           |         |             |
+-------+----------+-------+------+-----------+---------+-------------+
| II    | 0 ‑  5   | 5 001 | 20   | 20 001 +  |         |             |
|       | 000      | ‑     | 000  |           |         |             |
+-------+----------+-------+------+-----------+---------+-------------+
| III   | 0 -      | 501 ‑ | 2    | 2 001+    | **~~4   | **~~4 001   |
|       | 500      |       | 000  | ~~‑~~     | 000~~** | +~~**       |
+-------+----------+-------+------+-----------+---------+-------------+
| IIII  | 0 -      | 51 ‑  | 200  | 201+      | **~~    | **~~401     |
|       | 50       |       |      | ~~‑~~     | 400~~** | +~~**       |
+-------+----------+-------+------+-----------+---------+-------------+
| III L | 0 ‑      | 501 ‑ | 1    | (Add 1    |         |             |
|       |  500     |       | 000­  | **~~d~    |         |             |
|       |          |       |      | ~[e]{.und |         |             |
|       |          |       |      | erline}** |         |             |
|       |          |       |      | for each  |         |             |
|       |          |       |      | a         |         |             |
|       |          |       |      | dditional |         |             |
|       |          |       |      | 500       |         |             |
|       |          |       |      | **~~d~    |         |             |
|       |          |       |      | ~[e]{.und |         |             |
|       |          |       |      | erline}** |         |             |
|       |          |       |      | or        |         |             |
|       |          |       |      | frac­tion  |         |             |
|       |          |       |      | there­of)  |         |             |
+-------+----------+-------+------+-----------+---------+-------------+

**[(Amended 200X)]{.underline}**

**Discussion:** During an August 2003 meeting, the U.S. National Work
Group (USNWG) for R76 "Non-automatic Weighing Instruments" discussed the
differences in the tolerances for Class III and IIII weighing
instruments. The USNWG reconfirmed that the original intent of the step
tolerances was to provide a relationship between scale accuracy and
scale resolution. The USNWG agreed that NIST Handbook 44 Class III and
Class IIII tolerances should be aligned with OIML R76. The manufacturers
present reported that they build identically performing instruments and
load cells for both U.S. and international markets.

In September 2004 Hobart Corporation provided "production data"
comparing different Class III tolerances. Hobart's data demonstrated
that their production scales would comply with Handbook 44 Table 6
tolerances up to 10 000 e and OIML R76 tolerances up to approximately
7000 e. Hobart also reported that many scales and load cells with an
n~max~ greater than 5000 e would have difficulty in complying with the
temperature effect on zero in both Handbook 44 and OIML R76 standards.
Currently, a scale's performance takes advantage of the extra step in
Handbook 44, and that is contrary to the intended relationship of scale
resolution to accuracy.

The NIST technical advisor to the Weighing Sector requested that it
discuss whether or not there is any need to retain the Handbook 44
Accuracy Class III L tolerance or for proposing this tolerance be
incorporated into OIML R76. The Class III L tolerance structure in
Handbook 44 deviates from the intent of step tolerances since there is
little relation of the value of the scale division (i.e., e = 20 lb
resolution) to the accuracy required (i.e., ± 8 e at 80 000 lb
maintenance tolerance). It should be noted that the tolerance values,
zero-tracking limit, and motion detection requirements in Handbook 44
are roughly equivalent to an R76 instrument when e = 50 lb.

The NTETC Weighing Sector withdrew this proposal from its agenda since
it was not developed in response to problems encountered with
Publication 14 test procedures and, hence, not under its purview. The
Sector recommended the WMD and USNWG proposal become either an
information item or developing item that is reviewed by the regional
weights and measures associations as well as the NCWM S&T Committee.
Several regional associations recommended that more data is needed
before the proposal can move to a vote.

Additional test data is needed to determine the effect of the proposed
tolerances on Class III and IIII scales and on the apportionment of
errors for single and multiple load cell applications. It is also
recommended that consideration be given to the international
recommendations for the apportionment of error and that further analysis
be made on the proposal's possible impact on load cells, separable
weighing elements, and existing scales. One regional association noted
that the Class III L scale tolerances for test loads greater than the
proposed 1000 verification scale divisions (e) are based on a test load
value measured in scale divisions (d) rather than the proposed "e." That
association questioned whether these tolerances should be in "e;"
however, it recognized that further modification may only add to the
confusion.

During the 2005 NCWM Interim Meeting, the Committee agreed that the
proposal has merit. However, it made the proposal an information item in
response to requests for more time to examine data from test results
using the proposed tolerances and to determine if there are devices that
cannot comply, unless they are granted the 5 d tolerance being
eliminated from Table 6. The Committee also modified the Class III L
tolerance structure for test loads greater than 1000 e to include units
of "e" rather than "d" since it is appropriate to have like units in
Table 6.

During the 2005 NCWM Annual Meeting, the Scale Manufacturers Association
(SMA) reiterated its opposition to the proposal because it believes a
change of this magnitude is premature and should not take precedence
over other harmonization issues.

####### 320-8 V T.N.4.5. Time Dependence, General, T.N.4.5.1. Time Dependence; Class II, III, and IIII Non-automatic Weighing Instruments, T.N.4.5.2. Time Dependence; Class III L Non-automatic Weighing Instruments, T.N.4.6. Time Dependence (Creep) for Load Cells During Type Evaluation, T.N.4.6.1. Permissible Variations of Readings, T.N.4.6.2. Apportionment Factors, and Definitions of D~max~, E~max~, and Non‑automatic Weighing Instrument

(This item was adopted.)

**Source:** Western Weights and Measures Association (WWMA)

**Recommendation:** Amend paragraph T.N.4.5. as follows:

> **T.N.4.5. Time Dependence[, General]{.underline}.** - **~~-At
> constant test conditions, the indication 20 seconds after the
> application of a load and the indication after 1 hour shall not differ
> by more than:~~** **[A time dependence test shall be conducted during
> type evaluation and may be conducted during field verification
> provided test conditions remain constant.]{.underline}**
>
> **~~(a)~~ ~~one-half of the absolute value of the applicable tolerance
> for the applied load for class III L devices; and~~**
>
> **~~(b)~~ ~~the absolute value of the applicable tolerance for the
> applied load for all other devices.~~**
>
> **(Amended 1989 [and 2005]{.underline})**

Add new paragraphs T.N.4.5.1. and T.N.4.5.2. as follows:

> **[T.N.4.5.1. Time Dependence; Class II, III, and IIII Non-automatic
> Weighing Instruments. - A non-automatic weighing instrument of class
> II, III, and IIII shall meet the following requirements at constant
> test conditions:]{.underline}**
>
> **[(a)]{.underline}** **[When any load is kept on an instrument, the
> difference between the indication obtained immediately after placing a
> load and the indication observed during the following 30 minutes shall
> not exceed 0.5 e.]{.underline}**
>
> **[(b)]{.underline}** **[However, the difference between the
> indication obtained at 15 minutes and that at 30 minutes shall not
> exceed 0.2 e. If these conditions are not met, the difference between
> the indication obtained immediately after placing a load on the
> instrument and the indication observed during the following four hours
> shall not exceed the absolute value of the maximum permissible error
> at the load applied.]{.underline}**
>
> **[(c)]{.underline}** **[The deviation on returning to zero as soon as
> the indication has stabilized, after the removal of any load which has
> remained on the instrument for 30 minutes, shall not exceed 0.5
> e.]{.underline}**
>
> **[For a multi-interval instrument, the deviation shall not exceed 0.5
> e~1~ (first weighing segment).]{.underline}**
>
> **[On a multiple range instrument, the deviation on returning to zero
> from Max~i~ (load in the applicable weighing range) shall not exceed
> 0.5 e~i~ (interval of the weighing segment). Furthermore, after
> returning to zero from any load greater than Max~1~ (capacity of the
> first weighing range) and immediately after switching to the lowest
> weighing range, the indication near zero shall not vary by more than
> e~1~ (interval of the first weighing range) during the following 5
> minutes.]{.underline}**
>
> **[(Added 2005)]{.underline}**
>
> **[T.N.4.5.2. Time Dependence; Class III L Non-automatic Weighing
> Instruments. - A non-automatic weighing instrument of class III L
> shall meet the following requirements:]{.underline}**
>
> **[(a)]{.underline}** **[When any load is kept on an instrument, the
> difference between the indication obtained immediately after placing a
> load and the indication observed during the following 30 minutes shall
> not exceed 1.5 e.]{.underline}**
>
> **[(b)]{.underline}** **[However, the difference between the
> indication obtained at 15 minutes and that at 30 minutes shall not
> exceed 0.6 e. If these conditions are not met, the difference between
> the indication obtained immediately after placing a load on the
> instrument and the indication observed during the following 4 hours
> shall not exceed the absolute value of the maximum permissible error
> at the load applied.]{.underline}**
>
> **[(c) The deviation on returning to zero as soon as the indication
> has stabilized, after the removal of any]{.underline}**
>
> **[load which has remained on the instrument for 30 minutes, shall not
> exceed one-half of the absolute value of the applicable tolerance for
> the applied load for class III L devices.]{.underline}**
>
> **[(Added 2005)]{.underline}**

Add new paragraphs T.N.4.6., T.N.4.6.1., T.N.4.6.2., T.N.4.6.3 and Table
T.N.4.6.2 to include tolerances for load performance and zero
repeatability that are aligned with OIML R 60.

> **[T.N.4.6. Time Dependence (Creep) for Load Cells During Type
> Evaluation. - A load cell (force transducer) marked with an accuracy
> Class shall meet the following requirements at constant test
> conditions:]{.underline}**
>
> **[(a) Permissible Variations of Readings. - With a constant maximum
> load for the measuring range, (]{.underline}D~max~[) between 90 % and
> 100 % of maximum capacity (E~max~) applied to the load cell, the
> difference between the initial reading and any reading obtained during
> the next 30 minutes shall not exceed the absolute value of the maximum
> permissible error (mpe) for the applied load (see Table T.N.4.6.). The
> difference between the reading obtained at 20 minutes and the reading
> obtained at 30 minutes shall not exceed 0.15 times the absolute value
> of the mpe (see Table T.N.4.6.).]{.underline}**
>
> **[(b) Apportionment Factors. - The mpe for creep shall be determined
> from Table T.N.4.6. Maximum Permissible Error (mpe)\* for Load Cells
> using the following apportionment factors
> (]{.underline}p~LC~[):]{.underline}**
>
> **p~LC~ [= 0.7 for load cells marked with S (single load cell
> applications), and]{.underline}**
>
> **p~LC~ [= 1.0 for load cells marked with M (multiple load cell
> applications)]{.underline}**
>
> **[(Added 2005)]{.underline}**

+----+-----------+-------+-------+------------------------------------+
| ** |           |       |       |                                    |
| [T |           |       |       |                                    |
| ab |           |       |       |                                    |
| le |           |       |       |                                    |
| T  |           |       |       |                                    |
| .N |           |       |       |                                    |
| .4 |           |       |       |                                    |
| .6 |           |       |       |                                    |
| .] |           |       |       |                                    |
| {. |           |       |       |                                    |
| un |           |       |       |                                    |
| de |           |       |       |                                    |
| rl |           |       |       |                                    |
| in |           |       |       |                                    |
| e} |           |       |       |                                    |
| ** |           |       |       |                                    |
|    |           |       |       |                                    |
| ** |           |       |       |                                    |
| [M |           |       |       |                                    |
| ax |           |       |       |                                    |
| im |           |       |       |                                    |
| um |           |       |       |                                    |
| P  |           |       |       |                                    |
| er |           |       |       |                                    |
| mi |           |       |       |                                    |
| ss |           |       |       |                                    |
| ib |           |       |       |                                    |
| le |           |       |       |                                    |
| E  |           |       |       |                                    |
| rr |           |       |       |                                    |
| or |           |       |       |                                    |
| (  |           |       |       |                                    |
| mp |           |       |       |                                    |
| e) |           |       |       |                                    |
| \* |           |       |       |                                    |
| f  |           |       |       |                                    |
| or |           |       |       |                                    |
| Lo |           |       |       |                                    |
| ad |           |       |       |                                    |
| Ce |           |       |       |                                    |
| ll |           |       |       |                                    |
| s] |           |       |       |                                    |
| {. |           |       |       |                                    |
| un |           |       |       |                                    |
| de |           |       |       |                                    |
| rl |           |       |       |                                    |
| in |           |       |       |                                    |
| e} |           |       |       |                                    |
| ** |           |       |       |                                    |
|    |           |       |       |                                    |
| #  |           |       |       |                                    |
| [D |           |       |       |                                    |
| ur |           |       |       |                                    |
| in |           |       |       |                                    |
| g  |           |       |       |                                    |
| Ty |           |       |       |                                    |
| pe |           |       |       |                                    |
|  E |           |       |       |                                    |
| va |           |       |       |                                    |
| lu |           |       |       |                                    |
| at |           |       |       |                                    |
| io |           |       |       |                                    |
| n] |           |       |       |                                    |
| {. |           |       |       |                                    |
| un |           |       |       |                                    |
| de |           |       |       |                                    |
| rl |           |       |       |                                    |
| in |           |       |       |                                    |
| e} |           |       |       |                                    |
+----+-----------+-------+-------+------------------------------------+
| ** |           |       |       |                                    |
| [m |           |       |       |                                    |
| pe |           |       |       |                                    |
| in |           |       |       |                                    |
| Lo |           |       |       |                                    |
| ad |           |       |       |                                    |
| Ce |           |       |       |                                    |
| ll |           |       |       |                                    |
| V  |           |       |       |                                    |
| er |           |       |       |                                    |
| if |           |       |       |                                    |
| ic |           |       |       |                                    |
| at |           |       |       |                                    |
| io |           |       |       |                                    |
| ns |           |       |       |                                    |
| D  |           |       |       |                                    |
| iv |           |       |       |                                    |
| is |           |       |       |                                    |
| io |           |       |       |                                    |
| ns |           |       |       |                                    |
| (  |           |       |       |                                    |
| v) |           |       |       |                                    |
| =  |           |       |       |                                    |
| p  |           |       |       |                                    |
| ~L |           |       |       |                                    |
| C~ |           |       |       |                                    |
| x  |           |       |       |                                    |
| B  |           |       |       |                                    |
| as |           |       |       |                                    |
| ic |           |       |       |                                    |
| T  |           |       |       |                                    |
| ol |           |       |       |                                    |
| er |           |       |       |                                    |
| an |           |       |       |                                    |
| ce |           |       |       |                                    |
| in |           |       |       |                                    |
| v] |           |       |       |                                    |
| {. |           |       |       |                                    |
| un |           |       |       |                                    |
| de |           |       |       |                                    |
| rl |           |       |       |                                    |
| in |           |       |       |                                    |
| e} |           |       |       |                                    |
| ** |           |       |       |                                    |
+----+-----------+-------+-------+------------------------------------+
| *  | **[p~LC~  | **[   |       | **[p~LC~ x 1.5 v]{.underline}**    |
| *[ | x 0.5     | p~LC~ |       |                                    |
| Cl | v]{.und   | x 1.0 |       |                                    |
| as | erline}** | v     |       |                                    |
| s] |           | ]{.un |       |                                    |
| {. |           | derli |       |                                    |
| un |           | ne}** |       |                                    |
| de |           |       |       |                                    |
| rl |           |       |       |                                    |
| in |           |       |       |                                    |
| e} |           |       |       |                                    |
| ** |           |       |       |                                    |
+----+-----------+-------+-------+------------------------------------+
| *  | **[0 ‑ 50 | **[50 | *     | **[20­0 001 v +]{.underline}**      |
| *[ | 000       | 001 v | *[200 |                                    |
| I] | v]{.und   | ‑     | 000   |                                    |
| {. | erline}** | ]{.un | v     |                                    |
| un |           | derli | ]{.un |                                    |
| de |           | ne}** | derli |                                    |
| rl |           |       | ne}** |                                    |
| in |           |       |       |                                    |
| e} |           |       |       |                                    |
| ** |           |       |       |                                    |
+----+-----------+-------+-------+------------------------------------+
| ** | **[0 ‑  5 | **[5  | **[20 | **[20 001 v +]{.underline}**       |
| [I | 000       | 001 v | 000   |                                    |
| I] | v]{.und   | ‑     | v     |                                    |
| {. | erline}** | ]{.un | ]{.un |                                    |
| un |           | derli | derli |                                    |
| de |           | ne}** | ne}** |                                    |
| rl |           |       |       |                                    |
| in |           |       |       |                                    |
| e} |           |       |       |                                    |
| ** |           |       |       |                                    |
+----+-----------+-------+-------+------------------------------------+
| *  | **[0 -    | *     | **[2  | **[2 001 v +]{.underline}**        |
| *[ | 500       | *[501 | 000   |                                    |
| II | v]{.und   | v     | v     |                                    |
| I] | erline}** | ‑     | ]{.un |                                    |
| {. |           | ]{.un | derli |                                    |
| un |           | derli | ne}** |                                    |
| de |           | ne}** |       |                                    |
| rl |           |       |       |                                    |
| in |           |       |       |                                    |
| e} |           |       |       |                                    |
| ** |           |       |       |                                    |
+----+-----------+-------+-------+------------------------------------+
| ** | **        | **[51 | *     | **[201 v +]{.underline}**          |
| [I | [0 -      | v     | *[200 |                                    |
| II | 50        | ‑     | v     |                                    |
| I] | v]{.und   | ]{.un | ]{.un |                                    |
| {. | erline}** | derli | derli |                                    |
| un |           | ne}** | ne}** |                                    |
| de |           |       |       |                                    |
| rl |           |       |       |                                    |
| in |           |       |       |                                    |
| e} |           |       |       |                                    |
| ** |           |       |       |                                    |
+----+-----------+-------+-------+------------------------------------+
| ** | **[0 ‑    | *     | **[1  | **[(Add 0.5 v to the basic         |
| [I |  500      | *[501 | 000 v | tolerance for each additional 500  |
| II | v]{.und   | v     | ­]{.un | v or fraction thereof up to a      |
| L] | erline}** | ‑     | derli | maximum load of 10 000             |
| {. |           | ]{.un | ne}** | v)]{.underline}**                  |
| un |           | derli |       |                                    |
| de |           | ne}** |       |                                    |
| rl |           |       |       |                                    |
| in |           |       |       |                                    |
| e} |           |       |       |                                    |
| ** |           |       |       |                                    |
+----+-----------+-------+-------+------------------------------------+
| ** |           |       |       |                                    |
| [v |           |       |       |                                    |
| re |           |       |       |                                    |
| pr |           |       |       |                                    |
| es |           |       |       |                                    |
| en |           |       |       |                                    |
| ts |           |       |       |                                    |
| t  |           |       |       |                                    |
| he |           |       |       |                                    |
| lo |           |       |       |                                    |
| ad |           |       |       |                                    |
| ce |           |       |       |                                    |
| ll |           |       |       |                                    |
| ve |           |       |       |                                    |
| ri |           |       |       |                                    |
| fi |           |       |       |                                    |
| ca |           |       |       |                                    |
| ti |           |       |       |                                    |
| on |           |       |       |                                    |
| i  |           |       |       |                                    |
| nt |           |       |       |                                    |
| er |           |       |       |                                    |
| va |           |       |       |                                    |
| l] |           |       |       |                                    |
| {. |           |       |       |                                    |
| un |           |       |       |                                    |
| de |           |       |       |                                    |
| rl |           |       |       |                                    |
| in |           |       |       |                                    |
| e} |           |       |       |                                    |
| ** |           |       |       |                                    |
|    |           |       |       |                                    |
| ** |           |       |       |                                    |
| [p |           |       |       |                                    |
| ~L |           |       |       |                                    |
| C~ |           |       |       |                                    |
| re |           |       |       |                                    |
| pr |           |       |       |                                    |
| es |           |       |       |                                    |
| en |           |       |       |                                    |
| ts |           |       |       |                                    |
| t  |           |       |       |                                    |
| he |           |       |       |                                    |
| a  |           |       |       |                                    |
| pp |           |       |       |                                    |
| or |           |       |       |                                    |
| ti |           |       |       |                                    |
| on |           |       |       |                                    |
| me |           |       |       |                                    |
| nt |           |       |       |                                    |
| f  |           |       |       |                                    |
| ac |           |       |       |                                    |
| to |           |       |       |                                    |
| rs |           |       |       |                                    |
| a  |           |       |       |                                    |
| pp |           |       |       |                                    |
| li |           |       |       |                                    |
| ed |           |       |       |                                    |
| to |           |       |       |                                    |
| t  |           |       |       |                                    |
| he |           |       |       |                                    |
| b  |           |       |       |                                    |
| as |           |       |       |                                    |
| ic |           |       |       |                                    |
| to |           |       |       |                                    |
| le |           |       |       |                                    |
| ra |           |       |       |                                    |
| nc |           |       |       |                                    |
| e] |           |       |       |                                    |
| {. |           |       |       |                                    |
| un |           |       |       |                                    |
| de |           |       |       |                                    |
| rl |           |       |       |                                    |
| in |           |       |       |                                    |
| e} |           |       |       |                                    |
| ** |           |       |       |                                    |
|    |           |       |       |                                    |
| ** |           |       |       |                                    |
| [p |           |       |       |                                    |
| ~L |           |       |       |                                    |
| C~ |           |       |       |                                    |
| =  |           |       |       |                                    |
| 0  |           |       |       |                                    |
| .7 |           |       |       |                                    |
| f  |           |       |       |                                    |
| or |           |       |       |                                    |
| lo |           |       |       |                                    |
| ad |           |       |       |                                    |
| c  |           |       |       |                                    |
| el |           |       |       |                                    |
| ls |           |       |       |                                    |
| ma |           |       |       |                                    |
| rk |           |       |       |                                    |
| ed |           |       |       |                                    |
| wi |           |       |       |                                    |
| th |           |       |       |                                    |
| S  |           |       |       |                                    |
| (  |           |       |       |                                    |
| si |           |       |       |                                    |
| ng |           |       |       |                                    |
| le |           |       |       |                                    |
| lo |           |       |       |                                    |
| ad |           |       |       |                                    |
| ce |           |       |       |                                    |
| ll |           |       |       |                                    |
| ap |           |       |       |                                    |
| pl |           |       |       |                                    |
| ic |           |       |       |                                    |
| at |           |       |       |                                    |
| io |           |       |       |                                    |
| ns |           |       |       |                                    |
| )] |           |       |       |                                    |
| {. |           |       |       |                                    |
| un |           |       |       |                                    |
| de |           |       |       |                                    |
| rl |           |       |       |                                    |
| in |           |       |       |                                    |
| e} |           |       |       |                                    |
| ** |           |       |       |                                    |
|    |           |       |       |                                    |
| ** |           |       |       |                                    |
| [p |           |       |       |                                    |
| ~L |           |       |       |                                    |
| C~ |           |       |       |                                    |
| =  |           |       |       |                                    |
| 1  |           |       |       |                                    |
| .0 |           |       |       |                                    |
| f  |           |       |       |                                    |
| or |           |       |       |                                    |
| lo |           |       |       |                                    |
| ad |           |       |       |                                    |
| c  |           |       |       |                                    |
| el |           |       |       |                                    |
| ls |           |       |       |                                    |
| ma |           |       |       |                                    |
| rk |           |       |       |                                    |
| ed |           |       |       |                                    |
| wi |           |       |       |                                    |
| th |           |       |       |                                    |
| M  |           |       |       |                                    |
| (  |           |       |       |                                    |
| mu |           |       |       |                                    |
| lt |           |       |       |                                    |
| ip |           |       |       |                                    |
| le |           |       |       |                                    |
| lo |           |       |       |                                    |
| ad |           |       |       |                                    |
| ce |           |       |       |                                    |
| ll |           |       |       |                                    |
| ap |           |       |       |                                    |
| pl |           |       |       |                                    |
| ic |           |       |       |                                    |
| at |           |       |       |                                    |
| io |           |       |       |                                    |
| ns |           |       |       |                                    |
| )] |           |       |       |                                    |
| {. |           |       |       |                                    |
| un |           |       |       |                                    |
| de |           |       |       |                                    |
| rl |           |       |       |                                    |
| in |           |       |       |                                    |
| e} |           |       |       |                                    |
| ** |           |       |       |                                    |
|    |           |       |       |                                    |
| *  |           |       |       |                                    |
| *[ |           |       |       |                                    |
| \* |           |       |       |                                    |
| m  |           |       |       |                                    |
| pe |           |       |       |                                    |
| =  |           |       |       |                                    |
| p  |           |       |       |                                    |
| ~L |           |       |       |                                    |
| C~ |           |       |       |                                    |
| x  |           |       |       |                                    |
| B  |           |       |       |                                    |
| as |           |       |       |                                    |
| ic |           |       |       |                                    |
| T  |           |       |       |                                    |
| ol |           |       |       |                                    |
| er |           |       |       |                                    |
| an |           |       |       |                                    |
| ce |           |       |       |                                    |
| in |           |       |       |                                    |
| lo |           |       |       |                                    |
| ad |           |       |       |                                    |
| ce |           |       |       |                                    |
| ll |           |       |       |                                    |
| v  |           |       |       |                                    |
| er |           |       |       |                                    |
| if |           |       |       |                                    |
| ic |           |       |       |                                    |
| at |           |       |       |                                    |
| io |           |       |       |                                    |
| ns |           |       |       |                                    |
| d  |           |       |       |                                    |
| iv |           |       |       |                                    |
| is |           |       |       |                                    |
| io |           |       |       |                                    |
| ns |           |       |       |                                    |
| (v |           |       |       |                                    |
| )] |           |       |       |                                    |
| {. |           |       |       |                                    |
| un |           |       |       |                                    |
| de |           |       |       |                                    |
| rl |           |       |       |                                    |
| in |           |       |       |                                    |
| e} |           |       |       |                                    |
| ** |           |       |       |                                    |
+----+-----------+-------+-------+------------------------------------+
| *  |           |       |       |                                    |
| *[ |           |       |       |                                    |
| (T |           |       |       |                                    |
| ab |           |       |       |                                    |
| le |           |       |       |                                    |
| A  |           |       |       |                                    |
| dd |           |       |       |                                    |
| ed |           |       |       |                                    |
| 20 |           |       |       |                                    |
| 05 |           |       |       |                                    |
| )] |           |       |       |                                    |
| {. |           |       |       |                                    |
| un |           |       |       |                                    |
| de |           |       |       |                                    |
| rl |           |       |       |                                    |
| in |           |       |       |                                    |
| e} |           |       |       |                                    |
| ** |           |       |       |                                    |
+----+-----------+-------+-------+------------------------------------+

Add new definitions of D~max~, E**~max~** , and amend the current
definition of non-automatic weighing systems as follows:

> **[D~max~ (maximum load of the measuring range). Largest value of a
> quantity (mass) which is applied to a load cell during test or use.
> This value shall not be greater than E~max~ .\[2.20\]]{.underline}**
>
> **[E~max~ (maximum capacity). Largest value of a quantity (mass) which
> may be applied to a load cell without exceeding the
> mpe.\[2.20\]]{.underline}**
>
> **non-automatic weighing ~~system~~ [instrument]{.underline}.** A
> weighing instrument or system that requires the intervention of an
> operator during the weighing process to determine the weighing result
> or to decide that it is acceptable. \[**[2.20,]{.underline}** 2.24\]
>
> **Notes:** Determining the weighing result includes any intelligent
> action of the operator that affects the result, such as deciding and
> taking an action when an indication is stable or adjusting the weight
> of the weighed load.
>
> Deciding that the weighing result is acceptable means making a
> decision regarding the acceptance of each weighing result on observing
> the indication or releasing a print out. The weighing process allows
> the operator to take an action which influences the weighing result in
> the case where the weighing result is not acceptable.
>
> (Added 2004) **[(Amended 2005)]{.underline}**

**Background/Discussion:** The NIST Weights and Measures Division
believes that this recommendation is a small step in the work to align
U.S. and international requirements. Another possible alternative for
aligning Handbook 44 and Publication 14 with OIML R60 "Load Cells" is to
consider incorporating OIML R60 chapters 1 through 7 by reference into
Handbook 44 and OIML R60 Annexes A through E into Publication 14.
Handbook 44 and Publication 14 could further include paragraphs that
state which requirements are not adopted, are different than, or are in
addition to OIML R60.

The following background information on the development of Handbook 44
Scales Code paragraph T.N.4.5. Time Dependence is provided by Mr. John
Elengo (NIST Consultant), who prepared the comparison of Handbook 44,
OIML R76 "Non-automatic Weighing Instruments," and OIML R60.

Prior to the adoption of Handbook 44 paragraph T.N.4.5., the United
States had not established any requirements for "creep." At that time,
the OIML requirement for a creep test was based on a 4-hour period,
which was considered excessive since the error is primarily contributed
by the load cells used in a scale. Generally, the greatest amount of
load cell creep occurs during a short period (minutes) immediately
following the application of the load on the scale. After that point,
the output becomes increasingly constant. Hence, the United States
adopted a requirement that specifies a 1-hour period rather than a
4-hour period. Years later, during the revision of OIML R60, it became
evident that most international evaluation laboratories were not
conducting the 4-hour test but a shorter one, and the creep proved to
stabilize sufficiently during this shorter test. The assumption was made
that a device passing the shorter test would meet the 4-hour
requirement. This assumption was verified by sample tests. Based on this
experience and that gained in the international comparison of load cell
evaluations, the OIML International Work Group for R60 concluded that a
30-minute test is sufficient provided that, in addition to measuring the
difference over a 30‑minute period, the difference occurring in the last
10 minutes of this period is also measured. A more restrictive allowance
than the total allowance for the 30-minute period is applied to the
10-minute period difference in order to assure that the creep is
becoming increasingly constant and not increasing. The R60 30-minute
requirement has been incorporated into OIML R76. Thus, the requirement
now applies not only to the load cell, but also to the instrument as a
whole. If main components other than the load cell are a source of
creep, they can be accounted for using the principle of apportionment of
errors (including the assignment of fractions "p~i~" to those various
separate main components of an instrument that can be evaluated
separately). \[Refer to R76-1 Section 3 Metrological Requirements
paragraph 3.5.4. Apportioning of Errors.\]

The NTEP Laboratories discussed this at the 2004 NTEP Participating
Laboratories meeting and agreed to forward a proposal to align Handbook
44 with R76 and R60 to the Committee.

The National Type Evaluation Technical Committee (NTETC) Weighing Sector
withdrew this proposal from its agenda since it was not developed in
response to problems with Publication 14 test procedures (and, hence,
not under its purview) and due to time constraints. A member of the
Weighing Sector also noted that the proposal does not recognize
tolerances for Class I scales.

The Western Weights and Measures Association recommended this item move
forward as a voting item, but did not indicate its rationale for taking
this position.

The Central Weights and Measures Association (CWMA) agreed the proposal
was an issue for the Weighing Sector requiring further development.
Consequently, CWMA recommended the proposal move forward as an
information item.

The Northeastern Weights and Measures Association (NEWMA) recommended
that for consistency the U.S. terms should be followed by the OIML
equivalent terminology in parentheses. NEWMA also found that this is an
example of the need for revising Handbook 44 into separate sections for
field verification and type evaluation test procedures.

The Southern Weights and Measures Association recommended that the
proposal become a developing item on the NCWM S&T Agenda.

The Scale Manufacturers Association (SMA) recommended only the proposed
modification to current Scales Code paragraph T.N.4.5. as follows:

> T.N.4.5. Time Dependence, General. - ~~- At constant test conditions,
> the indication 20 seconds after the application of a load and the
> indication after 1 hour shall not differ by more than:~~ [A time
> dependence test shall be conducted during type
> evaluation.]{.underline}
>
> ~~(a)~~ ~~one-half of the absolute value of the applicable tolerance
> for the applied load for class III L devices; and~~
>
> ~~(b)~~ ~~the absolute value of the applicable tolerance for the
> applied load for all other devices.~~
>
> (Amended 1989 [and 2005]{.underline})

The SMA agreed with the proposed tolerances and recommended that the
remaining proposed subparagraphs be added to NCWM Publication 14 through
the Weighing Sector. The SMA agreed that Publication 14 requirements
should be traceable to NIST Handbook 44; however, there is no need to
add additional text to Handbook 44 to provide traceability. The SMA
agreed that its alternate proposal provides the necessary traceability.

The SMA believes this is a harmonization issue. The SMA supports
harmonization of U.S. and international requirements, but is concerned
about the potential for unnecessarily increasing evaluation costs.
However, the SMA does support this effort toward harmonization provided
NTEP waives the resulting additional evaluation of existing devices.

The Committee noted that the proposed tolerances are absent from
Handbook 44 and that tolerances usually appear in Handbook 44 rather
than Publication 14. One added benefit to adopting the proposed creep
test tolerances is that it harmonizes U.S. and international
requirements. The Committee agreed with SMA's recommendation that time
dependence test be performed as a type evaluation test and modified the
proposal accordingly. Class I scales were intentionally omitted from the
proposal because of the device's sensitivity to even minimal changes in
environmental factors. The Committee supports the NTEP policy that
existing devices will not be required to be reevaluated since most
devices are expected to already comply with the proposal. To clarify all
terminology in the proposed requirements that is not already defined in
Handbook 44, the Committee made editorial changes to several terms;
added two new definitions (D~max~ and E~max~); amended the term
"non-automatic weighing system" to read "non-automatic weighing
instrument;" and included a reference to Section 2.20.

During the 2005 NCWM Annual Meeting, the Committee heard that there are
jurisdictions that wish to continue to cite paragraph T.N.4.5. when a
field inspection reveals an abnormal performance in a device's
indications. In some cases, those devices are out of compliance with
General Code paragraph G-UR.4.2. Abnormal Performance. The Committee
acknowledged there may be other instances where it is appropriate to
perform a time dependence test in the field under controlled conditions,
based on a specific Scales Code requirement. Consequently, the Committee
agreed to move forward with the entire proposal with modifications only
to paragraph T.N.4.5. in the proposal to include provisions for
conducting a time dependence test in the field when there are constant
test conditions. The Committee notes that it may be necessary to
exercise the load-receiving element prior to performing the time
dependence test.

####### 320-9 I List of International Symbols Noted as Acceptable

**Source:** Southern Weights and Measures Association (SWMA)

**Recommendation:** Add a new Appendix E as follows:

**[Appendix E]{.underline}**

**[List of Acceptable Abbreviations/Symbols]{.underline}**

+-----------------+-----------------+----------------+----------------+
| **Device        | **[Term         | **[Acceptable] | **Not          |
| Application**   | ]{.underline}** | {.underline}** | [Acceptable]   |
|                 |                 |                | {.underline}** |
+=================+=================+================+================+
| **The following |                 |                |                |
| symbols are     |                 |                |                |
| intended for    |                 |                |                |
| operator        |                 |                |                |
| controls,       |                 |                |                |
| indications,    |                 |                |                |
| and features.   |                 |                |                |
| When they are   |                 |                |                |
| also intended   |                 |                |                |
| for the         |                 |                |                |
| customer        |                 |                |                |
| (including      |                 |                |                |
| cu              |                 |                |                |
| stomer-operated |                 |                |                |
| devices) they   |                 |                |                |
| cannot be used  |                 |                |                |
| without         |                 |                |                |
| additional      |                 |                |                |
| descriptions,   |                 |                |                |
| directions, or  |                 |                |                |
| marks displayed |                 |                |                |
| or marked on    |                 |                |                |
| the device.**   |                 |                |                |
+-----------------+-----------------+----------------+----------------+
| **[Operational  | **[zero key or  | ![](media      | **["z" alone   |
| Controls,       | center          | /image2.png){w | is not         |
| ]{.underline}** | of              | idth="0.272916 | acceptable     |
|                 | ]{.underline}** | 66666666664in" | unless term is |
| **[Indications, |                 | hei            | defined on     |
| Features:       | **[zero         | ght="0.2368055 | device]        |
| ]{.underline}** | indicator       | 5555555555in"} | {.underline}** |
|                 | ]{.underline}** |                |                |
| **[Operational  |                 |                |                |
| Controls,       |                 |                |                |
| ]{.underline}** |                 |                |                |
|                 |                 |                |                |
| **[Indications, |                 |                |                |
| Features:       |                 |                |                |
| ]{.underline}** |                 |                |                |
+-----------------+-----------------+----------------+----------------+
|                 | **[Off          | ![](medi       |                |
|                 | (Power)         | a/image3.png){ |                |
|                 | ]{.underline}** | width="0.29166 |                |
|                 |                 | 66666666667in" |                |
|                 |                 | he             |                |
|                 |                 | ight="0.291666 |                |
|                 |                 | 6666666667in"} |                |
+-----------------+-----------------+----------------+----------------+
|                 | **[On           | ![](med        |                |
|                 | (Power)         | ia/image4.wmf) |                |
|                 | ]{.underline}** |                |                |
+-----------------+-----------------+----------------+----------------+
|                 | **[On/Off       | ![](med        |                |
|                 | (Power)         | ia/image5.wmf) |                |
|                 | ]{.underline}** |                |                |
+-----------------+-----------------+----------------+----------------+
|                 | **[Print        | ![](medi       |                |
|                 | ]{.underline}** | a/image6.png){ |                |
|                 |                 | width="0.41666 |                |
|                 |                 | 66666666667in" |                |
|                 |                 | he             |                |
|                 |                 | ight="0.305555 |                |
|                 |                 | 5555555556in"} |                |
+-----------------+-----------------+----------------+----------------+
|                 | **[Weighing     | ![](med        |                |
|                 | ]{.underline}** | ia/image7.wmf) |                |
+-----------------+-----------------+----------------+----------------+
|                 | **[Scale n (n   | ![](med        |                |
|                 | = 1. 2.         | ia/image8.wmf) |                |
|                 | \...)           |                |                |
|                 | ]{.underline}** |                |                |
+-----------------+-----------------+----------------+----------------+
|                 | **[Range n (n = | ![](med        |                |
|                 | 1, 2,           | ia/image9.wmf) |                |
|                 | \...)           |                |                |
|                 | ]{.underline}** |                |                |
+-----------------+-----------------+----------------+----------------+
|                 | **[High         | ![](medi       |                |
|                 | resolution      | a/image10.wmf) |                |
|                 | ]{.underline}** |                |                |
+-----------------+-----------------+----------------+----------------+
|                 | **[enter        | ![](media      |                |
|                 | key             | /image11.png){ |                |
|                 | ]{.underline}** | width="0.54583 |                |
|                 |                 | 33333333333in" |                |
|                 |                 | he             |                |
|                 |                 | ight="0.567361 |                |
|                 |                 | 1111111111in"} |                |
+-----------------+-----------------+----------------+----------------+
|                 | **[tare enter   | ![](media      |                |
|                 | key             | /image12.png){ |                |
|                 | ]{.underline}** | width="0.35972 |                |
|                 |                 | 22222222222in" |                |
|                 |                 | hei            |                |
|                 |                 | ght="0.3048611 |                |
|                 |                 | 1111111114in"} |                |
+-----------------+-----------------+----------------+----------------+
|                 | **[tare clear   | ![](media/     |                |
|                 | key             | image13.png){w |                |
|                 | ]{.underline}** | idth="0.675in" |                |
|                 |                 | he             |                |
|                 |                 | ight="0.508333 |                |
|                 |                 | 3333333333in"} |                |
+-----------------+-----------------+----------------+----------------+
|                 | **[tare         | ![](media      | ![](media      |
|                 | enter/tare      | /image14.png){ | /image15.png){ |
|                 | clear           | width="0.54097 | width="0.63541 |
|                 | ]{.underline}** | 22222222222in" | 66666666666in" |
|                 |                 | he             | he             |
|                 |                 | ight="0.514583 | ight="0.539583 |
|                 |                 | 3333333333in"} | 3333333333in"} |
+-----------------+-----------------+----------------+----------------+
|                 | **[verify       | ![](media      |                |
|                 | tare            | /image16.png){ |                |
|                 | ]{.underline}** | width="0.58194 |                |
|                 |                 | 44444444445in" |                |
|                 |                 | hei            |                |
|                 |                 | ght="0.4430555 |                |
|                 |                 | 5555555554in"} |                |
+-----------------+-----------------+----------------+----------------+
|                 | **[Not for      | ![](medi       |                |
|                 | direct sales to | a/image17.wmf) |                |
|                 | the             |                |                |
|                 | public          |                |                |
|                 | ]{.underline}** |                |                |
+-----------------+-----------------+----------------+----------------+
|                 | **[Combined     | ![](medi       |                |
|                 | zero/tare --    | a/image18.wmf) |                |
|                 | See S.2.1.6.    |                |                |
|                 | for additional  |                |                |
|                 | information     |                |                |
|                 | ]{.underline}** |                |                |
+-----------------+-----------------+----------------+----------------+
|                 | **[Taring       | ![](medi       |                |
|                 | ]{.underline}** | a/image19.wmf) |                |
+-----------------+-----------------+----------------+----------------+
|                 | **[Mass/Weight  | ![](medi       |                |
|                 | ]{.underline}** | a/image20.wmf) |                |
+-----------------+-----------------+----------------+----------------+
|                 | **[Money        | ![](medi       |                |
|                 | ]{.underline}** | a/image21.wmf) |                |
+-----------------+-----------------+----------------+----------------+
|                 | **[Price Per    | ![](medi       |                |
|                 | weight          | a/image22.wmf) |                |
|                 | unit            |                |                |
|                 | ]{.underline}** |                |                |
+-----------------+-----------------+----------------+----------------+
|                 | **[Piece        | ![](medi       |                |
|                 | count           | a/image23.wmf) |                |
|                 | ]{.underline}** |                |                |
+-----------------+-----------------+----------------+----------------+
|                 | **[Counter      | ![](medi       |                |
|                 | ]{.underline}** | a/image24.wmf) |                |
+-----------------+-----------------+----------------+----------------+
|                 | **[Read         | ![](medi       |                |
|                 | Counter         | a/image25.wmf) |                |
|                 | ]{.underline}** |                |                |
+-----------------+-----------------+----------------+----------------+
|                 | **[Print        | ![](medi       |                |
|                 | certificate     | a/image26.wmf) |                |
|                 | ]{.underline}** |                |                |
+-----------------+-----------------+----------------+----------------+
|                 | **[Information  | ![](medi       |                |
|                 | ]{.underline}** | a/image27.wmf) |                |
+-----------------+-----------------+----------------+----------------+

**Discussion:** The proposed list of symbols introduces officials to a
set of international symbols for use in marking operator controls,
indications, and device features. Recognition and use of these symbols
is consistent with efforts to harmonize U.S. and international device
requirements.

Currently, the list of symbols is part of NCWM Publication 14 "Technical
Policy, Checklists, and Test Procedures" for Weighing Devices. NTEP uses
international symbols whenever possible. Style differences such as
variations in the shape of arrows are acceptable.

The Southern Weights and Measures Association (SWMA) heard several
concerns about the initial use of international symbols. Most weights
and measures officials do not have access to Publication 14 or other
international documents. Consequently, it was suggested that NCWM and
NIST Weights and Measures Division post the list on their websites and
incorporate the symbols into bulletins, examination procedure outlines,
and inspector training modules. The increased number of
customer-operated devices would require additional markings or
descriptions to describe the less familiar symbols. This is especially
true for symbols that represent "Not for Direct Sales," "Total Money,"
and "Price per Unit Weight," which are not in widespread use in the
United States. Once customers become familiar with the symbols,
descriptions would no longer be necessary and the list of symbols would
not be necessary in Handbook 44 or other documents.

The SWMA agreed that the proposed list of symbols would best serve field
officials if placed in NIST Handbook 44 as an appendix.

The Committee agreed with SWMA on the need to familiarize officials with
international symbols and recommended the proposed list of acceptable
new symbols become a new Appendix E in Handbook 44. The Committee made
several editorial changes to the table and agreed the proposal should be
a voting item at the 2005 NCWM Annual Meeting.

During the 2005 NCWM Annual Meeting, the Committee agreed that unless
the table references a specific code, then the table applies to all
types of devices. The Committee believes that if the table is to be used
as an enforcement tool, then only symbols in the proposed list would be
considered acceptable. The Committee preferred an all-inclusive list of
acceptable symbols over a WMD alternate proposal to develop a list of
acceptable symbols that includes a statement indicating other symbols
may be used without prior approval. SMA suggested an alternate proposal
to designate the table as a list of commonly used international symbols.
However, the Committee believes the intended scope of the list is much
broader. If the table is intended to be all-inclusive, the other
acceptable symbols currently in use for all device types, such as the
dollar sign (\$) on retail motor-fuel dispensers and taximeters must be
added to the list. The Committee considered SMA's suggestion to
eliminate the list of not acceptable symbols and retitle the columns to
clarify that the symbols represents terms as well as functions. The
Committee changed the status of the item from voting to an information
item, to allow time to develop language that will link the table to
specific codes and to assess whether or not the table should be
all-inclusive.

###### 321 BELT-CONVEYOR SCALE SYSTEMS

####### 321-1 VC UR.3.4. Diversion or Loss of Measured Product

(This item was adopted.)

**Source:** Western Weights and Measures Association (WWMA)

**Recommendation:** Add new paragraph UR.3.4. as follows:

> **[UR.3.4. Diversion or Loss of Measured Product. - There shall be no
> operation(s) or condition(s) of use that result in loss or diversion
> that adversely affects the quantity of measured
> product.]{.underline}**

**[(Added 2005)]{.underline}**

**Discussion:** This proposal is intended to ensure that all product
measured on the scale is delivered to the customer. There are several
circumstances where the final amount of a commodity weighed on the
system's scale can be affected by operator practices. For instance,
taking commodity samples or movement of commodities on belt conveyors
over long distances where product slippage from the belt can result in
product loss before the customer has custody of the commodity. Without
records, any major spillage results in an inaccurate payment for
delivered product. The chain of custody of weighed material between the
scale and the end point of a conveyor system should be maintained at all
times. The diversion of a measured commodity by as much as 0.1 % becomes
significant over a period of time and can affect royalty payments and
taxes and can even have an environmental impact for some commodities.

Originally, the Western Weights and Measures Association (WWMA) and
Central Weights and Measures Association (CWMA) considered an industry
proposal to amend existing paragraphs UR.3.2. Maintenance and UR.3.3.
Retention of Maintenance, Test, and Analog or Digital Recorder
Information to address diversion of commodities by requiring this
material be measured and recorded.

The WWMA heard comments from a manufacturer that supported the concept,
but found the "measurable diversion of weighed material" somewhat
ambiguous. The WWMA believed the intent of the proposal could be better
stated and simplified. Consequently, the WWMA developed an alternate
proposal similar in wording to the recommendation above adding a new
paragraph UR.3.4. titled Diversion of Measured Product rather than
suggest changes to existing paragraphs UR.3.2. and UR.3.3.

The CWMA withdrew the issue from its agenda because no data was provided
to demonstrate there is an issue with diverted product.

At the 2005 NCWM Interim Meeting, the Committee further modified the
language proposed by WWMA to clarify the requirement was intended to
apply under conditions where weighed product is "loss" because it slips
off the belt or is sampled and not returned to the end customer. The
Committee agreed to present the item for a vote at the 2005 NCWM Annual
Meeting.

###### 322 AUTOMATIC BULK WEIGHING SYSTEMS

####### 322-1 W Tolerances

(This item was withdrawn.)

**Source:** Carryover Item 322-1. (This item originated from the
Northeastern Weights and Measures Association (NEWMA) and first appeared
on the Committee's 2002 agenda.)

**Recommendation:** Delete paragraphs T.1.4., T.2., T.2.1, T.3.2. and
T.3.3.:

> **~~T.1.4. To Tests Involving Digital Indications or
> Representations. - To the tolerances that would otherwise be applied,
> there shall be added an amount equal to one-half the value of the
> scale division. This does not apply to digital indications or recorded
> representations that have been corrected for rounding using error
> weights.~~**
>
> **~~T.2. Minimum Tolerance Values. - The minimum tolerance value shall
> not be less than half the value of the scale division.~~**
>
> **~~T.2.1. For Systems used to Weigh Construction Materials. - The
> minimum maintenance and acceptance tolerance shall~~ ~~be 0.1 % of the
> weighing capacity of the system, or the value of the scale division,
> whichever is less~~.**
>
> **~~T.3.2. For Systems used to Weigh Grain. - The basic maintenance
> tolerance shall be 0.1 % of test load.~~**
>
> **~~T.3.3. For all Other Systems. - The basic maintenance tolerance
> shall be 0.2 % of test load.~~**

Renumber paragraph T.3. and renumber and modify T.3.1. as follows:

> **T.~~3~~.[2]{.underline}. Basic Tolerance Values.**
>
> **T.~~3~~.[2]{.underline}.1. Acceptance Tolerance. -**The basic
> acceptance tolerance shall be one-half the basic maintenance
> tolerance**[, but never less than 1 division.]{.underline}**
>
> **[(Amended 200X)]{.underline}**

Add new paragraphs T.2.2., T.2.3., and T.2.3.1. and Table 1. and Table
2. as follows:

T.2.2. General. - The tolerance applicable to devices not marked with an
accuracy class shall have the tolerances applied as specified in
Table 1. below.

  ------------------------ ----------------------------- --------------------------- -----------------------------
  **[Table 1. Tolerance                                                              
  for Unmarked                                                                       
  Scales]{.underline}**                                                              

  **[Type of               **[Tolerance]{.underline}**   **[Decreasing Load          **[Other applicable
  Device]{.underline}**                                  Multiplier]{.underline}**   Requirements]{.underline}**

  **[Grain                 **[Class III, T.2.3 (table    **[1.0]{.underline}**       **[T.2.1.,
  Hoppers]{.underline}**   2)]{.underline}**                                         T.2.3.1]{.underline}**

  **[Other                 **[Class III L, T.2.3 (table  **[1.0]{.underline}**       **[T.2.1.,
  Systems]{.underline}**   2)]{.underline}**                                         T.2.3.1]{.underline}**
  ------------------------ ----------------------------- --------------------------- -----------------------------

**(Added 200X)**

[T.2.3. Tolerances Applicable to Devices Marked III or III
L.]{.underline}

> **[T.2.3.1. Maintenance Tolerance Values - The maintenance tolerance
> values are specified in Table 2 below.]{.underline}**

+----------+------------+-----------+-----------+-------------------+
| **[Table |            |           |           |                   |
| 2.       |            |           |           |                   |
| Mai      |            |           |           |                   |
| ntenance |            |           |           |                   |
| T        |            |           |           |                   |
| olerance |            |           |           |                   |
| for      |            |           |           |                   |
| Marked   |            |           |           |                   |
| Scale    |            |           |           |                   |
| s]{.unde |            |           |           |                   |
| rline}** |            |           |           |                   |
|          |            |           |           |                   |
| **[(All  |            |           |           |                   |
| values   |            |           |           |                   |
| in this  |            |           |           |                   |
| table    |            |           |           |                   |
| are in   |            |           |           |                   |
| scale    |            |           |           |                   |
| d        |            |           |           |                   |
| ivisions |            |           |           |                   |
| )]{.unde |            |           |           |                   |
| rline}** |            |           |           |                   |
|          |            |           |           |                   |
| **[T     |            |           |           |                   |
| olerance |            |           |           |                   |
| in scale |            |           |           |                   |
| division |            |           |           |                   |
| s]{.unde |            |           |           |                   |
| rline}** |            |           |           |                   |
+----------+------------+-----------+-----------+-------------------+
|          | **[1]{.un  | *         | *         | **                |
|          | derline}** | *[2]{.und | *[3]{.und | [5]{.underline}** |
|          |            | erline}** | erline}** |                   |
+----------+------------+-----------+-----------+-------------------+
| **[Clas  | **[Test    |           |           |                   |
| s]{.unde | Load]{.un  |           |           |                   |
| rline}** | derline}** |           |           |                   |
+----------+------------+-----------+-----------+-------------------+
| **[II    | **[0 --    | **[501 -  | **[2001   | **[4001           |
| I]{.unde | 500]{.un   | 2         | --        | +]{.underline}**  |
| rline}** | derline}** | 000]{.und | 4         |                   |
|          |            | erline}** | 000]{.und |                   |
|          |            |           | erline}** |                   |
+----------+------------+-----------+-----------+-------------------+
| **[III   | **[0 --    | **[501 -  | **[(Add   |                   |
| L]{.unde | 500]{.un   | 1         | 1d for    |                   |
| rline}** | derline}** | 000]{.und | each      |                   |
|          |            | erline}** | a         |                   |
|          |            |           | dditional |                   |
|          |            |           | 500 d or  |                   |
|          |            |           | fraction  |                   |
|          |            |           | there     |                   |
|          |            |           | of)]{.und |                   |
|          |            |           | erline}** |                   |
+----------+------------+-----------+-----------+-------------------+

**[(Added 200X)]{.underline}**

Add a new footnote to Section 2.20 Scales Code Table 1.1.1. Tolerances
for Unmarked Scales as follows:

> **[^X^Automatic bulk weighing systems see Section 2.22 for
> specifications and tolerances.]{.underline}**
>
> **[(Added 200X)]{.underline}**

**Discussion:** Since 2002, the Committee has considered a proposal to
change the automatic bulk weighing systems tolerances from a percentage
basis to division values, which are based on the device's accuracy
class. The proposal was intended to align tolerances in the Automatic
Bulk Weighing Systems (ABWS) Code and the Scales Code.

The Committee has kept the proposal as an information item to allow
interested parties sufficient time to work through issues surrounding
the permissible system errors and other concerns. The U.S. Grain
Inspection, Packers and Stockyard Administration (GIPSA) opposed the
proposed tolerances because of concerns about the allowable cumulative
error in a system's performance. GIPSA also cited its 17-year history of
successful implementation of current ABWS code requirements.

The Western Weights and Measures Association heard no comments on the
proposal, but remains concerned about the potential cumulative effect of
allowable errors that are the result of the proposed step tolerances.

The Northeastern Weights and Measures Association (NEWMA) continues to
welcome the opportunity for more discussion with the S&T Committee and
GIPSA. NEWMA believes the minor differences in tolerance applications on
a few borderline cases do not justify having a unique code for a device
that is identical in design and performance to devices evaluated under
the Scales Code. NEWMA provided two contacts if anyone wanted to discuss
the proposal; Bill Wilson (Clinton County, New York) at 518‑565‑4681, by
fax at 518‑565‑4694, or at <wilsonperu@aol.com> or contact Ross Andersen
(New York) at 518‑457‑3146, by fax at 518‑457‑5693, or at
<ross.andersen@agmkt.state.ny.us>.

The Central Weights and Measures Association (CWMA) expressed concern
that the proposal might not have technical merit and was developed as
the result of each regulatory agency's preference for a particular code
format. The CWMA was also concerned that adopting the proposal would
effect step tolerances to the point that older devices with an n~max~
greater than 4000 would not comply.

During the 2005 NCWM Interim Meeting, the Committee heard that NEWMA was
continuing work on a survey to determine how officials apply the ABWS
Code tolerances. The Committee decided at that time to keep the proposal
an information item to allow GIPSA, NEWMA, the grain industry, and all
other parties affected by the proposed changes to the ABWS tolerances
additional time to compare data and agree on an appropriate set of
tolerances for systems that fall under the ABWS Code. GIPSA did not
comment at the meeting but it had reiterated its earlier opposition to
the proposal to WMD in advance of the meeting. In anticipation that
NEWMA would have the results of its survey at the July 2005 NCWM Annual
Meeting the Committee kept this issue an information item, but planned
to move the proposal to a developing item if no survey data was
available in July 2005.

At the July 2005 NCWM Annual Meeting, there were no new developments and
NEWMA and GIPSA, still held differing positions on the proposal. The
results from the survey distributed by NEWMA in July 2005 were not
available. The Committee decided to withdraw this item because, after 3
years of deliberations, no consensus could be reached by the parties
affected by the proposal.

For more background information, refer to the 2002, 2003, and 2004 S&T
Final Reports.

###### 330 LIQUID-MEASURING DEVICES

[]{.mark}

####### 330-1 V S.1.6.1. Indication of Delivery; Electronic Devices

####### 

####### (This item was adopted.)

**Source:** National Type Evaluation Technical Committee (NTETC)
Measuring Sector

**Recommendation:** Modify Section 3.30. paragraph S.1.6.1. Indication
of Delivery as follows:

> **S.1.6.1. Indication of Delivery. --** The device shall auto­matically
> show on its face the initial zero condition and the quantity delivered
> (up to the nominal capacity).
>
> **[(a)]{.underline} ~~However,~~ [For electronic devices manufactured
> prior to January 1, 2006,]{.underline}** the first 0.03 L (or
> 0.009 gal) of a delivery and its as­sociated total sales price need not
> be indicated.
>
> ***[(b) For electronic devices manufactured on or after January 1,
> 2006, the measurement, indication of delivered quantity, and the
> indication of total sales price shall be inhibited until the fueling
> position reaches conditions necessary to ensure that the delivery
> starts at zero.]{.underline}***
>
> ***[\[Nonretroactive as of January 1, 2006\]]{.underline}***
>
> ***[(Added 2005)]{.underline}***
>
> (Amended 1982 [**and 2005**)]{.underline}

**Discussion/Background:** At the 2004 NTETC Measuring Sector meeting,
Maryland Weights and Measures stated that as the price for motor fuel
nears or exceeds \$2 per gallon, the number of complaints it receives
regarding computer jump has increased. NIST Weights and Measures
Division (WMD) has received numerous calls from jurisdictions related to
this problem. It appears that the actual amount of jump or meter creep
occurring because of internal pressure changes related to changes in
temperature has not increased. However, at the higher unit prices this
relatively small meter creep results in an indication of several cents.
Concern was expressed that there was no guidance in Handbook 44
regarding criteria or tolerances for "computer jump." Prior to 1987
Handbook 44 had a test note (paragraph N.4.3.) and tolerance (paragraph
T.2.4.) in the Liquid-Measuring Devices Code for conducting an elapsed
time test. At the 1986 NCWM Annual Meeting the NCWM voted to delete
those paragraphs. The discussion of that item indicates that a
suggestion was received that all references to an elapsed time test
should be removed because: (1) none are being conducted, and (2) the
conditions that caused their inclusion in Handbook 44 have for the most
part been eliminated. In 1986, if a consumer experienced a computer jump
that resulted in an indication of money value prior to opening the
nozzle, the consumer normally could return the dispenser to the off
position and start the delivery from "zero." Currently, if a customer is
making a fuel purchase using a credit or debit card at the pump, any
indication of delivery is automatically charged to the customer's
account; therefore, returning the dispenser to the "off" position and
re-starting the delivery from "zero" does not resolve the problem and
the consumer is charged for undelivered product. Maryland and WMD
provided a proposal to eliminate the indication of computer jump for the
Sector to consider. The Sector agreed with the proposal in principle,
but recommended some changes to the language (including the use of the
term "fueling position") as indicated in the recommendation and agreed
to forward it to the NCWM and the Southern Weights and Measures
Association (SWMA) S&T Committees for consideration. A manufacturer of
retail motor-fuel dispensers stated that "fueling position" is a
recognized industry term that is preferable in this case to the term
"dispenser." Dispensers typically have hoses on two sides. The term
"fueling position" is applicable to only one side at a time.

At its October 2004 meeting, the SWMA heard no opposition to the
Measuring Sector proposal. The SWMA agreed to forward the proposal to
the Committee with the recommendation that it be a voting item on the
2005 NCWM S&T Agenda. The SWMA also recommended that the Committee
consider adding similar requirements to Handbook 44 Section 3.32. as
appropriate.

At the 2005 Interim Meeting, several dispenser manufacturers expressed
concern with the use of the term "normal delivery pressure," in the
original proposal, since the pressure within a system can vary during
normal use. The Committee met with three dispenser manufacturers to
develop new nonretroactive language in which the word "pressure" is
changed to "condition" as indicated in the Recommendation. The new
requirement does not allow the measurement of product until the fueling
position reaches normal delivery condition (packed hose) up to the
nozzle. If the system meets the new requirement, the dispenser will
indicate zero until the nozzle is opened and product begins to flow. The
Committee agreed that making the requirement nonretroactive was
appropriate to provide manufacturers time to develop a mechanism for
eliminating computer jump on new devices. For devices already in the
field, officials can use paragraph UR.3.1. Return of Indicating and
Recording Elements to Zero and General Code paragraph G-S.2.
Facilitation of Fraud to require that the primary indicating element be
returned to zero prior to the start of each delivery. The Committee
agreed this item should be presented for a vote at the 2005 NCWM Annual
Meeting.

At the 2005 NCWM Annual Meeting, the Committee agreed that paragraph
S.1.6.1. should be modified as shown in the recommendation above to
clarify when the suppresion (masking) of indications is permitted and
when the inhibition (prevention) of measurement and indication is
required. The Committee further amended the proposal to clarify what is
meant by "normal delivery conditions." The Committee believes the
proposal would eliminate "computer jump" on new devices installed in the
field and over time will eliminate the problem on most retail motor fuel
dispensers, similar to the near elimination of scales being found "off
zero" after the automatic zero-setting mechanism requirement was added
to the Scales Code. During the voting session, an official requested
that additional language be added to the discussion to clarify how a
dispenser would operate if this item were adopted. The Committee agreed
to add the following language to the discussion: "To comply with the new
requirement, a dispenser shall operate as follows. Begin with the valve
in the nozzle "closed" and activate the dispenser. After initialization
(i.e., first indication of zero) of the dispenser is complete, the
display of volume and total price shall indicate "zero" and shall
increment only in coincidence with product flow after the valve in the
nozzle is opened."

####### 330-2 VC N.4.2.2. Retail Motor-Fuel Devices

(This item was adopted.)

**Source:** National Type Evaluation Technical Committee (NTETC)
Measuring Sector

> **Recommendation:** Modify Section 3.30. paragraph N.4.2.2. Retail
> Motor-Fuel Devices as follows:
>
> **N.4.2.2. Retail Motor-Fuel Devices.**
>
> \(a\) Devices with[out]{.underline} a [marked minimum]{.underline}
> flow-rate capacity less than 100 L (25 gal) per minute shall have a
> \"special\" test performed at the slower of the follow­ing rates:
>
> \(1\) 19 L (5 gal) per minute, or
>
> **(2) ~~the minimum discharge rate marked on the device, or~~**
>
> **~~(3)~~** the minimum discharge rate at which the device will
> deliver when equipped with an automatic discharge nozzle set at its
> slowest setting.
>
> \(b\) Devices marked with a [marked minimum]{.underline} flow-rate
> capacity 100 L (25 gal) or more per minute shall have a \"special\"
> test performed at [or near]{.underline} the [marked minimum flow
> rate.]{.underline} slowest of the follow­ing rates:
>
> **~~(1) the minimum discharge rate marked on the device, or~~**
>
> **~~(2) the minimum discharge rate at which the device will deliver
> when equipped with an automatic dis­charge nozzle set at its slow­est
> setting.~~**

(Added 1984) [(Amended 2005)]{.underline}

**Discussion/Background:** At its October 2004 meeting, the NTETC
Measuring Sector discussed a test scenario in which a retail motor-fuel
device (RMFD) was marked with flow rates of 60 gpm maximum and 12 gpm
minimum, where the actual flow rate on the lowest setting of the
automatic nozzle was 6 gpm. The laboratory posed the following questions
regarding this situation:

Paragraph S.4.4.1. Discharge Rates, requires that RMFDs with a designed
maximum flow rate of 30 gpm or greater be marked with a minimum and
maximum flow rate. RMFDs with a designed maximum flow rate of less than
30 gpm are not required to have a maximum and minimum flow rate marking,
but such a marking is not prohibited. Paragraph N.4.2.2. (b) in the LMD
Code states that **"**Devices marked with a flow-rate capacity of 100 L
(25 gal) or more per minute shall have a \"special\" test performed at
the slowest of the follow­ing rates: (1) the minimum discharge rate
marked on the device, or (2) the minimum discharge rate at which the
device will deliver when equipped with an automatic dis­charge nozzle set
at its slowest setting." The question is if a RMFD is marked with a
minimum flow rate, is it appropriate to operate the device below the
marked minimum flow rate?

There appears to be a conflict between the test notes and the user
requirements for RFMDs that are marked with a maximum and minimum flow
rate. General Code paragraph G‑UR.3.1. Method of Operation states that a
device is to be used in the manner that is indicated by instructions on
the equipment. Paragraphs N.4.2.2. (a) and (b) both contain testing
procedures that instruct a weights and measures official to conduct a
test of a dispenser at a flow rate that is less than the minimum flow
rate that may be marked on the device. The manufacturers of RMFDs
present at the 2004 Measuring Sector meeting stated that it is not
appropriate to require accuracy for a device when it is operated below
the marked minimum flow rate.

The Sector agreed that officials should not test below the minimum flow
rate marked on the device because the device is not designed to operate
accurately at lesser flow rates. The Sector also agreed to propose
changing the flow rate of 25 gpm in paragraph N.4.2.2. to 30 gpm to
agree with the marking requirements in paragraph S.4.4.1. The Sector
agreed to forward a proposal that both issues to the NCWM and Southern
Weights and Measures Association (SWMA) for consideration.

At its October 2004 meeting, the SWMA heard concerns with the proposed
changes to paragraph N.4.2.2. Retail Motor-Fuel Devices. The SWMA
recommended that officials not test at a flow rate less than the minimum
flow rate marked on a device. However, the Sector's proposal as worded
creates conflicts with other requirements in paragraph N.4.2.2.
Consequently, the SWMA agreed that the proposal should not be forwarded
to the Committee. Following the SWMA meeting, NIST Weights and Measures
Division (WMD) developed the alternative shown above to address the
concerns of the SWMA with the original Measuring Sector proposal.

When first adopted, paragraph N.4.2.2. contained only two test criteria
which stipulated that the slow flow test be made at the slower of 19 L
(5 gal) per minute or the minimum flow rate marked on the device. In
1971, the Committee received several communications that RMFDs equipped
with an automatic nozzle were often operated at a discharge rate
established by the automatic nozzle when set at its slowest setting.
Paragraph N.4.2.2. was modified to include the provision for testing
with an automatic nozzle set on the lowest notch, if the flow rate at
that setting was less than 19 L (5 gal) per minute, or the minimum flow
rate marked on the device. In 1971 few, if any, RMFDs were marked with a
minimum flow rate and the information provided by the manufacturer (and
sometimes marked on the device) typically stated that the device was
accurate at any flow rate.

In 1984, when "high gallonage" dispensers gained popularity in the
marketplace, paragraph S.4.4. Marking Requirements/For Retail Devices
Only, (now paragraph S.4.4.1. Discharge Rates), was added to require
dispensers with a maximum flow rate of 25 gpm or greater to be marked
with maximum and minimum flow rates. At that time paragraph N.4.2.3.,
which later became the present paragraph N.4.2.2. (b), was added to the
Handbook. It was the view of the Committee that the minimum flow rate
for these dispensers would be greater than 5 gallons per minute so that
specific flow rate was not included in the test criteria of new
paragraph N.4.2.2.

General Code paragraph G-UR.2.3. Installation, states "that equipment
shall be operated only in the manner that is indicated by instructions
on the equipment (minimum flow rate)." Some dispensers are equipped with
a latch on the nozzle lever which, when set at its lowest setting, may
cause the dispenser to operate below the marked minimum flow rate. WMD
noted that the Committee may want to consider a user requirement in the
LMD Code that does not allow a latch on the nozzle to create this
situation since such a component would facilitate inappropriate and
inaccurate use of the device.

At the 2005 Interim and Annual Meeting, the Committee received no
comments on this item. The Committee agreed that the alternate proposal
prepared by WMD resolved the issue of what flow rates are appropriate
when conducting a field examination of a RMFD and agreed to present the
item for a vote.

###### 331 VEHICLE-TANK METERS

####### 331-1 I Temperature Compensation

**Source:** Carryover Item 331-1 (This item originated from the Western
Weights and Measures Association (WWMA) and first appeared on the
Committee's 2000 agenda.)

**Recommendation:** Modify Section 3.31. Vehicle-Tank Meters (VTM) Code
by adding the following new paragraphs to recognize temperature
compensation as follows:

> **[S.2.4. Automatic Temperature Compensation for Refined Petroleum
> Products.]{.underline}**
>
> **[S.2.4.1. Automatic Temperature Compensation for Refined Petroleum
> Products. - A device may be equipped with an automatic means for
> adjusting the indication and registration of the measured volume of
> product to the volume at 15 °C (60 °F), where not prohibited by State
> Law.]{.underline}**
>
> **[S.2.4.2. Provision for Deactivating. - On a device equipped with an
> automatic temperature-compensating mechanism that will indicate or
> record only in terms of liters (gallons) compensated to 15 °C (60 °F),
> provision shall be made for deactivating the automatic
> temperature-compensating mechanism so that the meter can indicate and
> record, if it is equipped to record, in terms of the uncompensated
> volume.]{.underline}**
>
> **[S.2.4.3. Gross and Net Indications - A device equipped with
> automatic temperature compensation shall indicate and record, if
> equipped to record, both the gross (uncompensated) and net
> (compensated) volume for testing purposes. If both values cannot be
> displayed or recorded for the same test draft, means shall be provided
> to select either the gross or net indication for each test
> draft.]{.underline}**
>
> **[S.2.4.4. Provision for Sealing Automatic Temperature-Compensating
> Systems. - Adequate provision shall be made for an approved means of
> security (e.g., data change audit trail) or physically applying
> security seals in such a manner that an automatic
> temperature‑compensating system cannot be disconnected and that no
> adjustment may be made to the system.]{.underline}**
>
> **[S.2.4.5. Temperature Determination with Automatic Temperature
> Compensation. - For test purposes, means shall be provided (e.g.,
> thermometer well) to determine the temperature of the liquid
> either:]{.underline}**
>
> **[(a) In the liquid chamber of the meter, or]{.underline}**
>
> **[(b) Immediately adjacent to the meter in the meter inlet or
> discharge line.]{.underline}**

**[(Added 200X)]{.underline}**

> **[S.5.6. Temperature Compensation for Refined Petroleum Products. -
> If a device is equipped with an automatic temperature compensator, the
> primary indicating elements, recording elements, and recording
> representation shall be clearly and conspicuously marked to show that
> the volume delivered has been adjusted to the volume at 15 °C (60
> °F).]{.underline}**
>
> **[(Added 200X)]{.underline}**
>
> **[N.4.1.3. Automatic Temperature-Compensating Systems for Refined
> Petroleum Products. - On devices equipped with automatic
> temperature-compensating systems, normal tests shall be
> conducted:]{.underline}**

(a) **[by comparing the compensated volume indicated or recorded to the
    actual delivered volume corrected to 15 °C (60 °F);
    and]{.underline}**

(b) **[with the temperature-compensating system deactivated, comparing
    the uncompensated volume indicated or recorded to the actual
    delivered volume.]{.underline}**

> **[The first test shall be performed with the automatic
> temperature-compensating system operating in the \"as found\"
> condition. On devices that indicate or record both the compensated and
> uncompensated volume for each delivery, the tests in (a) and (b) may
> be performed as a single test.]{.underline}**
>
> **[(Added 200X)]{.underline}**
>
> **[N.5. Temperature Correction for Refined Petroleum Products. -
> Corrections shall be made for any changes in volume resulting from the
> differences in liquid temperatures between the time of passage through
> the meter and time of volumetric determination in the prover. When
> adjustments are necessary, appropriate petroleum measurement tables
> should be used.]{.underline}**
>
> **[(Added 200X)]{.underline}**
>
> **T.2.1. [Automatic Temperature-Compensating Systems. - The difference
> between the meter error (expressed as a percentage) for results
> determined with and without the automatic temperature-compensating
> system activated shall not exceed:]{.underline}**
>
> **[(a) 0.4 %  for mechanical automatic temperature-compensating
> systems; and]{.underline}**
>
> **[(b) 0.2 %  for electronic automatic temperature-compensating
> systems.]{.underline}**
>
> **[The delivered quantities for each test shall be approximately the
> same size. The results of each test shall be within the applicable
> acceptance or maintenance tolerance.]{.underline}**
>
> **[(Added 200X)]{.underline}**
>
> **[UR.2.5. Temperature Compensation for Refined Petroleum
> Products.]{.underline}**
>
> **[UR.2.5.1. Automatic.]{.underline}**
>
> **[UR.2.5.1.1. When to be Used. - In a State that does not prohibit,
> by law or regulation, the sale of temperature-compensated product a
> device equipped with an operable automatic temperature compensator
> shall be connected, operable, and in use at all times. An electronic
> or mechanical automatic temperature-compensating system may not be
> removed, nor may a compensated device be replaced with an
> uncompensated device, without the written approval of the responsible
> weights and measures jurisdiction.]{.underline}**
>
> **[\[Note: This requirement does not specify the method of sale for
> product measured through a meter.\]]{.underline}**
>
> **[UR.2.5.1.2. Invoices. - An invoice based on a reading of a device
> that is equipped with an automatic temperature compensator shall show
> that the volume delivered has been adjusted to the volume at 15 °C (60
> °F).]{.underline}**

**[(Added 200X)]{.underline}**

**Discussion/Background:** When this item was originally submitted,
several officials reportedly were confused about the specific meter
applications covered by an NTEP Certificate of Conformance for a meter
that included the temperature-compensation feature. The Western Weights
and Measures Association (WWMA) acknowledged some jurisdictions permit
temperature-compensated deliveries in applications that are not
addressed by NIST Handbook 44. Some states do not allow the use of
automatic temperature compensation for the delivery of products using a
VTM.

At the 2002 and 2003 NCWM Annual Meetings, this item did not achieve a
majority vote to pass or fail and was, therefore, returned to the
Committee for further consideration.

At the 2004 NCWM Annual Meeting, the Committee stated its position on
Item 331-1 as follows:

The Committee believed that the Specifications, Test Notes, Tolerances,
and User Requirements contained in the proposal are technically correct
and provide both weights and measures officials and the NTEP
laboratories with the proper criteria to use when evaluating a
vehicle-tank meter (VTM) with temperature-compensation capability. The
addition of this language to the VTM Code does not require, approve, nor
solicit any jurisdiction to either prohibit or accept the use of
temperature compensation in that jurisdiction. The Committee further
stated that the adoption of a nationally accepted method of sale for
temperature compensation by all jurisdictions will not be obtainable in
the foreseeable future and encouraged each jurisdiction to adopt by
either statute, rule, or regulation requirements that prohibit, permit,
or require temperature compensation in their jurisdiction.

The Committee agreed there were a sufficient number of states that
needed the new requirements as an inspection tool to warrant adding the
proposal to NIST Handbook 44 at that time without waiting for method of
sale requirements to be added to NIST Handbook 130.

At the 2004 NCWM Annual Meeting, this item did not achieve a majority
vote to pass or fail and was, therefore, returned to the Committee for
further consideration.

At its September 2004 Interim Meeting, the Central Weights and Measures
Association (CWMA) agreed with the Committee that nothing in this
proposal requires a jurisdiction to permit or prohibit the sale of
petroleum products that have been temperature compensated. The CWMA
recognized the technical merit of the proposal and felt that
requirements are needed in Handbook 44; however, the CWMA further agreed
that this is also a "method of sale" issue and that the proposal should
be retained as an information item until an accompanying method of sale
requirement is added to Handbook 130.

At its September 2004 meeting, the WWMA agreed with the Committee that
nothing in this proposal requires a jurisdiction to permit or prohibit
the sale of petroleum products that have been temperature compensated.
The WWMA continues its strong support of this proposal and recommends
that this item go forward for adoption by the NCWM.

At its October 2004 meeting, the Northeastern Weights and Measures
Association (NEWMA) members were informed that the L&R Committee
requested that the Board of Directors fund a work group to determine if
requirements for temperature compensation should be added to Handbook
130 and, if so, what wholesale and retail areas should be covered.
Several participants believed a work group was unnecessary and that work
groups should not be created just because a subject is controversial.
These members felt there were other items where work groups could be
better used. NEWMA also suggested removing the words "recognition of"
from the title of Item 331-1.

At the 2005 NCWM Interim Meeting, the Committee participated in a
combined open hearing with the L&R Committee for discussion of this item
and L&R Item 232-1 Temperature Compensation for Petroleum Products. A
special forum was also held on the first day of the Interim Meeting to
discuss temperature compensation issues. At both the forum and open
hearing, the Committee received little or no new information on this
item and considered withdrawing it from its agenda. However, the
Committee was informed that the L&R Committee kept its Item 232-1 as a
developing issue. The L&R Committee considered modifying Item 232-1 to
become two separate Items:  232‑1A and 232-1B; Item 232-1A would address
VTMs and Item 232-1B would address other meter types. However, the L&R
Committee decided not to split the item. Instead, the L&R Committee
modified Item 232-1 to allow temperature compensation for the sale of
petroleum products other than LPG and products sold through retail
motor-fuel devices and changed the status of the item to a "Developing"
issue.

During the 2005 NCWM Annual Meeting S&T Committee's open hearing, a
manufacturer stated that the number of requests from retailers for
retail motor-fuel dispensers with temperature-compensation capability is
increasing. The Committee agreed to keep the item on the agenda until
the L&R Item 232-1 was further developed. (See L&R Item 232-1.)

For additional background on this item, see the NCWM 2000 through 2004
S&T Final Reports.

####### 331-2 VC S.1.4.1. Display of Unit Price

(This item was adopted.)

**Source:** National Type Evaluation Technical Committee (NTETC)
Measuring Sector

**Recommendation:** Modify Section 3.31. paragraph S.1.4.1. Display of
Unit Price as follows:

> **S.1.4.1. Display of Unit Price. -** In a device of the computing
> type, means shall be provided for displaying ~~on the outside of the
> device~~, in a manner clear to the operator and an observer, the unit
> price at which the device is set to compute. **[The unit price is not
> required to be displayed continuously.]{.underline}**

(Amended 1983 **[and 2005]{.underline}**)

Discussion/Background: At the 2004 Measuring Sector meeting, a
manufacturer of vehicle-tank meters (VTM) asked the Sector to provide
input on the intent of Handbook 44 Section 3.31. paragraph S.1.4.1.
Display of Unit Price. The Sector was asked to determine whether or not
the unit price must be displayed continuously. The manufacturer referred
to the final report of the 1983 NCWM S&T Committee. In that report under
S&T Item 304-2 the Committee stated its view that it is appropriate for
a digital electronic indicating element associated with a VTM to utilize
a shared display; that is, the same display area can be used to indicate
the volume delivered, the unit price, and the total price. However, the
information is not required to be displayed simultaneously. The Sector
agreed the intent of the S&T Committee was clear and it decided to
forward to the NCWM and the Southern Weights and Measures Association
(SWMA) for consideration a recommendation to add text to clarify
S.1.4.1.

At its October 2004 meeting, the SWMA agreed with the Measuring Sector's
interpretation of the intent of S.1.4.1. and agreed to forward the
recommendation shown above to the Committee as a voting item.

At the 2005 NCWM Interim and Annual Meetings, the Committee heard no
opposition to this item and agreed to present it for a vote.

####### 331-3 VC S.2.4. Zero Set-Back Interlock, Vehicle-Tank Meters, Electronic

(This item was adopted.)

**Source:** Carryover Item 331-3. (This item originated from the
Southern Weights and Measures Association (SWMA) and first appeared on
the Committee's 2004 agenda.)

**Recommendation:** Add a new paragraph S.2.4. to Section 3.31.
Vehicle-Tank Meters (VTM) as follows:

> ***[S.2.4. Zero-Set-Back Interlock, Vehicle-Tank Meters, Electronic.
> -- Except for vehicle-mounted metering systems used solely for the
> delivery of aviation fuel, a device shall be so constructed that after
> an individual or multiple deliveries at one location have been
> completed, an automatic interlock system shall engage to prevent a
> subsequent delivery until the indicating and, if equipped, recording
> elements have been returned to their zero position. For individual
> deliveries, if there is no product flow for 3 minutes the transaction
> must be completed before additional product flow is allowed. The
> 3-minute timeout shall be a sealable feature on an
> indicator.]{.underline}***
>
> ***[\[Nonretroactive as of January 1, 2006\]]{.underline}***
>
> **[(Added 2005)]{.underline}**

**Background/Discussion:** The original SWMA proposal applied to both
mechanical and electronic registers in VTM applications. The
manufacturers of VTM registers agreed that it is not economically
practical to modify existing mechanical registers to include a zero
set-back interlock or to add that feature to new production of
mechanical registers. At the October 2004 meeting of the Measuring
Sector, the members developed an alternate recommendation to add a new
paragraph S.2.4. to Handbook 44, Section 3.31. Vehicle-Tank Meters that
applies only to electronic registers. The Sector agreed to forward the
proposal to the NCWM S&T and the SWMA Committees for consideration.

At its October 2004 meeting, the SWMA reviewed the Measuring Sector's
recommendation. The SWMA agreed with the proposal provided, that the
3-minute time-out feature be sealable and agreed that the word "may" be
changed to "shall" in the last sentence. The SWMA agreed to forward its
modified proposal to the S&T Committee with the recommendation that it
be a voting item on the Committee's 2005 Agenda.

At the 2005 NCWM Interim Meeting, one official stated that mechanical
registers should be included in the requirement for a zero-set-back
interlock. The Committee believes it is not practical to modify the
mechanical registers currently in use in vehicle-tank meter applications
and that attempting to include them in this requirement would
significantly delay adoption of any requirement for a zero-set-back
interlock. The Committee also believes the number of new mechanical
registers being installed is declining and will continue to do so. The
Committee recognizes that, while it is more difficult to detect and take
enforcement action, paragraph UR.2.3. Ticket in Printing Device,
provides a mechanism for stopping the "riding of tickets" between
deliveries. The Committee agreed with the SWMA recommendation to modify
the Measuring Sector's proposal and to present the modified proposal in
the recommendation above for a vote at the 2005 NCWM Annual Meeting.

For additional background on this item, see the NCWM 2004 S&T Final
Report.

At the 2005 NCWM Annual Meeting, the Committee heard no opposition to
this item.

####### 331-4 VC N.4.2. Special Tests (Except Milk-Measuring Systems), N.4.5. Product Depletion Test, T.4. Product Depletion Test, and Table T.4. tolerances for Vehicle-Tank Meters on Product Depletion Tests, Except Milk Meters

(This item was adopted.)

**Source:** Carryover Item 331-2. (This item originated from the
Northeastern Weights and Measures Association (NEWMA) and first appeared
on the Committee's 2003 agenda.)

**Recommendation:** Amend paragraph N.4.2. Special Tests (Except
Milk-Measuring Systems) as follows:

> **N.4.2. Special Tests (Except Milk-Measuring Systems). -** "Special"
> tests shall be made to develop the operating characteristics of a
> measuring system and any special elements and accessories attached to
> or associated with the device. Any test except as set forth in N.4.1.
> **[and N.4.5.]{.underline}** shall be considered a special test.
> Special tests of a measuring system shall be made **~~as follows:~~**
>
> **~~(a)~~** at a minimum discharge rate of 20 % of the marked maximum
> discharge rate or at the minimum discharge rate marked on the device
> whichever is less~~;~~[.]{.underline}
>
> **(Amended 2005)**
>
> **~~(b) to develop operating characteristics of the measuring system
> during a split compartment delivery.~~**
>
> Add new paragraphs N.4.5. Product Depletion Test and T.4. Product
> Depletion Test and Table T.4. Tolerances as follows:

N.4.5. Product Depletion Test. - Except for vehicle-mounted metering
systems used solely for the delivery of aviation fuel, the effectiveness
of the vapor eliminator or vapor elimination means shall be tested by
dispensing product at the normal flow rate until the product supply is
depleted and continuing until the lack of fluid causes the meter
indication to stop completely for at least 10 seconds. If the meter
indication fails to stop completely for at least 10 seconds, continue to
operate the system for 3 minutes. Finish the test by switching to
another compartment with sufficient product to complete the test on a
multi-compartment vehicle or by adding sufficient product to complete
the test to a single compartment vehicle. When adding product to a
single compartment vehicle, allow appropriate time for any entrapped
vapor to disperse before continuing the test. Test drafts shall be of
the same size and run at approximately the same flow rate.

> **[(Added 2005)]{.underline}**

T.4. Product Depletion Test. - The range of the test results for the
normal test and the product depletion test shall not exceed the
tolerance shown in Table T.4. Test drafts shall be of the same size and
run at approximately the same flow rate.

> **[\[Note: The result of the product depletion test may fall outside
> of the applicable test tolerance as specified in Table
> T.2.\]]{.underline}**

(Added 2005)

+---------------------------------------+------------------------------+
| **[Table T.4. Tolerances for          |                              |
| Vehicle-Tank Meters]{.underline}**    |                              |
|                                       |                              |
| **[on Product Depletion Tests, Except |                              |
| Milk Meters]{.underline}**            |                              |
+---------------------------------------+------------------------------+
| **[Meter Size]{.underline}**          | **[Maintenance and           |
|                                       | Acceptance                   |
|                                       | Tolerances]{.underline}**    |
+---------------------------------------+------------------------------+
| **[Up to but not including 50 mm (2   | **[1.70 L ( 104              |
| in)]{.underline}**                    | in^3^)^1^]{.underline}**     |
+---------------------------------------+------------------------------+
| **[From 50 mm (2 in) up to but not    | **[2.25 L ( 137              |
| including 75 mm (3 in)]{.underline}** | in^3^)^1^]{.underline}**     |
+---------------------------------------+------------------------------+
| **[75 mm (3 in) or                    | **[3.75 L ( 229              |
| larger]{.underline}**                 | in^3^)^1^]{.underline}**     |
+---------------------------------------+------------------------------+
| **[^1^ Based on a test volume of at   |                              |
| least 1 minute flow in accordance     |                              |
| with N.3.]{.underline}**              |                              |
+---------------------------------------+------------------------------+

> **[(Table Added 2005)]{.underline}**

**Discussion:** The measurement of vapor when product is depleted during
the vehicle-tank meter (VTM) "split compartment" test (product depletion
test) is a system problem and the amount of vapor measured is not
related to the size of the test draft. The proposal requires a product
depletion test for single compartment vehicles to verify the performance
of the air elimination mechanism. Currently paragraph N.4.2.(b) refers
only to a "split-compartment" delivery, implying that the test should
only be conducted on multi-compartment vehicles. The proposal recommends
modifying the tolerances so that the applicable tolerance is based on
the meter's flow rate and remains constant regardless of the size of the
test draft and modifies the language to clarify that the product
depletion test is to be conducted on both single- and multi-compartment
vehicles.

At its October 2004 meeting, the NTETC Measuring Sector reviewed an
alternate proposal for a new Table T.4. developed by Maryland Weights
and Measures and NIST WMD based on the Measurement Canada tolerance
structure that categorizes meters by size (pipe diameter) for product
depletion tests. The VTM manufacturers present at the meeting verified
that there is a definite correlation between the meter size and the
achievable maximum flow rate. The Sector agreed with the alternate
proposal and provided an example of how the product depletion test would
be applied and a note stating that the results of the product depletion
test could fall outside of the applicable tolerance if the meter being
tested were included in Table T.4. as shown in the recommendation above.
The Sector agreed to forward the alternate proposal to the Southern
Weights and Measures Association (SWMA) and the Committee for
consideration.

At the October 2004 NEWMA meeting, New York proposed that an NCWM work
group be formed to research this item and supplied a discussion paper in
support of the proposal. NEWMA agreed to forward its recommendation for
a work group and the paper to the Committee for consideration.

At its October 2004 Meeting, the SWMA heard no opposition to the
Measuring Sector's proposal. One official asked if a similar requirement
should be added to the Section 3.30. Liquid-Measuring Devices for
wholesale meters and to Section 3.32. LPG and Anhydrous Ammonia
Liquid-Measuring Devices. The SWMA agreed to forward the proposal to the
NCWM S&T Committee with the recommendation that it be a voting item on
the Committee's 2005 Agenda. The SWMA also recommended that the
Committee consider adding similar appropriate requirements to Sections
3.30. and 3.32. for testing the effectiveness of vapor elimination
means.

Following the 2004 fall meetings of NEWMA, SWMA, and the NTETC Measuring
Sector, New York Weights and Measures worked with WMD to add another
category of meter sizes to the proposed Table T.4. from the NTETC
Measuring Sector as shown in the recommendation above. This change was
based on New York's concern that a large number of vehicle-tank meters
less than 2.0 inches are still in use in that state. The tolerance for
meters smaller than 2.0 inches was developed based on the current
tolerance for a draft of at least 1 minute's flow for a typical meter of
that size. However, the tolerance is not directly related to draft size
and remains unchanged even if the draft size is increased.

At the 2005 NCWM Interim Meeting, the Committee heard support for the
proposal with the changes recommended by New York and WMD and agreed to
present the modified proposal for a vote at the 2005 Annual Meeting.

During the open hearing at the 2005 NCWM Annual Meeting, a manufacturer
of vehicle-tank meters informed the Committee of safety concerns with
conducting a product depletion test on an aircraft refueling system. The
creation of vapor within the system during the conduct of a product
depletion test can cause an explosion hazard. The technical advisor to
the Committee from Measurement Canada concurred with this comment and
advised that Measurement Canada no longer conducts such tests on meters
used for aircraft refueling. The Committee agreed that, because there is
a safety concern and that many aircraft refueling systems use effective
means other than a "vapor eliminator" to prevent the passage of vapor or
air though the meter, aircraft refueling systems should be exempt from
the product depletion tests and proposed modifying paragraph N.4.5.
Product Depletion Test, as shown in the recommendation above.

For additional background on this item, see the NCWM 2003 and 2004 S&T
Committee Final Reports.[]{#__RefHeading___Toc97739471 .anchor}

####### 336 WATER METERS 

####### I Table N.4.2. Flow Rate and Draft Size for Water Meters Special Tests

**Source:** Northeastern Weights and Measures Association (NEWMA)

**Recommendation:** Amend Table N.4.2. as follows:

+---------+---------+----------+--------+---------+---------+---------+
| **Table |         |          |        |         |         |         |
| N.4.2.  |         |          |        |         |         |         |
| Flow    |         |          |        |         |         |         |
| Rate    |         |          |        |         |         |         |
| and     |         |          |        |         |         |         |
| Draft   |         |          |        |         |         |         |
| Size    |         |          |        |         |         |         |
| for     |         |          |        |         |         |         |
| Water   |         |          |        |         |         |         |
| M       |         |          |        |         |         |         |
| eters** |         |          |        |         |         |         |
|         |         |          |        |         |         |         |
| **      |         |          |        |         |         |         |
| Special |         |          |        |         |         |         |
| Tests** |         |          |        |         |         |         |
+---------+---------+----------+--------+---------+---------+---------+
| **Meter | **Inter |          |        | **      |         |         |
| size**  | mediate |          |        | Minimum |         |         |
|         | Rate**  |          |        | Rate**  |         |         |
| **(in   |         |          |        |         |         |         |
| ches)** |         |          |        |         |         |         |
+---------+---------+----------+--------+---------+---------+---------+
|         | **Rate  | **Meter  |        | **Rate  | **Meter |         |
|         | of flow | indicat  |        | of      | i       |         |
|         | (gal    | ion/Test |        | flow**  | ndicati |         |
|         | /min)** | Draft**  |        |         | on/Test |         |
|         |         |          |        | **(gal  | Draft** |         |
|         |         |          |        | /min)** |         |         |
+---------+---------+----------+--------+---------+---------+---------+
|         |         | **gal**  | **f    |         | **gal** | **      |
|         |         |          | t^3^** |         |         | ft^3^** |
+---------+---------+----------+--------+---------+---------+---------+
| Less    | 2       | 10       | 1      | 1/4     | **~~    | 1       |
| than or |         |          |        |         | 5~~[10] |         |
| equal   |         |          |        |         | {.under |         |
| to 5/8  |         |          |        |         | line}** |         |
+---------+---------+----------+--------+---------+---------+---------+
| 3/4     | 3       | 10       | 1      | 1/2     | **~~    | 1       |
|         |         |          |        |         | 5~~[10] |         |
|         |         |          |        |         | {.under |         |
|         |         |          |        |         | line}** |         |
+---------+---------+----------+--------+---------+---------+---------+
| 1       | 4       | 10       | 1      | 3/4     | **~~    | 1       |
|         |         |          |        |         | 5~~[10] |         |
|         |         |          |        |         | {.under |         |
|         |         |          |        |         | line}** |         |
+---------+---------+----------+--------+---------+---------+---------+
| 1 1/2   | 8       | 50       | 5      | 1 1/2   | 10      | 1       |
+---------+---------+----------+--------+---------+---------+---------+
| 2       | 15      | 50       | 5      | 2       | 10      | 1       |
+---------+---------+----------+--------+---------+---------+---------+
| 3       | 20      | 50       | 5      | 4       | 10      | 1       |
+---------+---------+----------+--------+---------+---------+---------+
| 4       | 40      | 100      | 10     | 7       | **~~50  | 5       |
|         |         |          |        |         | ~~[100] |         |
|         |         |          |        |         | {.under |         |
|         |         |          |        |         | line}** |         |
+---------+---------+----------+--------+---------+---------+---------+
| 6       | 60      | 100      | 10     | 12      | **~~50  | 5       |
|         |         |          |        |         | ~~[100] |         |
|         |         |          |        |         | {.under |         |
|         |         |          |        |         | line}** |         |
+---------+---------+----------+--------+---------+---------+---------+
| (Table  |         |          |        |         |         |         |
| Added   |         |          |        |         |         |         |
| 2003)   |         |          |        |         |         |         |
| **[(    |         |          |        |         |         |         |
| Amended |         |          |        |         |         |         |
| 200X)]  |         |          |        |         |         |         |
| {.under |         |          |        |         |         |         |
| line}** |         |          |        |         |         |         |
+---------+---------+----------+--------+---------+---------+---------+

**Discussion/Background:** At the fall 2004 NEWMA meeting, a
manufacturer submitted the proposal revisions to Table N.4.2. shown
above. The manufacturer explained that a test draft of 5 gallons is not
large enough to provide repeatability for dial indicating water meters
sized 1 inch and smaller. The dial indicator for these devices has
100 graduations of 1/10 gallon, which means one complete revolution
equals 10 gallons. The effect of parallax on the reading and gear
backlash both contribute to the lack of repeatability of indications
when using a 5-gallon test draft. The manufacturer recommended that any
test of the device include, at a minimum, at least one complete
revolution of the dial indicator. None of the jurisdictions represented
at the NEWMA meeting routinely test water meters; therefore, they could
not provide any input on the technical merits of the proposal. However,
NEWMA agreed to forward the proposal to the Committee for consideration.

At the 2005 NCWM Interim Meeting, the only concern the Committee heard
was that the time required for some tests would increase significantly.
The submitter of the proposal did not attend the Interim Meeting. The
Committee agreed to make the proposal an information item to provide an
opportunity for review and comment from the regional associations,
especially jurisdictions routinely conducting water meter tests. If
additional support and comments are not received by the 2006 NCWM
Interim Meeting, the Committee may withdraw this item.

At the 2005 NCWM Annual Meeting, there was no discussion on this item.

###### 360 OTHER ITEMS

####### 360-1 V Proposed Section 5.59. Electronic Livestock, Meat, and Poultry Evaluation Systems and/or Devices -Tentative Code

(This item was adopted.)

**Source:** Southern Weights and Measures Association (SWMA)

**Recommendation:** Add a Tentative Code Section 5.59. Livestock, Meat,
and Poultry Evaluation Systems and/or Devices as follows:

> **[Sec. 5.59. Electronic Livestock, Meat, and Poultry Evaluation
> Systems and/or Devices - Tentative Code. - This tentative code has
> only a trial or experimental status and is not intended to be
> enforced. The requirements are designed for study prior to the
> development and adoption of a final Code for Livestock, Meat, and
> Poultry Evaluation Systems and/or Devices. Officials wanting to
> conduct an official examination of a device or system are advised to
> see paragraph G-A.3. Special and Unclassified
> Equipment.]{.underline}**
>
> **[(Tentative Code Added 2005)]{.underline}**
>
> **[A. Application]{.underline}**
>
> **[A.1. - This code applies to electronic devices or systems for
> measuring the composition or quality constituents of live animals,
> livestock and poultry carcasses, and individual cuts of meat or a
> combination thereof for the purpose of determining
> value.]{.underline}**
>
> **[A.2. - See also Sec. 1.10; General Code
> requirements.]{.underline}**
>
> **[A.3. - This code does not apply to scales used to weigh live
> animals, livestock and poultry carcasses, and individual cuts of meat
> unless the scales are part of an integrated system designed to measure
> composition or quality constituents. Scales used in integrated systems
> must also meet NIST Handbook 44 Section 2.20.
> requirements.]{.underline}**
>
> **[S. Specifications]{.underline}**
>
> **[S.1. Design and Manufacture - All design and manufacturing
> specifications shall comply with ASTM Standard F 2342 Standard
> Specification for Design and Construction of Composition or Quality
> Constituent Measuring Devices or Systems.]{.underline}**
>
> **[N. Notes]{.underline}**
>
> **[N.1. Method of Test. - Performance tests shall be conducted in
> accordance with ASTM Standard F 2343 Test Method for Livestock, Meat,
> and Poultry Evaluation Devices.]{.underline}**
>
> **[N.2. Testing Standards. - ASTM Standard F 2343 requires device or
> system users to maintain accurate reference standards that meet the
> tolerance expressed in NIST Handbook 44 Fundamental Considerations,
> paragraph 3.2. (i.e., one third of the smallest tolerance
> applied.)]{.underline}**
>
> N.3. Verification. - Device or system users are required to verify and
> document the accuracy of a device or system on each production day as
> specified by ASTM Standard F 2341 Standard Practice of User
> Requirements for Livestock, Meat, and Poultry Evaluation Devices or
> Systems.
>
> **[N.3.1. Official Tests. - Officials are encouraged to periodically
> witness the required "in house" verification of accuracy. Officials
> may also conduct official tests using the on-site testing standards or
> other appropriate standards belonging to the jurisdiction with
> statutory authority over the device or system.]{.underline}**
>
> **[T. Tolerances]{.underline}**
>
> **[T.1. Tolerances on Individual Measurements. - Maintenance and
> acceptance tolerances on an individual measurement shall be as shown
> in Table T.1.]{.underline}**

  ----------------------------------- -----------------------------------
  **[Table T.1.                       
  Tolerances]{.underline}**           

  **[Individual linear measurement of **[ 1 mm (0.039 in)]{.underline}**
  a single constituent]{.underline}** 

  **[Measurement of                   **[ 1.6 cm^2^ (0.25
  area]{.underline}**                 in^2^)]{.underline}**

  **[For measurements of other        **[As specified in ASTM Standard F
  constituents]{.underline}**         2343]{.underline}**
  ----------------------------------- -----------------------------------

> **[UR. User Requirements]{.underline}**
>
> **[UR.1. Installation Requirements.]{.underline}**
>
> **[UR.1.1. Installation. - All devices and systems shall be installed
> in accordance with manufacturer's instructions.]{.underline}**
>
> **[UR.2. Maintenance of Equipment.]{.underline}**
>
> **[UR.2.1. Maintenance. - All devices and systems shall be continually
> maintained in an accurate condition and in accordance with the
> manufacturer's instructions and ASTM Standard F 2341.]{.underline}**
>
> **[UR.3. Use requirements.]{.underline}**
>
> **[UR.3.1. Limitation of Use. - All devices and systems shall be used
> to make measurements in a manner specified by the
> manufacturer.]{.underline}**
>
> **[UR.4. Testing Standards. - The user of a commercial device shall
> make available to the official with statutory authority over the
> device testing standards that meet the tolerance expressed in
> Fundamental Considerations, paragraph 3.2. (i.e., one third of the
> smallest tolerance applied). The accuracy of the testing standards
> shall be verified annually or on a frequency as required by the
> official with statutory authority and shall be traceable to a national
> standard.]{.underline}**

**Discussion:** In 2000 the Grain Inspection, Packers, and Stockyards
Administration (GIPSA) branch of the United States Department of
Agriculture (USDA) approached NIST Weights and Measures Division (WMD)
and the NCWM to discuss the development of standards for devices used to
measure fat content in animal carcasses. Because neither the NCWM nor
NIST had the resources needed to develop such a standard, the American
Society for Testing and Materials (ASTM) was asked to facilitate
development of a standard. The ASTM agreed to develop standards, (now
known as ASTM Standard F10) for Livestock, Meat, and Poultry Evaluation
Systems for the measurement of fat and other quality constituents in
animal carcasses. Some of these devices or systems will measure only a
single constituent, which will be used to determine the value of the
carcasses or primal cuts. Other systems may integrate the measurement of
several constituents such as fat, lean, marbling, pH, and color, to
determine carcass value.

The NCWM agreed that if USDA was able to develop standards for these
devices outside of the NCWM, the NCWM would consider adopting these
standards as a tentative code in NIST Handbook 44. The code in
Handbook 44 is needed to provide an enforcement tool for USDA and other
jurisdictions wanting to have a mechanism for conducting inspections of
these devices and approving or rejecting them according to the results
of the inspection. The ASTM Standards are voluntary standards that only
have the effect of law when they are adopted into regulation by a
jurisdiction with statutory authority over these devices. Including or
referencing such standards in Handbook 44 provides a method for that
adoption.

At its October 2004 meeting, the SWMA reviewed a draft tentative code
for livestock, meat, and poultry evaluation systems and devices prepared
by WMD. The SWMA agreed to forward the proposal to the Committee for
addition to Handbook 44 as a tentative code with the recommendation that
it be a voting item on the 2005 NCWM S&T Agenda.

At the 2005 NCWM Interim Meeting, the Committee heard no opposition to
this proposal and agreed to present it for a vote at the 2005 NCWM
Annual Meeting.

At the 2005 NCWM Annual Meeting, one official stated that the proposal
was not ready for adoption and would not be used by weights and measures
officials. Another official stated that Handbook 44 should not apply to
devices used for grading purposes. Several individuals stated that the
purpose of a tentative code is to provide a trial period and to
facilitate necessary changes prior to making a code "permanent."
Attendees at the 2005 NCWM Annual Meeting and at the Spring 2005 Central
and Northeastern Weights and Measures Associations Annual Meetings were
provided with a list of "frequently asked questions and answers"
relating to Electronic Livestock, Meat, and Poultry Evaluation Systems
and/or Devices; these FAQs are included in Appendix B. The FAQs were
also posted on the Weights and Measures Directors' list server in June
2005. After consideration of the comments it received the Committee
decided to recommend the item for adoption by the NCWM.

####### 360-2 V Appendix A Fundamental Considerations 3. Testing Apparatus; 3.1 Adequacy, 3.2 Tolerances for Standards and Footnote 2, and 3.3 Accuracy of Standards

(This item was adopted.)

**Source:** Western Weights and Measures Association (WWMA)

**Recommendation:** Amend Appendix A Fundamental Considerations
3.Testing Apparatus as follows:

Add amended Footnote 2 to paragraph 3.1 Adequacy as follows:

**3. Testing Apparatus**

> **3.1. Adequacy.^[2]{.underline}^ -** Tests can be made properly only
> if, among other things, adequate testing apparatus is available.
> Testing apparatus may be considered adequate only when it is properly
> designed for its intended use, when it is so constructed that it will
> retain its characteristics for a reasonable period under conditions of
> normal use, when it is available in denominations appropriate for a
> proper determination of the value or performance of the commercial
> equipment under test, and when it is accurately calibrated.
>
> **[^2^Recommendations regarding the specifications and tolerances for
> suitable field standards may be obtained from the Weights and Measures
> Division of]{.underline}** **~~The numerical values of the tolerances
> recommended by~~** the National Institute of Standards and
> Technology~~,~~**[.]{.underline}** ~~for the
> s~~[S]{.underline}tandards will meet the specifications of ~~**length,
> mass, and capacity used by weights and measures officials, may be
> obtained upon request from** the Weights and Measures Division of~~
> the National Institute of Standards and Technology **[Handbook
> 105-Series standards (or other suitable and designated standards).
> This section shall not preclude the use of additional field standards
> and/or equipment, as approved by the Director, for uniform evaluation
> of device performance]{.underline}**.

Amend paragraphs 3.2 Tolerances for Standards and 3.3 Accuracy of
Standards as follows:

> **3.2. Tolerances for Standards.^~~2~~^ - ~~The error in a standard
> used by a weights and measures official should be known and corrected
> for when the standard is used; or if the standard is to be used
> without correction, its error should be not greater than one-third of
> the smallest tolerance to be applied when the standard is used. The
> reason for this is to keep at a minimum the proportion of the
> tolerance on the item tested that will be used up by the error of the
> standard. Expressed differently,~~** **[Except for work of relatively
> high precision, it is recommended that the accuracy of standards used
> in testing commercial weighing and measuring equipment be established
> and maintained so that the use of corrections is not necessary. When
> the standard is used without correction, its combined error and
> uncertainty must be less than one-third of the applicable device
> tolerance.]{.underline}**
>
> **[Device testing is complicated to some degree when corrections to
> standards are applied. When using the correction of the standard, the
> uncertainty associated with the corrected value must be less than
> one-third of the applicable device tolerance.]{.underline}**
> **~~t~~[T]{.underline}**he reason **[for this
> requirement]{.underline}** is to give the **~~item~~
> [device]{.underline}** being tested as nearly as practicable the full
> benefit of its own tolerance.
>
> **~~Field testing operations are complicated to some degree when
> corrections to standards are applied. Except for work of relatively
> high precision, it is recommended that the accuracy of standards used
> in testing commercial weighing and measuring equipment be so
> established and maintained that the use of corrections is not
> necessary. Also, whenever it can readily be done, it will be desirable
> to reduce the error on a standard below the one-third point previously
> mentioned.~~**
>
> **3.3. Accuracy of Standards. -** Prior to the official use of testing
> apparatus, its accuracy should invariably be verified.
> **[Field]{.underline}** **~~S~~[s]{.underline}**tandards should be
> **~~re-verified~~** **[calibrated]{.underline}** as often as
> circumstances require. By their nature, metal volumetric
> **[field]{.underline}** standards are more susceptible to damage in
> handling than are standards of some other types. A
> **[field]{.underline}** standard should be **~~re-~~**calibrated
> whenever damage is known or suspected to have occurred or significant
> repairs have been made. In addition, **[field]{.underline}**
> standards, particularly volumetric standards, should be
> **~~re-~~**calibrated with sufficient frequency to affirm their
> continued accuracy, so that the official may always be in an
> unassailable position with respect to the accuracy of his testing
> apparatus. Secondary **[field]{.underline}** standards, such as
> special fabric testing tapes, should be verified much more frequently
> than such basic standards as steel tapes or volumetric provers to
> demonstrate their constancy of value or performance.
>
> Accurate and dependable results cannot be obtained with faulty or
> inadequate **[field]{.underline}** standards. If either the service
> person or official is poorly equipped, their results cannot be
> expected to check consistently. Disagreements can be avoided and the
> servicing of commercial equipment can be expedited and improved if
> service persons and officials give equal attention to the adequacy and
> maintenance of their testing apparatus.

**Discussion:** In July 2000, the Metrology Subcommittee began formal
discussions on inconsistencies in laboratory calibration practices for
ensuring the traceability of field standards. A NIST work group further
developed the Subcommittee's recommendations into proposals to modify
NIST Handbook 44 as shown in the recommendation above. It also submitted
proposals for changes to the requirements in NIST Handbook 130 "Uniform
Laws and Regulations" to include guidelines for suitable reference
standards, test procedures, and practices for determining whether or not
to allow the use of field standards as test apparatus.

Both Handbooks required updating for consistency and to recognize
current accepted accreditation and recognition practices for field
standards, where applicable. The Handbooks should be modified to align
international and national metrological terminology and to adequately
define and clarify terms already in use that relate to field standard
verification such as: accreditation, calibration, recognition, standards
(field, primary, reference, secondary, and working), traceability,
uncertainty, and verification. The proposal added the term "field" to
distinguish the type of physical standard in use for testing of devices.
The proposal also specifies the appropriate documentary standards and
specifies that the field standard's combined error and uncertainty must
be less than one-third of the applicable device tolerance.

The Subcommittee recommended corresponding modifications to Handbook 130
(see L&R Agenda Item 221-1 and Item 234-1). Metrological terminology
would be updated and, where permitted, calibration interval adjustments
based on statistical data would be allowed to improve the accuracy of
field standards in use and provide more cost-effective use of resources.
The Subcommittee further recommended that Handbook 130 reference the
entire NIST Handbook 105 Series as well as other suitable designated
standards. To expedite matters and recognize the latest technology,
proposed amendments would permit "Placed in Service Reports" for
registered service agencies to be forwarded electronically to the State
Director rather than mailed. Finally, to ensure measurements are
allowable, organizations issuing calibration reports must be recognized
by NIST or approved by an accreditation body.

The WWMA recommended the proposal as a voting item.

The Central Weights and Measures Association (CWMA) believes that device
tolerances already allow for uncertainties, which field officials find
difficult to determine. The CWMA also believes that use of the term
"calibrated" changes the intent of paragraph 3.3. Consequently, the CWMA
withdrew the proposal from its Interim Agenda.

The Northeastern Weights and Measures Association recommended the
proposal become a developing item, but did not provide a rationale for
taking that position.

During the 2005 NCWM Interim Meeting, the Committee met jointly with the
L&R Committee to discuss and to take testimony on this proposal. The
Committee heard only a request that the terms "initial verification" and
"subsequent verification" be identified in the corresponding L&R
proposal. Both Committees agreed that the proposal will eliminate
inconsistencies and provide for recognition of current metrological
practices. Consequently, the Committee agreed that the issues should
move forward for a vote in July 2005. Modifications were planned for L&R
Item 221-1 to include adding new definitions of "initial verification"
and "subsequent verification" since both terms are referenced in the
proposed guidelines for examination and calibration or certification of
standards and testing equipment.

A list of frequently asked questions (FAQs) was distributed at the July
2005 NCWM Annual Meeting and distributed on the Weights and Measures
Directors list server in June 2005 to provide additional background
information on the changes proposed to NIST Handbooks 130 and 44; these
FAQs are included in Appendix C. One point not specified in the FAQs or
proposal is the expanded uncertainty to an approximate 95 % confidence
level. The three interrelated items passed with several modifications to
L&R items that addressed the definitions of primary and secondary
standards and the examination and certification of test standards. For
more details on this item, see the 2005 L&R Final Report.

####### 360-3 I International Organization of Legal Metrology (OIML) Report 

Many issues before the OIML, the Asian-Pacific Legal Metrology Forum
(APLMF), and other international groups are within the purview of the
S&T Committee. Additional information on OIML activities is available in
Appendix A of the 2005 Board of Directors Final Report and on the OIML
website at [http://www.oiml.org](http://www.oiml.org/). NIST Weights and
Measures Division (WMD) provided updates on OIML activities during the
open hearing session on Monday, July 18, 2005. For more information on
specific OIML device activities contact the WMD staff listed in the
table below:

+-------------+--------+---------------+-------------------+----------+
| **NIST      |        |               |                   |          |
| Weights and |        |               |                   |          |
| Measures    |        |               |                   |          |
| Division    |        |               |                   |          |
| Contact     |        |               |                   |          |
| List**      |        |               |                   |          |
+-------------+--------+---------------+-------------------+----------+
| **Staff**   | *      | **Email**     | **Device Type**   | **Postal |
|             | *Telep |               |                   | Mail or  |
|             | hone** |               |                   | Fax**    |
+-------------+--------+---------------+-------------------+----------+
| Steven Cook | 301-97 | <steven.c     | Automatic         | NIST WMD |
| (LMD)       | 5-4003 | ook@nist.gov> | Weighing Systems  |          |
|             |        |               |                   | 100      |
|             |        |               | Weighing Devices  | Bureau   |
|             |        |               |                   | Dr       |
|             |        |               |                   |          |
|             |        |               |                   | MS 2600  |
|             |        |               |                   |          |
|             |        |               |                   | Gaith    |
|             |        |               |                   | ersburg, |
|             |        |               |                   | MD       |
|             |        |               |                   |          |
|             |        |               |                   | 20       |
|             |        |               |                   | 899-2600 |
|             |        |               |                   |          |
|             |        |               |                   | Fax:     |
|             |        |               |                   |          |
|             |        |               |                   | 301-     |
|             |        |               |                   | 926-0647 |
+-------------+--------+---------------+-------------------+----------+
| Richard     | 301-97 | richard.hars  | R134 "Weighing    |          |
| Harshman    | 5-8107 | hman@nist.gov | Road Vehicles     |          |
| (LMD)       |        |               | In-Motion"        |          |
|             |        |               |                   |          |
|             |        |               | R60 "Load Cells"  |          |
+-------------+--------+---------------+-------------------+----------+
| Diane Lee   | 301-97 | <diane.       | R51 Grain         |          |
| McGowan     | 5-4405 | lee@nist.gov> | Moisture Meters   |          |
| (LMD)       |        |               |                   |          |
|             |        |               | Near Infrared     |          |
|             |        |               | Grain Analyzers   |          |
+-------------+--------+---------------+-------------------+----------+
| Ralph       | 301-97 | <ralph.rich   | R117 "Measuring   |          |
| Richter     | 5-4025 | ter@nist.gov> | Systems for       |          |
| (ILM)       |        |               | Liquids Other     |          |
|             |        |               | Than Water"       |          |
|             |        |               |                   |          |
|             |        |               | R105 "Direct Mass |          |
|             |        |               | Flow              |          |
|             |        |               |                   |          |
|             |        |               | Measuring Systems |          |
|             |        |               | for Quantities of |          |
|             |        |               | Liquids" and Gas  |          |
|             |        |               | Meters            |          |
+-------------+--------+---------------+-------------------+----------+
| Wayne       | 301-97 | <s.stie       | Measuring Devices |          |
| Stiefel     | 5-4011 | fel@nist.gov> |                   |          |
| (ILM)       |        |               |                   |          |
+-------------+--------+---------------+-------------------+----------+
| Dr. Ambler  | 301-97 | <amb          | Electronic        |          |
| Thompson    | 5-2333 | ler@nist.gov> | Measuring Devices |          |
| (ILM)       |        |               |                   |          |
+-------------+--------+---------------+-------------------+----------+
| Juana       | 301-97 | <juana.willi  | R21 Taximeters    |          |
| Williams    | 5-3989 | ams@nist.gov> |                   |          |
| (LMD)       |        |               |                   |          |
+-------------+--------+---------------+-------------------+----------+
| LMD - Legal |        |               |                   |          |
| Metrology   |        |               |                   |          |
| Devices     |        |               |                   |          |
| Group       |        |               |                   |          |
|             |        |               |                   |          |
| ILM -       |        |               |                   |          |
| In          |        |               |                   |          |
| ternational |        |               |                   |          |
| Legal       |        |               |                   |          |
| Metrology   |        |               |                   |          |
| Group       |        |               |                   |          |
+-------------+--------+---------------+-------------------+----------+

####### 360-4 I Add International Terms that are Synonymous to NIST Handbook 44 Terms in Appendix D; Definitions 

**Source:** Carryover Item 360-4. (This item originated from the
Northeastern Weights and Measures Association (NEWMA) and first appeared
on the Committee's 2002 agenda.)

**Discussion:** Many Handbook 44 and OIML technical concepts and
procedures are in harmony, yet there are significant differences in the
terminology used. The harmonization of language is not necessary to
harmonize requirements, provided a state of equivalence exists; however,
improvements should be promoted where the language is confusing or has
the potential for misinterpretation. Currently, the U.S. National Work
Group (USNWG) on R76 "Non-automatic Weighing Instruments" is working on
a proposal to amend NIST Handbook 44 Appendix D, Definitions to include
international terminology that is synonymous with Handbook 44
definitions. This item is intended to familiarize the public and private
sectors with the proposed approach to modify Appendix D. The USNWG will
identify Handbook 44 terms or definitions that are equivalent to
international vocabulary by placing the corresponding OIML term in
parentheses adjacent to the Handbook term.

The development of this proposal will also clarify terminology for
international participants in the proposed Mutual Acceptance Arrangement
(MAA) (see the 2005 Board of Directors Final Report, Appendix A for more
information), where it is imperative that all parties are aware of and
understand each other's requirements. Similar terms can have a different
meaning in Handbook 44 than they do in R76. Handbook 44 is also
inconsistent in the use of many terms such as "division," "increment,"
and "interval." One additional goal is to eliminate any confusion about
other frequently used terms such as "device," "element," "mechanism,"
"scale," "weigher," and "balance."

NEWMA supports this item and views it as a first step toward
familiarizing officials and other users of the Handbook with new
terminology and believes that future efforts should include work to
place terms in Handbook 44 with the goal of having one mutually
acceptable set of terminology.

At its 2004 meeting, the Western Weights and Measures Association
requested that the USNWG continue to develop the terms and asked that
the proposal remain an information item.

The Central Weights and Measures Association (CWMA) believes
international terms serve no purpose for the field official. The CWMA
believes this is an issue for NCWM Publication 14, "NTEP Technical
Policy, Checklists, and Test Procedures;" therefore, the proposal should
be withdrawn from the S&T Agenda.

The Scale Manufacturers Association supports the efforts of the USNWG
and looks forward to reviewing the final proposal as an information
item.

The Committee concurred with NEWMA's assessment that the proposal is a
necessary step for harmonizing U.S. and international terminology and
later standards. The Committee heard support from industry for the
proposal. Industry requested an opportunity to review the final product.
The Committee decided to keep this proposal as an information item on
its agenda to update the weights and measures community on this
important work in the harmonization of standards and to allow the work
group sufficient time to complete its comparison of Handbook 44 General
Code and Scales Code terms with equivalent international terminology.

####### 360-5 D Developing Issues

The NCWM established a mechanism to disseminate information about
emerging issues that have merit and are of national interest. Developing
issues have either not received sufficient review by parties affected by
the proposal or may be insufficiently developed to warrant action by the
Committee. These issues are currently under review by at least one
regional association or technical committee. The developing issues are
listed in Appendix A according to the specific NIST Handbook 44 Code
Section under which they fall.

The S&T Committee encourages interested parties to examine the proposals
included in Appendix A and send their comments to the contact listed in
each item. The Committee also asks that the regional weights and
measures associations and National Type Evaluation Technical Committee
Sectors continue their work to fully develop each proposal. Should an
association or Sector decide to discontinue work on a developmental
item, the Committee asks that it be notified.

[^1]

[]{#AppendixA .anchor}**Appendix A**

**Item 360-1: Proposed Section 5.59. Electronic Livestock, Meat,**

**and Poultry Evaluation Systems and/or Devices -Tentative Code**

+------------------+---------------------------------------------------+
| **Electronic     |                                                   |
| Meat Evaluation  |                                                   |
| Systems**        |                                                   |
|                  |                                                   |
| **Frequently     |                                                   |
| Asked            |                                                   |
| Questions**      |                                                   |
+------------------+---------------------------------------------------+
| 1\. Why did ASTM | In 2000, U.S. Department of Agriculture Grain     |
| develop these    | Inspection and Packers and Stockyard              |
| standards?       | Administration (GIPSA) approached NIST & NCWM to  |
|                  | request the development of a standard for carcass |
|                  | evaluation devices. When it was determined that   |
|                  | neither the NCWM nor NIST had the resources       |
|                  | needed to develop such a standard, ASTM was asked |
|                  | to guide the task. After an initial meeting with  |
|                  | representatives from GIPSA, NCWM, and NIST, ASTM  |
|                  | agreed to form the Committee F10 to develop       |
|                  | standards for devices and systems for the         |
|                  | measurement of fat and other quality constituents |
|                  | in Livestock, Meat, and Poultry.                  |
+------------------+---------------------------------------------------+
| 2\. What         | The ASTM Committee F10 developed four separate    |
| standards did    | standards to address design, use, testing, and    |
| ASTM develop?    | predictive accuracy for these devices and         |
|                  | systems.                                          |
|                  |                                                   |
|                  | They are designated as:                           |
|                  |                                                   |
|                  | F2340 -- 04 "Standard Specification for           |
|                  | Developing and Validating Prediction Equation(s)  |
|                  | or Model(s) Used in Connection with Livestock,    |
|                  | Meat, and Poultry Evaluation Devices(s) or        |
|                  | System(s) to Determine Value"                     |
|                  |                                                   |
|                  | F2341 -- 03 "Standard Practice for User           |
|                  | Requirements for Livestock, Meat, and Poultry     |
|                  | Evaluation Devices or Systems"                    |
|                  |                                                   |
|                  | F2342 -- 03 "Design and Construction of           |
|                  | Composition or Quality Constituent Measuring      |
|                  | Devices or Systems"                               |
|                  |                                                   |
|                  | F 2343 -- 04 "Standard Test Method for Livestock, |
|                  | Meat, and Poultry Evaluation Devices"             |
+------------------+---------------------------------------------------+
| 3\. What does    | The original title for the draft standard         |
| the term         | developed by ASTM Subcommittee F10 -- 40 was      |
| "Predictive      | "Predictive Accuracy." The title of the final     |
| Accuracy" mean?  | document F2340 -- 04 was changed to "Standard     |
|                  | Specification for Developing and Validating       |
|                  | Predication Equation(s) or Model(s)." The new     |
|                  | title better describes statistical procedures and |
|                  | the scientific approach that system/device        |
|                  | manufacturers must follow to establish equations, |
|                  | algorithms, etc., that predict fat content for an |
|                  | entire carcass. Manufacturers may use sampling    |
|                  | methods, limited measurements, and formula        |
|                  | similar to those used to determine quality        |
|                  | constituents such as moisture, starch, or oil     |
|                  | content, in grain.                                |
+------------------+---------------------------------------------------+
| 4\. Were all     | The F10 Committee and Subcommittees included      |
| interested       | representatives from device manufacturers, meat   |
| parties involved | packers, livestock producer associations, GIPSA,  |
| in the standards | USDA Agriculture Marketing Service (AMS), NIST,   |
| development      | NCWM, and University Meat Science Programs.       |
| process?         |                                                   |
+------------------+---------------------------------------------------+
| 5\. Do the ASTM  | Three of the Standards are each similar in format |
| standards follow | to the Specifications (F2342 -- 03), Test Notes   |
| the same format  | and Tolerances (F 2343 -- 04), and User           |
| as NIST Handbook | Requirements (F2341 -- 03), sections of a         |
| 44?              | Handbook 44 code. The Standard for Prediction of  |
|                  | Value (F 2340 ‑ 04) is not; however, this is not  |
|                  | a weights and measures issue.                     |
+------------------+---------------------------------------------------+
| 6\. Why should a | The devices and systems covered by these          |
| tentative code   | standards are commercial devices that have        |
| for these        | impacted over 80 % of the sale and harvesting of  |
| devices be added | over 100 million hogs and over 35 million cattle  |
| to Handbook 44?  | with a value of billions of dollars (the latest   |
|                  | estimate \[2005\] is \$38.8 billion).             |
|                  |                                                   |
|                  | ASTM standards are voluntary standards and are    |
|                  | only "legal requirements" when they are cited in  |
|                  | a law or regulation. Having a code in Handbook 44 |
|                  | will provide States who wish to include these     |
|                  | devices in their registration and inspection      |
|                  | programs with the legal authority to do so        |
|                  | through the adoption of Handbook 44.              |
+------------------+---------------------------------------------------+
| 7\. Will W&M     | States may want to have one reference set of some |
| jurisdictions    | or all four of the standards in their main        |
| have to purchase | office. W&M Regional training funds left over at  |
| the ASTM         | the end of the year could also be used to         |
| standards?       | purchase copies of the standards. The cost is     |
|                  | currently \$28 each.                              |
+------------------+---------------------------------------------------+
| 8\. Why          | Resources are still not available to conduct what |
| shouldn't the    | would now be a duplication of effort.             |
| NCWM/NIST just   |                                                   |
| develop a new    |                                                   |
| code for         |                                                   |
| Handbook 44?     |                                                   |
+------------------+---------------------------------------------------+
| 9\. What is "in  | Similar to regulation of other commercial         |
| it" for weights  | devices, programs will be able to verify the      |
| and measures?    | accuracy of the devices and systems that measure  |
|                  | the constituents used to determine the value of   |
|                  | livestock, meat, and poultry being produced and   |
|                  | sold within their jurisdiction.                   |
+------------------+---------------------------------------------------+
| 10\. Won't       | Yes -- GIPSA and NIST plan to discuss the         |
| weights and      | development of a training program for these       |
| measures         | devices. The scope of the training will be        |
| officials        | developed in these discussions.                   |
| require training |                                                   |
| to be able to    |                                                   |
| test these       |                                                   |
| devices? Who     |                                                   |
| will provide the |                                                   |
| necessary        |                                                   |
| training?        |                                                   |
+------------------+---------------------------------------------------+
| 11\. What types  | The manufacturers of various devices can supply   |
| of certified     | calibration standards with the devices at time of |
| standards are    | installation. The users of the devices are        |
| necessary to     | required to have the standards verified annually, |
| verify device    | to an appropriate tolerance (1/3 of device       |
| accuracy?        | tolerance), at an appropriate laboratory.         |
+------------------+---------------------------------------------------+
| 12\. What        | The users of the devices are required to have     |
| additional       | appropriate [certified]{.underline} standards on  |
| equipment must   | site for testing the devices. Weights and         |
| be purchased in  | measures jurisdictions may want to, but will not  |
| order to test    | be forced to, have their own standards in order   |
| these devices?   | to conduct inspections                            |
+------------------+---------------------------------------------------+
| 13\. If devices  | The standards were written to be applicable       |
| use different    | regardless of the type of measurement technology  |
| technologies to  | utilized. If two different technologies are used  |
| make similar     | to make the same type of measurement (either      |
| measurements     | within the same facility or at two different      |
| will the end     | facilities) and the same formula is used to       |
| result be the    | determine value, the end result should be the     |
| same?            | same.                                             |
+------------------+---------------------------------------------------+
| 14\. Why doesn't | Similar to livestock scales and in-motion         |
| USDA GIPSA just  | monorail scales GIPSA will have requirements for  |
| test these       | accuracy verification of these devices. GIPSA     |
| devices          | will test these devices during investigations;    |
| themselves?      | however, GIPSA does not have the manpower to      |
|                  | handle the routine inspections.                   |
+------------------+---------------------------------------------------+
| 15\. Why isn't   | At present, different packing companies have      |
| there a standard | different criteria for what they consider to be   |
| formula for      | their preferred characteristics for the animals   |
| calculating the  | they purchase. In the future competition          |
| price            | [may]{.underline} drive "standard formula" to be  |
| adjustments made | adopted across the industry.                      |
| based on         |                                                   |
| measurements     |                                                   |
| from these       |                                                   |
| devices?         |                                                   |
+------------------+---------------------------------------------------+
| 16\. If the      | Equity in the transactions begins with, and can   |
| formula can vary | only be assured with, accurate devices. From that |
| from packer to   | point, the livestock producer can determine which |
| packer what is   | packing company provides the best pricing         |
| the value of     | structure for the particular characteristics of   |
| testing the      | the animals he or she offers for sale.            |
| measurement      |                                                   |
| devices?         |                                                   |
+------------------+---------------------------------------------------+
| 17\. Will the    | Yes, GIPSA is drafting regulations similar to     |
| USDA GIPSA       | those that require livestock scales and monorail  |
| require these    | scales to be tested for accuracy on a regular     |
| devices to be    | basis. These regulations will reference NIST      |
| tested?          | Handbook 44 requirements.                         |
+------------------+---------------------------------------------------+

[]{#AppendixB .anchor}**Appendix B**

**Item 360-2: Appendix A Fundamental Considerations**

**3. Testing Apparatus; 3.1 Adequacy, 3.2 Tolerances for Standards and
Footnote 2,**

**and 3.3 Accuracy of Standards**

**Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)**

**Proposed NIST Handbook (HB) 44Changes for Test Standards**

A work group was formed to review and modify the original proposed
technical updates to NIST Handbooks 130 and 44. This group carefully
reviewed each change, modified wording to assure clarity and brevity,
and evaluated the effect of each change on individual weights and
measures programs. Changes are proposed for NIST Handbook 130 "Uniform
Laws and Regulations" Weights and Measures Law and Voluntary
Registration Regulation, and NIST Handbook 44 "Specifications,
Tolerances, and Other Technical Requirements for Weighing and Measuring
Devices, Appendix A Fundamental Considerations.

**What are the key points of the changes?**

Specifically, one change would update terminology in both handbooks.
Updates were planned for terms such as "primary" and "secondary"
standard to reflect the international usage of each term. Additional
terms and their definitions would be added, such as "reference
standard," "field standard," "traceability," and "uncertainty." Terms
would be added only if they are used elsewhere in the document.

Some of the proposed changes would allow State directors more discretion
when evaluating calibration intervals, referencing documentary
standards, and accepting calibration reports. Handbook 130 currently
states that field standards must be calibrated annually. The proposed
language would allow adjustment of field standard calibration intervals
based on historical calibration data. Intervals could be increased for
standards such as stainless steel weights or decreased for standards
such as weight carts or cast iron weights. State directors would also be
able to reference documentary standards other than in NIST documents
when defining specifications for field standards. Currently, there are
some standards used in the field with no corresponding NIST document
defining their specifications. Allowing American Society for Testing and
Materials (ASTM), International Organization of Legal Metrology (OIML)
or other documentary standards to be referenced would fill this void.
Finally, State directors would be able to accept calibration reports
from both State laboratories and accredited industry laboratories
recognized by NIST Weights and Measures Division (WMD). Some states are
already accepting accredited calibrations from private industry. The new
language would provide guidance for making the decision about which labs
are acceptable and what additional information is necessary before
accepting their calibration reports.

Another change clarifies the uncertainty to tolerance ratios required
when selecting field standards. The tolerance ratio is currently
described as a "3 to 1" ratio, with no additional explanation. The new
language clearly defines what this means and will help State directors
and weights and measures officials select appropriate equipment when
conducting field tests.

**Why are these changes being proposed?**

Changes are being proposed to these sections of Handbook 130 and
Handbook 44 for several reasons. First, there is a need to update
terminology in both handbooks in order to conform to international
definitions. Second, many states have changed calibration intervals on
field standards. Allowing for adjustment of calibration intervals based
on statistical data is in alignment with reality, and is sound rationale
for varying from annual intervals. Third, expanding acceptable
references to a generic list of documentary standards allows
jurisdictions to adopt industry or international standards, in addition
to the standards developed by NIST. Fourth, allowing states to determine
which calibration reports are acceptable for calibration of field
equipment gives more options to each jurisdiction. It is especially
important to understand that the concept of traceability is evaluated by
formal accreditation and recognition methods. Self-declaration and the
use of NIST test numbers are no longer considered acceptable indications
of traceability. Finally, the tolerance ratios described in Handbook 130
need additional explanation and clarification.

**What does this mean to our State program?**

These proposed changes would have a relatively small effect on state and
local weights and measures programs. There is no mandate for a
jurisdiction to change the way it currently operates; however, the
changes would allow local control and flexibility with respect to field
standards and their calibration intervals. Additionally, the new
language documents what is already being done in practice in many
states. It promotes international uniformity and would allow the use of
industry and international documentary standards in addition to NIST
Handbooks.

**How do I set appropriate calibration intervals?**

When setting initial calibration intervals, it is recommended that a
jurisdiction set a base interval of one year. For additional information
on setting initial intervals for a variety of field standards, see the
list of recommendations at the end of this document. In order to adjust
or change a calibration interval, it is necessary to have sufficient
historical calibration data, which includes "as-found" measurement data.
In addition to data, it is also necessary to have a statistically valid
approach for modifying the intervals. The laboratory metrologist should
be familiar with adjusting calibration intervals for laboratory
standards, and may be a useful resource for both providing data and
statistical analysis. For more information on statistical approaches to
changing calibration intervals, consult National Conference of Standards
Laboratories International (NCSLI) RP #1 on Setting and Adjusting
Calibration Intervals. It is important to remember that suitable care
and handling is essential when using field standards. Jurisdictions may
require verification and oversight of field standards even if not
providing a full calibration.

**Why should we allow adjustment of calibration intervals?**

One of the reasons for allowing the adjustment of calibration intervals
is to save money and time by having calibrations done at suitable
frequencies rather than at arbitrary fixed intervals. It will also lead
to improved accuracy, by ensuring that field standards are within
tolerance during the entire calibration interval. The goal is to
"calibrate the day before an item goes out of tolerance," but the
reality is simply cost-effective risk management. Accurate analysis of
calibration intervals can provide evidence needed to defend the
tolerance of field standards, but this requires calibration data,
analysis, and accompanying documentation of the program.

**How do I know which documentary standards to reference?**

When referencing documentary standards, refer to the sample list
provided with this document and consult your laboratory metrologist for
input. For unique equipment, it may be necessary to consult the
manufacturer. NIST, OIML, and ASTM provide many field standard
specifications. Determine if suitable industry or international
standards are available. If no documentary standard exists for a field
standard, it may be necessary to write one. To do this, the
specifications, tolerances, and requirements must be identified and
documented. It may be useful to consult the manufacturer when writing
the specifications. The State director must also assess uncertainties
for the field standard and its measurement impact, and evaluate their
laboratory's ability to calibrate or obtain a calibration for the field
standard.

**What do we do with field standards that don't meet the specifications?
What about measurement areas where we don't have documentary
standards?**

When a field standard does not meet specifications outlined in an
accepted documentary standard, a State director must evaluate the impact
of the deviation on the measurement results, as well as the
functionality, efficiency, and safety of the device. State directors
have local authority and flexibility to accept and designate field
standards and to allow grandfathering and deviations from standard
specifications. They may require unique calibration intervals for these
field standards or they may reject and/or confiscate the standard based
on evaluation results.

**How do I know if a laboratory's calibration reports are acceptable?
How do we create the "accepted list?"**

In order to determine which calibration reports are acceptable, several
criteria must be evaluated. First, determine if the laboratory providing
the calibration report is accredited by a National Cooperation for
Laboratory Accreditation (NACLA) approved accreditation body or
recognized by WMD as capable of providing traceable measurement results.
If the lab passes this first step, evaluate the scope of accreditation
or recognition and assess the laboratory's best measurement uncertainty
to make sure that they can provide the services needed. Be sure that the
calibration report provided contains values and associated
uncertainties. State metrologists or technical experts at NIST may be
able to assist in evaluating the acceptability of outside calibration
reports.

**Why do we need to have initial verification of field standards?**

Even when a laboratory provides an accredited calibration report meeting
the uncertainty to tolerance requirements specified, there is no
guarantee that the field equipment meets specifications. It may be
necessary for field standards to have an initial evaluation by a weights
and measures jurisdiction before being put into service. It is the
responsibility of a weights and measures agency to ensure that suitable
field standards are used for official inspections. Accreditation is not
conformity assessment and should not be used for that purpose. New field
standards must be evaluated for compliance with specifications and for
impact on measurement results.

**How do we evaluate the uncertainties versus the tolerance requirements
in the Fundamental Considerations? Where can I get more information?**

In determining the suitability of a field standard, it is necessary to
evaluate the uncertainty to tolerance ratio. In order to do this, both
the uncertainty of the field standard and the tolerance of the device to
be tested must be known. Additionally, it is important to know whether
or not the field standard has been adjusted to its nominal value. If an
adjustment has been made, a comparison between the uncertainty and
tolerance is all that is necessary. Here, the uncertainty should be no
more than one-third of the tolerance. The calibration report for the
field standard should contain the uncertainty of the measurement. If the
field standard has been left with an associated correction, the
correction and the uncertainty must be combined before making the
comparison with the tolerance. Both the correction and the uncertainty
should be listed on the calibration report. When added together, their
sum should be no more than one-third of the tolerance of the device
under test. State metrologists should be able to provide additional
information regarding evaluating uncertainties of field standards.

**Sample list of documentary standards that can be used as
specifications and tolerances for "field standards."**

+-------------------------+---------------+--------------+-------------+
| **Sample List of        |               |              |             |
| Documentary Standards   |               |              |             |
| and Calibration         |               |              |             |
| Intervals**             |               |              |             |
+=========================+===============+==============+=============+
| **Standards**           | **Device**    | *            | *           |
|                         |               | *Calibration | *Comments** |
|                         |               | Interval**   |             |
+-------------------------+---------------+--------------+-------------+
| HB 105-1, Cast iron     | Class III,    | 6 month to 1 |             |
|                         | IIIL, IV      | year         |             |
|                         | scales        |              |             |
+-------------------------+---------------+--------------+-------------+
| HB 105-1, Stainless     | Class III,    | 5 year       |             |
| steel                   | IIIL, IV      |              |             |
|                         | scales        |              |             |
+-------------------------+---------------+--------------+-------------+
| OIML R111, Class F1     | Class II      | 1 year       |             |
|                         | scales        |              |             |
| ASTM E 617-97, Class 2  |               |              |             |
+-------------------------+---------------+--------------+-------------+
| HB 105-2, glassware     | Package       | 10 year      |             |
|                         | testing       |              |             |
+-------------------------+---------------+--------------+-------------+
| HB 105-3, test measures | Gas pumps     | 1 year       |             |
| (hand-held and 5 gal    |               |              |             |
| truck/trailer mounted)  |               |              |             |
+-------------------------+---------------+--------------+-------------+
| HB 105-3, large provers | Meters        | 1 year       |             |
+-------------------------+---------------+--------------+-------------+
| HB 105-4, LPG provers   | LPG meters    | 1 year       |             |
+-------------------------+---------------+--------------+-------------+
| HB 105-5, stopwatches   | Taxi meters,  | 1 year       |             |
|                         | timing        |              |             |
|                         | devices,      |              |             |
|                         | parking       |              |             |
|                         | meters,       |              |             |
|                         | Laundromats   |              |             |
+-------------------------+---------------+--------------+-------------+
| HB 105-6, thermometers  | Temperature   | 5 year       | Inspection  |
|                         | corrections,  |              | required    |
| ASTM E1                 | refrigeration |              | annually    |
|                         | specs,        |              |             |
|                         | package       |              |             |
|                         | checking      |              |             |
+-------------------------+---------------+--------------+-------------+
| HB 105-7, small volume  | Meters        | 6 months,    | Need EPO    |
| provers                 |               | extendable   | for field   |
|                         |               | to 1 year    | testing.    |
+-------------------------+---------------+--------------+-------------+
| API document in         | Master Meters |              |             |
| development             | for petroleum |              |             |
+-------------------------+---------------+--------------+-------------+
| ASTM E 74, proving      | Wheel load    | Rings: 5     | Depends on  |
| rings and load cells    | weighers,     | years        | use.        |
|                         | weight carts, |              |             |
|                         | large mass    | Cells: 6     |             |
|                         | standards     | months if    |             |
|                         |               | used for     |             |
|                         |               | wheel load   |             |
|                         |               | weighers;    |             |
|                         |               | evaluate     |             |
|                         |               | with use for |             |
|                         |               | substitution |             |
|                         |               | weighing     |             |
+-------------------------+---------------+--------------+-------------+
| HB 105-8, weight carts  | Vehicle       | 6 months to  | Need EPO    |
|                         | scales        | 1 year;      | for field   |
|                         |               | r            | use.        |
|                         |               | ecalibration |             |
|                         |               | for any      |             |
|                         |               | repair       |             |
+-------------------------+---------------+--------------+-------------+
| ASTM E 100, hydrometers | Petroleum     | 1 year       |             |
|                         | products;     |              |             |
|                         | bulk oil      |              |             |
|                         | meters        |              |             |
+-------------------------+---------------+--------------+-------------+
| Federal Specification   | Taxi meters,  | 5 years;     |             |
| GGG -- standard;        | fabric, scale | inspection   |             |
|                         | decks,        | before use   |             |
| Length standards, tapes | firewood,     |              |             |
|                         | lobster       |              |             |
|                         | gauges        |              |             |
+-------------------------+---------------+--------------+-------------+
| Containers (HB 133)     | Bulk mulch    |              |             |
+-------------------------+---------------+--------------+-------------+
| HB 44, Berry Baskets    | Berry         |              |             |
|                         | quantity      |              |             |
+-------------------------+---------------+--------------+-------------+
| API - American          |               |              |             |
| Petroleum Institute     |               |              |             |
|                         |               |              |             |
| HB 105 Series - A       |               |              |             |
| series of NIST          |               |              |             |
| technical documents     |               |              |             |
| that include            |               |              |             |
| "Specifications and     |               |              |             |
| Tolerances for          |               |              |             |
| Reference Standards and |               |              |             |
| Field Standard Weights  |               |              |             |
| and Measures"           |               |              |             |
|                         |               |              |             |
| HB 133 - A NIST         |               |              |             |
| technical document that |               |              |             |
| includes specifications |               |              |             |
| and other requirements  |               |              |             |
| for "Checking the Net   |               |              |             |
| Contents of Packaged    |               |              |             |
| Goods"                  |               |              |             |
+-------------------------+---------------+--------------+-------------+

[]{#AppendixC .anchor}**Appendix C**

**Item 360-5: Developing Issues**

[]{#Part1 .anchor}**Part 1, Item 1 General Code: G-S.5.6.1. Recorded
Representation of\
Metric Units on Equipment with Limited Character Sets**

**Source:** Western Weights and Measures Association (WWMA)

**Recommendation:** Modify paragraph G-S.5.6.1. as follows:

> **G-S.5.6.1. ~~Recorded Representation of Metric Units on Equipment
> with Limited Character Sets~~ [Acceptable Abbreviations for Recorded
> and Indicated Representation of Units on Equipment]{.underline}. -**
> The appropriate defining symbols are shown in Table 1.

Add the following new abbreviations to Table 1 Representation of Units
to the General Code:

  --------------------------------- ----------------------- ---------------------------------- ----------------------- ----------------------- ------------------------------ ------------------------- ---------------------------------- ------------------------- -------------------------
  **[Name of Unit]{.underline}**    **[Common Use           **[Representation]{.underline}**                                                   **[Name of Unit]{.underline}** **[Common Use             **[Representation]{.underline}**                             
                                    Symbol]{.underline}**                                                                                                                     Symbol]{.underline}**                                                                  

                                                            **[Form I]{.underline}**           **[Form                                                                                                  **[Form I]{.underline}**           **[Form II]{.underline}** 
                                                                                               II]{.underline}**                                                                                                                                                     

                                                            **[(double case)]{.underline}**    **[(single lower        **[(single case                                                                  **[(double case)]{.underline}**    **[(single lower          **[(single case
                                                                                               case)]{.underline}**    upper)]{.underline}**                                                                                               case)]{.underline}**      upper)]{.underline}**

  **[Inches]{.underline}**          **[in]{.underline}**    **[In]{.underline}**               **[in]{.underline}**    **[IN]{.underline}**    **[deciliter]{.underline}**    **[dL]{.underline}**      **[dL]{.underline}**                                         

  **[Foot]{.underline}**            **[ft]{.underline}**    **[ft]{.underline}**               **[ft]{.underline}**    **[FT]{.underline}**    **[Kiloliter]{.underline}**    **[kL]{.underline}**      **[kL]{.underline}**                                         

  **[Yard]{.underline}**            **[yd]{.underline}**    **[yd]{.underline}**               **[yd]{.underline}**    **[YD]{.underline}**    **[cubic meter]{.underline}**  **[M^3^]{.underline}**    **[m^3^]{.underline}**             **[m^3^]{.underline}**    **[M^3^]{.underline}**

  **[milligram]{.underline}**       **[mg]{.underline}**    **[mg]{.underline}**               **[mg]{.underline}**                            **[cubic inches]{.underline}** **[in^3^]{.underline}**   **[in^3^]{.underline}**            **[in^3^]{.underline}**   **[IN^3^]{.underline}**

  **[megagram]{.underline}**        **[Mg]{.underline}**    **[Mg]{.underline}**                                                               **[cubic foot]{.underline}**   **[ft^3^]{.underline}**   **[ft^3^]{.underline}**            **[ft^3^]{.underline}**   **[FT^3^]{.underline}**

  **[Grain]{.underline}**           **[gr]{.underline}**    **[gr]{.underline}**               **[gr]{.underline}**                            **[cubic yard]{.underline}**   **[yd^3^]{.underline}**   **[yd^3^]{.underline}**            **[yd^3^]{.underline}**   **[YD^3^]{.underline}**

  **[Dram]{.underline}**            **[dr]{.underline}**    **[dr]{.underline}**               **[dr]{.underline}**                            **[Gills]{.underline}**        **[gi]{.underline}**      **[gi]{.underline}**               **[Gi]{.underline}**      **[GI]{.underline}**

  **[Ounce]{.underline}**           **[oz]{.underline}**    **[oz]{.underline}**               **[oz]{.underline}**    **[OZ]{.underline}**    **[Pint]{.underline}**         **[pt]{.underline}**      **[pt]{.underline}**               **[pt]{.underline}**      **[PT]{.underline}**

  **[Pound]{.underline}**           **[lb]{.underline}**    **[lb]{.underline}**               **[lb]{.underline}**    **[LB]{.underline}**    **[Quart]{.underline}**        **[qt]{.underline}**      **[qt]{.underline}**               **[qt]{.underline}**      **[QT]{.underline}**

  **[hundredweight]{.underline}**   **[cwt]{.underline}**   **[cwt]{.underline}**              **[cwt]{.underline}**   **[CWT]{.underline}**   **[Gallon]{.underline}**       **[gal]{.underline}**     **[gal]{.underline}**              **[gal]{.underline}**     **[GAL]{.underline}**

  **[pennyweight]{.underline}**     **[dwt]{.underline}**   **[dwt]{.underline}**              **[dwt]{.underline}**   **[DWT]{.underline}**   **[Ampere]{.underline}**       **[A, I]{.underline}**    **[A, I]{.underline}**                                       **[A, I]{.underline}**

  **[ounce troy]{.underline}**      **[oz t]{.underline}**  **[oz t]{.underline}**             **[oz t]{.underline}**  **[OZ T]{.underline}**  **[resistance]{.underline}**   **[ohms]{.underline}**    **[ohms]{.underline}**             **[ohms]{.underline}**    **[OHMS]{.underline}**

  **[milliliters]{.underline}**     **[mL]{.underline}**    **[mL]{.underline}**                                                                                                                                                                                     

  **[centiliter]{.underline}**      **[cL]{.underline}**    **[cL]{.underline}**                                                                                                                                                                                     
  --------------------------------- ----------------------- ---------------------------------- ----------------------- ----------------------- ------------------------------ ------------------------- ---------------------------------- ------------------------- -------------------------

**Discussion:** The WWMA notes that the current General Code Table 1
Representation of Units does not include many units that are in common
use today.

At its 2004 meeting, the WWMA indicated that unless it receives a report
on the development of the table, the proposal will be withdrawn from its
September 2005 agenda.

To provide input on this proposal, contact Gary Castro, California
Division of Measurement Standards, by at (916) 229-3018, by fax at
(916) 229-3015, or at <gcastro@cdfa.ca.gov>.

[]{#Part2 .anchor}**Part 2, Item 1 Scales: Table 4. Minimum Test Weights
and Test Loads**

**Source:** Northeastern Weights and Measures Association (NEWMA)

**Recommendation:** Modify Table 4. Minimum Test Weights and Test Loads
as follows:

+---------------+------------------+--------+------------------------+
| **Table 4.**  |                  |        |                        |
|               |                  |        |                        |
| **Minimum     |                  |        |                        |
| Test Weights  |                  |        |                        |
| and Test      |                  |        |                        |
| Loads^1^**    |                  |        |                        |
+---------------+------------------+--------+------------------------+
| **Device      | **Minimums (in   |        | **(where               |
| capacity**    | terms of device  |        | practicable)**         |
|               | capacity)**      |        |                        |
+---------------+------------------+--------+------------------------+
|               | **Test weights   | **Test |                        |
|               | (greater of)**   | load   |                        |
|               |                  | s^2^** |                        |
+---------------+------------------+--------+------------------------+
| 0 to 150 kg   | 100 %            |        |                        |
|               |                  |        |                        |
| (0 to 300 lb) |                  |        |                        |
+---------------+------------------+--------+------------------------+
| 151 to        | 25 % or 150 kg   | 75 %   | Test weights to dial   |
| 1 500 kg      | (300 lb)         |        | face ca­paci­ty,         |
|               |                  |        | 1 000 d, or test load  |
| (301 to       |                  |        | to used ca­pacity, if   |
| 3 000 lb)     |                  |        | great­er than mini­mums  |
|               |                  |        | speci­fied              |
|               |                  |        |                        |
|               |                  |        | During initial         |
|               |                  |        | verification, a scale  |
|               |                  |        | should be tested to    |
|               |                  |        | capacity.              |
+---------------+------------------+--------+------------------------+
| 1 501 to      | 12.5 % or 500 kg | 50 %   |                        |
| 20 000 kg     | (1 000 lb)       |        |                        |
|               |                  |        |                        |
| (3 001 to     |                  |        |                        |
| 40 000 lb)    |                  |        |                        |
+---------------+------------------+--------+------------------------+
| 2             | 12.5 % or        | 25     |                        |
| 0 001 kg~~+~~ | 5 000 kg (10     | %^3^   |                        |
| **[to         | 000 lb)          |        |                        |
| 250 000 kg]{  |                  |        |                        |
| .underline}** |                  |        |                        |
| (40 001       |                  |        |                        |
| lb~~+~~ **[to |                  |        |                        |
| 500 000 lb]{. |                  |        |                        |
| underline}**) |                  |        |                        |
+---------------+------------------+--------+------------------------+
| ^1^ If the    |                  |        |                        |
| amount of     |                  |        |                        |
| test weight   |                  |        |                        |
| in Table 4    |                  |        |                        |
| combined with |                  |        |                        |
| the load on   |                  |        |                        |
| the scale     |                  |        |                        |
| would result  |                  |        |                        |
| in an unsafe  |                  |        |                        |
| condition,    |                  |        |                        |
| then the      |                  |        |                        |
| appropriate   |                  |        |                        |
| load will be  |                  |        |                        |
| determined by |                  |        |                        |
| the official  |                  |        |                        |
| with          |                  |        |                        |
| statutory     |                  |        |                        |
| authority.    |                  |        |                        |
|               |                  |        |                        |
| ^2^The term   |                  |        |                        |
| \"test load\" |                  |        |                        |
| means the sum |                  |        |                        |
| of the        |                  |        |                        |
| combination   |                  |        |                        |
| of field      |                  |        |                        |
| standard test |                  |        |                        |
| weights and   |                  |        |                        |
| any other     |                  |        |                        |
| applied load  |                  |        |                        |
| used in the   |                  |        |                        |
| conduct of a  |                  |        |                        |
| test using    |                  |        |                        |
| substitution  |                  |        |                        |
| test methods. |                  |        |                        |
| Not more than |                  |        |                        |
| three         |                  |        |                        |
| substitutions |                  |        |                        |
| shall be used |                  |        |                        |
| during        |                  |        |                        |
| substitution  |                  |        |                        |
| testing,      |                  |        |                        |
| after which   |                  |        |                        |
| the           |                  |        |                        |
| tolerances    |                  |        |                        |
| for strain    |                  |        |                        |
| load tests    |                  |        |                        |
| shall be      |                  |        |                        |
| applied to    |                  |        |                        |
| each set of   |                  |        |                        |
| test loads.   |                  |        |                        |
|               |                  |        |                        |
| ^3^ The scale |                  |        |                        |
| shall be      |                  |        |                        |
| tested from   |                  |        |                        |
| zero to at    |                  |        |                        |
| least 12.5 %  |                  |        |                        |
| of scale      |                  |        |                        |
| capacity      |                  |        |                        |
| using known   |                  |        |                        |
| test weights, |                  |        |                        |
| and then to   |                  |        |                        |
| at least 25 % |                  |        |                        |
| of scale      |                  |        |                        |
| capacity      |                  |        |                        |
| using either  |                  |        |                        |
| a             |                  |        |                        |
| substitution  |                  |        |                        |
| or strain     |                  |        |                        |
| load test     |                  |        |                        |
| that utilizes |                  |        |                        |
| known test    |                  |        |                        |
| weights of at |                  |        |                        |
| least 12.5 %  |                  |        |                        |
| of scale      |                  |        |                        |
| capacity.     |                  |        |                        |
| Whenever      |                  |        |                        |
| practical, a  |                  |        |                        |
| strain load   |                  |        |                        |
| test should   |                  |        |                        |
| be conducted  |                  |        |                        |
| to the used   |                  |        |                        |
| capacity of   |                  |        |                        |
| the scale.    |                  |        |                        |
| When a strain |                  |        |                        |
| load test is  |                  |        |                        |
| conducted,    |                  |        |                        |
| the           |                  |        |                        |
| tolerances    |                  |        |                        |
| apply only to |                  |        |                        |
| the test      |                  |        |                        |
| weights or    |                  |        |                        |
| substitution  |                  |        |                        |
| test loads.   |                  |        |                        |
|               |                  |        |                        |
| (Amended      |                  |        |                        |
| 1988, 1989,   |                  |        |                        |
| 1994,         |                  |        |                        |
| **~~and~~**   |                  |        |                        |
| 2003 **[and   |                  |        |                        |
| 200X]{.       |                  |        |                        |
| underline}**) |                  |        |                        |
+---------------+------------------+--------+------------------------+

**Discussion:** Jurisdictions encounter scales with 1 000 000 lb nominal
capacity and must determine the minimum test load. NEWMA finds that NIST
Handbook 44 is flexible, but does not provide any definitive guidelines
on test loads for large-capacity scales. NEWMA modified its original
proposal by reducing the scale maximum capacity from 1 000 000 lb to
500 000 lb and removing a proposed new footnote that permitted officials
to establish the minimum test load. Industry and other regional
associations have developed alternate proposals to address their
concerns that the proposal does not address the minimum test load and
test weights requirements for a scale with a nominal capacity greater
than 500 000 lb.

The Committee agreed that Table 4 is the appropriate place in Handbook
44 to provide guidance on the appropriate minimum test load for tests on
scales that exceed capacities of 400 000 lb. The Committee believes this
issue is a high priority but requires further review and input from both
the public and private sectors.

To provide input on this proposal contact Michael Sikula, New York
Bureau of Weights and Measures at (518) 457‑3452, by fax at
(518) 457‑2552 or at <mike.sikula@agmkt.state.ny.us>.

[^1]: ^ ^Jack Kane, Montana, Chairman

    Clark Cooney, Oregon

    Carol P. Fulmer, South Carolina

    Todd R. Lucas, Ohio

    Michael J. Sikula, New York

    Ted Kingsbury, Canada, Technical Advisor

    Richard Suiter, NIST, Technical Advisor

    Juana Williams, NIST, Technical Advisor

    **Committee on Specifications and Tolerances**