KERN FCB – Professional Checkweighing and Portion Control Scales

Reliable weight control and efficient portioning for industrial and commercial applications

The KERN FCB checkweighing and portion control scales combine professional weighing performance with practical functions for everyday use in manufacturing, food processing, packaging, warehousing and quality assurance.

Designed for businesses that require consistent weight control, the FCB series supports a wide range of operations, from portioning ingredients and preparing material quantities to checking product weights and verifying manufacturing tolerances.

In many commercial and industrial environments, weighing is not simply about determining how much an object weighs.

The real challenge is ensuring that products, portions and materials consistently meet specified weight requirements.

The KERN FCB series addresses this need through its integrated checkweighing function with visual and audible signals, helping operators identify whether a measured weight falls within predefined limits.

A stainless steel weighing platform, easy-to-read display and compact design make the series suitable for professional workstations where efficiency and convenient operation are essential.

Different models provide different combinations of weighing capacity and readability, allowing businesses to select an instrument that matches their specific requirements.

Additional functions, including parts counting, percentage weighing and summation, extend the range of possible applications.

Compatible optional interfaces also enable digital transmission of weighing results for documentation and further processing.

KERN FCB – Reliable checkweighing, consistent portion control and efficient professional weighing.

Key advantages of KERN FCB checkweighing and portion control scales

• Professional checkweighing: Verify measured weights against predefined tolerance limits.

• Efficient portion control: Prepare consistent quantities for production, food processing and packaging.

• Visual and audible signals: Immediate feedback during repetitive weighing operations.

• Multiple weighing capacities: Different models for different load requirements.

• Fine readability: Model-dependent weight increments for detailed weight control.

• Stainless steel weighing platform: Practical weighing surface for commercial and industrial environments.

• Compact design: Convenient integration into existing workstations.

• Backlit LCD display: Clear presentation of weighing results.

• Parts counting: Determine quantities of uniform components by weight.

• Percentage weighing: Compare measured weights with a reference value.

• Summation function: Combine results from multiple weighing operations.

• Optional digital connectivity: Transfer weighing results using compatible interface adapters.

• Flexible power options: Battery or optional rechargeable battery operation, depending on the configuration.

• Trade-approved variants: Selected models are available for applications requiring legal metrological conformity.

Checkweighing – Verify weights against predefined tolerances

Weight control for consistent production results

In many industrial processes, knowing the weight of a product is only part of the task.

What matters is whether that weight meets a predefined specification.

The KERN FCB checkweighing function helps operators compare measured weights with established tolerance limits.

Users can define appropriate weight thresholds for the application.

During weighing, the instrument provides feedback that supports the identification of results within or outside the permitted range.

This is particularly valuable in repetitive processes where products or portions must meet consistent weight requirements.

Visual and audible feedback

The KERN FCB series provides visual and audible signals to support tolerance checking.

These signals help operators assess weighing results without repeatedly comparing each displayed value with a written specification.

The result is a more convenient workflow for routine weight verification.

Typical checkweighing applications

• Verification of portion weights.

• Checking packaged product quantities.

• Inspection of manufactured components.

• Verification of material quantities.

• Quality control of production batches.

• Checking assembled products.

• Sorting products according to weight limits.

• Routine weight inspections.

Reduce unnecessary weight variations

Consistent weight control can help businesses identify portions that are too light or too heavy.

This is important for maintaining product consistency and controlling material consumption.

Checkweighing also supports standardised procedures across different operators and workstations.

The scale assists the inspection process, while the business remains responsible for defining suitable tolerances and measurement procedures.

Portion control – Consistent quantities for professional operations

More than simply weighing a product

Portion control is an essential part of many manufacturing and food processing operations.

The objective is not merely to determine the weight of a single portion.

Instead, businesses need to prepare multiple portions that consistently meet defined weight specifications.

The KERN FCB combines weight indication with tolerance checking to support these repetitive tasks.

Operators can gradually add or remove material until the desired weight range is reached.

Why consistent portioning matters

In commercial operations, inconsistent portions can lead to unnecessary material consumption, variable product quality and inefficient production processes.

Portions that exceed the target weight may increase costs.

Portions below the specified weight may fail to meet internal quality requirements or applicable obligations.

A suitable portion control scale helps operators work towards consistent quantities.

Typical portioning applications

• Food portioning.

• Ingredient preparation.

• Raw material weighing.

• Packaging preparation.

• Production batch preparation.

• Portioning of powders and granules.

• Weighing of individual product quantities.

• Repetitive material dosing.

The KERN FCB is designed for manual weighing and portion control. It supports dosing operations but is not an automatic dispensing or dosing system.

KERN FCB for food processing and commercial kitchens

Professional weight control in food-related operations

Consistent portion weights are important in many food processing and catering environments.

The KERN FCB can support businesses that regularly weigh ingredients, prepare portions or check product quantities.

Potential applications include:

• Food production.

• Bakeries and pastry production.

• Commercial kitchens.

• Catering operations.

• Ingredient preparation.

• Portioning of dry food products.

• Packaging preparation.

• Recipe ingredient weighing.

Stainless steel weighing surface

The stainless steel weighing platform provides a smooth surface that can be cleaned according to the manufacturer's instructions.

This is practical when different ingredients, containers or products are weighed throughout the working day.

Important: A stainless steel platform does not mean that the entire scale is waterproof or suitable for washdown cleaning.

Where direct food contact is intended, the suitability of the contact materials and the applicable hygiene requirements must be considered.

Portioning to a target weight

A typical application involves preparing a series of portions to a specified weight.

The operator places the product or container on the scale and adjusts the quantity until the desired range is reached.

The checkweighing function provides additional feedback during this process.

This supports more consistent portion preparation and can reduce unnecessary variations.

KERN FCB for industrial manufacturing

Weight verification of components and materials

The KERN FCB is not limited to food-related applications.

Industrial businesses also require efficient weight control for materials, components and prepared quantities.

Typical applications include:

• Component weight inspection.

• Raw material preparation.

• Verification of production quantities.

• Packaging weight control.

• Inspection of assembled parts.

• Repetitive weighing operations.

• Small-parts counting.

• Comparison of individual weights.

Support for quality assurance

In manufacturing, weight may be used as an indicator of whether a component or product meets a specification.

The KERN FCB supports these inspections through its checkweighing function.

This can be particularly useful when multiple operators perform similar checks or when products are processed in larger quantities.

A clearly defined tolerance range helps establish consistent inspection procedures.

Efficient operation at the workstation

The compact design makes the FCB suitable for installation at different production and inspection workstations.

Operators can perform routine weighing tasks without requiring a large weighing system.

This makes the series attractive for businesses seeking a practical balance between weighing performance and efficient operation.

Advanced tolerance checking – Flexible weight limit control

Define appropriate weight ranges

The KERN FCB offers a checkweighing function with configurable limits.

On appropriately equipped models, the function supports the entry of two upper and two lower limit values.

This enables the definition of different weight thresholds for the intended application.

Practical benefits

The function is useful whenever a target weight does not have to be matched exactly but must remain within an acceptable range.

Examples include:

• Food portions with defined minimum and maximum weights.

• Materials prepared within production tolerances.

• Packaged products requiring weight verification.

• Components inspected against specified weight limits.

Visual and audible signals support quick decisions during the weighing process.

Parts counting – Determine quantities by weight

Efficient counting of uniform components

In addition to weight control, the KERN FCB includes a parts counting function.

The scale first determines an average piece weight using a reference quantity.

It then calculates the number of items based on the total measured weight.

This method can significantly simplify counting operations involving large quantities of small, sufficiently uniform components.

Typical applications

• Screws and nuts.

• Washers.

• Plastic components.

• Metal fasteners.

• Electronic parts.

• Assembly components.

• Small mechanical items.

• Standardised production parts.

Applications in warehousing and production

Parts counting can support:

• Inventory management.

• Order preparation.

• Production planning.

• Stock verification.

• Assembly preparation.

• Goods receiving inspections.

The reliability of the result depends on the consistency of individual piece weights, the reference quantity and the readability of the selected scale.

For very light components, the suitability of the model should be checked carefully.

Percentage weighing – Compare weights with a reference

Relative weight evaluation

The percentage weighing function allows a measured weight to be expressed as a percentage of a reference weight.

This is useful when the relationship between two quantities is more important than the absolute weight.

Typical applications

• Comparison of material quantities.

• Verification of proportions.

• Evaluation of weight differences.

• Comparison of production samples.

• Technical testing.

• Material preparation.

Percentage weighing extends the functionality of the KERN FCB beyond conventional weight determination.

Summation function – Combine multiple weighing results

Calculate total weights from individual measurements

In production and packaging, materials are often weighed in several separate portions.

The summation function supports the combination of individual weighing results.

This can be useful when several quantities need to be considered together.

Applications

• Production batch preparation.

• Material allocation.

• Combination of individual portions.

• Total weight determination.

• Repetitive weighing operations.

The function is particularly useful when separate quantities are weighed individually but their combined weight is relevant to the process.

Stainless steel weighing platform and compact design

Practical dimensions for professional workstations

The KERN FCB is designed for use on work surfaces in production, processing and quality control.

Its compact construction makes it suitable for workplaces where available space is limited.

Weighing platform measuring 252 × 225 mm

The current FCB models considered feature a 252 × 225 mm stainless steel weighing platform.

This provides space for a wide variety of portions, containers, components and packaging units.

The platform is particularly practical for applications requiring a compact instrument with a useful weighing area.

Clear LCD display

The KERN FCB features a backlit LCD display.

The digit height on the current models considered is 25 mm.

This supports convenient reading of weighing results during daily operations.

Digital connectivity – Transfer weighing results to external systems

Digital weighing data for professional workflows

Modern production environments increasingly require weighing results to be documented or processed electronically.

The KERN FCB supports digital connectivity through the KERN Universal Port (KUP) interface system.

Compatible interface adapters allow suitable configurations to communicate with external equipment.

Optional interface solutions

Depending on the model and compatible accessories, the following communication options may be available:

• RS-232.

• USB.

• Ethernet.

• Wi-Fi.

• Bluetooth.

These interfaces are not necessarily included in the standard scope of delivery. Suitable KUP interface adapters may need to be purchased separately.

Multiple interfaces for flexible integration

With a suitable KUP extension box, supported configurations can use up to three interfaces simultaneously.

This provides additional flexibility for integrating weighing results into existing workflows.

KERN Communication Protocol (KCP)

The KERN Communication Protocol (KCP) supports communication between compatible KERN scales and external systems.

Depending on the connected hardware and software, this may support:

• Digital recording of weight values.

• Documentation of checkweighing results.

• Transfer of measurements to computers.

• Processing in compatible software.

• Integration into production workflows.

• Communication with suitable inventory or ERP systems.

The functions available depend on the specific interface, software and system configuration.

The practical benefit is straightforward: weighing results can be transferred digitally instead of being recorded manually.

Flexible power supply – Practical for different workstations

Weighing where it is needed

In many businesses, weighing tasks are performed at different locations.

A compact scale can be useful when weight checks are required at several workstations.

The KERN FCB supports flexible operation through its compact design and available power supply options.

Battery and rechargeable battery operation

Depending on the model and configuration, battery operation or an optional rechargeable battery may be available.

This can be useful where a permanent mains connection is inconvenient.

The exact power supply options and accessories included should be checked for the selected model.

KERN FCB weighing capacities and readability options

Different models for different requirements

The KERN FCB series includes variants with different maximum weighing capacities and readability values.

This allows businesses to choose an instrument according to the weights and tolerances involved.

The following table shows selected examples from the series:

Note: These are selected examples. Other versions, including trade-approved multi-range models, have different technical specifications.

Choosing the right readability

The appropriate readability depends on the smallest weight differences that matter in the application.

For small portions or relatively narrow tolerances, finer readability may be useful.

For larger quantities, maximum capacity may be more important.

However, fine readability should not be confused with absolute measurement accuracy.

For demanding applications, repeatability, linearity and measurement uncertainty should also be considered.

Trade-approved KERN FCB variants – For legally regulated weighing applications

Not every KERN FCB model is trade-approved

The FCB series includes selected versions intended for applications requiring legal metrological conformity.

These include certain models with the DM designation.

Examples include:

• KERN FCB 6K-3DM.

• KERN FCB 15K-3DM.

• KERN FCB 30K-3DM.

These versions differ from other FCB models in their weighing ranges, verification scale intervals and metrological characteristics.

When is a trade-approved scale required?

Legal requirements depend on the country and the intended use.

In many jurisdictions, weighing instruments used to determine prices by weight must meet specific legal metrology requirements.

Other regulated applications may also require a compliant weighing instrument.

A standard KERN FCB model must not be assumed suitable for legally regulated weighing solely because it offers fine readability.

Select the correct model before ordering

If the scale will be used for a legally regulated application, the required approval and conformity assessment should be clarified before purchase.

The relevant legal requirements and availability of a suitable model must be checked for the country of use.

External adjustment and accredited calibration

External adjustment

The KERN FCB series supports external adjustment using a suitable adjustment weight.

Adjustment allows the instrument's indication to be brought into agreement with appropriate reference values.

This may be necessary after installation, relocation or when deviations are identified.

The manufacturer's instructions should always be followed.

Adjustment versus calibration

Adjustment and calibration are different procedures.

Adjustment changes the instrument's indication or measurement behaviour.

Calibration compares the instrument's indications with reference values and documents the resulting deviations.

Calibration does not automatically change the instrument's settings.

DAkkS-accredited calibration

For suitable models, DAkkS-accredited calibration services may be available.

An accredited calibration certificate documents measurement results within the accreditation scope of the issuing laboratory.

DAkkS-accredited calibration results can benefit from international recognition under applicable mutual recognition arrangements, including the relevant EA MLA and ILAC MRA agreements.

This is particularly relevant for internationally operating businesses that require traceable measurements and documented quality procedures.

Important: Accredited calibration does not replace any legally required conformity assessment or verification.

A calibration certificate is not automatically included with every KERN FCB scale and may need to be ordered separately.

Technical characteristics of the KERN FCB series

Technical specifications and standard accessories may vary between individual FCB models. Always refer to the specifications of the selected product reference.

KERN FCB versus KERN FKB – Which series should you choose?

KERN FCB – Designed around checkweighing and portion control

The KERN FCB is particularly suitable for businesses that regularly check weights, prepare portions or weigh materials within specified limits.

Its key advantages include:

• Practical tolerance checking.

• Visual and audible feedback.

• Compact construction.

• Different weighing capacities.

• Versatile weighing functions.

• Optional digital connectivity.

KERN FKB – High-resolution industrial precision weighing

The KERN FKB series is positioned for applications where a larger weighing platform and detailed weight indication are particularly important.

Its larger weighing area can be advantageous for technical components, containers and industrial samples.

Choosing between the two series

For repetitive portioning and weight verification, the KERN FCB is a natural choice.

For larger components or containers, the KERN FKB may offer advantages because of its larger platform.

Both series provide professional weighing functions and, depending on the model, fine readability.

The final decision should be based on the actual weighing requirements rather than the product category alone.

Buying guide – How to choose the right KERN FCB scale

1. Determine the maximum weighing capacity

Identify the highest weight that will regularly be measured.

Include containers, packaging and any additional loads.

2. Define the required readability

For smaller portions and narrow weight tolerances, finer readability may be appropriate.

For larger quantities, a higher maximum capacity may be more important.

3. Consider the required tolerances

Determine the permitted weight deviations for the application.

The selected scale should provide suitable measurement performance for these requirements.

4. Evaluate the checkweighing function

If products must consistently remain within specified weight limits, the FCB's visual and audible feedback can provide a significant practical advantage.

5. Identify any digital connectivity requirements

If weighing results must be documented or transferred to another system, select a suitable interface solution.

Compatible adapters may be required.

6. Consider mobility

For changing workstations, check the available battery and rechargeable battery options.

7. Clarify legal metrology requirements

If the scale will be used for a legally regulated application, select an appropriate trade-approved model.

8. Determine calibration requirements

For documented quality procedures, accredited calibration may be beneficial or necessary.

If required, it should be considered when ordering.

Frequently asked questions about KERN FCB scales

What is the KERN FCB?

KERN FCB is a series of professional checkweighing and portion control scales for industrial, commercial and food-related weighing applications.

What is the difference between checkweighing and portion control?

Checkweighing verifies whether a measured weight falls within specified limits. Portion control involves preparing consistent quantities. The KERN FCB supports both tasks.

Which industries use KERN FCB scales?

Typical applications include food processing, manufacturing, packaging, warehousing and industrial quality control.

Can KERN FCB be used for food portioning?

Yes. The series is suitable for appropriate portioning tasks, provided the relevant hygiene and operating requirements are met.

How does the checkweighing function work?

The user defines weight limits. The scale then supports the evaluation of whether the measured weight falls within the specified range.

Does KERN FCB provide audible signals?

Yes. The current models offer checkweighing with visual and audible feedback.

Can KERN FCB be used for dosing?

Yes. The scale can support manual dosing by displaying the weight and comparing it with predefined tolerances.

Is KERN FCB an automatic dosing system?

No. The series is intended for manual weighing and checkweighing operations.

What weighing capacities are available?

The series includes different capacities. Selected current models have maximum capacities of up to 30 kg.

What readability does KERN FCB offer?

Readability depends on the model. Selected versions offer increments such as 0.05 g, 0.1 g, 0.2 g or 1 g.

How large is the weighing platform?

The current FCB models considered feature a 252 × 225 mm weighing platform.

Is the weighing platform made of stainless steel?

Yes. The current series uses a stainless steel weighing platform.

Is KERN FCB waterproof?

A stainless steel platform does not mean the complete scale is waterproof. The manufacturer's cleaning instructions and environmental specifications must be observed.

Can KERN FCB count parts?

Yes. The integrated parts counting function determines quantities of sufficiently uniform components based on their average weight.

Does KERN FCB support percentage weighing?

Yes. The percentage weighing function allows weights to be compared with a reference value.

Can multiple weighing results be added together?

Yes. The summation function supports the combination of individual weighing results.

Can KERN FCB connect to a computer?

Yes. Compatible interface adapters can enable communication with suitable computer systems.

Is USB connectivity included?

Not necessarily. A suitable optional KUP adapter may be required.

Are Wi-Fi and Bluetooth available?

Depending on the configuration, compatible optional interface solutions may provide wireless connectivity.

What is the KERN Universal Port?

The KERN Universal Port is an interface system that allows compatible KERN weighing instruments to be equipped with different communication options.

What does KCP mean?

KCP stands for KERN Communication Protocol. It supports data exchange between compatible weighing instruments and external systems.

Can KERN FCB operate on batteries?

Depending on the model and configuration, battery operation may be available. Optional rechargeable battery solutions may also be offered.

Are trade-approved KERN FCB models available?

Yes. Selected DM models are intended for applications requiring appropriate legal metrological conformity.

Are all KERN FCB scales trade-approved?

No. Legal metrological conformity depends on the specific model.

Do I need a trade-approved scale for food portioning?

That depends on the application and the legal requirements of the country where the scale is used. Weighing for price determination may require a compliant instrument.

Can KERN FCB be DAkkS-calibrated?

Suitable models may be eligible for DAkkS-accredited calibration services.

Is DAkkS calibration the same as legal verification?

No. Calibration and legal metrological verification or conformity assessment serve different purposes.

What is the difference between KERN FCB and KERN FKB?

The KERN FCB focuses on practical checkweighing and portion control. The KERN FKB offers a larger weighing platform and is particularly suited to high-resolution industrial precision weighing.

Which KERN FCB model should I choose?

The main criteria are weighing capacity, readability, required tolerances, weighing functions, connectivity needs and any applicable legal metrology requirements.

Buy KERN FCB checkweighing and portion control scales on SMI

The KERN FCB checkweighing and portion control scales provide a versatile solution for businesses that regularly verify weights, prepare material quantities and produce consistent portions.

Their compact design, stainless steel weighing platform and convenient checkweighing function support efficient operations in manufacturing, food processing, packaging and quality control.

Visual and audible signals help operators work within defined weight ranges.

Additional functions, including parts counting, percentage weighing and summation, extend the series' versatility.

Different weighing capacities and readability options allow businesses to select a model that matches their operational requirements.

Compatible optional interfaces provide additional opportunities for transferring and documenting weighing results.

Selected trade-approved variants and available accredited calibration services support applications with specific metrological requirements.

Explore the KERN FCB range and select the professional checkweighing and portion control scale that best meets your business needs.

KERN FCB – Check accurately. Portion consistently. Work efficiently.