Get started with Scale

The scale is a precision instrument with sensors

The type is an electronic precision scale in aluminum. It is universal for most types of hives and easy to use.

The scale is a precision instrument with information gathering and monitoring from the outside of your hive. Measures outside temperature, humidity, and accurate weight changes of your hive. Different models are available depending on the needs of the weight to be measured.

Location

The bench of the hive should be horizontal and the scales placed on it under the bottom of the hive. If the bottom plate of the beehive is soft Styrofoam type, something hard must be placed between the pressure sensor measuring points of the scale and the bottom plate otherwise the measuring points will sink into the Styrofoam and thus give the wrong weight. Place a wooden bar between the bottom and the scale.

The scale belongs together and is logically linked with Heart for a common hive with the same identity. Don’t move around or change locations, and don’t mix the wave with other Hearts and other hives.

If the hive is exposed to the wind it has to be tightened with tensioning straps, it is important to leave some slack in the strap so that the scales do not lock. Make sure that the sensor box is protected and fixed, and sensor cables are not hanging freely under the hive. The box and cables should not be able to move out of the wind to avoid the risk of slippage.

If you have the Gateway device, you only need to download the (yellow) Mobile App Monitoring.

If you do not have the Gateway device, you need to download the (green) Mobile App Gateway and launch it to read and upload data.

About the beehive scale

A hive scale is the device used to monitor the weight of your hive. It allows beekeepers to monitor the weight of the hive in real time, providing information about the status of the colony, honey production and the need to add resources. When the weight of the hive increases, it means that the bees are actively collecting nectar and producing honey. On the other hand, if the weight decreases, it can indicate a problem, such as starvation or swarming. The scale is weatherproof, making it an ideal choice for outdoor use in harsh conditions.

The hive scale sensors are a key component of a hive weight measurement system. These sensors detect changes in weight and convert them into digital data that the beekeeper can analyze. They react to changes in pressure caused by the weight of the hive. These sensors are highly accurate and sensitive to small changes in weight. Our sensors allow for remote monitoring via applications or cloud services. Sensor data can be transmitted in real time to a mobile device or computer.

The beehive scale consists of two metal rails connected to electronics housed in a waterproof box. In addition to weight, the electronics also measure humidity and temperature.

Installation of the beehive scale

Installing a beehive scale is an important step to ensure accurate monitoring of the weight and condition of the hive. Here are the steps to properly install a bee scale:

Choosing the right location
Choose a flat and stable location for the hive. The surface should be solid (concrete, slabs or stabilized soil) and not subject to changes that could affect the weight, such as ground subsidence.

Preparing the hive
Before placing the hive on the scale, make sure it is properly balanced and stable. Check that all components of the hive are correctly assembled and that it is standing firmly.

Placement of the scale
Place the scale under the hive. It is important to place the sensors evenly under each corner of the hive so that the weight is evenly distributed.

Scale Calibration
We always CALIBRATE the scale before delivery. In some cases, it may be necessary to zero the scale or check the accuracy of the measurement even after delivery.

Power supply and connection
The scale uses a rechargeable battery. Make sure the power supply is working. The scale can be charged with a USB charger. The scale supports connection via GSM or Bluetooth; make sure you have a stable connection to the monitoring device.

System Testing
After installation, check the operation of the scale and sensors. Test to observe weight changes or other readings to ensure that the scale is operating properly.

Features

• Weighs your hive weight up to 200 kg (3M) or 400 kg (XS) depending on model
• Temperature stability +/- 250g (3M) or +/- 100g (XS) depending on model
• Measurement accuracy 10g.
• You can see an estimate of how many bees fly out of the hive in the morning
• Warning for unusual weight change – theft
• Monitors outdoor temperature
• Monitors the humidity outside (if you make holes for the enclosure)
• Daily, weekly, and monthly nectar flow data
• Figures and graphs
• Estimated number of flying bees
• Data collected every ten minutes
• Internal memory on the device is stored for 2 months
• Cloud archive for 5 years of data
• Communication via smartphone via Bluetooth or external gateway
• Communication distance outdoors is up to 100m, and after insertion in the hive 5m up to 50m. (If you have Gateway, you can view the data from any distance).
• Web application for personal computers and data export to MS Excel
• Rechargeable battery. The battery lasts for 5 years on a charge cycle
• Battery included