Proprietary Protocol Scales
Some manufacturers use proprietary digital protocols for their high-end scales. These often provide advanced features but require specialized adapters and firmware.
Common Proprietary Protocols
Mitutoyo AT7xx Series
- Advanced digital protocol with error correction
- Bidirectional communication
- Built-in diagnostics and status reporting
- High-speed data transmission
Renishaw BiSS/SSI
- BiSS (Bidirectional Serial Synchronous) protocol
- SSI (Synchronous Serial Interface)
- High-resolution absolute position
- Advanced error detection
Heidenhain EnDat
- Bidirectional digital interface
- Absolute position with high resolution
- Built-in diagnostics and monitoring
- Temperature and error compensation
Protocol Characteristics
- High-speed serial: Much faster than SPC protocols
- Bidirectional: Adapter can send commands to scale
- Error correction: Built-in data integrity checking
- Diagnostics: Scale health and status monitoring
- Absolute position: No homing required
TouchDRO Compatibility
TDA-4xx series:
- Limited support for some protocols
- Requires specific firmware versions
- May need custom configuration
Not supported:
- DIY adapters (insufficient processing power)
- Basic glass scale adapters
- Most protocols require dedicated hardware
Advantages
- Very high resolution and accuracy
- Excellent noise immunity
- Built-in error detection and correction
- Advanced diagnostic capabilities
- Absolute position measurement
Considerations
- Expensive scales and adapters
- Limited compatibility options
- May require manufacturer-specific tools
- Complex setup and configuration
When to Consider
Proprietary protocol scales are typically used in:
- High-precision manufacturing environments
- Applications requiring absolute position
- Systems needing advanced diagnostics
- Integration with existing manufacturer ecosystems
Alternative Approaches
If you have proprietary protocol scales but limited TouchDRO support:
- Check if manufacturer offers quadrature output option
- Consider protocol converter modules
- Use manufacturer's DRO system instead
- Replace with compatible scales for TouchDRO use
Future Support
TouchDRO continues to expand protocol support. Check the latest firmware and documentation for:
- New protocol additions
- Compatibility updates
- Beta firmware with experimental support