Scale Master II

The Scale Master II—also known as the Scalemaster II—is a multi-scale digital plan measure from Nevada-based measuring tools manufacturer Calculated Industries, Inc. The device is specifically designed for simplifying take-offs from architectural and engineering drawings.

With the Scale Master, you can automatically find linear measurements of any shape or rectangular areas and volumes. You can also convert between scales and dimensions. The device comes with 91 built-in scales for accommodating any application, as well as eight “custom” ones that you can use for plans and prints that have been enlarged, reduced, unscaled or faxed.

For its display, the measuring device has an LCD screen with a seven-digit capacity, zero suppression, commas, and annunciators. The screen has a resolution of 0.025 inches, with an accuracy of 99.75 percent. For power, the Scale Master runs on two 3-volt CR-2430 lithium batteries, which deliver around 400 hours of life.

The Scale Master features quite a number of keys. An On/Off Switch ([On/Off]) enables you to switch off the unit without clearing your scales or modes, which are stored in its built-in accumulating memory. A lock switch ([Lock]) prevents the inadvertent change of scales and modes. The Subtract key ([Sub]) is the most versatile: It toggles the measuring mode between positive and negative direction, and you can press it with [Count], [+K] or [M+] for subtracting the appropriate value.

Weighing 1.6 ounces, the Scale Master II measures 7.2 inches in length, 1.6 inches in width, and 0.6 inches in depth. It is packaged with a software CD and user/instruction manual for installation on a computer, case for protecting the unit, and a USB charger for charging the device's battery. Also included is a 25-pin cable for connection to the computer; the connector is also compatible with 9-pin ports. With ability to connect to a PC, you can transfer measurements and values directly from the unit into the computer’s estimating or spreadsheet programs. The Scale Master is compatible with Windows 3.0, Windows 98, Windows XP, and later editions of the Microsoft operating system.