Race Car Scale Basics

In today’s world, just about everything is available in a wireless configuration. Intercomp offers both wired and wireless versions of its incredibly accurate scales, so we thought it might be a good idea to see what the differences are and why you might want to use one over the other.

Wired Up

Cabled scales have been around for decades and get the job done. They are also less expensive than their wireless counterparts, which is likely the main draw for prospective buyers. The reason they are less expensive — requiring a hardline connection to the control unit —, can be a downside for some customers, however.

The process of running the cables under the vehicles can be a little cumbersome, but how often you have to do this is directly dependent on how often you scale a vehicle, and whether or not you can leave them set up in a shop or have to put them away each time.

Despite the robust nature of the scale pads, the cables can be damaged by any number of things rolling over them, such as cars, welding carts, toolboxes, etc. They are a bit of a tripping hazard as well, and should you trip over them, you could damage the cables, the scales, and even yourself. That said, a modicum of care and mindfulness can keep them in good condition and provide years of dependable service to your shop or racing program.

Less Wires, Less Hassle

Wireless scales have been around for 15-plus years now and Intercomp has imbued its wireless offerings with the company’s RFX Wireless Weighing Technology. According to Intercomp, this provides the same reliability of a cabled connection, but through an encrypted, wireless avenue.

Ease of use is a wireless scale’s best attribute. To get started, you simply switch on the pads and utilize a laptop, or dedicated handheld indicator, or use the iRaceweigh mobile app via Bluetooth on a tablet or other mobile device to begin measuring.

Adding to the wireless scale’s ease of use is the fact that you can sit in the vehicle and view any changes made right from the seat.

Itercomp’s scales are made of high-quality materials and are extremely accurate.

Intercomp quality

For both wired and wireless scales, Intercomp tests and calibrates its load cells and scale systems using  National Institute of Standards and Technology methods and standards. The standards that the scales must meet include, accuracy, repeatability, RFI/EMI interference, and permanence….