Unmanned Weighbridge Site Readiness: Power, Network and Civil Checks
An unmanned weighbridge system works around the clock only if the site beneath it is ready. Most start-up delays come from the basics: a weak foundation, unstable power, a missing network cable or a lane drivers cannot see clearly. This checklist covers what a plant team should settle before equipment arrives.
Key takeaways
- Check the platform base, drainage and approach roads before anything else.
- Plan clean power, earthing and surge protection for the indicator, cameras and terminal.
- Run network cabling to the lane and the control room, with a plan for outages.
- Mark the lane so drivers know where to stop, wait and leave.
Civil base, drainage and approach roads
The platform needs a level, firm foundation and a pit that drains water away, since standing water damages load cells and wiring. The approach and exit should be straight and long enough for the longest vehicle to stand fully on the platform without touching the barrier or kerb. Check that the lane keeps a clear view for cameras, free from poles, signs and parked vehicles.
Power, earthing and surge protection
Load cells send very small signals, so poor earthing or electrical noise shows up as unstable weights. Give the indicator, terminal, camera and barrier a clean supply with proper earthing and surge protection, and plan a backup supply so a short outage does not leave a truck on the platform. A cabinet that keeps dust and moisture out also protects electronics through the monsoon.
Network cabling and control room link
Decide how the lane connects to the server and the control room: fibre or shielded cable, with a switch near the platform and spare ports for cameras. Keep data cables away from power cables, and agree how the lane behaves if the link drops. Our unmanned weighbridge components guide lists each device you will be connecting.
Driver area, signage and safety
Place the terminal where a driver can reach it from the cab and read the screen in sunlight. Use clear signs, lights and floor markings, and keep walking routes away from moving vehicles. A step-by-step rollout plan shows how to schedule these checks.
Calibration after installation
Once the platform is installed and the electronics are connected, the scale should be tested and sealed before use. Weighbridges used for trade must be verified, stamped and re-calibrated at the intervals set by Legal Metrology rules, so keep the certificate dates on file.
Preparing your site for an unmanned weighbridge
Suraj Informatics surveys your lane, power and network before delivery and supplies unmanned weighbridge systems as a complete package. Send us your site layout and we will list what needs preparing.
Site preparation: common questions
Do I need a new platform?
Not always. A sound existing platform can often be fitted with the unmanned equipment.
What network do I need at the lane?
A reliable wired link to the server or control room, with spare capacity for cameras.
Is a power backup necessary?
It is strongly advised so a short outage does not strand a vehicle or corrupt a record.
Who verifies the scale?
The authorised Legal Metrology agency, after installation and at fixed intervals.
Talk to our weighbridge team
Send us your lane layout and we will review power, network and civil needs before installation.
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