Fingerprint Sensor AS608 - A Beginner's Guide
One touch can replace keys. This project uses an optical fingerprint sensor to enroll users and then grant access with a quick scan.
read tutorial →
Turn a Load Cell into a Complete Serial Scale System
The OpenScale is an open-source weighing board that turns a standard load cell into a complete long-term scale system with live serial output and simple setup.
It combines a microcontroller, HX711 24-bit ADC, USB-to-serial connection, and temperature support on one board, so you can build a custom scale without piecing together multiple modules.
Important: SparkFun notes that you will need a USB cable with a Mini-B connector for direct computer connection.
Why you'll love it
- 24-bit HX711 ADC onboard: Designed for precise weight readings
- ATmega328P-based control: Ready for configuration and serial output
- Simple serial menu: Easy calibration and setup without deep firmware work
- Supports standard load cells: Good for one load cell or grouped sensors
- Logs temperature alongside weight: Useful for long-term monitoring
What you can build
Great for custom scales, hopper monitoring, industrial experiments, field measurement rigs, process control prototypes, and logging weight over time.
Starter bundles
Pair it with a load cell, Mini-B USB cable, terminal software or logger, and a stable mounting structure.
Recommended add-ons
Useful add-ons include load cells, enclosures, data loggers, cables, and external temperature sensing if needed.
Technical specifications
| Product | SparkFun OpenScale |
|---|---|
| SKU | SEN-13261 |
| Operating Voltage | 5V |
| Operating Current | 80–100mA |
| ADC | HX711 24-bit ADC |
| Output Data Rate | Selectable 10SPS or 80SPS |
| Temperature Support | Local and external temperature sensors |
| Gain | Fixed and adjustable gain |
Pinout & usage notes
Connect your load cell and power, then use USB serial for live readings and configuration. The board is made for direct long-term scale deployments and serial logging.
Resources & support
Official SparkFun product page | SparkFun hookup guide
What’s in the box
1 × SparkFun OpenScale board
Frequently Asked Questions
What does OpenScale replace?
It replaces the usual stack of microcontroller, ADC, and serial adapter used in DIY scale builds.
Can I log readings over time?
Yes. It is built for long-term weight monitoring and serial output.
What cable do I need?
SparkFun notes that a USB Mini-B cable is needed for direct computer connection.
Manila stock. Order before 16:00 PHT, ships today via J&T or LBC. Provincial: 1–3 working days.
Schools / class POs: we accept Purchase Orders for accredited schools and universities. contact us with your PO details.
Returns: 7-day inspection window for DOA units. Email proof of issue and we ship a replacement.
Compatibility & downloads
// downloads
- Schematic pdf
- Hx711F En pdf
- Datasheet pdf
- Openscale Eaglefiles zip
- Sparkfun Openscale Arduino zip
- Sparkfun Openscale Particle zip
- GitHub PCB repo git
Customers also bought
Build with this board
Thumb Joystick - A Beginner's Guide
Wire a joystick to your Arduino, read X/Y, then print UP / DOWN / LEFT / RIGHT to the serial monitor.
read tutorial →Motor Drive (BTS7960 43A) - A Beginner's Guide
Bench-test a 43 A motor driver before wiring the full project. Catches weak power, mis-pinning, and dead boards before they cost you time.
read tutorial →Raspberry Pi Pico (RP2040) - A Beginner's Guide
Coming from UNO and the Pico won't show a COM port? Here's the BOOTSEL trick, the driver fix, and the first sketch that actually works.
read tutorial →Notes from the bench
Ask the community
Project Showcase — show what you built
Share what you built. Photos, BOM, what worked, what didn't.
view thread →How to ask a good question (and actually get answers)
Symptom + what you tried + clear photo = answers within hours.
view thread →ESP32 brownout when wiring a sensor — fixes that worked
Brownout reset when adding a sensor? Notes on supply decoupling and GPIO checks.
view thread →First Arduino — sketch upload error, what to try?
Upload failing on your first Uno? Driver, COM port, board match — checklist inside.
view thread →