Precision in the laboratory – integrated into digital processes

KERN & SOHN at analytica 2026

The demands placed on modern laboratory work are increasing constantly. Precise measurements alone are no longer enough - secure documentation, transparent data processing and seamless integration into digital workflows are just as crucial. At analytica 2026, KERN & SOHN will show how precise measuring and weighing technology can be combined with software-supported processes.

The focus of the trade fair presentation in Hall B2, at Stand 206, will not only be on the presentation of new laboratory devices, but above all on their interaction in a digital environment. A specific application example will be used to illustrate how the KERN BalanceConnection software connects multiple measuring devices to a PC and serves as a central interface for digital processing of measurement data.

Digital data recording in the laboratory

KERN BalanceConnection is a Windows-based software that runs in the background and reliably records measurements from connected devices. The number of connected devices and interfaces is flexibly scalable. Balances, moisture analysers or other measuring devices can be recorded simultaneously, with measurement data retrieved either at defined time intervals or via key activation, even over extended periods of time. The software is designed in particular for applications in which measurement data is automatically transferred to a Windows PC for further structured processing.

"Manual data capture is error-prone and time-consuming, especially for long-term tests or continuous recordings," explained Aleksandar Delic, Category Manager Laboratory at KERN & SOHN. "KERN BalanceConnection enables automated, reproducible documentation – regardless of whether a test runs for hours, days or weeks."

A key feature of the software is the flexible design of the data output. Measurements can be formatted, rounded or calculated and also supplemented with additional information such as date, time, device or user details. This enables laboratory users to prepare the data specifically for their respective evaluations, for example for Excel-based analyses or transfer to other systems.

The PRO version offers password-protected Excel exports for regulated environments. The new password generated automatically for each export ensures the integrity of the output data and supports traceable documentation.

Networked measuring devices in practical use

At analytica, KERN will be demonstrating the software using a networked system consisting of three devices: the KERN ABP-A analytical balance, the KERN DBS moisture analyser and the KERN PDS precision balance. This setup illustrates how different measuring tasks can be bundled within a laboratory using the software.

In recent years, the ABP-A has established itself as a high-end analytical balance in laboratories. Its new generation single-cell load cell enables short stabilisation times and high temperature stability. Automatic sliding doors, a height-adjustable draft shield and time- and temperature-controlled internal adjustment all contribute to fast, reproducible results. At the trade fair, the ABP-A will serve as an example of how existing premium devices can be integrated into modern, digital workflows.

The KERN DBS moisture analyser supplements the system with drying and moisture analysis applications. The device operates based on the thermogravimetric principle and delivers stable, reproducible results, even with sensitive samples. The results of typical applications such as drying tests or long-term observations can be transferred to a PC via the integrated USB and RS-232 interfaces and then automatically documented and analysed in conjunction with the BalanceConnection software.

The PDS precision balance, which was launched in 2025, is representative of the current generation of KERN laboratory balances. Along with the ADS series of analytical balances, it has a semi-touch display that combines touch functions with standard control buttons. GLP/ISO-compliant logging and multiple interfaces facilitate use in regulated laboratory environments and in conjunction with digital systems.

Microscopy and more

In addition to weighing technology, KERN will also be showcasing a wide range of microscopy solutions for laboratories, research and education at analytica. These include transmitted light, video and fluorescence microscopes. One focus is on a new fluorescence microscope with LED technology, which is based on a high-quality infinity optics system and is designed for applications such as immunofluorescence or nucleic acid-based staining. The LED technology is characterised by operational reliability, energy efficiency and constant light intensity.

The portfolio is completed by additional measuring devices such as digital refractometers for applications in quality control and process monitoring. KERN thus covers a very wide range of analytical tasks in the laboratory.

For standardised weighing processes beyond the demonstrated system integration, KERN offers EasyTouch as an additional software solution that supports functions such as recipe management and piece counting. It is aimed at applications that require structured user guidance and direct integration with existing IT systems.

"Our goal is to bring together precision, user-friendliness and digital integration," summarised Aleksandar Delic. "analytica offers the ideal platform for us to demonstrate this approach in practice."

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