2002-03-16 Some time ago on this list, we discussed dual operation scales. Those are the scales that can read in both pounds and kilograms. I think most of the Americans on the list assumed these scales were digital, as that is what we are use to here. We wondered if these scales had switches that could be switched back and forth to select the units desired. But, I really don't think digital scales are capable of being externally selectable. Those that might be dual type would have to be switched internally. But, for a vendor to open the scale to change the selection, would invalidate the stamp, and thus make its use illegal.
I believe later on someone mentioned that these dual scales are the old analogue type. And these are legal as long as they have kilograms shown on them. Which defeats the purpose of going metric as the metric readings can be ignored. Which brings to mind some questions and ideas. Are these types of scales still being made, or are they just remnants from the past? Does the British law make these scales only legal until 2010, after which the vendor must convert to a metric only scale? Is there any move to get British vendors away from analogue scales an go completely digital? If not, would doing so end the situation of some vendors using or trying to use imperial or dual scales? We know that the so-called martyrs are not going to obey the law as long as they can use or can obtain dual calibrated scales. Thus the sooner they can be removed from service, the sooner the stand-off will end. Also, is there any movement to allow 500 g to be used as a pound for those who still want to use pounds? Or to encourage vendors to vend out 500 g each time a pound is asked for? And Chris, when you go shopping, do you ever listen to other patrons and see who asks for metric sizes and who asks for pounds? Did you ever think of asking people in the shops if they would accept a 500 g pound to make shopping easier? I'm sure if any patron has trouble with kilograms it is because of the continued use and conversion between the 454 g pound and the kilogram. The use of the 500 g pound would ease that trouble. Don't you think so? John ----- Original Message ----- From: <[EMAIL PROTECTED]> To: "U.S. Metric Association" <[EMAIL PROTECTED]> Sent: Saturday, 2002-03-16 04:15 Subject: [USMA:18780] Reply in Times To my letter. See http://www.thetimes.co.uk/article/0,,59-237220,00.html Chris -- UK Metric Association: http://www.metric.org.uk/
