Load Cell Wiring

The number of wires inside a load cell cable will either be 4 or 6 depending on the type of load cell being
used. While the color coding can vary depending on the manufacturer of the load cell, the function of
each pair of wires are the same.

4-Wire Load Cells

4-wire load cells are used in applications where a high degree of accuracy is not needed or where the
load cell is performing in standard conditions. 4-wire load cells are calibrated to the cable length and
cutting the cable will negatively affect the accuracy of the load cell.
4-wire load cells use 2 sets of paired wires. The excitation wires transmit an electrical current (power)
the load cell and the signal wires deliver the output signal from the load cell to the indicator.
The wiring and color coding for a 4 wire load cell is most commonly done as follows:
1. Excitation wires: The positive excitation (red) and negative excitation (black) wires are used to
supply power (measured in V) to the load cell other components of the system.
2. Signal wires: The positive signal (green) and negative signal (white) wires are used to transmit
the output signal (measured in mV) from the load cell to the amplifier or indicator.

6-Wire Load Cells

6-wire load cells are highly accurate and are used in precision applications or in applications where
compensations must be made for temperature, long lengths of wire, or other interference. 6-wire load
cells are also preferred in multi-load cell applications. The two additional wires (sense wires) are used to
detect and compensate for any resistance or voltage changes that would affect the output voltage. This
ability to compensate means that 6-wire cables can be cut as needed without affecting measurement
accuracy.

A 6 wire load cell typically has three sets of paired wires: The wiring for a 6 wire load cell is typically
done as follows:

1. Excitation wires: The positive excitation (red) and negative excitation (black) wires are used to
supply power (measured in V) to the load cell other components of the system.

2. Signal wires: The positive signal (green) and negative signal (white) wires are used to transmit
the output signal (measured in mV) from the load cell to the amplifier or indicator.
3. Compensation wires: The positive sense (blue) and negative sense (brown) wires are used to
balance the bridge circuit and improve accuracy.
To avoid damage to the load cell, it is important to consult wiring chart on the load cell data sheet
before wiring connectors or connecting to a power source.