Frankford Arsenal Intellidropper Powder Measure
THE FRANKFORD ARSENAL Intellidropper is an electronic powder measure that has two exciting and helpful features I haven’t seen on similar devices: a proprietary powder calibration function which affords fast and accurate powder measurements, and the Intellidropper mobile app that connects your smartphone to the dispensing unit using Bluetooth. The app stores load data and other information useful to reloaders.
On opening the box, first read the instruction manual, as this sensitive device needs to be handled with care. Ensure that you set it up correctly to avoid later frustration – a missed step could lead to imprecise and inaccurate results. The manual is easy to follow.
The calibration weights and powder brush each have a place holder and the device’s base has four adjustable rubber feet and a bubble level to ensure precise levelling, which is crucial. Charge weights can be out by up to 0.3 grains if the device is not level. I powered up the device, waited for it to stabilise then installed the reservoir tube with its cap. To complete the initial set-up, place the pan on the plate and place the transparent cover over the pan.
INITIALLY, I GAVE it about 15 minutes to warm up, but later allowed more time by switching it on before spending about thirty minutes assembling the load components and doing final case preparation. Allowing it more time to stabilise prevents inaccuracies such as charge-weight fluctuations.
Before filling the reservoir with propellant, ensure that the drain spout cap on the righthand side is closed and the powder pan is in place to prevent powder granules falling on the scale plate.
After filling the device, you need to calibrate it. To do this, remove the pan from the scale plate. Press the zero button on the display screen then press the CAL button and wait for the screen to flash 0.000. Once stabilised, it will flash 50.000. Place one of the 50-gram weights in the middle of the scale plate, without touching the spout. The device will display STABLE. Now press the CAL button again, and the display will show 100.00. Place the second weight near the centre of the scale plate. When the device has stabilised, press the CAL button again. It will display PASS,