TBF-521BODYFAT
MONITOR/SCALE
Instruction Manual
Read this Instruction Manual carefully
and keep it for future reference.
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Introduction
Thank you for selecting the Tanita Body Fat Monitor/Scale TBF-521.
This product uses the BIA (Bioelectrical Impedance Analysis) technique,
a state-of-the-art technology for body fat assessment.
Safety Precautions
• Persons with implanted medical equipment, such as a pacemaker, should not use the
TBF-521. This Body Fat Monitor/Scale passes a low-level electrical signal through the
body, which may interfere with the operation of a pacemaker.
• The Tanita Body Fat Monitor/Scale TBF-521 is intended for home use only. This unit is not
intended for professional use in hospitals or other medical facilities; it is not equipped with
the quality standards required for heavy usage experienced under professional conditions.
• Do not use this unit on slippery surfaces such as wet floors.
• Disabled people should be assisted by someone else, or use a handrail when using
the TBF-521.
Note: Body fat percentage estimates will vary with the amount of moisture in the body, and can be affected
by dehydration or overhydration due to such factors as alcohol consumption, menstruation, illness, intense
exercise, etc.
Important Notes for Users
The TBF-521 is intended for use by adults and children with moderately active to inactive
lifestyles and by adults with athletic body types.
Tanita defines “athlete” as a person involved in intense physical activity of at least 10 hours
per week and who has a resting heart rate of approximately 60 beats per minute or less.
Tanita’s athlete definition includes “lifetime of fitness” individuals who have been fit for
years but currently exercise less than 10 hours per week.
Tanita’s athlete definition does not include “enthusiastic beginners” who are making a real
commitment to exercising at least 10 hours per week but whose bodies have not yet changed
to require the Athlete mode.
Body fat percentage estimates may be slightly lower or higher for the following categories
of people:
• Adults seventy years old or older
• Persons undergoing dialysis
• Persons suffering from edema
Body fat percentage estimates for these persons should not be treated as absolute values, but
may be used as relative values for checking body fat percent variations over a period of time.
The TBF-521 is not intended for pregnant women, professional athletes or bodybuilders.
Recommendations for exercise programs or diets based on calculated data should be
determined by a doctor or licensed medical professional. Do not attempt to evaluate the data
by yourself.
Tanita takes no responsibility for any kind of damage or loss caused by these units, or any
kind of claim made by a third person.
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TBF-521 Body Fat Monitor/Scale
Principles of Estimating Body Fat Percentage
The Tanita Body Fat Monitor/Scale TBF-521 allows you to estimate your
body fat percentage at home as easily as you measure your weight.
What is Body Fat Percentage?
Body fat percentage is the percentage of fat in your body. Until now, your absolute weight
has determined whether or not you were considered overweight or obese. In recent years,
the definition of obesity has been refined to mean the presence of excess body fat. Too much
body fat has been linked to conditions such as high blood pressure, heart disease, diabetes,
cancer, and other disabling conditions.
1, 2
Body Fat Ranges for Standard Adults
Underfat
Healthy
Overfat
Obese
Female 20–39
Age 40–59
60–79
0%
10%
20%
30%
40%
Male 20–39
Age 40–59
60–79
Underfat
1 Based on NIH/WHO BMI Guidelines.
2 As reported by Gallagher, et al., at NY Obesity Research Center.
To determine the percentage of body fat that is appropriate for your body, consult your physician.
Healthy
Overfat
Obese
The BIA Method
The TBF-521 uses the BIA (Bioelectrical Impedance Analysis) technique. In this method,
a safe low-level electrical signal is passed through the body. It is difficult for the signal to
flow through fat in the human body, but easy to flow through moisture in the muscle and
other body tissues. The difficulty with which a signal flows through a substance is called
impedance. So the amount of fat in the body can be accurately estimated by measuring
the impedance. The signal used is very low, making it safe and imperceptible.
Tanita’s patented “foot-pad” design sends a safe,
low-level electrical signal through the body to
determine its composition.
The illustration on the left shows how the signal travels through the body.
Body Fat %
Body Fat Percentage Fluctuations in a Day
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Hydration levels in the body may affect body fat readings. Readings are usually highest in the
early waking hours, since the body tends to be dehydrated after a long night’s sleep. For the
most accurate reading, a person should take a body fat percentage reading at a consistent
time of day under consistent conditions.
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20
19
18
17
Besides this basic cycle of fluctuations in the daily body fat readings, variations may be
caused by hydration changes in the body due to eating, drinking, menstruation, illness,
exercising, and bathing. Daily body fat readings are unique to each person, and depend upon
one’s lifestyle, job and activities.
6am
10am
2pm
6pm
10pm Time
Daily fluctuations in body fat percentage based on
the BIA technique.
Advantages of the Tanita TBF-521
Previously, body fat percentage was determined by measuring the thickness of subcutaneous
fat by pinching it with calipers, or by laying a person on a scanning bed and passing a current
from hand to foot. However, these methods present problems—professional skills are
required, the procedures take time and are often invasive, and measurement values vary.
Currently, the gold standard methods of fat percentage measurement are DEXA (dual energy
x-ray absorptiometry) and Hydrodensitometry (underwater weighing).
Tanita’s BIA method uses equations derived from large, multi-ethnic population studies to
predict body composition. Readings taken with Tanita’s TBF-521 correlate highly with both
DEXA (Tanita’s reference model) and Hydrodensitometry.
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Package Components
• Measuring Platform
• Display Box
• Support Feet (4)
• Batteries (6)
• Connector Cable
• Wall Mounting Bracket
• Screws for Bracket (2)
3
Features and
Functions
2
Measuring Platform
1. Ball-of-Foot Electrodes
2. Heel Electrodes
Display Unit
3. Display Screen
1
4. On/Off Button
5. User Mode Button
6. Gender Button
7. Height Dial
8
8. Connector Cable
Accessories
9. Wall-Mounting Bracket
10. Screws for Bracket
11. Batteries
3
4
5
6
7
12. Support Feet
ADULT
CHILD
ATHLETE
Only needed if platform is placed
on carpet. Do not use these feet
on hard flooring.
TBF-521
MALE
FEMALE
ON / OFF
ADULT
%
st-lb
CHILD
cmkg
ft.inlb
ATHLETE
Max.150kg d=100g Max. 330lb d=0.2lb Max. 23st 8lb d=0.2lb
HEIGHT ADJUSTMENT
9
10
11
12
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TBF-521 Body Fat Monitor/Scale
Useful Features of the TBF-521
• The TBF-521 allows you to measure both weight and body fat percentage simultaneously as
easily and simply as stepping on a scale.
• The TBF-521 can be set for an Child, Adult or Athlete, Male or Female, increasing the
accuracy of the reading.
• This two-piece unit eliminates the need to bend down to enter data or read results.
All data can be entered, and all results can be read from the remote display unit.
Switching the Weight Mode (lb, kg, st-lb)
The TBF-521 can measure weight in three different modes: lb (pounds), kg (kilograms) or st-lb
(British stone-pounds). The default setting (the setting at which Tanita products are shipped)
is lb. If you would like to change that setting, or if at any point another setting has been
inadvertently entered, select your preferred weight mode by using the switch on the back of
the measuring platform (see illustration, left).
lb
st/lb
kg
Note: If weight mode is set to pounds or stone-pounds, the height programming mode will be automatically
set to feet and inches. Similarly, if kilograms is selected, height will be automatically set to centimeters
.
Automatic Shut-Down Function
The automatic shut-down function shuts off the power automatically in the following cases:
• If you interrupt the measurement process. The power will shut down automatically within
10 to 20 seconds, depending upon the type of operation.
• If an extraordinary weight is applied to the platform.
• If you make a mistake during measurement or a key or button operation.
• After you have completed the measuring process.
Open as shown
Direction of the batteries
Note: If the power shuts off unexpectedly, repeat the measuring process.
Preparations Before Use
Inserting the Batteries
1. Locate the battery cover on the back of the measuring platform. Press the tab to release the
cover as shown.
2. Insert batteries as indicated.
Note: Be sure that the polarity of the batteries is set properly. If the batteries are incorrectly positioned,
the fluid may leak and damage floors. If you do not intend to use this unit for a long period of time, it is
advisable to remove the batteries before storage.
Positioning the Monitor
Place the monitor on a hard, flat surface where there is minimal vibration to ensure safe and
accurate measurement.
Note: To avoid possible injury, do not step on the edge of the platform.
Attaching the Support Feet (Carpet Use Only)
Insert the support feet into the holes at the four corners on the bottom of the
m easuring platform .
Note: Do not use the monitor on any carpeting that is more than 0.8" (20 mm) in thickness.
Do not use the support feet on hard, flat surfaces, as the unit may tip over.
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1
Installing the Display Box
The display box can be set on a table or mounted on a wall.
Note: Avoid holding the display unit in your hands while measuring yourself, because it’s weight
(0.6 lb or 0.25 kg) would be added to your weight.
To attach the display box to a wall, follow the steps below.
2
1. Using a screwdriver, attach the bracket to a wall by inserting the two screws into the
holes in the bracket —you may need to pre-drill two holes in the wall.
2. Attach the display box to the bracket by inserting the tabs on the bracket into the holes
on the back of the display box.
3. Be sure that the display box is fixed firmly on the bracket. Unless securely attached,
the display box may fall off.
3
Handling Tips
This monitor is a precision instrument utilizing state-of-the-art technology. To keep
the unit in the best condition, follow these instructions carefully:
• Do not attempt to disassemble the measuring platform. (Note: this may also void
the product warranty)
• Store the platform horizontally, and place the display unit in its wall-mounted bracket,
or in another area where it will not be dropped or stepped upon.
• Avoid excessive impact or vibration to the product.
• Place the product in an area free from direct sunlight, heating equipment, high humidity,
or extreme temperature change.
• Never submerge the product in water. Use alcohol to clean the electrodes and glass
cleaner to keep them shiny, applied to a cloth first; avoid soaps.
• When you change the batteries, exchange all six at the same time with new
AA-size batteries.
• Do not place the connector cord in an area where it may be stepped on or accidentally pulled.
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TBF-521 Body Fat Monitor/Scale
Operating the TBF-521
1. Turn on the Power
ADULT
CHILD
ATHLETE
TBF-521
MALE
FEMALE
ON / OFF
ADULT
CHILD
Press the On/Off button to turn the unit on. The display screen items will appear and the
display will flash.
ATHLETE
Max.150kg d=100g Max. 330lb d=0.2lb Max. 23st 8lb d=0.2lb
HEIGHT ADJUSTMENT
2. Select the User Mode: Adult, Child or Athlete
Press the Adult/Child/Athlete button to select the mode that is right for your body type. The
arrow on the left side of the display screen will move each time you press the button. Press
the button until the arrow points to the appropriate selection.
ADULT
CHILD
ATHLETE
TBF-521
MALE
FEMALE
ON / OFF
ADULT
CHILD
ATHLETE
Max.150kg d=100g Max. 330lb d=0.2lb Max. 23st 8lb d=0.2lb
HEIGHT ADJUSTMENT
Adult: age 18 or older, with moderately active to inactive lifestyle.
Child: up to the age of 18, over 3' 4" (102 cm),
with moderately active to inactive lifestyle.
Athlete: adult involved in intense physical activity of at least 10 hours per week and
who has a resting heart rate of approximately 60 beats per minute or less.
(See page 1 for the complete definition of “athlete.”)
ADULT
CHILD
ATHLETE
3. Select Male or Female
TBF-521
MALE
FEMALE
ON / OFF
ADULT
CHILD
Press the Male/Female button to enter the appropriate gender.
ATHLETE
Max.150kg d=100g Max. 330lb d=0.2lb Max. 23st 8lb d=0.2lb
Male:
HEIGHT ADJUSTMENT
Female:
ADULT
CHILD
ATHLETE
4. Specify the Height
TBF-521
MALE
FEMALE
ON / OFF
ADULT
CHILD
ATHLETE
Select the height by turning the height dial.
Max.150kg d=100g Max. 330lb d=0.2lb Max. 23st 8lb d=0.2lb
HEIGHT ADTMENT
The display screen should now display “0.0”. At this point the unit has been programmed,
and is ready to take the readings.
Note: The unit has an automatic shut-down function—if you do not step on the platform within 30
seconds of entering your data, the unit will automatically shut off.
ADULT
ADULT
CHILD
CHILD
5. Step On the Platform
ATHLETE
ATHLETE
Wait until “0.0” appears on the display screen before stepping onto the platform.
ADULT
CHILD
ATHLETE
You need to be barefoot, and the soles of your feet need to be clean and dry. Be sure that the
heel and ball of each foot is directly on top of the electrodes on the measuring platform.
Stand erect on the platform. Accurate readings can still be obtained even if your toes
overhang the platform.
ADULT
CHILD
ATHLETE
ADULT
CHILD
ATHLETE
Your weight measurement will be shown first. Next, “00000” will appear in the display and
then the zeroes will disappear one by one while your body fat percentage is calculated.
ADULT
CHILD
ATHLETE
Continue to stand erect on the platform. The values of body fat percentage and body weight
will now be displayed alternately at two-second intervals. If you remain on the platform, the
display will continue for about 30 seconds, and then the power will automatically turn off.
ADULT
ADULT
CHILD
CHILD
ATHLETE
ATHLETE
If you step off the platform, the alternating display of body fat percentage and body weight
will be repeated three times, and then the power will automatically turn off.
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Getting Accurate Readings
To get the most accurate absolute values, readings should be taken without clothing and
under consistent conditions of hydration. If you do not undress, always remove your socks
or stockings, and be sure the soles of your feet are clean before stepping on the measuring
platform. Stand erect on the platform.
Note: An accurate reading will not be possible if the soles of your feet are not clean, if your knees are bent or
if you are in a sitting position.
It is best to take readings at the same time of day. Try to wait about three hours after rising,
eating, or hard exercise before taking measurements. While readings taken under other
conditions may not have the same absolute values, they are accurate for determining the
percentage of change as long as the readings are taken in a consistent manner. To monitor
progress, compare weight and body fat percentage taken under the same conditions over a
period of time.
Replacing the batteries
When the batteries run low, the “Lo” message will appear on the display window. When this
message appears, be sure to replace the batteries immediately, since weak batteries will
affect the accuracy of your measurements.
Batteries run low.
Fresh batteries can last for about one year if a family of four uses the unit once every day.
The unit comes with trial batteries. Their service life may be short.
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TBF-521 Body Fat Monitor/Scale
Troubleshooting
If the following problems occur... then...
Specifications
TBF-521
Weight Capacity
330 lb (150 kg) (21 st-6 lb)
An unfamiliar weight reading appears followed by kg or st-lb.
Weight Increments
0.2 lb (0.1 kg) (0.2 lb)
Body Fat Increments
0.5%
The unit’s “Weight Mode” has been set to measure weight in kilograms or stone-pounds.
If you wish to change the “Weight Mode,” refer to “Switching the Weight Mode on page 4.
Power Supply
DC 6V, AA-size batteries (x 6)—included
Nothing appears in the display screen after initial display of preset data.
Power Consumption
• Check your foot alignment.
60 mA maximum
• Make sure that “0.0” appears before stepping on the platform.
• Check to see that the batteries are fresh and are in the correct positions.
Measuring Current
50 kHz 500 µA
The body fat percentage reading does not appear after the weight is measured.
Vibration will interfere with the fat percentage reading. Be sure to stand erect and still on the
measuring platform. Do not bend your knees. Be sure that shoes and socks are removed and
check foot alignment. Step off and repeat steps on page 5.
After Sales Service
Please contact the store at which you bought this
monitor for any inquiry regarding operation or
trouble, request for repair and/or placement of an
order for parts or products. Or call 1-800-TANITA-8
(USA and Canada only).
The body fat percentage reading is extremely low or extremely high.
Be sure you have entered correct data (Child/Adult/Athlete, Male/Female, Height), and that
the soles of your feet are clean and properly aligned with the guides on the measuring
platform. Dehydration, foot calluses, etc. will interfere with the fat percentage reading.
Step off and repeat steps on page 5.
If you need further assistance, please visit the Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ) section
1-800-TANITA-8 (USA and Canada only).
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Tanita Products Limited Warranty
Not Valid Without Proof of Purchase
Your Tanita product is warranted to the original consumer only, for three (3) years, to be free from defects in materials and
workmanship under normal use. This product is designed for personal use only. Tanita Corporation of America reserves
the right to nullify the warranty agreement should the product be used in a commercial environment. This warranty is void if
the product has been tampered with or mistreated, or if the defect is related to servicing or parts not supplied by us. Our
obligation under this warranty is limited solely to the charge of repairing the product, plus the cost of parts or, at the option of
Tanita, replacing the product with an equivalent model. There are no express or implied warranties except as listed above.
Tanita is not liable for incidental or consequential damages for failure or malfunction of the product and
any recovery may not be greater than the purchase price paid for this product. Some states do not allow
limitation on how long an implied warranty lasts, or the exclusion or limitation of incidental or consequential damages, so the
above limitations may not apply to you. This warranty gives you specific legal rights and you may also have other rights
which vary from state to state. No person is authorized to change the terms of this warranty.
If Product Is Defective or Needs Repair
Do not return this product to the place of purchase; doing so may delay the processing of your warranty claim.
Call Tanita at1-800-TANITA-8 to receive a Return Authorization Number before returning this product. Include $12.50 for
handling, return postage and insurance to the facility listed below. Proof of purchase must accompany the product.
Because of possible loss, we recommend insuring your product, return receipt requested, when using the mail. If you do not
receive a receipt within a reasonable time, start a tracer through the originating post office. It is important that you pack the
product carefully prior to shipment to prevent damage in transit and that you include a letter describing in detail the specific
condition requiring adjustment or repair.
Tanita Products Limited After Warranty
All terms and conditions apply as specified above in the original Tanita Limited Warranty except for the cost of labor and parts:
• Minimum charge for After Warranty labor is $30 per hour, plus the cost of parts.
• You will be notified by mail or telephone of the total cost to repair your product to working condition, so prepayment can
be arranged.
• Your approval is required before any repair work can be performed on your product.
Please complete the following information and retain for your records.
Model:
Date Purchased:
/
/
Purchased From:
Address:
Please send all returns to:
Tanita Corporation
2625 S. Clearbrook Drive
Arlington Heights, IL 60005 USA
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©2000 Tanita Corporation 7/00 HDI
www.tanita.com
Tanita Corporation of Japan
14-2, 1-Chome, Maeno-Cho
Itabashi-Ku, Tokyo, Japan 174-8630
Tel: 03-3968-2123
Tanita Corporation of America Inc.
2625 South Clearbrook Drive
Arlington Heights, IL 60005 USA
Tel: 847-640-9241 Fax: 847-640-9261
Toll Free: 1-800-TANITA-8
Fax: 03-3967-3766
ISO 9001 Certified
e-mail: 4health@tanita.com
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Villa Labrouste
68 Boulevard Bourdon
92200 Neuilly-Sur Seine
Tel: 01 55 24 99 99 Fax: 01 55 24 98 68
Tanita Health Equipment H.K. Ltd.
Unit 301-303 3/F Wing On Plaza
62 Mody Road, Tsimshatsui East
Kowloon, Hong Kong
Tanita Europe GmbH
Dresdener Strasse 25
D-71065 Sindelfingen, Germany
Tel: 07031-6189-6
Tanita UK Ltd.
The Barn, Philpots Close, Yiewsley,
West Drayton, Middlesex, UB7 7RY, UK
Tel: 01895-438577
Tel: 852-2838-7111 Fax: 852-2838-8667
Fax: 07031-6189-71
Fax: 01895-438511
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