Digital Precision Powder Dispenser | PACT, Inc. Help Center

Legacy Product Notice: The PACT Digital Precision Powder Dispenser is no longer manufactured or fully serviced by our company. This knowledge base article is provided as a courtesy to customers who still own this product. While we offer limited support through replacement motors, complete repairs are generally unavailable due to discontinued parts.

Link to Product Manual: https://pact.com/wp-content/uploads/2017/06/PACT_DISP_MANUAL.pdf

Product Overview

The PACT Digital Precision Powder Dispenser (released in 1996) works in conjunction with the PACT Digital Precision Powder Scale to precisely measure and dispense smokeless powder for reloading ammunition. The system was designed to dispense the exact amount of powder requested within ±0.1 grains accuracy, making it a valuable tool for precision reloaders.

SAFETY WARNING: This device is designed for use with smokeless powder ONLY. DO NOT use with black powder (the type used in muzzle loading firearms). If black powder comes into contact with an electrical spark, an explosion could result, causing serious injury or death.

Setup and Basic Operation

Power Requirements: The Dispenser requires 9 Volts DC while the Scale requires 12 Volts AC. Do not mix up the power supplies as this will damage the equipment.

Initial Setup

Arrange the Dispenser and Scale as shown in the manual with proper alignment.
Plug in both units. The Scale light on the Dispenser will slowly blink.
On the Scale, press the CALIBRATE/MENU button.
When asked if you want to calibrate, press ZERO/NO.
When asked if you want to Print, press ZERO/NO again.
When asked if you want to use trickle mode (tric), press GRAMS/YES. This activates the Infrared Data Port.
The SCALE light on the Dispenser should change from blinking to solid on, indicating proper communication.

Calibrating the Dispenser

Ensure the scale is in Grains mode and zeroed with the powder pan on the Scale platen.
Pour some powder into the Dispenser's hopper.
With the Scale in grains mode, zeroed with a powder pan, and the SCALE light on the Dispenser illuminated, press the CALIBRATE button on the Dispenser.
The CALIBRATE light will begin to blink. During calibration (which takes several minutes), the dispenser will start and stop several times – this is normal.
Do not touch the Scale or Dispenser during calibration.
After dispensing approximately 150 grains, the CALIBRATE light will change from blinking to solid on.
Empty the powder pan back into the dispenser. Your Dispenser is now calibrated and ready to use.

Dispensing Powder

Ensure your Scale shows 00.0 with an empty powder pan on it and both the SCALE and CALIBRATE lights are illuminated on the Dispenser.
Enter your desired weight (e.g., 25.0) by pressing the numbers and decimal point. You must include the decimal point and tenths, even for whole numbers (e.g., "25.0" not just "25").
Press ENTER. The MEMORIZE light should illuminate.
Press the DISPENSE button. The DISPENSE light will blink, and the Dispenser will begin operating.
As the Scale approaches the target weight, the Dispenser will slow down.
When dispensing completes, the DISPENSE light will stop blinking and stay on.
The Scale will show the final weight, typically finishing within ±0.1 grains of your target.

Troubleshooting Common Issues

Communication Problems

Issue	Possible Cause	Solution
SCALE light blinking continuously	Dispenser not receiving data from Scale	Ensure Scale is in "tric" mode Check that the LED next to the power jack on the Scale is lined up with the receiver (small hole) on the side of the Dispenser Verify both units are powered with correct power supplies
Dispenser not responding to weight entries	Scale not properly communicating	Reset both units by powering off and on Re-enter trickle mode on the Scale Ensure you're entering weights with decimal point and tenths (e.g., "25.0")

Dispensing Issues

Issue	Possible Cause	Solution
Slow or inconsistent dispensing	Motor issues or powder tube problems	Adjust Dispenser tubes: Try pulling the dispenser tubes out about ⅛ inch to improve powder flow Clean with compressed air to remove built-up powder or debris Check for clogged powder tubes, especially with fine ball powder like H110 Consider replacing motors if dispensing remains slow (see replacement options below)
Inaccurate dispensing	Calibration issues or scale interference	Recalibrate the Dispenser following the procedure above Ensure the Scale and Dispenser are on a stable surface Don't touch or bump the table during dispensing Switch powder types may require recalibration

Motor Replacement

The Dispenser uses two motors: a high-speed motor and a trickle (low-speed) motor. If dispensing is slow or erratic after cleaning and calibration, one or both motors may need replacement.

Replacement motors are available through our website: Dispenser Motor

Tips and Tricks

Memorizing Weights: Pressing the MEMORIZE button causes the dispenser to memorize whatever weight is displayed on the Scale. When working up loads (e.g., going from 25.2 to 25.4), use the DISPENSE button to bump the last charge up, then press MEMORIZE to save the new target weight.
Large Charges: For large powder charges, consider using your manual dispenser for the bulk, allowing the Digital Dispenser to finish the charge precisely.
Emptying the Dispenser: Hold your finger over the powder tubes when pouring powder back from the dispenser. When the hopper is empty, gently tap the tubes to ensure all powder is removed.
Workstation Setup: Set the Scale and Dispenser on a separate, stable surface to prevent vibrations from affecting measurements. When dispensing completes, pour the powder into your case, return the pan to the scale, and press DISPENSE to prepare the next charge.
"Bumping" Charges: If a charge is slightly under target, press and hold the DISPENSE button briefly to add small amounts of powder using the slow motor.
Changing Powder Types: Always recalibrate the Dispenser when switching powder types as different powders have different flow characteristics.

Potential Issues with Specific Powders

Fine Ball Powders: Very fine ball powders (like H110) can potentially jam between the powder tubes and their bushings. While these powders can be used, keep an eye out for any jamming issues.
Flake Powders: Some flake powders may occasionally clump in the tubes. This is normal but monitor dispensing for consistency.

Support and Availability Status

As this is a legacy product discontinued in the early 2000s, our support capabilities are limited:

Parts Availability: Most replacement parts beyond motors are discontinued and unavailable
Repair Services: We cannot offer comprehensive repairs due to parts limitations
DIY Options: Motor replacement and the troubleshooting steps above are the primary support we can offer

Alternatives

If troubleshooting and motor replacement don't restore functionality, we recommend researching modern digital powder dispensers from companies like Lyman, RCBS, or Hornady as potential replacements.

Questions? If you need help with these steps, motor installation, or other basic support, please contact us. While repair options are limited, we're happy to provide advice and assistance where possible for this legacy product. Thank you for your continued support of PACT, Inc.!