# Automating master data capture: dimensions, weight and photo of every item

*Which data counts, how capture works and where it takes place*

How to capture item master data automatically: which data counts, how a measuring station works, stationary or mobile, and how the values get into your WMS or ERP.

Canonical: https://metrilus.com/en/knowledge/automate-master-data-capture

Alternate (de): https://metrilus.com/de/wissen/stammdatenerfassung-automatisieren

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Automatic master data capture means that a measuring station records length, width, height,
weight and a photo of each item in one step, and the barcode assigns the values to the right
item. With the MetriXFreight S140, a measurement takes around 200
milliseconds, and the mean deviation is below 5 mm.

Good master data is the basis for any warehouse automation, for choosing totes and
compartments and for freight calculation.

## What missing item data costs

*Why master data counts*

A WMS chooses totes, compartments and freight classes based on the dimensions and weight of the items. If the values are missing or wrong, items end up in the wrong tote, automated storage systems block, and shipping costs deviate from the plan. Measuring by hand with a tape measure and a list takes a lot of time and creates rework.

That is why the start of an automated warehouse is usually preceded by an inventory of the master data, item by item.

## How automatic capture works

*Place, scan, done*

You place the item on the scale without aligning it. 3D cameras capture the dimensions, a color photo documents the condition, and the barcode scan assigns everything to the item. The screen confirms each measurement immediately.

The S140 measures box-shaped and irregular items alike, up to 120 × 85 × 70 cm. Because of the camera's measuring cone, the maximum footprint depends on the height: flat items may be larger than tall ones. The scale carries up to 50 kg and has a resolution of 1 g.

## Stationary or mobile?

The S140 works as a fixed station in receiving or shipping. Because it stands on casters, it
also works as a mobile unit: with a battery provided by you and Wi-Fi or LTE, you move the
station to where the goods are and capture master data right where it is stored.

Whether fixed or mobile, the values reach your system the same way: via REST API, as a file
or as a QR code. How the connection works is explained on the page
[Connecting a dimensioning system](/en/knowledge/connect-wms-tms-erp). You can find technical
data and the data sheet on the [S140](/en/solutions/master-data-capture-s140) page. The simulation
[Master data capture: what do frame and corner stop cost?](/en/knowledge/master-data-capture-what-frame-and-corner-cost)
works out how many working days your assortment takes.

## Frequently asked questions about master data capture

### What master data does an automatic measuring station capture?

Length, width and height, the weight via the integrated scale, a color photo and the item's barcode. The system calculates volume and volumetric weight from these.

### Are there mobile solutions for master data capture?

Yes. The S140 stands on casters and works with a battery provided by you and Wi-Fi or LTE, without fixed connections. This lets you capture master data right at the shelf. You provide the battery yourself; we do not supply batteries.

### How fast is the capture?

One measurement takes around 200 milliseconds. In the process, you can handle up to 750 items per hour including scanning, depending on handling.

### How accurate is automatic master data capture?

The S140 measures with a mean deviation of less than 5 mm, and the scale has a resolution of 1 g.

### Which items are hard to measure?

The camera cannot measure completely non-reflective and highly reflective objects reliably. For goods larger than the measuring range of the S140, we have our own systems for pallets and long goods.

### How do I maintain master data for thousands of items?

By capturing your stock systematically, item by item, at a station, with barcode scan, measurement and photo in one step. At up to 750 items per hour including scanning, depending on handling, even a large assortment stays manageable.

### What are the benefits of automatic master data capture?

Reliable dimensions and weights for tote, compartment and freight planning, a photo as proof, and less rework than measuring with a tape measure and a list.