a microprocessor controlled power - saving electronic measuring system is disclosed . a load cell generates an output signal indicative of the magnitude of the load applied to the cell . a dc power supply is switched to supply the load cell with power pulses at varying frequencies and duty cycles determinable by the microprocessor to optimize battery life . the microprocessor determines the optimal duty cycle and frequency for the power pulses responsive to desired parameters . the circuitry of the present invention is located in close proximity to a temperature sensor which accurately reads the temperatures of all of the components and compensates for all heat related inaccuracies simultaneously . the microprocessor determines a temperature corrected value for the load cell output via a previously programmed table containing the temperature response characteristics for the load cell and the circuitry . in an over / under indicator mode , segments of the display led &# 39 ; s are configured to graphically indicate whether the current weight on the scale is within a desired tolerance . a power saving sleep mode in described in which the system voltage level is reduced , and most of the circuitry is disabled .