Manual in English for Tanita BC-730 Body Fat Analyzer Scale

Tanita BC-730 Body Fat Analyzer User Manual

Tanita BC-730 Body Fat Analyzer

Operating Instructions

Carefully read this manual and refer to it whenever questions arise regarding the use of this device.

Introduction

Thank you for purchasing the Tanita body composition analyzer. This manual will familiarize you with the setup and operation of the device, as well as explain the meanings of its main and additional functions. Use it throughout the operation of the device. TANITA products utilize the results of the latest clinical research and technological developments. All obtained data is monitored by the TANITA Medical Advisory Board to improve measurement accuracy.

Attention! Safety precautions

- Do not use the analyzer if you have a pacemaker or other implanted medical devices. This device passes a low-frequency electrical signal through the body, which may affect the operation of such devices.

- Pregnant women may use only the weight measurement function. All other functions are not designed for pregnant women.

- Do not use Tanita analyzers on slippery surfaces (for example, on wet floors).

- It is not recommended to use the analyzer immediately after bathing or exercising. Moisture on the platform may activate the device or individual functions and impair normal operation. Wipe the platform surface with a clean, dry material to remove any liquids.

- Stored data may be lost if the analyzer is used improperly or exposed to electrical fields.

Important notes for users

- The BC-730 analyzer is intended for use by adults (18–99) and children (5–17) who do not engage in an active lifestyle (regular physical exercise), as well as adults (18–99) with athletic builds and regular exercise, but not exceeding 10 hours per week, with a resting heart rate of 60 beats per minute or less.

- The body fat measurement function is not intended for pregnant women or professional athletes with physical activity exceeding 10 hours per week.

- This model is not intended for diagnosis or detection of diseases or deviations from normal health conditions. Please consult your physician regarding all health-related issues.

- Tanita assumes no responsibility for any damage or loss caused by this product and does not accept claims from third parties.

Why monitor body composition?

Body fat analyzers are designed to promote a healthier lifestyle by measuring key health indicators that reflect the impact of external conditions on human health:

1. Monitor the effect of diets to ensure they contribute to health improvement.
2. Adjust fitness programs by monitoring changes in muscle mass and basal metabolic rate.
3. Track visceral fat content — a key indicator of the risk of heart disease and diabetes in individuals with a physical rating of 2 (overweight).

Body Fat Content

Body fat content is the percentage of fat tissue in the human body. Increased body fat content significantly leads to such consequences as high blood pressure, heart attacks, diabetes, cancer, etc.

Body fat percentage scale

Body Water Content

Body water percentage is the total amount of fluid in the human body expressed as a percentage of total weight. Water plays a vital role in many bodily processes and can be found in every cell, tissue, and organ. Maintaining a healthy body water level ensures efficient functioning of the body and reduces the likelihood of developing health problems.

Body water content changes throughout the day and night. Significant changes may affect body composition measurements. For example, after prolonged sleep, the body tends to lose water, and differences in water distribution occur between day and night.

Food intake, alcohol, menstruation, illness, exercise, and sauna use may also cause fluctuations in hydration levels. The body water percentage should serve as an indicator but not as a precise recommendation of water content. Long-term monitoring is important to maintain healthy levels.

Drinking large amounts of water at once does not significantly change body water percentage. In fact, it increases body fat readings because total body weight increases. Please monitor the readings over time to determine relative changes. Each person is unique, but the following values may be used as normal body water ranges for adults:
Women: 45–60%
Men: 50–65%

Body water levels tend to decrease as body fat increases. A person with high body fat may have below-average body water levels. With fat loss, body water levels will tend toward the values listed above.

Visceral Fat Level

This indicator measures the amount of visceral (internal) fat in your body.

Visceral fat surrounds vital organs in the abdominal cavity. Research has shown that even if weight and fat content remain constant, fat distribution changes with age and tends to accumulate in the waist area. Healthy visceral fat levels help predict the risk of cardiovascular disease, high blood pressure, and diabetes for individuals with a physical rating of type 2. TANITA analyzers provide an estimate of visceral fat levels in the range of 1 to 59.

Level 1 to 12 — indicates a healthy visceral fat level.
Level 13 to 59 — indicates a high visceral fat level. Lifestyle changes are recommended, such as diet adjustments or exercise.

Even with low body fat, you may still have high visceral fat. For medical diagnosis, consult your physician.

Basal Metabolic Rate (BMR)

This is the minimum amount of energy required for the effective functioning of the respiratory, circulatory, nervous systems, liver, kidneys, and other organs. About 70% of all calories consumed daily are used for basal metabolism. Metabolic rate increases when you are active because the musculoskeletal system (40% of body weight) consumes significant energy. Most energy is expended by muscles; therefore, increasing muscle mass raises BMR. The higher the BMR, the more calories are burned, reducing body fat. The lower the BMR, the slower fat is burned, increasing the risk of obesity and related consequences. Research shows that BMR changes with age, peaking around 16–17 years before gradually decreasing.

Biological Age

Each age corresponds to a certain BMR and metabolic intensity. This function allows calculation of BMR and an average age corresponding to that metabolism type. If your metabolic age is higher than your physical age, you should work on lowering it. Increasing physical activity builds muscle mass, which lowers metabolic age. Values typically range from 12 to 90. Values below 12 are displayed as "12" and above 90 as "90". Measurement range: 12 to 90 years.

Muscle Mass

This parameter shows the weight of muscle mass in your body. The displayed muscle mass includes skeletal muscles, cardiac muscles, smooth muscles (digestive tract muscles), as well as the water contained in these muscles. If your muscle mass increases, your energy consumption also increases, which contributes to the reduction of excess body fat and healthy weight loss.

Physical Rating

This function evaluates body composition based on the ratio of fat to muscle mass in your body. With increased activity and reduced body fat, the body composition rating changes accordingly. Even without weight change, muscle mass and fat percentage may vary in ways that improve health and reduce disease risk.

Bone Mass

This parameter shows the weight of skeletal bones in your body. Research indicates that physical exercise and muscle development contribute to stronger and healthier bones. Since bone structure does not change significantly over short periods, it is important to maintain healthy bones through a balanced diet and sufficient physical activity. People concerned about bone condition should consult their physician. Individuals suffering from osteoporosis or low bone density due to age, pregnancy, hormonal conditions, or other diseases may obtain inaccurate bone mass data. Below are estimated bone mass values for people aged 20 to 40 (Source: TANITA Body Weight Science Institute).

Use the table values as relative indicators when comparing your bone mass measurements.

Women: Average estimated bone mass.

Weight

Men: Average estimated bone mass.

Weight

The following groups may have bone mass values different from those listed above and should use them only as estimates: elderly individuals, women during or after menopause, and people taking hormonal medications.

Estimated bone mass is a statistically derived value correlated with lean body mass. It does not directly indicate bone hardness, strength, or fracture risk. If you have concerns about bone condition, consult a specialist.

Preparation for Use

Battery installation

Open the battery compartment cover on the back of the measuring platform. Insert the supplied batteries as shown in the illustration.

• Ensure correct polarity when installing the batteries. Incorrect polarity may cause battery leakage. If you do not plan to use the device for a long period, it is recommended to remove the batteries.

• Note that the supplied batteries may be discharged due to long storage.

• For accurate weighing and measurement, the device must be used on a hard, flat surface with minimal vibration.

• To avoid possible injury, do not step on the edge of the measuring platform.

• Use protective feet if you place the analyzer on a soft surface such as carpet.

Usage tips:

The device is a precision instrument using modern technologies. To keep it in optimal condition, follow these instructions:

• Do not attempt to disassemble the measuring platform.
• Store the device horizontally and prevent accidental button pressing.
• Avoid impacts and vibration.
• Do not expose the device to heating appliances, high humidity, or large temperature fluctuations. Avoid direct sunlight.
• Never immerse the device in water. For cleaning electrodes, use alcohol-based solutions; for stain removal, use glass cleaners (apply to cloth first). Avoid soap.
• Do not step on the platform when it is wet or with wet feet.
• Do not drop objects onto the platform.

Obtaining accurate readings

For accurate measurements, weigh without clothing under consistent hydration conditions. If not undressed, remove socks/stockings and ensure feet are clean before stepping on the platform. Ensure heels are properly placed on the electrodes. Do not worry if your feet extend beyond the platform — accurate measurements are still possible. Measurements should be taken at the same time each day. If you have just woken up, eaten a heavy meal, or exercised, wait at least 3 hours. For trend tracking, measure systematically under the same conditions.

Note: Accurate results cannot be obtained if feet are not clean, knees are bent, or measurements are taken while seated.

Automatic power-off function

The automatic power-off function shuts down the device in the following cases:

• Measurement process interrupted by the user — power switches off automatically within 30 seconds depending on the operation.
• User’s weight exceeds the maximum capacity.
• No button activity within 60 seconds during programming.*
• After device use is complete.

*Note: After automatic shutoff during programming, repeat the “Data setup and storage” procedure.

Switching the weighing mode

Note: Applicable only to models with a weighing mode switch.

The displayed units of measurement can be changed using the switch on the back of the scale.

Note: If set to pounds or stones-pounds, the height programming automatically switches to centimeters. If kilograms are selected, height display is also in centimeters.

SETTING (CHANGING) DATE AND TIME

1. Setting the date. Insert batteries and press any key to begin year setup. Use the ^/Ў buttons to select the year, then press SET. The device will emit a single beep to confirm.
2. Setting the hour. Use the ^/Ў buttons to set the exact hour, then press SET. The device will emit a single beep to confirm.
3. Setting the minutes. Use the ^/Ў buttons to set the exact minutes, then press SET. The device will emit a single beep to confirm. After this, the device will power off automatically.
Note: After battery replacement or if you wish to change date and time, press and hold the arrow button (Memory Recall) to start the setup process. Replacing batteries resets date and time.
After 60 seconds of inactivity, the device will switch off automatically. Entered data will be lost. If you make a mistake or wish to switch off before completing programming, press OFF. Entered data will be lost.

Entering and saving personal data

Memory function for 5 users. Measurements can be taken if personal data is entered into one of the five memory slots or in “Guest mode.”

1. Powering on. Press SET to turn on the device. The device will beep to confirm activation, and numbers 1–5 for personal data will flash on the display.

Note: If no action is taken within 60 seconds, the device will power off automatically.
Note: If you make a mistake or wish to turn off before completing programming, press OFF.

2. Selecting a number for personal data entry. Use ^/Ў buttons to choose a memory slot. Press SET to confirm. The device will emit a single beep.

3. Entering date of birth. Set your birth date (year/month/day) using ^/Ў buttons. Press SET to confirm with a beep.

4. Selecting gender. Use ^/Ў buttons to choose female / male / athletic female / athletic male. Press SET to confirm with a beep.
5. Entering height. Default value is 170 cm (range 90–220 cm). Use ^/Ў buttons to set your height. Press SET to confirm with a beep.
Note: After “0.0” appears on the display, you must perform a weight and body composition measurement. Otherwise, personal data will not be saved, and re-entry will be required.
6. Measuring weight and body fat. Step on the device after “0.0” appears. The device will display your weight, then “0000” will flash at the bottom, followed by %Fat. Results are displayed for 40 seconds. The device will then power off and save the results automatically.
Note: If you step on the platform before “0.0” appears, an “Error” message will display. If you do not step on within seconds after “0.0” appears, the device will power off. In these cases, repeat the personal data setup process.

Note: If you change birth date and/or gender, the device will display “CLR.” If you select “Yes” using ^/Ў buttons, previously saved data will be deleted. If you select “No,” new data will not be saved, and the device will turn off.

OBTAINING BODY COMPOSITION VALUES

After entering personal data, you are ready to perform measurements.

Note: The device will automatically identify your personal number with stored personal data.
1. Step on the device while it is off. It will switch on automatically and begin measurement.
2. Viewing results. After measurement, results will automatically appear in the following order: once the last result is displayed, your personal data and number will reappear. After selecting your personal number, your data will be displayed automatically and saved in memory under your personal number.

If the wrong personal number is displayed:

You can change the number by pressing and holding the SET button until your personal data and number appear. Select your correct personal number, wait a few seconds, and the correct data will appear. It will be saved in memory under your personal number.

If you press the DEL button, your personal data will not be saved.

Note: For children (5–17 years), the device measures only weight and body fat percentage.

Recall function

Previous values of the following functions can be retrieved using the Recall function:

• Weight
• Body fat percentage (%)
• Total body water percentage (%)
• Muscle mass and physical constitution
• Basal metabolic rate / metabolic age
• Bone mass
• Visceral fat level

To display previous results, press SET while current readings are displayed. Previous values will appear. To view other previous readings, press the corresponding buttons for each parameter. Press SET again to return to current results.

Note: For children (5–17 years), only weight and body fat percentage values are displayed.

Guest mode programming

Guest mode allows one-time use without overwriting stored personal data. Press the “Guest” button to switch on the device. Then enter age, select gender, and enter height. Step on the device after “0.0” appears on the display. The device will show weight results, remain on the scale until body fat percentage appears. Results will be displayed for 40 seconds.

Note: Do not step off the platform until the body fat percentage value (% Body Fat Range) is displayed.
Note: If you step on the platform before “0.0” appears, the display will show “Error.”

Weight-only mode

Press the “Weight only” button. After a few seconds, “0.0” will appear on the display, accompanied by a beep. Step on the platform. When measurement is complete, results will appear automatically. Step off carefully. The device will switch off automatically after use.

Possible malfunctions

• Weight displayed in incorrect format, followed by kg, lb, or st-lb. See “Switching weighing mode.”
• Display shows “LO” or all data disappears — batteries are discharged. Replace batteries immediately as low batteries reduce accuracy. Replace all AA batteries simultaneously.
Note: Removing batteries does not reset user settings.
• During measurement, “ERROR” appears — remain still. If body fat exceeds 75%, the device cannot provide results.
• No body fat percentage displayed, or “----” appears after weighing — personal data not programmed. Ensure socks are removed and feet are on electrodes.
• “OL” appears during measurement — weight limit exceeded.

General description

• Power supply – 4 x AA batteries

Technical specifications

• Measurement accuracy – 0.1 %
• Scale division – 100 g
• Maximum capacity – 150 kg
• Minimum capacity – 2 kg

Functions

• Athlete
• Guest
• Weight only
• Memory for 5 users
• Auto power-off
• Recall of previous data
• Physical rating

Measurements

• Weight, kg
• Body fat percentage, %
• Body water percentage, %
• Visceral fat level
• Bone mass, kg
• Muscle mass, kg
• Basal metabolic rate, kcal
• Biological age, 12–90 years

Package contents

• Analyzer – 1 pc.
• AA batteries – 4 pcs.
• Manual in Russian – 1 pc.
• Packaging – 1 pc.