Delmhorst Moisture Check User Manual

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MoistureCheck

MOISTURE METER

Owner’s Manual

Version 2.2

For MoistureCheck Meters starting with Serial #12284

Delmhorst Instrument Co.

Rev 7

May, 2010

TABLE OF CONTENTS

PAGE

GENERAL DESCRIPTION & FEATURES 4 OPERATING INSTRUCTIONS 5

NAVIGATION 5

INSTALLING THE BATTERY 6 TO POWER THE METER ON 7 METER USE 7

BASIC & ENHANCED MODES 7

USING THE METER IN BASIC MODE 7 To Take Pin Readings in Basic Mode 7-8 To Set the Alarm in Basic Pin Mode 8-9 To Change the Temperature Correction 9 To Take Scan Readings in Basic Mode 9-10 To Set the Alarm in Basic Scan Mode 10

To Reset the Meter to Default Settings in Basic Mode 10

USING THE METER IN ENHANCED MODE 11 Job Definition 11

To Create or Modify a Job in Pin Mode 11-12 To Set Temperature Correction 12 To Set the Alarm in Enhanced Pin Mode 13 To Take Pin Readings in Enhanced Mode 13-14

To Take Scan Readings in Enhanced Mode 14 To Set the Alarm in Enhanced Scan Mode 14-15

MAIN MENU OPTIONS 15 STORAGE 15 VIEW STATISTICS 15-16 STORED READINGS 16-18 CLEAR MEMORY 18

RESTORE DEFAULTS 18

IR LINK 18-20 SETUP MENU 20-21 TAKING A READING – PRACTICAL APPLICATIONS 22 TESTING WOOD 22 PAINT FAILURE AND MOISTURE 22-23

EIFS 23 USING THE 0-100 REFERENCE SCALE 23

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TESTING CONCRETE 24 TESTING INSULATION 24-25 TESTING DRYWALL 25 CARE OF YOUR METER 26 SERVICE FOR YOUR METER 27 WARRANTY 28 SPECIES LIST 29

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GENERAL DESCRIPTION/FEATURES

Thank you for your purchase of Delmhorst Instrument Co’s newly designed MoistureCheck handheld wood moisture meter. The MoistureCheck provides the user with a host of data acquisition capabilities, and offers the latest in features and functionality. Even with its wide range of functions, the MoistureCheck is intuitive and easy to operate. We recommend that you read the following pages in detail to take full advantage of all that the MoistureCheck has to offer.

Outstanding Features:

• Pin mode

o 5%-60% wood scale (Douglas Fir)

§ Corrects for 69 individual wood species over the range of 5%-60%MC

§ Corrects for temperature over the range of 0-255F/-18-124C

o 0.1% - 6% Sheetrock® scale o 0-100 numerical reference scale for non-wood building materials

• Scan Mode

o 0-300 numerical reference scale

• General Features:

o Integral Contact pins mounted on top of meter provide 5/16” penetration o Connector for external Electrodes o On-screen reading recall of up to 1400 readings o Date and time stamp for each stored reading o Job groupings o Optional infrared linking capability w/ application software o 9V battery o 1-year warranty o Carrying Case

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OPERATING INSTRUCTIONS

-User Guide-

This guide provides step-by-step instructions on powering up, using and powering down the meter.

NAVIGATION:

The meter uses an on-screen, menu-driven approach to navigate through the meter features, allowing for an intuitive understanding of keypad functions. Each screen presents the user with a number of selectable options. One of the options is always selected and the user can move (navigate) the selection to any other available option. The keypad is aimed at providing navigational control, and not at accessing specific features. There are four directional keys aligned intuitively around a middle (fifth) key (see Figure 1): Above (UP), below (DOWN), to the right (RIGHT) and to the left (LEFT). The middle key is used to SELECT the option highlighted on the screen. For purposes of this owner’s manual, the five keys will be referred to as SELECT and ï ð ñ ò.

Fig. 1 Keypad Layout

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INSTALLING THE BATTERY:

The battery compartment is located on the underside of the case, at the bottom of the handle.

1. Open the battery compartment by sliding the lid back while pressing on the release indent.

2. Ensure correct polarity, and push the battery in flush with the bottom board until the connectors snap together on both sides.

3. Replace the battery compartment lid.

IMPORTANT NOTE:

DO NOT REMOVE THE BATTERY WITHOUT TURNING THE METER OFF FIRST. BATTERY REMOVAL WHILE THE METER IS ON MAY CAUSE LOSS OF STORED READINGS AND MAY CORRUPT THE STORAGE MEMORY. IF THIS OCCURS, CERTAIN FUNCTIONS (SUCH AS STATISTICS, READING RECALL, ETC) WILL FAIL AND LOCK UP THE METER. If the battery is removed by accident while the meter is ON, and if the readings already stored are important, DO NOT store additional readings. Turn the meter back on and perform a PC download. Beware that any readings stored during the power cycle that included the battery removal WILL NOT be available and CANNOT be recovered. Once the download is complete, perform a meter reset by choosing “RESTORE DEFAULTS” in the Storage Menu. If a download is not necessary, go directly to “RESTORE DEFAULTS”.

LOW BATTERY:

The meter features a battery status monitor, designed to warn the user as well as protect measurement accuracy from impending battery failure conditions. The battery warning is triggered by either continuous or temporary low voltage conditions. Visible (a battery icon on the top right side of the display) and audible (buzzer warble) indicators accompany a battery warning. Once a permanent low battery condition is detected, all measurement functions are disabled. Enough power remains for other menu functions, including a PC download, although almost any user action at this time causes a low-battery warning to be generated. The battery should be replaced immediately. If the battery reaches critical levels, the meter will refuse to stay on at power-up. This gradual warning system is intended to provide the user advanced battery status notice and give ample time for replacement before operational limitations occur.

NOTE: Stored readings are not lost during battery replacement or low battery conditions. Current meter settings are maintained as well.

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TO POWER THE METER ON:

To turn the meter on, press and hold the SELECT button for approx. 2 seconds.

The first screen will temporarily display the meter name and the software revision level. Refer to this revision level whenever you call Customer Service.

The next screen is the MAIN MENU. Use ï ð ñ ò keys to select the desired function/mode and then press SELECT to activate the function.

METER USE

BASIC AND ENHANCED MODES:

MoistureCheck may be used as a BASIC meter, which allows the user to begin taking readings

in either the scan mode or pin mode, without having to set up a job definition. BASIC mode does not allow for data collection and is the default mode of the meter upon power up.

Or, MoistureCheck may be used in ENHANCED mode, which requires the user to set job definitions and materials for each location within a job. The meter also stores each reading in

ENHANCED mode to allow for on screen reading recall or download to a PC.

USING THE METER IN BASIC MODE:

MoistureCheck is shipped from the factory set to BASIC mode. Use this option if you wish to use the meter for scan or pin readings without having to set up a job.

Although Basic Mode does not allow for data acquisition, it does allow the user to set the type of material being tested, and set the alarm to sound if a pre-established %MC is exceeded.

TO TAKE PIN READINGS IN BASIC MODE:

1. From the BASIC Main Menu, use the ò key to highlight PIN MODE. Then, use the

SELECT key to enter the pin mode.

2. The meter will display the main %MC READ screen, as shown below:

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3. Use the ò key to highlight the default material (Douglas Fir) if you wish to change it

to a different material. Press the SELECT key to get into the SELECT MATERIAL sub menu.

4. Use the ñ ò keys to highlight the material you are testing. Press the SELECT key to

choose that material. This will bring you back to the main %MC READ screen.

5. Use the ï ð keys to highlight the pin type selection. Press the SELECT key to

toggle between 4-pin (non-insulated) pins and 2-pin (insulated) pins. You may begin taking readings by inserting the pins into the material and pressing the

SELECT key. This will display a %MC reading. If you wish to hold a reading on screen, press the SELECT key again; otherwise remove the pins from the material being tested and take another reading.

TO SET THE ALARM IN BASIC PIN MODE:

1. If you wish to set the alarm to beep after a pre-selected %MC value is reached, use the

ñ ò keys from the %MC screen to highlight the ALARM. Press the SELECT key to enter the alarm sub menu.

2. The default status of the alarm is “OFF.” Press the SELECT key to turn it on.

3. After the alarm is turned on, use the ï ð keys to scroll up or down to a higher or

lower alarm value.

4. After you have selected the alarm value, use the ò key to highlight DONE. Press

SELECT to get back to the %MC READ screen.

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Default alarm settings in pin mode are as follows for different materials:

All wood materials: 15% Drywall: 1.0% Concrete: 68 (on the 0-100 relative scale)

Note: The default alarm setting in scan mode is 300.

TO CHANGE THE TEMPERATURE CORRECTION:

MoistureCheck defaults to a temperature of 70ºF. As wood temperature increases, its electrical resistance decreases and indicated moisture content rises. Lower wood temperatures result in lower indicated moisture content. A correction is necessary if the wood temperature is outside the range of 50ºF (10ºC) to 90ºF (32ºC). Set the temperature accordingly and the meter will make the correction.

1. To change temperature, use the ï ð keys from the %MC READ screen to highlight

the TEMPERATURE, T: 70ºF. Press the SELECT button to get into the TEMPERATURE sub menu.

2. To scroll through the temperature settings, use the ï ð keys to scroll up or down

to a higher or lower temperature value. Temperature values will change in 5°F increments.

3. To change between ºC and ºF press SELECT key when the COMP TEMP is

highlighted.

4. After you have selected the appropriate temperature setting, use the ò key to

highlight DONE. This will bring you back to the %MC READ screen and you may begin taking readings.

TO TAKE SCAN READINGS IN BASIC MODE:

1. From the BASIC Main Menu, use the ñ ò? key to highlight SCAN MODE. Then, use

the SELECT key to get into the SCAN mode main menu. The meter will display the main SCAN mode main menu, as shown below:

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2. You may begin taking readings by firmly pressing the back of the meter onto the

material. This will display a relative reading that ranges between 0 and 200.

TO SET THE ALARM IN BASIC SCAN MODE:

1. If you wish to set the alarm to beep after a pre-selected relative value is reached, use

the ñ ò keys from the SCAN screen to highlight the ALARM. Press the SELECT key to enter the alarm sub menu.

2. The default status of the alarm is “OFF.” Press the SELECT key to turn it on.

3. After the alarm is turned on, use the ï ð keys to scroll up or down to a higher or

lower alarm value.

4. After you have selected the alarm value, use the ò key to highlight DONE. Press

SELECT to get back to the %MC SCAN screen.

Note: Default alarm setting for SCAN mode is 300.

TO RESET THE METER TO DEFAULT SETTINGS IN BASIC MODE:

1. Use the ï ð keys from the BASIC main menu to highlight #4: DEFAULTS. Press

the SELECT key. The meter will display the following question:

2. Use the ï ð keys to answer “YES” or “NO.” If you answer “yes,” the meter will

return to factory default settings in basic mode; i.e. Species = Douglas fir, Temperature correction = 70 F, Alarm = OFF in pin mode. In Scan mode, Alarm = “off.”

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USING THE METER IN ENHANCED MODE:

To use MoistureCheck in enhanced mode, use the ñ ò keys to highlight #3: ENHANCED. Setting the meter to enhanced mode requires you to create job definitions and store readings as described below.

NOTE: Although MoistureCheck’s default mode is BASIC, it will remember the mode last saved at power off, and will remain in the saved mode at next power up.

Settings stored in each particular mode will not be affected by restoring defaults in a different mode.

JOB DEFINITION:

Using MoistureCheck in ENHANCED mode allows you to define jobs. In this mode, MoistureCheck also stores each reading and allows you to download the data to a PC or laptop via Infrared connection. Jobs may be defined only when using the meter in pin mode. Scanned readings cannot be part of a job.

TO CREATE OR MODIFY A JOB IN PIN MODE:

1. From the Enhanced Main Menu, highlight PIN MODE.

2. Use the ñ ò keys to highlight JOB. Press SELECT to enter the job sub menu.

3. Use the ðkey to change the job number. Press the ò key and highlight DONE.

Press SELECT to save that job number.

If it is a new job, the “Create Job” screen will appear as follows:

At the “Create Job” screen, you may select the material being tested, specify the

temperature at which measurements will be taken, and select an alarm value, if desired. All parameters are alterable while taking readings in the new job, except for the species.

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If the job was previously defined and used, you will be asked if you want to “Append Data?”

Use the ï ð keys to answer “YES” or “NO.” If YES is selected, the meter will retrieve the selected job’s settings (during this time a “PROCESSING…” message appears) and then switch back to the Pin Mode screen with the restored settings.

If NO is selected, the meter returns to the Job sub menu.

TO SET TEMPERATURE CORRECTION:

1. To change the temperature, use the ñ ò keys from the CREATE JOB sub menu to highlight the temperature, T: 70ºF.

2. Press the SELECT key to enter the COMP TEMP sub menu.

3. Using the ï ð keys, scroll up or down to a higher or lower temperature value. Temperature values will change in 5º F increments.

4. To change between C and F, press the SELECT key when the COMP TEMP is highlighted.

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TO SET THE ALARM IN ENHANCED PIN MODE:

1. If you wish to set the alarm to beep after a pre-selected value is reached, use the ò key from the MC READ screen, highlight ALARM, and press the SELECT key to enter the ALARM sub menu.

2. The default status of the alarm is “OFF.” Press the SELECT key to turn it on.

4. After the alarm is turned on, use the ï ð keys to scroll up or down to a higher or lower alarm value.

5. After you have selected the alarm value, use the òkey to highlight DONE. Press

SELECT to get back to the MC READ screen

Default alarm settings in PIN mode are as follows for different materials:

All wood materials: 15% Drywall: 1.0% Concrete: 68 (on the 0-100 relative scale)

TO TAKE PIN READINGS IN ENHANCED MODE:

1. From the Enhanced Main Menu, use the ñ ò keys to highlight #1, PIN MODE.

2. Press the SELECT key to get into the ENHANCED READ screen. The current location

will stay the same while toggling between scan and pin modes.

This screen contains the following information: material, pin setting, temperature correction, Job #, alarm setting, mode, and memory used.

3. Insert the pins into the material. The meter will start taking measurements in one of

the two following ways, depending on whether it is set for CONTINUOUS or TRIGGERED mode. To choose between TRIGGERED or CONTINUOUS, use the ñ ò and ï ð keys to highlight MODE, and then press the SELECT key to toggle between TRIG and CONT.

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• When the meter is set to Triggered mode, a single reading is taken every time the SELECT button is pressed. Each reading is stored in memory. The last measurement remains displayed on the screen.

• When the meter is set to Continuous mode, press SELECT key to initiate the reading cycle. The meter keeps taking MC readings in this mode. These readings are NOT stored until the SELECT key is pressed again. To exit continuous mode WITHOUT STORING the current reading, press any directional key (ñ ò and

ï ð). To exit continuous mode and STORE the current reading, press the SELECT key. Exiting continuous mode leaves the last reading on the screen. To

resume continuous mode, press the SELECT key again. Use the ñ ò and ï ð keys to choose a different option.

4. At any time, you may modify Temperature (T). The EXIT option in both SCAN and PIN MODE menus will cancel the measurement

process and will put the meter in the MAIN MENU.

TO TAKE SCAN READINGS IN ENHANCED MODE:

1. In the MAIN Menu, highlight option #2: SCAN The screen will look as follows:

2. You may begin taking readings by firmly pressing the back of the meter onto the

material.

3. This will display a relative reading that ranges between 0 and 300.

TO SET THE ALARM IN ENHANCED SCAN MODE:

1. If you wish to set the alarm to beep after a pre-selected relative value is reached, highlight option #2: SCAN MODE from the ENHANCED main menu. This will bring

you to the SCAN screen.

2. Use the ò and ð keys and highlight ALARM: OFF. Press the SELECT key to enter the alarm sub menu.

3. The default status of the alarm is “OFF.” Press the SELECT key to turn it on.

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4. After the alarm is turned on, use the ï ð keys to scroll up or down to a higher or lower alarm value.

5. After you have selected the alarm value, use the òkey to highlight DONE. Press

SELECT to get back to the SCAN screen. Default alarm setting for SCAN mode is 300.

MAIN MENU OPTIONS:

STORAGE:

The Storage Menu groups all meter features related to measurement storage, retrieval and manipulation. All operations on stored readings may only be performed on a single job.

1. While in the main menu, use the arrow keys to highlight option #3 STORAGE

2. Press the SELECT key to enter the storage sub menu. There are four available

selections in this menu shown below.

View Statistics:

o This menu option selects the meter’s statistical analysis option. Selecting this option gives the user access to two sets of statistical data. A screen shot example of the first set is shown below:

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o The first line indicates the Moisture Content (MC) job being analyzed. o The second line shows the number of readings stored in the specific job o The third line shows the Average MC value for all stored readings in the specific job. o The fourth line shows the Standard Deviation for the specific job. o The fifth line shows the Coefficient of Variation for the specific job. o Selecting “MORE” gives the user access to the second set of statistical data. o Selecting “DONE” returns the user to the storage menu screen.

NOTE:

The second set of calculations may require significant processing time, depending on the number of readings stored in the specific job. The meter will display a screen with the word “PROCESSING…” while calculations take place. User input is ignored during this time. Control is returned to the user once the algorithm is complete and the second statistics screen is shown, as in the example below:

o The first line indicates the specific MC job. o The second line indicates the number of readings present in the specific job. o The third line shows the 95% Confidence Interval for the specific job. This is the value

(+/-) away from the calculated average value within which 95% of the stored readings are guaranteed to exist.

o The fourth line shows the value of the lowest MC reading stored in the specific job. o The fifth line shows the value of the highest MC reading stored in the specific job.

There are no control entries present in this screen, such as “MORE”, “CANCEL” or “DONE”. The only available option is to return to the storage menu screen, by pressing any key.

Stored Readings:

1. From the storage sub menu, use the keys to highlight “STORED READINGS.”

Press the SELECT key to enter the stored readings sub menu.

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2. By using the ï ?ð keys you may select which job you wish to view. If there are no readings in a job, the following screen will display:

If there are readings saved to a job, the following screen will display:

After you have made your job selection, scroll to DONE and press the SELECT key.

A complete record of information per reading will be displayed. You will be able to scroll through each reading, using the NEXT key. Scroll to “DONE” if you do not wish to see any more readings.

A selected job containing readings offers two other selectable options: “VIEW SET” and “DONE”.

o VIEW SET: This option allows the user to view a specific range of readings in a

particular job, as opposed to the entire set, by providing a configurable start point. It becomes useful when large numbers of readings are present in the meter. View Set always begins by displaying “1 TO XXX”, where XXX is the maximum number of readings in the selected job. If left unchanged, the first reading to be reviewed will be number 1. Readings may only be reviewed in ascending sequential order.

Using the ï ?ð keys, the left-side value can be changed in increments of 10. For example, assume the selected job contains 23 readings. The View Set entry will begin by displaying “1 TO 23”. Successive Right button presses will yield the following: “11 TO 23” and “21 TO 23”. At this point, the value on the left side is within 10 readings of the value

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on the right side. Alternately, pressing the Left button causes the meter to subtract 10 from the current left-side value.

o DONE: Selecting this option signals to the meter that the user has completed the reading

recall setup process and is ready to begin reviewing readings.

NOTE: There may be a significant delay while the meter processes the required set of readings for review, depending on the number of jobs present in the meter, percentage of memory space occupied by readings, current job size and fragmentation. The meter will display a screen with the word “PROCESSING…”. User input is ignored during this time. Control is returned to the user once the algorithm is complete and the Retrieved Readings screen is displayed, as shown in the example above:

Cancel: This feature returns the meter to the Storage Menu

• CLEAR MEMORY:

This option will delete all the readings stored in the meter, but will keep the defined job structures in tact.

§ RESTORE DEFAULTS:

This will delete all defined parameters and readings stored in the meter. The meter will be now set to the factory parameters: T = 70F, Non-insulated probe, Backlight = OFF, Power-off time = 2 min.

Note: Memory deletion and restoring defaults are both irreversible.

§ EXIT:

This menu option returns the meter to Main Menu.

IR LINK:

This menu option initiates a wireless communication session during which the currently stored readings will be downloaded to a PC. Before using this feature, the target PC must be loaded with Delmhorst’s Universal Application Program and a Delmhorst base unit must be connected to an available USB port.

Requirements:

The wireless communication technology employed in the meter requires line-of-sight access between the red side window of the meter and the receiving window of the Base Unit. Simply place the meter and Base Unit on a flat surface, with the red side window of the meter facing the

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receiving window of the Base Unit. Separation requirements between the meter and Base Unit are anywhere from 0 to 12 inches.

Operation:

1. Begin by starting the Delmhorst Instrument Co. Universal Application Program

(double click the application icon or choose the program from the Start Menu).

2. Once the MoistureCheck and base unit are lined up and the base unit is connected

to a USB port (a green LED should be lit), select the IR LINK option in the Main Menu. The meter will display the message “Linking…” for a few seconds, followed by “Link OK” when successful communication is established with the base unit. The base unit will also indicate communication established by turning off the green LED and turning on a red LED.

3. Press the “MANAGE DATA” button in the Delmhorst Instrument Co. Universal

Application Program. The meter will display “Data” on the screen and the base unit will alternately turn on a yellow and red LED while data transfer takes place (red indicates communication between the meter and Base Unit, while yellow indicates communication between the base unit and the PC). When finished, the meter will return to the Main Menu and the base unit will, once again, turn on its green LED. For further details on managing the meter data in the PC please refer to the HELP feature in the program.

NOTE: The above sequence of events in initiating communication between the PC and the meter is not mandatory. The Application Program may be started first, or the IR Link may be selected first. The MANAGE DATA button may also be pressed before communication is started between the Base Unit and the meter. The meter, base unit and Application Program all have ample delays built in to allow the other link components to come online in any sequence.

Troubleshooting The I/R Link:

Most problems tend to occur due to the positioning of the meter relative to the base unit. There are a few error messages that may appear on the meter’s screen:

a. Timeout: This error message occurs when too much time has passed between data

sent by the meter and the response that should have been received from the base unit. Possible causes:

• Meter misalignment with the Base Unit (make sure the communication windows are facing each other, within the distance indicated).

• No connection to the PC. The Base Unit must be connected to the PC through a USB cable. Check connection.

b. KBD: This message occurs when the user presses a key during communications. Do not push any key on the meter during data transfer. The meter interprets this as a request to escape this activity and returns to the Main Menu. The base unit should return to a green LED status in a few seconds. A message should appear on the PC screen as well, indicating lost communications.

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c. Sync: This message occurs when data framing is lost during data transmission. This

would only happen if the wireless link becomes unreliable. Ensure the meter and base unit are aligned and restart the session.

d. Data E: This message occurs when the content of a correctly framed data packet is

invalid. Again, this is an unreliable wireless link problem.

NOTE: Individual records cannot be downloaded to the PC. The entire storage content is delivered to the PC during a link session

SETUP MENU:

The Setup group of features allows access to the configurable parameters of the meter. They are: Date and Time, Power-off time, Backlight, and Conversions (temperature mode and electrode type). All can only be accessed in the Setup Menu. To get to the Setup Menu, use the ñ ò

keys to highlight option #5: SETUP.

SETUP MENU ENTRY DESCRIPTIONS:

o Return to Main Menu: This menu option returns the meter to Main Menu. The meter

also returns to Main Menu if no user input is detected for 20 Seconds.

o Set Date and Time: This menu option allows user access to the date and time set

screen:

The Date and Time set screen is populated with the time and date values present in the meter at access time. UP and DOWN key action switches the row selection among available parameters. LEFT and RIGHT key action changes the selected parameter’s value (for “DONE” and “CANCEL” – parameters without assigned values, the LEFT and RIGHT keys perform no function). All parameter values are incremented using the RIGHT key and decremented using the LEFT key. The DAY parameter moves forward through weekdays using the RIGHT key and backward using the LEFT key. The SELECT (center) key is only active when menu selection is applied to “HOURS” (switch between standard or military time), “DONE” or “CANCEL”. Selecting “DONE” exits this screen back to the SETUP MENU and updates the clock with the newly chosen values. Selecting “CANCEL” exits this screen back to the SETUP MENU without updating the clock.

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o Set Power_Off time: This menu option allows the user to change the amount of time

allowed to lapse between the last key press and meter shut-down. Allowable range is 1min – 9min, with a default value of 2min.

o Set Backlight: This menu option allows the user to change the amount of time allowed to

lapse between the last key press and backlight shutdown. The default setting for this feature is “NO”, where the backlight is completely disabled. Backlight shutdown delays are 10, 20, 30sec. It is recommended that the backlight delay be set to the minimum amount of time necessary in order to maximize battery life.

o Conversions: This menu option allows the user to change the temperature scale from

Fahrenheit (default) to Celsius. You can also change the electrode type from 4-pin (or default non-insulated) to 2-pin (or insulated).

NOTE: Except for clock settings, all other parameters will return to their default values, as indicated above, when the “RESTORE DEFAULTS” option is selected in the Storage Menu. The values chosen for the Setup Menu parameters will remain in effect even if the meter is turned off, and even if the battery is removed.

TAKING A READING – PRACTICAL APPLICATIONS

The following application notes are intended for use with the meter in PIN MODE.

TESTING WOOD:

The contact pins provided are best for materials up to 6/4. On materials over 6/4 or for hardwoods over 4/4 we recommend using a remote probe such as the 26-ES ram-type electrode. Mount the 26-ES directly to the external connector.

⇒ Set the meter’s parameters as described previously in the owners’ manual. If the species

(construction-grade only) is unknown, set the meter to the reference calibration, Douglas Fir and take the readings at face value.

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⇒ To take a reading, align the contact pins parallel to the grain and push them to their full

penetration into the wood, if possible. Insulated pins read only at the tip and can be driven to the desired depth.

⇒ Press the SELECT button and read the moisture content on the meter scale. The meter

displays the %MC for two seconds.

⇒ To add a reading to the previously stored readings, release the SELECT button if you are in

triggered mode. If you are in continuous mode, the meter will not store a new reading until the SELECT button is pressed and released again during the reading cycle.

NOTE: MC RANGE AND VALID READINGS

Readings below 5% or above 60% are displayed as LOW or HIGH, respectively. However, since the resistance of the wood also depends on the species and temperature of the wood, the meter may not always be able to read down to 5%. For different species and different wood temperatures, there is a minimum %MC limit below that the meter can not read. All readings below this “lowest limit” are displayed as LOW, and are not stored. These readings are not considered valid readings and are not used by the meter in any statistical calculations.

PAINT FAILURE AND MOISTURE

Moisture is by far the most frequent cause of paint failure. The key to preventing paint failure is to insure that moisture is not absorbed through the wood to the back of the paint film. So, in order to insure quality paint jobs, wood must remain dry after the application of paint.

Outdoor wood can be safely painted without danger of peeling if the %MC is 15% or less. In drier climates, the maximum reading should be 10% to 11%. Indoor wood should be between 7% and 8% prior to painting. The following conditions may cause high moisture content in wood:

⇒ Leaky gutters and down spouts ⇒ Leaky pipes or condensation on cold water lines in attic or hollow walls ⇒ Faulty flashing around windows, doors and where porch and dormer roofs meet sidings ⇒ End-grain wood that is not sealed with paint at all joints around windows, corners, and butt

joints

⇒ Porch columns that do not have good drainage and ventilation where they rest on porch

floors

⇒ Siding or any other wood that is in contact with the ground may absorb moisture ⇒ Siding and shingles without sufficient lap so that water is forced up through cracks by wind

pressure

⇒ Ice dams ⇒ Condensation of vapor within hollow walls

EIFS (Exterior Insulation & Finish Systems) *

Moisture intrusion problems in EIFS (also known as synthetic stucco) stem from leaking window frames, improper use of or lack of sealant, and faulty installation of flashing.

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If you suspect a problem take a visual inspection. Look for gaps around windows, doors, air conditioning units, light fixtures, hose bibs, dryer vents and other areas of potential penetration. Also look for visible signs of water damage. If you feel a problem exists, use the Moisture Check with a # 21-E electrode. This electrode includes the #608 - (4") insulated pins or #608/001 (6”)

Insulated pins in EIFS Package.

Procedure:

⇒ Drill two 1/4" holes about ¾” apart at an upward 45° angle. ⇒ Push the # 21-E Electrode into the holes through the polystyrene and into the substrate. ⇒ Press the SELECT button and read the moisture content on the meter scale. The meter

displays the %MC for two seconds.

⇒ To add a reading to the previously stored readings, release the SELECT button if you are in

triggered mode. If you are in continuous mode, the meter will not store a new reading until the SELECT button is pressed and released again during the reading cycle.

*If the sheathing is plywood, set the meter to the proper species if known. If the species is unknown, use Douglas Fir. If the sheathing is gypsum material, set the species to Drywall.

USING 0-100 NUMERICAL REFERENCE SCALE (REL 0-100)

When taking a reading on hard materials such as concrete or masonry, set the meter to REL 0100 for a qualitative indication of the moisture level. Make the best use of reference scale by first establishing a benchmark for the material you are testing. Take readings in areas that you know are dry, or acceptable. Then take readings on areas that are wet. These “dry to wet” readings can be used as reference points against which subsequent readings are compared. Understanding the meter’s behavior on a particular material, along with these comparative readings, your experience, and visual clues will all help determine the overall condition. All readings should be evaluated in the light of factors such as type of paint, type of construction, and climatic conditions.

The user-selectable alarm will sound if the displayed reading is above the alarm value.

TESTING CONCRETE SLABS FOR FLOORING APPLICATIONS

Moisture meters are an effective tool to check moisture in concrete. They can tell you where there may be excess moisture and help determine if you need to conduct further testing.

It is important to test both the surface and mid-section of the slab, especially if the slab is on or below grade. This will help determine if there is continuous moisture migration toward the surface. If this condition exists, the moisture movement may be so slow that once it reaches the surface, moisture evaporates and causes a “dry” reading when a surface test is made.

However, if a sub-surface test is made, the meter may read “wet” indicating the presence of moisture. When the slab is covered and the upward movement of moisture continues, moisture will move into a hygroscopic (wood) floor, or build-up pressure under a non-breathing synthetic floor, causing delamination.

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Taking a surface reading:

Drive two hardened-steel masonry nails about 3/4" apart into the finish coat of concrete floor.

Drive them about 1/8" deep so they make firm contact with the concrete and do not move when touched.

Ø Touch the nails with the contact pins. Ø Press The select key and read the meter. If the meter reads less than “68”, the surface

is dry. However, sub-surface tests should be made to verify if the slab is dry throughout.

Subsurface test:

Ø Drill two 1/4" holes, 3/4" apart and 1/2" to 2" deep. Ø Drive the masonry nails into the bottom of the holes and make the tests as described

above. Nails must not touch sides of drilled holes. If the meter still indicates a “dry” condition, the floor is ready for covering. Tests should

be made at several points, especially when the slab is thick (4” or more) and air circulation is poor. Make tests only in newly drilled holes.

Even readings in the “wet” range can indicate relatively low moisture content in Concrete. For example, readings in the “68 to 77” range indicate approximately 2% to 4% moisture content.

When evaluating a slab for readiness, always consider its age, thickness, whether the slab is on grade or suspended, whether a vapor barrier is present and the drainage condition of the ground.

TESTING INSULATION:

⇒ Set the meter scale for the “REL 0-100” as described in the Create/Edit a Job section on

page 12.

⇒ To take a reading, attach a 21-E electrode with 4” insulated contact pins to the meter. Push

the contact pins through the Sheetrock® into the insulation behind it.

⇒ Press the SELECT button and read the moisture content on the meter scale. The meter

displays the “relative” moisture level for two seconds.

⇒ To add a reading to the previously stored readings, release the SELECT button if you are in

triggered mode. If you are in continuous mode, the meter will not store a new reading until the SELECT button is pressed and released again during the reading cycle.

TESTING DRYWALL

⇒ Set the meter scale for Sheetrock® as described in the Create/Edit a Job section on page

12.

⇒ To take a reading, push the contact pins into the Sheetrock® to their full penetration, if

possible.

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⇒ Press the SELECT button and read the moisture content on the meter scale. The meter

displays the %MC for two seconds.

⇒ To add a reading to the previously stored readings, release the SELECT button if you are in

triggered mode. If you are in continuous mode, the meter will not store a new reading until the SELECT button is pressed and released again during the reading cycle.

Note:

Readings between 0.1% and 0.5% indicate a sufficiently dry moisture level. Readings between 0.5% and 1% indicate a borderline situation. Readings greater than 1% indicate material that is too wet for painting or wallpaper. A reading above 1% also indicates enough moisture present to allow mold growth to occur but only if other factors are also present such as a high RH level and food source.

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CARE OF YOUR METER

Ø Store your meter in a clean, dry place. The protective carrying case provided is an ideal

storage place when the meter is not in use. If the meter has been left in a hot or cold environment overnight or for an extended period, the calibration of the pinless mode may be adversely affected. Under these conditions, allow the meter to acclimate to the temperature conditions in which it will be used for minimum 1-2 hours, or as long as possible.

Ø Change contact pins as needed. Keep pin retainers hand tightened. Ø Clean the meter and contact pins with any biodegradable cleaner. Use the cleaner sparingly

and on external parts only. Keep cleaner out of the external connector.

Remove the battery if the meter will not to be used for one month or longer.

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SERVICE FOR YOUR METER

Ø Before sending in your meter we recommend you give one of our trained technicians a

call. Many times troubleshooting can be taken care of over the phone. Call us at 877DELMHORST.

Ø Pack your meter securely. Enclose a purchase order or letter with a brief description of the

problem.

Ø There is no need to call us for a return authorization number if you are within the U.S.

Customers outside the U.S. must contact us for more specific instructions prior to returning a meter.

Ø Include your name, address, daytime phone and fax numbers or e-mail address. If you

believe the meter is under warranty, please provide the original sales slip or invoice.

Ø Ship via UPS, Express Mail, Priority Mail or any overnight courier who provides prompt

service. Do not use standard parcel post.

Ø Insure your instrument for its full value and ship prepaid. We are not responsible for damage

in transit.

Ø We do not accept COD shipments or cover any incoming freight or duty charges on returned

merchandise

Ø Turnaround time on repairs is approximately two weeks. Ø We will call you with an estimate if you specifically request one, or if we determine that the

meter may be too costly to repair.

Ø Non-warranty repairs will be returned via UPS/COD unless you have already

established other payment terms. There is no COD service outside the U.S. To pay by credit card, include the card number and expiration date with your repair. We accept Visa/MasterCard, American Express.

Warranty repairs will be returned at no charge if shipped within the U.S. via UPS Ground Service. Freight charges for expedited services (i.e., Federal Express, UPS/2 Day, UPS/1 Day, etc.) are the customer’s responsibility and will be charged as per the above terms.

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WARRANTY

Delmhorst Instrument Co., referred to hereafter as Delmhorst, guarantees the MoistureCheck meter for one year from date of purchase and any optional electrodes against defects in material or workmanship for 90 days. If, within the warranty period of the Model MoistureCheck , you find any defect in material or workmanship, return the meter following the instructions in the “Service for Your Meter” section. This warranty does not cover abuse, alteration, misuse, damage during shipment, improper service, unauthorized or unreasonable use of the meter or electrodes. This warranty does not cover batteries, pin assemblies, or pins. If the meter or any optional electrodes have been tampered with, the warranty shall be void. At our option, we may replace or repair the meter.

Delmhorst shall not be liable for incidental or consequential damages for the breach of any express or implied warranty with respect to this product or its calibration. With proper care and maintenance the meter should stay in calibration; follow the instructions in the “Care of Your Meter” section.

Under no circumstances shall Delmhorst be liable for any incidental, indirect, special, or consequential damages of any type whatsoever, including, but not limited to, lost profits or downtime arising out of or related in any respect to its meters or electrodes and no other warranty, written, oral or implied applies. Delmhorst shall in no event be liable for any breach of warranty or defect in this product that exceeds the amount of purchase of this product.

The express warranty set forth above constitutes the entire warranty with respect to Delmhorst meters and electrodes and no other warranty, written, oral, or implied applies. This warranty is personal to the customer purchasing the product and is not transferable.

Delmhorst Instrument Co.

51 Indian Lane East

Towaco NJ 07082

877-DELMHORST

www.delmhorst.com

e-mail - info@delmhorst.com

For 60 years Delmhorst has been the leading manufacturer of high quality moisture meters and thermo-hygrometers. Today we offer the innovative KIL-MO-TROL in-kiln monitoring system. We also offer a wide range of meters for a variety of applications including woodworking/lumber, agriculture, construction, paper, restoration, IAQ and flooring.

510INS-0023 REV 05/2010

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SPECIES LIST:

The following 71 species are programmed in the meter. The default species is Douglas Fir.

1 DOUGLAS FIR 37 MAGNOLIA 2 SHEETROCK® 3 REL 0-100 39 MAHOGANY, HONDURAN 4 SPF 40 MAHOGANY, PHILLIPINE 5 ALDER 41 MAPLE 6 ASH, WHITE 42 MASSARANDUBA 7 ASPEN 43 MERANTI 8 APITONG 44 MONKEY POT

9 BAMBOO 45 MYRTLE 10 BASSWOOD 46 OAK, RED 11 BEECH, EUROPEAN 47 OAK, WHITE 12 BIRCH 48 OSB 13 BUBINGA 49 PECAN 14 CEDAR, RED 50 PINE, LONGLEAF 15 CEDAR, INCENSE 51 PINE, PONDEROSA 16 CEDRELLA 52 PINE, RADIATA 17 CHERRY 53 PINE, SHORTLEAF 18 CHILEAN CHERRY 54 PINE, SOUTHERN YELLOW 19 COCOBOLO 55 PINE, SUGAR 20 COTTONWOOD 56 PINE, WHITE 21 CUMARU 57 POPLAR, YELLOW 22 CYPRESS 58 PURPLEHEART 23 EBONY, AFRICAN 59 RAMIN 24 ELM, AMERICAN 60 REDWOOD 25 FIR, RED 61 ROSEWOOD, BRAZILIAN 26 FIR, WHITE 62 RUBBERWOOD 27 GUM, BLACK 63 SPF - COFI 28 GUM, RED 64 SPRUCE, ENGLEMA 29 HACKBERRY 65 SPRUCE, SITKA 30 HEMLOCK 66 TAURAI 31 HICKORY 67 TEAK 32 IPE 68 VIROLA 33 JATOBA -Also BRAZILIAN CHERRY 69 WALNUT, BLACK 34 KERUING 70 WALNUT, BRAZILIAN 35 KOA 71 WESTERN HEMLOCK - COFI 36 LARCH

Delmhorst Instrument Co. 51 Indian Lane East Towaco, NJ 07082-1025 Tel: 973-334-2557 / 877-DELMHORST Fax: 973-334-2657 E-mail: info@delmhorst.com

Web site: www.delmhorst.com

MAHOGANY, AFRICAN

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Delmhorst Moisture Check User Manual

Specifications and Main Features

Frequently Asked Questions

User Manual