Protimeter HygroMaster 2 Operating Manual

PROTIMETER

Protimeter Hygromaster2

Instruction Manual

Amphenol

Advanced Sensors

INS7750 Rev. A

October 2015

Protimeter Hygromaster2

Instruction Manual

INS7750 Rev. A
October 2015

[no content intended for this page]

Contents

QUICK START QUIDE

Hygromaster2 has 6 switches to Power On/OFF and navigate between different
modes of operation.

1. Enter button

a. Press once to switch ON the instrument

b. Press and hold for more than 3secs to switch OFF the instrument

c. Press once to enter into measurement or settings screens based on

Selection

2. Left button

3. Right button
a. Press once to freeze the readings in measurement screens

b. Press and hold for 1.5sec to save the readings in measurement

mode

c. Press once to navigate to the next text box in DATE & TIME and

LOG SETUP setting screens

4. Up button

5. Down button

6. IR button

:

: Press once to navigate to one screen back

:

: Press once to navigate up

: Press once to navigate down

: Press and hold to enter into IR measurement screen

INS7750 Rev. A iii

Contents

1. Introduction ........................................................................................... 1

2. Safety Considerations. ............................................................................ 1

3. Product Components and Accessories ................................................... 2

3.1 Switching the Hygromaster2 ON and OFF ...................................... 4

4. Hygromaster2 Modes . ........................................................................... 5

4.1 Hygrometer - Selection and Use ..................................................... 5

4.2 Psychrometrics - Selection and Use. ................................................ 6

4.3 Condensator. .................................................................................... 7

4.4 Logging - Selection and Use. ........................................................... 9

4.5 Settings - Selection and Use. ......................................................... 10

5. Diagnostic Procedure Guidelines. ........................................................ 14

6. Calibration Checking ........................................................................... 16

7. Care and Maintenance ......................................................................... 16

8. Displaying the Hygromaster2 Information. .......................................... 17

9. TechnicalSpecications ...................................................................... 18

9.1 Operating Conditions .................................................................... 18

9.2 MeasurementSpecications ......................................................... 18

9.3 PhysicalSpecications ................................................................. 20

9.4 Regulatory Compliance ................................................................ 20

9.5 User Interface. ................................................................................ 20

INS7750 Rev. A iv

Contents

v INS7750 Rev. A

Protimeter Hygromaster2 Instruction Manual

1. Introduction

The Protimeter Hygromaster2 is a powerful and versatile thermo-hygrometer.
This product is used to measure relative humidity, air temperature and
surface temperature of structures. Additionally, the difference between dew
point and Surface temperature can also be displayed for condensation risk
assessment applications.

2. Safety Considerations

IR temperature measurement - Please note that the readings

•

are indicative readings outside the measurement range of the IR
temperature

guaranteed outside the range.

Calibration of unit - The accuracy specications of the product are

•

valid for one year after the date of calibration, and the product requires
recalibration after this period.

Laser pointers are effective tools when used properly, but the following
considerations must be observed when using laser pointers:

mode and the accuracy of the measurement is not

• Never look directly into the laser beam.

• Never point a laser beam at a person.

• Do not aim the laser beam at reective surfaces.

• Never view a laser beam using an optical instrument, such as

binoculars or a microscope.

• Do not allow children to use laser pointers unless under the supervision

of an adult.

INS7750 Rev. A 1

Protimeter Hygromaster2 Instruction Manual

2. Safety Considerations (cont.)

•

Use only laser pointers meeting the following criteria:

• Labeled with FDA certication stating “DANGER: Laser Radiation”

for Class 3R lasers or “CAUTION: Laser Radiation” for Class 2 lasers.

• Classied as Class 2 or 3R according to the label. Do not use Class

3b or Class 4 products.

• Operates at a wavelength between 630 nm and 680 nm.

• Has a maximum output less than 0.4 mW, the lower the better.

3. Product Components and Accessories

The Hygromaster2 instrument measures air temperature, relative humidity
and surface temperature. To measure all the above mentioned parameters,
Hygromaster2 uses different sensors, along with a variety of accessories for
convenient measurements. The following external connectors are found on
the instrument (see Figure1 on page 3):

®

A - This edge connection socket is for use with a Hygrostick

Short Quikstick probe.

B - This jack connection socket is for use with the Direct Contact Surface

Temperature Sensor.

C - This USB socket is for connection to a PC when using the optional

Hygromaster2 logging software.

2 INS7750 Rev. A

, Quikstick or

Protimeter Hygromaster2 Instruction Manual

3. Product Components and Accessories (cont.)

Laser

Non-contact Surface Temperature Sensor (IR)

Figure 1: Connections for Probes and Sensors

•

The Hygrostick (POL4750), Quikstick (POL8750), Short Quikstick
(POL8751) and 30cm humidity probes (BLD8755) measure relative
humidity (%RH) and ambient air temperature in rooms or materials. They
can be connected to the Hygromaster2 instrument either directly or by
means of the extension lead.

• The surface temperature sensor is used when investigating condensation

situations.

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Protimeter Hygromaster2 Instruction Manual

3.1 Switching the Hygromaster2 ON and OFF

Prior to initial use, ensure that a 9V battery is correctly inserted in the battery
compartment.

Note: The battery status is indicated by an icon

the LOW BATTERY message appears, replace the battery.

To switch the Hygromaster2 ON, press the power button momentarily

Note: The Hygromaster2 switches OFF automatically after 2 minutes if no

activity is observed, unless the default settings are changed (see
Section 4.7c, “Auto Off”, on page 17 for instructions).

To switch the instrument OFF immediately, press
3 seconds. Once has been depressed for 3 seconds or more, the text
string SWITCHING OFF THE DEVICE appears on the display. When is
released, the text string disappears and the unit switches OFF

Whenever the battery voltage falls below the threshold value, the battery
symbol starts blinking. If the battery voltage falls below the operating level,
the instrument prompts with the message

LOW BATTERY

SWITCHING OFF THE DEVICE

on the display. When

and hold for at least

4 INS7750 Rev. A

Protimeter Hygromaster2 Instruction Manual

4. HYGROMASTER2 Modes

The Protimeter Hygromaster2 instrument measures air temperature, relative
humidity and surface temperature.

4.1 Hygrometer - Selection and Use

Navigate to SELECT MODE -> HYGROMETER and press to select the

Hygrometer mode.

To use the Protimeter Hygromaster2 as a Hygrometer (see Figure 4 on page

11), connect the Hygrostick, Quikstick or Short Quikstick probe into socket A

either directly or indirectly with the extension lead.

Relative humidity and temperature measurements are made with the
Hygrostick, Quikstick or Short Quikstick probe, and the Hygromaster2
Instrument uses these values to calculate a range of psychometric readings.
When using the Hygromaster2 to measure the conditions in air, the humidity
probe is normally connected directly to the instrument. However, when it is
impractical or awkward to use the instrument in this way, the extension lead
may be used to connect the Hygrostick, Quikstick or Short Quikstick to the
instrument. Typically, the extension lead will be used when taking readings

from probes that have been embedded in structures such as walls and oors.

Figure 4: Hygromaster2 as a Hygrometer

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Protimeter Hygromaster2 Instruction Manual

4.1 Hygrometer - Selection and Use (cont.)

Note: For best response time, do not store the Hygromaster2 in excessively hot or

cold locations, such as in a vehicle.

4.2 Psychrometrics - Selection and Use

Navigate to SELECT MODE -> PSYCHROMETRICS and press to select
the Psychrometrics mode.

Connect the Hygrostick, Quikstick or Short Quikstick probe into socket A.
The following parameters are displayed in this mode:

4.2a Dew Point

Navigate to SELECT MODE -> PSYCHROMETRICS -> DEW POINT and
press to get the Dew Point reading.

4.2b Grains per Pound/Grams per Kilogram

Navigate to SELECT MODE -> PSYCHROMETRICS ->
GRAMS PER KILOGRAM/ GRAINS PER POUND and press to get the

Mixing Ratio reading.

4.2c Enthalpy

Navigate to SELECT MODE -> PSYCHROMETRICS -> ENTHALPY and
press

to get the Enthalpy reading.

4.2d Vapor Pressure

Navigate to SELECT MODE -> PSYCHROMETRICS -> VAPOR PRESSURE
and press to get the Vapor Pressure reading.

4.2e Custom Psychrometrics

Hygromaster2 supports custom Psychrometrics option to read different
Psychrometric parameters in single screen. Parameters to be displayed can
be set in custom option in settings screen
Navigate to SELECT MODE -> PSYCHROMETRICS -> CUSTOM and press

to get the custom psychrometrics readings.

Note: Change the units in Settings (see page 16) to obtain both metric and

non-metric equivalents.

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Protimeter Hygromaster2 Instruction Manual

4.3 Condensator

The Condensator Mode enables the user to assess the risk of condensation

occurring on surfaces or to conrm whether or not condensation is present

On a surface.

The Hygromaster2 can be used as a Condensator using two modes:

4.3a Surface Temperature Probe (Contact Based) - Selection
and Use

Navigate to SELECT MODE -> SURFACE TEMPERATURE PROBE and
press to select the Surface Temperature Probe mode.

In this mode, the Hygromaster2 measures the surface temperature using an
External Surface Temperature probe inserted into socket B and making contact
with the surface to be assessed. In addition to the Surface Temperature probe,
connect a Humidity probe into socket A for the Hygromaster2 to show the
Condensation status.

TDIFF is a useful function when investigating condensation, as it tells
the user how many degrees a surface temperature is above or below the

prevailing dew point temperature

4.3b Surface Temperature IR (Non-Contact Based) – Selection
and Use

.

In this mode, the Hygromaster2 measures surface temperature using IR
technology
Connect a humidity probe into socket A.

Hold the
press it again within 1 second to enable the LASER pointer. The LASER
pointer will indicate the area on the surface where the measurement is being
Taken (see Figure 5 on page 14).

INS7750 Rev. A 7

button to enable the IR Thermometer. Release the button and

Protimeter Hygromaster2 Instruction Manual

4.3b Surface Temperature IR (Non-Contact Based) – Selection and
Use (cont.)

Figure 5: LASER Pointer

Table 3: TDIFF Readings

T. DIFF (DEGC) Condensation Status Background Colour

<0 Condensation

>0 but <3 Risk of Condensation

>3 No Condensation

If the Buzzer is ON, it will give beep at Condensation and Risk of Condensation

Red Blinking

Yellow Blinking

Green

Conditions.

8 INS7750 Rev. A

Protimeter Hygromaster2 Instruction Manual

4.4 Logging - Selection and Use

The Hygromaster2 supports both continuous and manual logging.

4.4a Manual Logging

If is pressed for 1.5sec at any of the measurement screens, the data and
Timestamp at that instant will be logged and a RECORD SAVED message
will be displayed on the bottom bar.

4.4b Continuous Logging

Continuous logging is used to sample and store data continuously.
Continuous logging is enabled either by setting logging parameters through
the Keypad or through a PC using Logging Software. (see Section 4.7g, “Set

Logging Parameters (Optional PC Logging Software Required)”, on page 19.)

After the logging parameters are saved, logging starts after the START
AFTER minutes have elapsed. The logging icon

top left corner of the screen while logging is active.

When logging is in progress, an option to stop logging is provided under
the SETTINGS menu. Logging can be stopped either by selecting SELECT

MODE -> SETTINGS -> STOP LOGGING in the instrument, by clicking STOP
LOGGING in the Logging Software or when the instrument is turned OFF.

is displayed on the

INS7750 Rev. A 9

Protimeter Hygromaster2 Instruction Manual

4.5 Settings - Selection and Use

The Protimeter Hygromaster2 instrument has a range of user-selectable
features.

Navigate to SELECT MODE -> SETTINGS and press to congure the

Hygromaster2. The following options are available for conguring:

4.5a Language

Hygromaster2 has the option to select language among eight different
Languages i.e., English, Norwegian, French, German, Swedish, Spanish,
Italian and Dutch. Navigate to SELECT MODE -> SETTINGS -> LANGUAGE
and press to open the language options. Use
among the options available, and press to save the desired language.

/ to navigate

4.5b Set Units

Hygromaster2 has the option to select between METRIC and NON METRIC
Units. Navigate to SELECT MODE -> SETTINGS -> UNITS and press

to open the unit options. Use
options available and press

/

to save the desired units.

to navigate between the

Table 4 below shows how the units and the parameters measured appear in
metric and non-metric units.

Table 4: Metric and Non-Metric Units for Parameters

Metric Non-Metric

Temperature °C °F

Dew Point °C °F

Mixing Ratio g/kg g/lb

Enthalpy kJ/kg BTU/lb

Vapor Pressure kPa inHg

Surface Temperature °C °F

T. Diff °C °F

Ambient Dew Point °C °F

10 INS7750 Rev. A

Protimeter Hygromaster2 Instruction Manual

4.5c Custom

Hygromaster2 supports custom Psychrometrics option to display different
Psychrometric parameters in single screen. Parameters to be displayed can
be set in Custom settings screen.

Navigate to SELECT MODE -> SETTINGS -> CUSTOM and press
congure the options. Use / to navigate between parameters and
press to select. Maximum four parameters can be selected. The order
in which the parameters selected will be displayed in Custom screen in
Psychrometrics option.

to

4.5d Date and Time

Navigate to SELECT MODE -> SETTINGS -> DATE AND TIME and press
to change the date and time. Initially device displays Date settings. Use to
navigate to the required eld. Then, use / to increment / decrement
the value in that box. After entering the required date press to save date
entered and go to Time setting screen.

Use to navigate to the required eld. Then, use / to increment/
decrement the value in that box. After entering the required time press to
save time entered. The new time is displayed at the top right corner of the
screen. Date and time can also be set up by connecting to a PC and using the
optional logging software.

4.5e Auto Off

The Hygromaster2 will spwitch OFF automatically after auto switch off time, if
no activity/key press is observed. Navigate to SELECT MODE -> SETTINGS

-> AUTO OFF and press to congure the Auto off time.

Use / to navigate between 0 to 6 minutes and press to set the
Auto off time. To disable the Auto off feature, set the Auto switch off time to 0.

Note: During continuous logging operation, auto switch off time is

considered to be the display turnoff time.

INS7750 Rev. A 11

Protimeter Hygromaster2 Instruction Manual

4.5f Set Brightness

Navigate to SELECT MODE -> SETTINGS -> BRIGHTNESS and press to

set the Brightness level. Use

/

different brightness levels (1 to 10) and press

to navigate between the

to set the desired

brightness. (Brightness level 2 is the default setting.)

4.5g Buzzer On-Off

This option is used to switch the Buzzer ON/OFF. When the Buzzer is ON:

• Any key press will make a beep sound.

• Instrument turn ON/OFF will be indicated

Navigate to SELECT MODE -> SETTINGS -> BUZZER and press to
switch the Buzzer on/off.

Use
press

/

to save the desired conguration.

to navigate between the on and off options and

4.5h Calibration

The Calibration option is unavailable to the user.

4.5i Set Logging Parameters (Optional PC Logging Software

Required)

Navigate to SELECT MODE -> SETTINGS -> LOGGING -> SETUP and press

To set the following logging parameters:

• Start After Mins: minutes after which logging should start (0 to 999).

• Log Interval Mins: sampling interval in minutes (1 to 60).

• Stop After Mins: minutes after which logging should stop after

sampling begins (1 to 999).

• Job Number: 1 to 255

12 INS7750 Rev. A

Protimeter Hygromaster2 Instruction Manual

4.5i Set Logging Parameters (Optional PC Logging Software

Required) (cont.)

Initially unit will display settings for Start after and Stop after. Use
to navigate to the required box. Then, use / to increment
or decrement the value in that box and press to save the entered
parameters and go to Log interval and Job number settings. Use to
navigate to the required box. Then, use / to increment or
decrement the value in that box and press to save logging parameters.

Note: You can also set up and conduct logging via the optional PC

software.

4.5j Clear Logging Data

Hygromaster2 has an option to erase the logging data in Flash. Navigate to
SELECT MODE -> SETTINGS -> LOGGING -> CLEAR DATA and press .

Then it will display conrmation message asking for erasing data. Select Yes

and press to erase the data.

4.5k USB Communication

Hygromaster2 can be congured to work with PC software or as Mass

storage device. Navigate to SELECT MODE -> SETTINGS ->

USB CONNECTION and press to set the USB connection type. Use

/ to navigate between the PC Software and File Viewer

and press

If PC Software is selected, Data can be read through Logging Software.
If File Viewer is selected data will be available in CSV format under My
Computer (like mass storage device)

INS7750 Rev. A 13

to set the desired Option.

Protimeter Hygromaster2 Instruction Manual

5. Diagnostic Procedure Guidelines

When diagnosing dampness in buildings, three key criteria must be
considered, as outlined in Table 5 below.

Table 5: Diagnostic Criteria

Item Criteria Notes

2 Is the surface

temperature of
a wall or other
building element
above or below
the dew point?

Dew point is the temperature at which a
given quantity of air becomes saturated
(100% RH) and forms dew, or condensation.
If a surface is colder than the dew point,
condensation occurs. When the Protimeter
Hygromaster2 Condensator Mode is selected
to measure TDIFF (the proximity of a surface

tothedewpoint)theinstrumentidenties

either a

AT RISK condition, or a CONDENSATION

NO CONDENSATION Condition, an

occurring condition

3 Is a wall

surface or other
building element
contaminated
with hygroscopic
salts or other
conductive
material?

14 INS7750 Rev. A

Articiallyhighmoisturemeterreadingsmay

be obtained either in material that has been
heavily contaminated by hygroscopic salts
or in materials that are conductive by na­ture. The presence or absence of nitrates and
chlorides should be established when inves­tigating suspected rising dampness situations
in particular.

Protimeter Hygromaster2 Instruction Manual

5. Diagnostic Procedure Guidelines (cont.)

Item 1: Condensation related moisture problems are common. When

assessingtheriskofcondensation,orconrmingitsexistence,theproximity

of the actual temperature of the surface under investigation to the dew point
must be established. The
the user how many degrees the temperature of a surface is above or below the
dew point.

TDIFF measurement in CONDENSATOR mode tells

As many condensation situations are transient,

TDIFF readings should be

taken in a methodical and regular manner, similar to moisture meter readings
in materials. Ambient RH and temperature values should also be taken to
assess the moisture condition of the room as a whole. Dwellings and working
environments generally have an
to investigate environments that register

Item 2: Two hygroscopic salts, chlorides and nitrates, may build up on the

RH from 40% to 60%, so there may be cause

RH values outside this range.

surface of walls where rising dampness or wicking occurs. As groundwater
moves through the wall and migrates to the surface, salts tend to accumulate
where the rate of evaporation of this water is greatest. The salts themselves
are non-conductive, but when mixed with a small amount of moisture a
highly conductive solution is formed. The presence (or absence) of such salts
should therefore be established when rising dampness is suspected by using
the Protimeter Hygromaster2 in Measure mode as described. When required,
the Protimeter Salts Analysis Kit (part number BLD4900) can be used to
identify the relative concentrations of nitrates and chlorides.

In summary, effective dampness diagnosis is a process that draws on the
knowledge and expertise of the surveyor. The Protimeter Hygromaster2 kit
Enables the user to investigate moisture levels in materials and environments
from various perspectives that, in turn, permits a more thorough and reliable
judgement as to the cause of dampness related problems.

INS7750 Rev. A 15

Protimeter Hygromaster2 Instruction Manual

6. Calibration Checking

Working Hygrostick, Quikstick and Short Quikstick probes can be checked
against reference probes and/or over standard salt solutions.

7. Care and Maintenance

The Protimeter Hygromaster2 is a precision-built electronic instrument that
will provide many years of reliable service if the following points are observed:

• When not in use, keep the Hygromaster2 instrument and its accessories

in the factory carry case. Store the case in a stable, dust-free
environment and keep it out of direct sunlight.

• If the instrument is to be stored for more than four weeks or if the low

battery power symbol appears on the display, remove the batteries from
the instrument.

• Check the condition of the Hygromaster2 accessories on a regular basis,

and replace them if they become worn or damaged.

• To preserve their calibration characteristics, Hygrostick probes should

not be exposed to saturated environments. If this is unavoidable,
Hygrostick probes should be replaced on a regular basis and their
calibration should be checked frequently.

16 INS7750 Rev. A

Protimeter Hygromaster2 Instruction Manual

8. Displaying the Hygromaster2 Information

Go to SELECT MODE -> ABOUT to view the Hygromaster2 information.

The following information will be provided:

• Firmware version

• Date of build

• Device Model and Serial number

• Battery status

• Calibration date/status: Tair-RH-Ts, IR surface temperature

• System date

• Probe type (Hygrostick/Quikstick) and Probe serial number

INS7750 Rev. A 17

Protimeter Hygromaster2 Instruction Manual

9. TechnicalSpecications

9.1 Operating Conditions

Operating Temperature Range
Instrument Only: 0°C - 50°C

Humidity: 0 to 95% non-condensing

9.2 MeasurementSpecications

9.2a Humidity Measurement

Hygrostick Data (Nominal)

Relative Humidity

Range: 30% to 40% RH, Accuracy: ±3% RH at 68°F (20°C)
Range: 41% to 98% RH, Accuracy: ±2% RH at 68°F (20°C)

Temperature

Range: 14°F to 122°F (-10°C to 50°C), Accuracy: ±0.6°F (±0.3°C)

Short Quikstick Data (Nominal)

Relative Humidity

Range: 0% to 10% RH, Accuracy: ±3% RH at 68°F (20°C)
Range: 10% to 90% RH, Accuracy: ±2% RH at 68°F (20°C)
Range: 90% to 100% RH, Accuracy: ±3% RH at 68°F (20°C)

Temperature Range

Range: 14°F to 122°F (-10°C to 50°C), Accuracy: ±0.6°F (±0.3°C)

18 INS7750 Rev. A

Protimeter Hygromaster2 Instruction Manual

9.2b Surface Temperature

Thermistor Based Remote Non-Integrated Probe

Range: -4°F to 176°F (-20°C to +80°C)
Accuracy: ±2.7°F (±1.5°C)

IR Based — With 12:1 (D:S) Ratio — With Laser Pointer

Range: 14°F to 122°F (-10°C to 50°C)
Accuracy: ±3.6°F (±2°C) @77°F (25°C)

INS7750 Rev. A 19

Protimeter Hygromaster2 Instruction Manual

9.3 PhysicalSpecications

9.3a Power

Battery
9V Alkaline ≥ 550mAH
Battery Life visual indication on LCD

9.3b Size (H x W x D)

6.9 in. x 3.2 in. x 1.5 in. (17.7 cm x 8.0 cm x 3.8 cm)

9.3c Gross Weight

Instrument only: 6.42 oz (182 g)

9.3d Buzzer

Audible buzzer for Key tone

9.4 Regulatory Compliance

CE, RoHS, ETL

9.5 User Interface

9.5a Keypad

Plastic/silicone keypad for easy navigation between different user menus on the
unit, separate key for IR operation (non-contact based surface measurement)

9.5b Display

Graphical LCD
Size: 2.0Ӭ
Color: 256 bits

Resolution: 176 x 220 dpi
Backlight (with adjustable brightness)

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Protimeter Hygromaster2 Instruction Manual

9.5c Language

Multiple language support

9.5d UserApplicationProles

Sticky memory last used application settings

9.5e PC Interface

USB interface:
mini B type USB port on instrument

PC Interface features:

FirmwareUpgradeineld
Userspecicinstrumentsetup

Data Logging setup
Stored data retrieval

9.5f Data Logging

RH-Tair-Ts Data logging
Easy user setup through Keypad
Samples with Date and Time stamp:

Manual/Continuous logging — 10000 samples

INS7750 Rev. A 21

Customer Support Centers

U.S. A .

Amphenol Thermometrics, Inc.
967 Windfall Road
St. Marys, Pennsylvania 15857, USA
T: [phone]

www.protimeter.com

www.amphenol-sensors.com

©2015 Amphenol Thermometrics, Inc. All rights reserved.

Technical content subject to change without notice.

U.K.

Amphenol Thermometrics (U.K.) Limited
Crown Industrial Estate Priorswood Road

Taunton, TA2 8QY, UK

T: [phone]

Amphenol

Advanced Sensors

INS7750 Rev. A

December 2015