Introduction
The BTMETER BT-985B is a professional non-contact infrared thermometer designed for accurate temperature measurement in industrial and HVAC applications. This device allows for quick and safe temperature readings of surfaces from a distance, making it ideal for environments where contact measurement is impractical or hazardous. It is not intended for measuring human body temperature.

Image: The BTMETER BT-985B infrared thermometer in use, demonstrating its application for measuring temperatures in an oven and on ice, highlighting its wide temperature range capabilities.
Safety Information
Please read all safety warnings and instructions carefully before using this product. Failure to follow these instructions may result in injury or damage to the device.
- Not for Medical Use: This infrared thermometer is designed for industrial and HVAC applications only. It is not intended for measuring human body temperature or for medical diagnosis.
- Laser Safety: The device uses a Class II laser. Do not stare directly into the laser beam or point it at people or animals. Avoid direct eye exposure.
- High Temperature Surfaces: Exercise extreme caution when measuring high-temperature surfaces. The device measures surface temperature and does not prevent burns from contact.
- Electromagnetic Fields: Avoid using the device near strong electromagnetic fields, which may affect accuracy.
- Battery Handling: Ensure correct battery polarity when installing. Remove batteries if the device will not be used for an extended period to prevent leakage.
Product Features
- Professional Accuracy: Provides precise temperature measurements with a range from -50°C to 1360°C (-58°F to 2480°F).
- Dual Laser Targeting: Equipped with double target lasers for faster and more accurate identification of the measurement area.
- Quick Response: Delivers instant readings within 0.25 seconds.
- Adjustable Emissivity: Emissivity can be adjusted from 0.1 to 1.0 to compensate for different material surfaces, ensuring higher accuracy.
- Distance-to-Spot Ratio (D:S): Features a 16:1 D:S ratio, allowing safe measurement of distant or hazardous objects.
- Backlit LCD Display: Clear display with backlight for easy reading in various lighting conditions.
- Integrated Flashlight: Assists in illuminating dark measurement areas.
- Multiple Functions: Includes data hold, Celsius/Fahrenheit switching, audible alarm, auto shutdown, MAX/MIN/AVG temperature display.
Components and Controls
Familiarize yourself with the main components and controls of your BT-985B infrared thermometer.

Image: A detailed diagram of the BTMETER BT-985B, highlighting its key components including the LCD screen, laser pointer button, backlight/lamp button, battery door, and the mountable hook for storage.
- LCD Display: Shows temperature readings, mode indicators, and settings.
- Laser Pointer Button: Activates the dual laser pointers for targeting.
- Backlight/Lamp Button: Toggles the display backlight and flashlight.
- °F/UP Button: Switches between Celsius and Fahrenheit, or navigates up in menus.
- °C/DN Button: Switches between Celsius and Fahrenheit, or navigates down in menus.
- MODE Button: Cycles through various measurement modes (MAX, MIN, AVG, HAL, LAL, EMS).
- MEM Button: Accesses memory functions.
- Trigger: Press to take a temperature reading.
- Battery Door: Located at the handle base for battery access.
- Laser Buckle: Point where the laser emits.
- Screw Hole: For mounting or securing.
Setup
1. Battery Installation
The BT-985B requires a 9V battery (not included). To install:
- Locate the battery compartment at the bottom of the handle.
- Use a small screwdriver to open the battery screw and remove the battery door.
- Insert a 9V battery, ensuring correct polarity (+/-).
- Replace the battery door and tighten the screw.

Image: Close-up views of the BTMETER BT-985B, illustrating the laser buckle, the screw hole for mounting, and the battery screw for accessing the battery compartment.
Operating Instructions
1. Taking a Measurement
- Point the thermometer at the target surface.
- Press and hold the trigger. The laser pointers will activate, indicating the measurement area.
- The temperature reading will appear on the LCD display almost instantly.
- Release the trigger to hold the reading on the display. The device will automatically shut off after a period of inactivity to conserve battery.

Image: Demonstrates temperature readings with the BTMETER BT-985B. One image shows a reading of 1989°F from a hot crucible, and another shows a reading of 44.9°F from inside a refrigerator, illustrating its wide measurement range.
2. Switching Temperature Units (°C/°F)
Press the °F/UP or °C/DN button to toggle between Celsius and Fahrenheit units.
3. Adjusting Emissivity (EMS)
Emissivity (ε) is a crucial setting for accurate infrared temperature measurement, as different materials emit infrared energy differently. The BT-985B allows adjustment from 0.1 to 1.0.
- Press the MODE button until "EMS" appears on the display.
- Use the °F/UP and °C/DN buttons to adjust the emissivity value. Refer to a standard emissivity table for common materials.
- Press the MODE button again to confirm and exit, or wait for the device to return to measurement mode automatically.
Note: For most organic materials, painted surfaces, or water, an emissivity of 0.95 is common. For shiny metals, a lower emissivity value is required.
4. Using MAX/MIN/AVG Modes
Press the MODE button repeatedly to cycle through MAX (Maximum), MIN (Minimum), and AVG (Average) temperature display modes during a continuous scan.
5. Backlight and Flashlight
Press the Backlight/Lamp button to turn on or off the LCD backlight and the integrated flashlight for improved visibility in dark conditions.

Image: A close-up of the BTMETER BT-985B's LCD display, showing a temperature reading of 147°F, emissivity setting, and the MAX indicator. An inset image shows the laser aperture, emphasizing the laser aiming feature.
Maintenance
1. Cleaning the Device
- Use a soft, damp cloth to clean the device casing. Do not use abrasive cleaners or solvents.
- For the lens, use a soft cloth or cotton swab with a small amount of isopropyl alcohol. Avoid scratching the lens, as this can affect accuracy.
2. Storage
- Store the thermometer in a cool, dry place, away from direct sunlight and extreme temperatures.
- Remove the battery if the device will not be used for an extended period to prevent battery leakage and potential damage.
Troubleshooting
| Problem | Possible Cause | Solution |
|---|---|---|
| No display/Device won't turn on | Dead or incorrectly installed battery | Replace the 9V battery, ensuring correct polarity. |
| Inaccurate readings | Incorrect emissivity setting; Lens is dirty; Distance to spot ratio exceeded; Ambient temperature changes | Adjust emissivity for the target material. Clean the lens. Ensure measurement is within the 16:1 D:S ratio. Allow the device to acclimate to ambient temperature. |
| "HI" or "LO" displayed | Temperature is outside the measurement range | The target temperature is higher than 1360°C (2480°F) or lower than -50°C (-58°F). |
| Laser not visible | Laser function off; Bright ambient light | Ensure the laser pointer button is pressed. Use in dimmer conditions if necessary. |
Specifications
| Feature | Detail |
|---|---|
| Model | BT-985B |
| Temperature Range | -50°C to 1360°C (-58°F to 2480°F) |
| Accuracy | ±3% reading +3°C (-58 to 32°F); ±2% reading +2°C (0°C above) |
| Resolution | 0.1°C / 0.1°F |
| Distance to Spot Ratio (D:S) | 16:1 |
| Emissivity | Adjustable from 0.1 to 1.0 |
| Response Time | 0.25 seconds |
| Power Source | 9V Battery (not included) |
| Item Weight | 160 g |
| Product Dimensions | 9.5 x 6.3 x 19.2 cm |
| Special Features | Digital display, Dual Laser, Backlight, Flashlight, MAX/MIN/AVG, Data Hold, Auto Shutdown |
Warranty and Support
This product comes with a standard manufacturer's warranty. For specific warranty details, please refer to the documentation included with your purchase or contact BTMETER customer support.
For technical assistance or support, please visit the official BTMETER website or contact their customer service department. Keep your purchase receipt as proof of purchase for warranty claims.







