1. Introduction
The PREXISO PMX-57A Wood Moisture Meter is a versatile digital instrument designed for accurately measuring moisture content in various materials. This pin-type meter provides precise readings for wood, walls, drywall, paper, and other building materials, helping to prevent issues like warping, cracking, and mold growth. It also features ambient temperature and humidity measurement capabilities.
2. Product Overview
The PREXISO PMX-57A is equipped with high-precision pins for direct material penetration, ensuring accurate moisture detection. Its robust design and user-friendly interface make it suitable for professionals and DIY enthusiasts alike.
Key Features:
- Accurate Pin-Type Measurement: Two stainless steel pins provide direct and precise moisture readings.
- Multifunctional Measurement: Includes single-point, multi-point average, maximum, and minimum measurement modes. Also measures ambient temperature and humidity.
- 7-in-1 Calibration Scales: Pre-calibrated for 7 types of materials, including softwood, hardwood, and various building materials.
- User-Friendly Design: Features a color backlit LCD screen, data hold function, C/F temperature display, and automatic power-off.
- Ergonomic Grip: Sturdy, hand-friendly shape with rubber side grips for comfortable use.
Components:
Familiarize yourself with the main components of your PREXISO PMX-57A moisture meter:
Image 2.1: Diagram illustrating the various components of the PREXISO PMX-57A Moisture Meter, including the probes, LCD display, control buttons, and probe cover.
- Probes: Two sharp pins for penetrating materials to measure moisture.
- Probe Cover: Protects the probes and includes a standard resistance test contact for calibration.
- LCD Display: Backlit screen showing moisture content, temperature, humidity, and measurement modes.
- H (Hold) Button: Freezes the current reading on the display.
- REC (Record) Button: Used for recording data (specific functionality may vary, refer to advanced manual if available).
- AVG (Average) Button: Activates multi-point average measurement mode.
- M (Material) Button: Selects the material category for measurement.
- °C/°F Button: Toggles between Celsius and Fahrenheit for temperature display.
- Power On/Off Button: Turns the device on or off.
3. Setup
3.1 Battery Installation
The PREXISO PMX-57A requires 3 AAA batteries (included). To install or replace batteries:
- Locate the battery compartment on the back of the device.
- Use a small screwdriver to open the battery compartment cover.
- Insert 3 AAA batteries, ensuring correct polarity (+/-).
- Securely close the battery compartment cover.
3.2 Initial Calibration Check
Before first use and periodically thereafter, it is recommended to perform a calibration check using the standard resistance test contact integrated into the probe cover.
Image 3.1: The PREXISO PMX-57A Moisture Meter undergoing a calibration check by inserting the probes into the standard test resistance contacts on the probe cover. The display shows an approximate 20.5% RH reading, indicating proper function.
- Ensure the meter is powered on.
- Carefully insert the meter's pins into the two metal contacts located on the inside of the probe cover.
- The display should show a reading of approximately 20.5% RH (Relative Humidity) or a similar reference value, indicating the meter is functioning correctly.
- If the reading is significantly different, contact customer support.
4. Operating Instructions
4.1 Power On/Off
- Press the red Power On/Off button to turn the meter on.
- The meter will automatically power off after a period of inactivity to conserve battery life.
- To manually turn off, press and hold the red Power On/Off button.
4.2 Selecting Material Category
The PMX-57A features 7 pre-calibrated material categories to ensure accurate readings for different densities. Press the M button to cycle through the categories (M1 to M7).
Image 4.1: The PREXISO PMX-57A Moisture Meter displaying the 7 material categories and their corresponding moisture measurement ranges for softwood, hardwood, wet building materials, and dry building materials.
| Material Code | Material Name | Density Range | Moisture Range |
|---|---|---|---|
| M1 | Softwood (e.g., beech, spruce, larch, birch, cherry, walnut) | 8.8-54.8% | 9.0-57.0% |
| M2 | Hardwood (e.g., oak, pine, maple, ash, Douglas fir, eucalyptus) | 6.8-47.9% | 7.0-52.0% |
| M3 | Cement mortar layer concrete | 0.9-22.1% | 0.9-23.0% |
| M4 | Anhydrous gypsum mortar layer | 0-11% | 0.0-12.0% |
| M5 | Cement mortar | 0.7-8.6% | 0.7-9.0% |
| M6 | Lime mortar, gypsum | 0.6-9.9% | 0.6-10.0% |
| M7 | Brick | 0.0-16.5% | 0.0-17.0% |
4.3 Taking a Measurement
- Select the appropriate material category (M1-M7) using the M button.
- Carefully remove the probe cover.
- Firmly press the two pins into the surface of the material you wish to measure. Ensure both pins fully penetrate the surface for an accurate reading.
- Read the moisture content percentage displayed on the LCD screen. The screen also shows ambient temperature and humidity.
- For consistent results, take multiple readings in different spots on the material and consider the average.
Image 4.2: The PREXISO PMX-57A Moisture Meter in use, demonstrating measurements on various materials including softwood, hardwood, areas with potential mold water damage, drywall, cement mortar, and brick.
4.4 Measurement Modes
The PMX-57A offers several measurement modes:
Image 4.3: The PREXISO PMX-57A Moisture Meter's display showing different measurement modes: Power On, Single-point Measurement, Data Hold, Maximum Measurement, Minimum Measurement, and Multi-point Average Measurement.
- Single-point Measurement: The default mode, displaying the current moisture reading.
- Maximum (MAX) Measurement: Press the H button to cycle through MAX/MIN/AVG. This mode displays the highest moisture reading recorded during a measurement session.
- Minimum (MIN) Measurement: Displays the lowest moisture reading recorded during a measurement session.
- Multi-point Average (AVG) Measurement: Press the AVG button. Take multiple readings, and the meter will calculate and display the average moisture content.
4.5 Data Hold Function
To freeze the current reading on the display, press the H button. Press it again to release the hold and resume live readings.
4.6 Temperature Unit Selection
Press the °C/°F button to switch between Celsius and Fahrenheit for ambient temperature display.
5. Maintenance
- Cleaning: After each use, wipe the probes and the meter body with a clean, dry cloth. Do not use abrasive cleaners or solvents.
- Probe Protection: Always replace the probe cover when the meter is not in use to protect the pins from damage and prevent injury.
- Storage: Store the meter in a cool, dry place, away from direct sunlight and extreme temperatures. If storing for extended periods, remove the batteries to prevent leakage.
- Battery Replacement: Replace batteries when the low battery indicator appears on the display to ensure accurate readings.
6. Troubleshooting
If you encounter issues with your PREXISO PMX-57A, refer to the following common problems and solutions:
| Problem | Possible Cause | Solution |
|---|---|---|
| Meter does not power on. | Dead or incorrectly installed batteries. | Check battery polarity. Replace with new AAA batteries. |
| Inaccurate or inconsistent readings. | Incorrect material category selected; probes not fully inserted; damaged probes; meter not calibrated. | Ensure correct material category is selected. Press probes firmly into the material. Check pins for damage. Perform a calibration check (Section 3.2). |
| Display is dim or flickering. | Low battery power. | Replace batteries. |
| No reading when probes are inserted. | Probes not making good contact; material is extremely dry (below detection range). | Ensure probes are clean and fully inserted. Test on a known moist material to verify function. |
If the problem persists after attempting these solutions, please contact PREXISO customer support.
7. Specifications
Detailed technical specifications for the PREXISO PMX-57A Moisture Meter:
Image 7.1: The PREXISO PMX-57A Moisture Meter shown with its approximate dimensions: 14-3/4 inches in height, 6 inches in width, and 3-5/16 inches in depth.
| Specification | Value |
|---|---|
| Model Number | PMX-57A |
| Product Dimensions | 3.3"W x 14.7"H (approx. 3.3 x 3.3 x 14.7 inches) |
| Item Weight | 0.26 Kilograms (approx. 9.17 ounces) |
| Measurement Principle | Electrical Resistance (Pin-Type) |
| Moisture Measurement Range | 0% to 57% (material dependent) |
| Material Categories | 7 pre-calibrated types |
| Power Source | 3 x AAA batteries |
| Display | Color Backlit LCD |
| Automatic Power-Off | Yes, after inactivity |
| Temperature Unit | °C / °F selectable |
| Mounting Type | Surface Mount |
8. Warranty and Support
PREXISO products are manufactured to high-quality standards. For warranty information, technical support, or service inquiries, please refer to the contact information provided with your product packaging or visit the official PREXISO website. Please retain your proof of purchase for warranty claims.
