1. Introduction
Thank you for choosing the ALLmeter Pinless Moisture Meter Model ALL019-DEFBA. This device is designed for non-invasive measurement of moisture content in various materials such as wood, walls, drywall, and masonry. Its advanced technology ensures accurate readings without causing damage to surfaces. This manual provides detailed instructions for the proper use, maintenance, and troubleshooting of your moisture meter to ensure optimal performance and longevity.
2. Important Safety Information
- Read all instructions carefully before operating the device.
- Do not attempt to open or modify the device. There are no user-serviceable parts inside.
- Keep the device away from water and high humidity to prevent damage.
- Avoid exposing the device to extreme temperatures or direct sunlight for prolonged periods.
- Remove batteries if the device will not be used for an extended period to prevent battery leakage.
- Dispose of batteries and the device according to local regulations.
3. Package Contents
Verify that all items listed below are included in your package:
- ALLmeter Pinless Moisture Meter (Model ALL019-DEFBA)
- AAA Batteries (3 pieces)
- User Manual
- Carry Pouch
Image 3.1: The ALLmeter Pinless Moisture Meter package contents, showing the meter, three AAA batteries, a user manual, and a gray carry pouch.
4. Product Overview
4.1 Device Layout
Image 4.1.1: Front view of the ALLmeter Pinless Moisture Meter, highlighting its ergonomic design, large LCD display, and central control panel.
4.2 Control Buttons
Image 4.2.1: Detailed view of the control buttons on the ALLmeter Pinless Moisture Meter. These include SET (for alarm level modification), DEN (for wood density switching), Power, HOLD, and MODE (for switching measurement modes).
- Power Button (⑂): Press to turn the device on or off.
- MODE Button (▼): Press to cycle through different measurement modes (WALL, MASONRY, SOFTWOOD, HARDWOOD).
- SET Button (▲): Used to adjust alarm levels or other settings.
- DEN Button (▲): Used to switch between different wood density grades when in wood measurement modes.
- HOLD Button: Freezes the current reading on the display. Press again to release.
4.3 Display Elements
Image 4.3.1: The LCD display of the ALLmeter Pinless Moisture Meter, indicating low battery, moisture bar display, moisture value, wood density grade (MBB), data hold symbol (HOLD), and current measuring mode.
- Low Battery Indication: Icon appears when battery power is low.
- Moisture Bar Display: Graphical representation of moisture level.
- Moisture Value: Digital display of the measured moisture percentage.
- Wood Density Grade (MBB): Indicates the selected wood density setting.
- Data Hold Symbol (HOLD): Appears when the HOLD function is active.
- Measuring Mode Indication: Displays the currently selected material mode (e.g., WALL, MASONRY, SOFTWOOD, HARDWOOD).
5. Setup
5.1 Battery Installation
- Locate the battery compartment cover on the back of the device.
- Slide or unclip the cover to open the compartment.
- Insert three (3) AAA batteries, ensuring correct polarity (+/-) as indicated inside the compartment.
- Replace the battery compartment cover securely.
6. Operating Instructions
6.1 Power On/Off
- To turn on: Press the Power button (⑂). The display will illuminate.
- To turn off: Press and hold the Power button (⑂) for approximately 2 seconds. The device also features an auto power-off function to conserve battery life after a period of inactivity.
6.2 Selecting Measurement Mode
- After powering on, press the MODE button (▼) repeatedly to cycle through the available material modes: WALL, MASONRY, SOFTWOOD, HARDWOOD.
- Select the mode that corresponds to the material you intend to measure.
6.3 Taking a Measurement
- Ensure the correct measurement mode is selected.
- Place the back of the meter (the sensing plate area) flat against the surface of the material you wish to measure. Ensure full contact.
- The moisture reading will be displayed instantly on the LCD screen.
- Move the meter across the surface to check for variations in moisture content.
6.4 HOLD Function
- While taking a measurement, press the HOLD button to freeze the current reading on the display. This is useful for reading measurements in hard-to-reach areas.
- Press the HOLD button again to release the reading and resume live measurement.
6.5 Audible Alarm Settings
- The device features an audible alarm that activates when the measured moisture level exceeds a preset threshold for the selected material.
- To adjust the alarm threshold, press the SET button (▲). Follow the on-screen prompts to increase or decrease the alarm percentage.
6.6 Wood Density Adjustment (DEN)
- When in SOFTWOOD or HARDWOOD mode, the DEN button (▲) can be used to cycle through different wood density grades (MBB) for more accurate readings based on the specific wood type. Refer to wood density charts for your material.
7. Measurement Modes and Ranges
The ALLmeter Pinless Moisture Meter provides distinct measurement ranges and visual indicators for different moisture levels across various materials.
Image 7.1: The visual moisture alarm system and a table detailing the 'Dry', 'Mid', and 'Wet' moisture percentage ranges for Wall, Masonry, Softwood, and Hardwood materials.
7.1 Moisture Level Indicators
- Green: Indicates a Dry moisture level.
- Yellow: Indicates a Mid-range moisture level.
- Red: Indicates a Wet moisture level, potentially requiring attention.
7.2 Measurement Ranges by Material
| Measurement Mode | Dry | Mid | Wet |
|---|---|---|---|
| WALL | <8% | 8-11.9% | ≥12% |
| MASONRY | <17% | 17-19.9% | ≥20% |
| SOFTWOOD | <13% | 13-17.9% | ≥18% |
| HARDWOOD | <12% | 12-15.9% | ≥16% |
7.3 Non-Invasive Measurement Principle
The ALLmeter Pinless Moisture Meter utilizes advanced inductive surveying technology. This method allows for moisture detection without penetrating the material surface, preventing damage. Unlike destructive surveying methods that require pins or probes, the pinless meter provides quick and clean readings.
Image 7.3.1: A visual comparison between inductive (pinless) surveying, which leaves no marks, and destructive (pin-type) surveying, which creates small holes in the material.
7.4 Multiple Applications
This moisture meter is versatile and suitable for a wide range of applications in home inspection, construction, and woodworking:
Image 7.4.1: Examples of the meter's application on various materials including walls, masonry, softwood, and hardwood.
8. Maintenance
- Cleaning: Wipe the device with a soft, dry cloth. Do not use abrasive cleaners or solvents.
- Storage: Store the meter in its carry pouch in a cool, dry place when not in use. Avoid areas with extreme temperatures or high humidity.
- Battery Replacement: Replace batteries when the low battery indicator appears on the display.
9. Troubleshooting
| Problem | Possible Cause | Solution |
|---|---|---|
| Device does not power on | Dead or incorrectly installed batteries | Check battery polarity; replace with new AAA batteries. |
| Inaccurate readings | Incorrect measurement mode selected; poor contact with surface; device malfunction. | Ensure correct mode is selected for the material; press the meter firmly and flat against the surface; if problem persists, contact customer support. |
| Display is blank or flickering | Low battery; device malfunction. | Replace batteries; if problem persists, contact customer support. |
| Audible alarm not working | Alarm disabled or volume too low; device malfunction. | Check alarm settings using the SET button; ensure moisture level exceeds threshold; if problem persists, contact customer support. |
10. Technical Specifications
| Specification | Value |
|---|---|
| Model Number | ALL019-DEFBA |
| Brand | ALLmeter |
| Measurement Principle | Pinless, Inductive |
| Sensing Depth | 5 cm |
| Sensing Plate Size | 5 x 6 cm |
| Accuracy | ±4% |
| Display | LCD Color Display with Analog Bar |
| Power Source | 3 x AAA Batteries |
| Auto Power-Off | Yes |
| Audible Alarm | Yes |
| Item Weight | 231 g (0.23 Kilograms) |
| Package Dimensions | 19.4 x 8.8 x 4.2 cm |
11. Warranty and Customer Support
For warranty information, technical assistance, or customer support, please refer to the contact details provided with your purchase documentation or visit the official ALLmeter website. Please have your model number (ALL019-DEFBA) and purchase date available when contacting support.
