1. Introduction
The Proster 2-in-1 Pin & Pinless Moisture Meter (Model PST309-CA) is a versatile device designed for accurately measuring moisture content in various materials, including wood and building materials. It features both a non-invasive spherical probe for quick detection and a pin probe for precise measurements. This manual provides essential information for the safe and effective use of your moisture meter.
Image: The Proster 2-in-1 Moisture Meter being used in different settings, such as checking walls for leaks, inspecting wood before painting, and ensuring wood dryness for carpentry. This illustrates the meter's versatility for home and industrial applications.
2. Safety Information
Please read all safety warnings and instructions carefully before using this device to prevent injury or damage. Keep this manual for future reference.
- Do not immerse the device in water or expose it to excessive moisture.
- Avoid using the device in environments with explosive gases or vapors.
- Handle the pin probes with care as they are sharp and can cause injury. Keep out of reach of children.
- Do not attempt to modify or disassemble the device. Repairs should only be performed by qualified personnel.
- Ensure the device is charged using the provided Type-C charging cable and a compatible power source.
- Operate the device within the specified temperature range of 0-45°C.
3. Package Contents
Verify that all items are present in the package:
- Proster 2-in-1 Moisture Meter (PST309-CA)
- External Pin Probe
- Storage Bag
- Type-C Charging Cable
- User Manual
- Wrench (for pin replacement)
- Replacement Pins
Image: A clear view of all items included in the Proster 2-in-1 Moisture Meter package, including the main unit, external pin probe, charging cable, storage bag, and user manual.
4. Product Overview
The Proster PST309-CA moisture meter combines two measurement methods for comprehensive moisture detection:
- Dual-Probe Functionality: Features both a non-invasive spherical probe for quick, surface-undamaging detection up to 40mm deep, and a pin probe for accurate absolute moisture content measurements.
- Multifunctional Display: An LCD screen clearly shows numerical values, a 3-color analog bar graph, and various indicators.
- Smart Alerts: Customizable alarm thresholds for wood, gypsum, and cement materials, accompanied by a sound buzzer and visual bar graph for easy identification of moisture levels.
- Energy-efficient Design: Equipped with a rechargeable lithium battery (320mAh) and a Type-C charging port. The device automatically shuts down after 30 minutes of inactivity to conserve battery life.
- User-Friendly Operation: Includes one-touch calibration, data hold feature, and an optional silent mode. Designed to be dust and water-resistant for tough conditions.
- Wide Compatibility: Suitable for measuring moisture in concrete, wood, gypsum, paper, fabric, and other building materials.
5. Setup
5.1 Charging the Device
Before first use, ensure the moisture meter is fully charged. Connect the provided Type-C charging cable to the device's charging port and plug the other end into a compatible USB power adapter (not included).
- The battery indicator on the LCD will show charging status.
- A full charge provides extended operating time.
Image: The moisture meter connected to a USB-C charger, illustrating its rechargeable battery. The image also highlights the 30-minute auto power-off function, which helps conserve battery life.
5.2 Attaching the Pin Probe (Optional)
For pin-mode measurements, connect the external pin probe to the designated port on the side of the meter. Ensure a secure connection.
6. Operating Instructions
6.1 Power On/Off
- Press the Power button to turn the device on.
- The device will perform a self-calibration upon startup, adjusting to ambient humidity.
- To turn off, press and hold the Power button, or the device will automatically shut down after 30 minutes of inactivity.
6.2 Selecting Measurement Mode (Pinless vs. Pin)
The meter offers two distinct measurement modes:
Image: A split image demonstrating the two measurement modes of the Proster moisture meter. On the left, the spherical probe is shown measuring a wall, indicating no surface damage and relative humidity readings. On the right, the pin probe is shown inserted into wood, providing accurate absolute moisture content.
- Spherical Probe (Pinless) Mode:
- For quick, non-invasive detection of humidity distribution within materials.
- Sensing depth: Up to 40mm.
- Reading type: 0-100% Relative Humidity (REL).
- Ideal for walls, ceilings, floors, and general scanning without surface damage.
- Simply place the spherical probe flat against the surface to be measured.
- Pin Probe Mode:
- For accurate absolute moisture content measurements.
- Electrode length: 10mm.
- Wood range: 5% to 52%.
- Building material range: 2% to 30%.
- Insert the pins firmly into the material to be measured.
The meter automatically detects which probe is active. If the external pin probe is connected, it will prioritize pin mode.
6.3 Understanding the Display and Alarms
The LCD provides numerical readings, a 3-color bar graph, and various icons to indicate moisture levels and device status.
Image: A detailed view of the moisture meter's LCD screen, highlighting the digital moisture percentage, the 3-color bar graph (green for dry, yellow for risk, red for wet), and icons for auto power-off, sound, battery level, and data hold. This visual aid helps users quickly interpret moisture levels.
- Numerical Display: Shows the exact moisture percentage or relative humidity.
- 3-Color Bar Graph:
- Green: Indicates a dry condition.
- Yellow: Indicates a risk or moderate moisture level.
- Red: Indicates a wet condition, suggesting potential issues.
- Sound Buzzer Alarm: The device emits an audible alert when moisture levels exceed customizable thresholds. This can be toggled on/off.
- Customizable Alarm Thresholds: Set specific moisture percentage limits for wood, gypsum, and cement materials. Refer to the table below for general guidelines.
6.4 Material Compatibility and Moisture Levels
The meter is compatible with a wide range of materials. The following tables provide general guidelines for moisture levels in different materials for both measurement modes.
Image: Two tables illustrating moisture level categories (Dry, Risk/Moist, Wet) for different materials. The top table is for Spherical Probe Mode (Plaster, Cement-based, Wood), and the bottom table is for Pin Probe Mode (Wood, Building materials), providing specific percentage ranges for each category.
Spherical Probe Mode Moisture Levels (Relative Humidity)
| Material | Dry | Risk | Wet |
|---|---|---|---|
| Plaster and anhydrite | < 30 | 30–60 | > 60 |
| Cement-based materials | < 25 | 25–50 | > 50 |
| Wood | < 50 | 50–80 | > 80 |
Pin Probe Mode Moisture Levels (Absolute Moisture Content)
| Material | Dry | Moist | Wet |
|---|---|---|---|
| Wood | 5%–11.9% | 12%–19.9% | 20%–52% |
| Building materials | 2%–7.9% | 8%–11.9% | 12%–30% |
Image: A collage of different materials including wood, fabric, concrete, gypsum, paper, and leather, demonstrating the universal material compatibility of the Proster 2-in-1 Moisture Meter for various testing needs.
6.5 Data Hold Function
Press the HOLD button (often indicated by a padlock icon) to freeze the current reading on the display. Press it again to release the hold and resume live measurements.
6.6 Silent Mode
If desired, activate silent mode to disable the sound buzzer alarm. Refer to the device's specific button layout for the silent mode toggle (usually indicated by a speaker icon).
7. Maintenance
- Cleaning: Wipe the device with a soft, dry cloth. Do not use abrasive cleaners or solvents. Ensure the probes are clean and free of debris for accurate readings.
- Storage: Store the moisture meter in its provided storage bag in a cool, dry place when not in use. Avoid extreme temperatures and direct sunlight.
- Battery Care: Recharge the battery regularly, even if the device is not frequently used, to maintain battery health. Avoid fully discharging the battery for extended periods.
- Pin Replacement: If the pin probes become dull or damaged, use the included wrench to carefully replace them with new pins.
8. Troubleshooting
If you encounter issues with your Proster Moisture Meter, refer to the following common problems and solutions:
| Problem | Possible Cause | Solution |
|---|---|---|
| Device does not power on. | Low or depleted battery. | Charge the device using the Type-C cable. |
| Inaccurate readings. | Dirty or damaged probes; incorrect mode selected; material outside measurement range. | Clean probes. Ensure correct mode (pin/pinless) for material. Verify material is within specified measurement range. Perform one-touch calibration. |
| Pin probe not working. | Pin probe not securely connected; pins are dull or broken. | Ensure the pin probe is fully inserted. Replace pins if damaged. |
| Display is blank or frozen. | Device malfunction; battery issue. | Try restarting the device. If problem persists, contact customer support. |
| Alarm not sounding. | Silent mode is active; alarm threshold not met. | Deactivate silent mode. Check and adjust alarm thresholds. |
If the problem persists after attempting these solutions, please contact Proster customer support.
9. Specifications
| Model Number | PST309-CA |
| Brand | Proster |
| Measurement Modes | Pinless (Spherical Probe), Pin Probe |
| Pinless Sensing Depth | 0-40mm |
| Pin Probe Electrode Length | 10mm |
| Wood Moisture Range (Pin) | 5% to 52% (±2.5%) |
| Building Material Range (Pin) | 2% to 30% (±2.5%) |
| Pinless Relative Humidity Range | 0-100% REL |
| Display | LCD with 3-Color Bar Graph |
| Battery | 320mAh Rechargeable Lithium Battery |
| Charging Port | Type-C |
| Auto Shut-off | 30 minutes of inactivity |
| Operating Temperature | 0-45°C |
| Item Weight | 350 g |
| Package Dimensions | 24.1 x 14.8 x 3.9 cm |
10. Warranty & Support
For warranty information, technical support, or service inquiries, please refer to the official Proster website or contact their customer service department directly. Details can typically be found on the product packaging or the manufacturer's official online resources.
