Delmhorst Instrument TechScan - Manual (Page 3)

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TechScan
™
VERSION 1.0
OWNER’S MANUAL
INTRODUCTION
Thank you for purchasing TechScan, a multi-purpose meter that can be used in many
applications including water damage restoration, home inspection, indoor air quality,
woodworking, flooring installation. TechScan provides a fast, effective way to identify
moisture problems and determine if further action must be taken.
TechScan is a capacitance-type moisture meter with patented sensor technology, using
the relationship between the moisture content and the dielectric properties of the
material under test. When the meter is placed on wood or other hygroscopic building
material, an electro-magnetic field penetrates approximately ¾ to 1 inch into the
material. The meter reading represents a biased average, with the MC nearest to the
sensor having the greatest effect.
If you require a more complete evaluation of moisture conditions or need to penetrate
through flooring, check behind drywall, or test lumber over 1-1/2” thick, we recommend
using TechScan in conjunction with a Delmhorst resistance (pin-type) moisture meter.
TechScan has two reading scales:
Wood : 5%-30% MC range for wood. Select when testing wood materials, such as
flooring, trim, construction lumber, exterior siding.
Reference: 0-100 scale for non-wood hygroscopic materials. The numbers on
this scale are relative, or qualitative indications of moisture levels – not %
moisture content. Select when testing building materials such as drywall, concrete,
plaster, EIFS, etc. Readings in the low end of the scale usually indicate a drier
condition; readings in the upper end of the scale usually indicate a higher moisture
level in the material.
To establish a benchmark or “dry standard” for the material you are measuring, first
take readings in areas that you know are dry, or acceptable. Then take readings on
areas that you know are wet. These “dry to wet” readings should be used as the