The Delmhorst TechScan A210 is a pinless meter that can be used for measuring moisture in wood and other building materials. Its rugged build should stand up well to a lot of use. Its simplicity makes it easy to use with minimal reliance on the manual. The meter’s analog display may appeal to some users, but it won’t be for everyone. Accuracy test results indicate that this meter has some limits, especially when MC falls below 8% MC.
The TechScan A210’s reasonable accuracy, except below 8% MC, its basic features, such as the built-in calibration check, and its sturdy construction all make it a reasonable choice for many applications, especially where a pinless meter is preferred.
Pros
- Adjustable alarm to alert the user when a preselected MC is reached.
- Capable of being used with a variety of building materials.
- Built-in calibration check.
- Solid construction; suitable for rugged use.
Cons
- Some issues with accuracy, especially below 8%.
- Requires the use of a table in the manual to adjust for species.
- Analog display will not be preferred by some users.
Objective Evaluation – Overall Score 4.5 out of 5.0
Accuracy – 4.1 out of 5.0
This meter provided reasonable accuracy, although readings for the hickory and Douglas fir samples tended to be consistently high when compared to ASTM D4442 oven-dry standards. For the Ponderosa pine samples, testing showed that readings tended to be low above about 17% MC, and high below about 14% MC when compared to ASTM D4442 oven-dry standards.
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Surface Moisture – 4.0 out of 5.0
Surface moisture had only a relatively minor effect on this meter’s readings.
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Meter Temperature Test – 4.5 out of 5.0
Meter temperature had a relatively minor effect on this meter’s readings at both low MC and high MC. For example, a high meter temperature of 110° F in the presence of either high or low MC decreased the reading by about 0.5% MC compared to the room temperature reading. Similarly, a low meter temperature of 34.8° F in the presence of high MC increased the reading by about 0.5% MC.
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Wood Temperature Test – 5.0 out of 5.0
Wood temperature had only a very small effect on this meter’s readings. At a low wood temperature of 33.6° F in the presence of high MC, the reading hardly changed at all when compared to the room temperature reading. At a high wood temperature of 110° F In the presence of high MC, the reading increased by about 0.5% MC.
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Reading Repeatability – 4.0 out of 5.0
The readings of this meter were not entirely repeatable, showing a minor tendency to vary.
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Drift Test – 5.0 out of 5.0
Readings for this meter did not show any tendency to drift after 3 seconds.
Cable Interference – N/A
The cable interference test was not performed because no cable accessories are available for this meter.
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Subjective Evaluation – Overall Score 3.9 out of 5.0
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Ease of Use – 4.4 out of 5.0
This meter requires minimal use of the manual to become familiar with how to operate it. The manual itself provides reasonable documentation for resolving issues while using the TechScan A210.
Quality – 5.0 out of 5.0
Sturdy, durable construction. The meter itself is unlikely to break or malfunction with normal use.
Comfort – 3.0 out of 5.0
Although this meter does not have an ergonomically-designed shape, it fits reasonably well in one’s hand. It is not compact enough to fit easily into a shirt pocket, but it does come with a sturdy plastic case to protect the meter when transporting it from one job site to the next.
Versatility – 2.0 out of 5.0
This is a single-mode meter (pinless mode only). The TechScan A210 is capable of giving relative readings in a variety of non-wood building materials.
Range – 5.0 out of 5.0
The TechScan A210 reads from 5% to 30% MC. However, it is worth noting that measurements taken at moisture levels below about 8% MC tend not to be as accurate.
Features – 3.2 out of 5.0
The TechScan A210 is a fairly basic meter that still offers several handy features. It includes a hold function, a built-in calibration check, an analog display, and an adjustable alarm that alerts the user when a preselected moisture level is reached.
Customer Service – 4.5 out of 5.0
Delmhorst’s customer service was knowledgeable, helpful and polite. The representative was able to answer all the basic questions about repairs, returns, etc. Fast response to both telephone and email inquiries. Manual available online.
Warranty and Repair Information:
- Three-year warranty on this Delmhorst meter, and a 90-day warranty for optional electrodes.
- The meter must be physically inspected before the actual repair cost can be determined.
- 3-5 business day turnaround on repairs.
Our review is based on Moisture Meter Experts independent evaluation of the meter, which was purchased by Moisture Meter Experts or provided free of charge by the manufacturer. By purchasing this meter through the links above, Moisture Meter Experts may be compensated either by your purchase directly from Moisture Meter Experts or from commissions from an affiliate. View our Review Procedures section to learn more about our proprietary evaluation procedure and expertise in the field of moisture meters.