The Tramex PTM 6005 pin meter features a built-in socket that accommodates an array of optional external electrodes and insulated pins, including a hammer probe accessory for measuring moisture at various depths. It employs resistance technology for measuring moisture.
The meter includes a digital LCD display on the front and abbreviated temperature compensation and species adjustment tables on the back though some readings require using the comprehensive charts in the manual.
We found the hammer probe failed to provide consistent, repeatable readings. We also experienced issues with the LCD screen coming loose.
Considering the problems and limitations, we do not recommend either the meter or its hammer probe accessory for purchase.
Pros
- Simple to use, with 2-button operation.
- Handy tables on the back of the meter for making temperature and species adjustments.
- Reasonably durable hammer probe pins.
- HOLD function for use in tight spaces.
Cons
- Unable to measure wood moisture content (MC) below 7%.
- Heavier and bulkier than many of the wood meters we tested.
- Questionable quality.
- Readings not consistent or repeatable when using the hammer probe.
- Surface moisture significantly affects moisture content readings.
Tramex PTM 6005 Wood Moisture Meter
The Tramex PTM 6005 pin meter features a built-in socket that accommodates an array of optional external electrodes and insulated pins, including a hammer probe accessory for measuring moisture at various depths.
Objective Evaluation – Overall Score 3.4 out of 5.0
Accuracy – 4.0 out of 5.0
The Tramex PTM 6005’s hammer probe tends to provide readings that are somewhat high when compared to ASTM D-4442 oven dry standards. When measuring wood in the very low MC range, the meter reads 0% due to its inability to take measurements below 7% MC.
Learn about our accuracy test procedures
Surface Moisture – 1.0 out of 5.0
Surface moisture caused this meter’s MC reading to change 7.3% from the baseline. These surface moisture results indicate that operating this meter in high humidity environments where condensation may form on the surface could lead to questionable readings.
Learn about our surface moisture test procedures
Meter Temperature – 4.7 out of 5.0
Meter temperature had some effect on this hammer probe’s readings.
A low meter temperature of 34.8° F in the presence of low MC increased the reading 1.6% when compared to the room temperature reading. In the presence of high MC, the reading decreased 0.2%.
A high meter temperature of 110° F in the presence of low MC decreased the reading by 0.5% when compared to the room temperature reading. In the presence of high MC, the reading decreased 1.6%.
Learn about our meter temperature test procedures
Wood Temperature – 3.3 out of 5.0
Wood temperature had an effect on this hammer probe’s readings.
A low wood temperature of 33.6° F in the presence of low MC increased the reading by 0.7% when compared to the room temperature reading. In the presence of high MC, the reading increased by 0.3%.
A high wood temperature of 110° F in the presence of low MC decreased the reading by 0.4% when compared to the room temperature reading. In the presence of high MC, the reading decreased 3.8%.
Learn about our wood temperature test procedures
Reading Repeatability – 1.0 out of 5.0
This meter failed to provide consistent, repeatable readings during the testing.
Learn about our repeatability testing procedures
Drift – 4.0 out of 5.0
This meter showed a slight drift of 0.3% after insertion for three seconds.
Cable Interference – 4.0 out of 5.0
The PTM 6005’s hammer probe readings were affected slightly by cable interference.
Learn about our cable interference and drift testing procedures
Subjective Evaluation – Overall Score 2.9 out of 5.0
Learn about our subjective testing procedures
Ease of Use – 3.2 out of 5.0
Simple and intuitive to use with 2-button operation. Little or no use of the manual needed to get started. Documentation in the manual is clear and easy to understand.
Quality – 4.3 out of 5.0
Manufactured in Ireland. Although this meter has a solid feel to it, we experienced some issues during testing that indicate this meter’s build quality may be questionable. The built-in pins came loose inside the meter, and the LCD screen moved because it was quite loose. Several pins broke during testing and the insulation peeled off the hammer probe pins.
Comfort – 2.5 out of 5.0
Larger and heavier than most meters we tested, both the meter and the hammer probe felt a bit awkward to use. Comes with a soft case that can attach to a belt.
Versatility – 1.0 out of 5.0
This is a single-mode meter (pin), which is typical. An optional hammer probe can be used with wood and wood products. The meter has a built-in socket for the hammer probe and provides an array of choices for the pins, ranging from 20 mm to 200 mm.
Range – 2.3 out of 5.0
This meter reads from 7% to 40% MC. It does not reach down to 5% for measuring wood with very low moisture content.
Features – 3.2 out of 5.0
Readings precise to the nearest 0.1%. Low battery indicator. Comes with abbreviated temperature compensation and species adjustment tables on the back of the meter. It also features a timed on/off switch and a HOLD function that can be handy for working in tight spaces where the LCD display is not always visible.
Customer Service – 4.0 out of 5.0
Customer service is friendly and knowledgeable. Prompt email response but telephone response time slower than many other manufacturers. Manual available online.
Warranty, repairs, and calibration
- Warranty covers 1-year parts & labor. However, damage due to dropping the meter is not covered.
- Repair costs are not quoted over the phone, but a free estimate is provided when the meter is sent to Tramex.
- Turnaround time on repairs is 7 days plus time for shipping.
- Customer pays to ship both ways.
- Tramex sells a device to check calibration, but it doesn’t calibrate and is not NIST certified.
- Repairs carry a 90-day warranty for parts and labor. Recalibration is not covered under this warranty.
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.