The Tramex PTM 6005 is a digital pin meter that uses resistance technology for measuring moisture. It features a built-in socket that accommodates an array of optional external electrodes and insulated pins for measuring moisture content at various depths in the wood.
This meter includes abbreviated temperature compensation and species adjustment tables on the back, although some readings still require the use of more comprehensive charts in the manual.
We experienced problems with both the probe pins and the LCD screen coming loose during testing. These frustrating issues call into question the quality of the meter.
We do not recommend the PTM 6005 for purchase.
Pros
- Simple to use, featuring 2-button operation
- Handy correction tables for temperature and species on back of meter
- HOLD function for use in tight spaces.
Cons
- Unable to measure wood moisture content (MC) below 7%
- Heavier and bulkier than a lot of other wood moisture meters
- Questionable quality
- Surface moisture significantly affects moisture content readings
Tramex PTM 6005 Hammer Probe
Features a built-in socket that accommodates an array of optional external electrodes and insulated pins, including a hammer probe accessory. We tested the hammer probe too.
Objective Evaluation – Overall Score 3.8 out of 5.0
Accuracy – 3.8 out of 5.0
Readings with this meter were reasonably accurate in the 7% to 18% range when compared to ASTM D-4442 oven dry standards. The meter’s accuracy diminished above 18% MC. In the very low moisture content range, the meter reads 0% due to its inability to measure 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% 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 – 4.0 out of 5.0
Meter temperature had an effect on this meter’s readings.
Readings taken with a low meter temperature of 34.8°F in the presence of low and high MC changed less than 1% when compared to readings taken at room temperature.
Readings taken with a high meter temperature of 100°F in the presence of low MC showed a difference of 1.2% from the room temperature reading. In the presence of high MC, the reading changed 2.8%.
Learn about our meter temperature test procedures
Wood Temperature – 4.0 out of 5.0
Wood temperature had some effect on this meter’s readings.
A low wood temperature of 33.6°F in the presence of low and high MC changed less than 1% when compared to the room temperature reading.
A high wood temperature of 100°F in the presence of low MC showed a difference of 0.3% from the room temperature reading. In the presence of a high MC, the reading changed 3.7%.
Learn about our wood temperature test procedures
Reading Repeatability – 4.0 out of 5.0
Tramex PTM 6005 meter readings were mostly repeatable.
Learn about our repeatability testing procedures
Drift – 5.0 out of 5.0
Readings that were taken with this meter barely drift after 3 seconds.
Cable Interference – N/A
The cable interference test is not applicable except when using the hammer probe accessory. Please refer to the separate review of the PTM 6005 hammer probe for the results of this test.
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 – 3.5 out of 5.0
With only two buttons to push, this meter is simple to operate with minimal reference to the manual needed to get started. Documentation in the manual is clear and easy to understand. Battery installation is not convenient and requires the use of a screwdriver.
Quality – 3.0 out of 5.0
Although this meter has a solid appearance, we experienced several issues during testing that call into question the quality of this meter. 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 – 3.0 out of 5.0
Larger and heavier than most meters we tested, it 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 accessory is available for use with wood and wood products. When taking readings, the display is not convenient and must be viewed upside down. This meter comes with a built-in socket for the hammer probe and offers a choice of several 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 0.1%. Low battery indicator. Comes with abbreviated temperature compensation and species adjustment tables on the back of the meter. This meter 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.