Is wireless technology really that important for moisture meters? I am a big proponent of wireless technology for most measurement instruments. But with a moisture meter, I have a hard time coming up with situations wherein wireless capability would be very useful.
Let us look at the two most common uses for moisture meters. The first one is taking moisture content readings of wood. The second one is measuring the moisture content of concrete. Both are very important tasks in construction. Wet wood can twist, shrink or split as it dries. Moisture from concrete can bleed into other building materials, such as wood flooring, coatings, or structural support, compromising their integrity. It is important for wood and concrete to be sufficiently dry before being used or proceeding with the building process. In both examples, I find it hard to see how a wireless moisture meter would benefit the worker. There is no danger involved that can be alleviated by remote measurements. It also doesn't make the work any faster. It is hard to justify spending more for a wireless moisture meter.
However, for research and surveys, a wireless moisture meter could be useful. In agriculture, soil moisture plays a big role in determining the plant species that are suitable for planting. A survey must be conducted to see how moisture levels change throughout a certain period. In this case, a wireless moisture meter can be very useful. A wireless probe is driven underground and it will periodically send readings to the main unit aboveground. The surveyors will not have to dig every time he or she needs to take a reading.
Wireless technology has limited uses for moisture meters. When buying a moisture meter, it is important to carefully consider the type of application to avoid spending for a feature that offers no real benefit.
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