The Extech MO290 Pinless Moisture Psychrometer is a versatile 8-in-1 diagnostic tool designed for professionals in building inspection, restoration, and HVAC fields. It combines non-invasive moisture detection with a pin-type probe, infrared temperature measurement, and comprehensive psychrometric analysis, including relative humidity, dew point, vapor pressure, and grains per pound (GPP).
🔧 Key Features
- Pinless Moisture Measurement: Allows for non-invasive monitoring of moisture in wood and other building materials without surface damage.
- Pin-Type Moisture Probe: For contact moisture readings, useful for deeper penetration into materials.
- Infrared Thermometer: Measures surface temperature with an 8:1 distance-to-spot ratio and 0.95 fixed emissivity.
- Humidity and Temperature Measurement: Built-in probe measures relative humidity and air temperature.
- Psychrometric Calculations: Provides dew point, vapor pressure, and grains per pound (GPP) readings.
- Programmable Alarms: Set high/low moisture and humidity alarms for proactive monitoring.
- Data Hold and Min/Max Functions: Capture and store readings for later analysis.
- Auto Power Off: Conserves battery life when the device is not in use.
- Backlit Dual Display: Simultaneously displays moisture readings and environmental parameters.
📊 Specifications
| Feature | Specification |
|---|---|
| Pinless Moisture | 6 to 99.9% |
| Pinless Depth | Up to 0.75″ (19mm) |
| Pin-Type Moisture | 0 to 99.9% |
| Humidity | 0 to 100% RH |
| Air Temperature | -20 to 170°F (-29 to 77°C) |
| IR Temperature | -4 to 392°F (-20 to 200°C) |
| Vapor Pressure | 0 to 20.0 kPa |
| Dew Point | -22 to 199°F (-30 to 100°C) |
| Grains Per Pound | 0 to 999 GPP (0 to 160 g/kg) |
| Emissivity | 0.95 fixed |
| Field of View | 8:1 Distance to Target Ratio |
| Dimensions | 6.5 x 2.8 x 1.5″ (165 x 70 x 38 mm) |
| Weight | 7.4 oz (210 g) |
✅ Pros
- Non-Invasive Moisture Detection: The pinless sensor allows for surface-level moisture readings without causing damage to materials.
- Comprehensive Environmental Analysis: Measures multiple parameters, including temperature, humidity, and psychrometric values, providing a holistic view of the environment.
- User-Friendly Interface: The backlit dual display and programmable alarms enhance usability in various lighting conditions.
- Portable Design: Compact and lightweight, making it easy to carry and use in the field.
⚠️ Cons
- Limited Depth for Pinless Measurements: The pinless sensor measures up to 0.75″ (19mm) below the surface, which may not be sufficient for all applications.
- Fixed Emissivity: The infrared thermometer has a fixed emissivity of 0.95, which may not be suitable for all surface types.
💰 Pricing & Availability
The Extech MO290 Pinless Moisture Psychrometer is available for purchase online, with prices typically ranging from $200 to $300 USD, depending on the retailer and any ongoing promotions.
🛠 Final Thoughts
The Extech MO290 Pinless Moisture Psychrometer is a versatile and reliable tool for professionals in building inspection, restoration, and HVAC fields. Its combination of non-invasive moisture detection, infrared temperature measurement, and comprehensive environmental analysis makes it a valuable asset for diagnosing and monitoring conditions in various materials and environments.
