Testing and Measurement Devices FAQs
CO detector and CO2 meter: What is the difference?
A CO detector is a warning device for carbon monoxide (CO). Carbon monoxide is a dangerous respiratory poison that is produced by the incomplete combustion of fuels containing carbon. Causes can include technical defects as well as blocked exhaust pipes of gas heaters, oil heaters or stoves. CO detectors measure the gas concentration and sound the alarm as soon as it exceeds a critical value, because at high concentrations CO is lethal within a very short time. However, carbon monoxide cannot be seen, smelled or tasted. In an emergency, the devices can save lives. That is why it is advisable to fit CO detectors.
Unlike the CO detector, a CO2 meter is used to monitor the air quality in closed rooms. The concentration of carbon dioxide (CO2) is measured. Carbon dioxide is produced, for example, during respiration and is a natural component of the air. Concentrations that are too high can be eliminated by regular ventilation. Consumers can find out when this is necessary by using CO2 detectors, also known as CO2 traffic lights. The result of the measurement is indicated visually and an alarm signal sounds when a critical value is reached. The use of CO2 measuring devices is particularly recommended when many people are in closed rooms. Typical places of use are therefore offices, schools, seminar and conference rooms.
What is the penetration depth for metal and electricity detectors?
This depends on the type of wall or ceiling and the size of the metal piece that is to be located. For this reason it's not possible to give a more precise answer. A water pipe can be recognised in the open at a distance of approx. 8-9 cm. This distance is reduced based on the construction material covering it. We recommend a test measurement of a similar piece whose distance is known to be akin to the one to be located.
How does the Special WMV detector search for wood?
The device is calibrated for the setting in which the wood is located. By moving the WMV along the wall, a change in the setting is sought. This, for example, is the case where wood is there. The WMV can recognise this. In order to rule out the possibility of the detected object being metal and not wood, a comparative measurement with a metal detector should also be conducted. If the second device gives no reading, then it is wood.
Which conclusions can be drawn from the percentages displayed on the humidity detecting apparatus and how precise are they?
The moisture meter detects the relative moisture content between the two metal pins on the surface of the object measured. When determining the total moisture content of, for example, a brick, it cannot be deduced for certain as only at the surface area has been measured. Therefore there could be a higher moisture and consequently a higher conductivity between the pins which could display a higher percentage. The percentage rate on the display screen can ascertain, for example, whether different parts of a wall yield different humidity levels, and thus can locate damp spots or potential leaks. The measurement accuracy of the detector is +/- 3%.