Farmcomp FARMEX HT-PRO

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Summary

General Operating Instructions

Install Battery

Instructions for installing the 9-volt alkaline battery for the tester.

Tester Power On;Off

The tester turns on automatically when any button is pressed.

Testing Moisture

How to initiate a moisture test using the water drop button.

Testing Temperature

How to initiate a temperature test using the thermometer button.

Backlighting Control

Instructions on how to activate or deactivate the display backlighting.

Operating Notes

Reading Interpretation and Display

Covers display limits, open air readings, and temperature range.

Sampling and Baling Guidelines

Advises on measurement locations, sampling, and consulting experts.

Operation

Hay Quality and Test Readings

Explains factors affecting readings and their use as guidelines.

Rectangular or Square Bales

Details how bale density and probe insertion affect readings.

Round Bales

Provides instructions for taking readings in round bales.

Care and Maintenance

Storage and Cleaning

Instructions for storing the tester and cleaning the probe tip.

Water Immersion & Battery Removal

Warnings against immersion and guidance on battery removal.

Calibration

Calibration Procedure

Step-by-step instructions for calibrating the tester.

Battery

Low Battery Indication

Information on low battery indication and replacement.

Troubleshooting

Troubleshooting Steps

Common issues and solutions for the tester.

Warranty

Warranty Policy

Details the manufacturer's warranty policy and limitations.

The Farmex HT-PRO is a portable moisture and temperature tester specifically designed for baled hay. Its primary function is to provide guidelines for baling and storing hay by measuring both moisture content and temperature.

Function Description:

The HT-PRO measures the moisture content of baled hay in percentage of weight and temperature in both Fahrenheit and Centigrade. It is designed to be inserted directly into hay bales to obtain readings. The device does not have a dedicated ON/OFF switch; instead, it turns on when any of its buttons are pressed. It features a backlighting display option that can be toggled on or off, and this setting is retained even if the battery is removed.

Important Technical Specifications:

Moisture Measurement Range: The tester displays moisture readings below 8.0% as "00.0" and above 45.0% as "99.9".
Temperature Measurement Range: Temperatures can be measured from 0°C to 99°C (32°F to 225°F). Readings below 0°C (32°F) are displayed as "00.0", and readings above 99°C (225°F) are displayed as "99.9".
Battery: The device operates on a 9-volt alkaline battery. A "LOBAT" indicator appears on the display when the battery is running low and needs replacement.
Calibration: The HT-PRO has a calibration procedure that involves cleaning the probe tip, holding the probe in the air while pressing a specific button, and then firmly placing a calibration clip on the probe tip while pressing the button again. A successful calibration will display 24.8%. An error during calibration is indicated by "99.9".

Usage Features:

Moisture Testing: To test moisture, the user presses the button above the "water drop" symbol.
Temperature Testing: To test temperature, the user presses the button above the "Thermometer" symbol. The display will show Fahrenheit first, followed by Centigrade.
Backlighting: The backlighting display option is activated or deactivated by pressing the button above the "Light Bulb" symbol while any reading is displayed.
Probe Insertion for Rectangular/Square Bales: For optimal results, the probe should be inserted into the "dense" side of the bale at a 45° angle. Readings should be taken in at least five (5) places, approximately 15 cm apart along the bale center-line, and the highest reading should be used as a guideline.
Probe Insertion for Round Bales: Readings can be taken anywhere around the outside surface of the bale (excluding the ends), ensuring the probe tip is inside the outer wrap. For best results, the probe should be inserted into the outside radius of the bale at a 45° angle and at least 30 cm deep. Similar to rectangular bales, readings should be taken in at least five (5) places (approximately 15 cm apart), and the highest reading should be used as a guideline.
Reading Interpretation: The tester measures only the hay in contact with the tip of the probe. Due to variations in moisture within a windrow and bale, multiple readings are recommended. The indicated moisture content should be used as a guideline rather than an absolute, quantitative measurement, as various conditions can affect readings.
Factors Affecting Readings:
- Bale Density: Tighter/denser bales tend to yield higher moisture readings.
- Natural Variations: Moisture content can vary within the plant during drying, with greater variations in higher moisture content.
- Sweating: Higher readings may occur during the initial "sweating" process (first couple of days after baling), with readings gradually declining as the hay dries. Continuous monitoring is important.
- Preservatives: Some preservatives can initially increase conductivity, leading to moisture readings 2-4% higher than untreated hay until absorbed (typically 1-2 days).
- Hay Type: The tester is calibrated on 100% alfalfa hay, and other herbs may yield different readings.
- Open Air Reading: The HT-PRO will display "00.0" in open air. If an open air reading of 8.0 is displayed, it suggests the tip may need cleaning and recalibration.
- Water Immersion: The tester is designed for hay moisture and will not read 100% when placed in 100% moisture (water).

Maintenance Features:

Storage: After each use, the tester should be stored in a clean, dry, and accessible place.
Probe Tip Cleaning: The metal tip of the probe should be wiped clean between each use. For best results, both parts of the metal tip should be cleaned periodically with fine steel wool and/or mineral spirits or alcohol. A dirty tip can lead to lower readings, so keeping the brass shiny is important.
Water Immersion Precaution: The probe should never be immersed in water.
Battery Removal for Long-Term Storage: If the tester will not be used for several months, the battery should be removed.
Battery Replacement: When the "LOBAT" indicator appears, the 9-volt alkaline battery should be replaced. After battery replacement, the tester must always be re-calibrated.
Troubleshooting: The manual advises users to re-read the instructions, clean the probe tip, and recalibrate the tester. If "LOBAT" is displayed, the battery should be replaced with a new 9-volt alkaline battery, and the tester recalibrated.
Warranty: The HT-PRO comes with a one-year manufacturer warranty covering materials and workmanship, valid for 12 months from the purchase date. To claim warranty service, the defective product, along with a description of the fault, a copy of the sales receipt, and customer contact information, should be returned to the manufacturer or reseller. The warranty does not cover damage from incorrect or careless use, dropping, unauthorized repairs, or consequential damages. The battery is not covered by the warranty.