In cold and/or dry climates, static charges may cause erratic meter readings in the range below 8%. Measuring such high resistance under there conditions is difficult enough. The analog meter pointer “jumps” all over the scale or the digital display may flash erratic numbers. To minimize the effect of static:
- Try not to let the electrode cable dangle.
- Drive the electrode pins into the wood with the meter turned off, and then turn the meter on when you are ready to take the reading.
- After driving the pins, place your hands next to them on each side of the electrode to help discharge the static from the board.
- You can also try passing a damp cloth over the board’s surface to pick up any static charges before driving the pins.
These suggestions are not guaranteed. However, depending on the conditions, any one of them can work, either alone or in combination with another.