NEW - Body Contact Pad
- David Blake
- Jun 11, 2024
- 3 min read
Updated: Apr 25

ENV RD-10[AU] & Mito Meters receive a body voltage potential contact pad upgrade.
When using a low-frequency e-Field EMF detector, holding the meter can increase its sensitivity by approximately four times compared to measurements taken when you step back from the meter when taking a reading.
3-in-1 EMF meters under $500 often struggle to detect levels below 10V/m. However, incorporating a body contact pad can significantly enhance sensitivity again, bringing it closer to that of dedicated semi professional low-frequency meters that can measure down to 1V/m.
Additionally, with the growing popularity of grounding pads, sheets, and other grounding solutions, it makes sense to include a body contact pad to test these setups effectively as possible.*
Potential vs. Potential-Free
When it comes to assessing electric fields, there are two main methods: potential-free measurements and potential measurements. Using both methods can give you a better understanding of your electric environment.
Applications
Testing grounding stakes, or ground connections.
Measuring stray ground electric fields in home and office floors.
Evaluating ambient electric fields near equipment, cabling, or power lines.
Testing grounded sheets & mats.
Potential-Free Measurements
This method measures electric potential (voltage) without any direct electrical connection to the environment or the person conducting the test.
The measuring device is independent and neither references a specific ground point nor is influenced by a person's body mass acting as an electrical conductor.
Measurement Method;
Place the RD10[AU] meter in the desired area.
Ensure the device is insulated from the surroundings and the operator.
Step back at least one meter from the device to avoid interference.
Potential Measurements
This technique involves using a reference point, such as the ground (Ground potential reading) or the operator's body (Body potential reading), to measure the voltage potential between the ground or individual and the electric field.
Measurement Method;
Body potential reading - Use your body as a reference potential by touching the body contact pad on the meter and holding the meter in front of you to take measurements.
Ground potential reading - Make contact with the meters alloy ground pad with a ground cable, grounded sheet/mat, kitchen sink or surface. These readings will be much higher than a 'potential free' reading.
Ideal Results;
Using the RD10[AU] or Mito Meter in LFE Mode, aim for no lights on the meter’s display within one to two meters of beds using the body potential handheld method.
When using a laptop or PC connected to power, expect up to 10 to 15 V/m. If readings are higher you need to ground the setup. (Or if grounded, check for ground loops)
When grounding a laptop, like adding a grounded Ethernet cable, or a grounded monitor, make sure to use only one ground to avoid creating ground loops which also create high electric fields.
If using a grounded sheet, ensure no lights are on the meter. If there are, which there will be in many case, do not use the sheet until you mitigate the electric fields.*
Notes;
*The RD10[AU] and Mito Meter can measure down to approximately 1-2V/m, making it suitable for screening general connected devices and cabling.
However, it is not the best choice for testing grounding solutions for beds if your goal is to achieve absolute optimal restorative sleep. To comply with Building Biology sleep guidelines, a professional low-frequency electric field meter capable of detecting an A/C electric field strength down to 0.1 V/m is required. This is because A/C electric fields above 0.2-0.3V/m can still have negative effects on restorative sleep. Holding the meter with the tips of your fingers at the bottom of the meter case will give you the best results.
Additionally, sleeping grounded can pose risks if there is an electrical fault, an intermittent stray voltage on the ground, or a lighting strike. We recommend grounding away from any electrical infrastructure, and using only a grounding rod placed in the ground (Soil).
Comments