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Body Voltage Contact Pad

  • Writer: David Blake
    David Blake
  • Aug 27
  • 3 min read
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The MITO METER 2.0 [EURO] is equipped with a Voltage Potential Contact Pad, designed to significantly improve sensitivity for low-frequency electric field (LF-E) detection.


When using a standard low-frequency e-field detector, simply holding the meter can increase sensitivity by up to four times compared to the conventional “hands-off” method of stepping back during measurements.


Most 3-in-1 EMF meters under $500 struggle to detect electric fields below 10 V/m. The Mito Meter breaks that limitation. With its integrated body contact pad, sensitivity approaches that of entry-level professional low frequency meters capable of detecting as low as 1 V/m—similar to the basic models from Gigahertz Solutions.


With the growing popularity of grounding pads, sheets, and other earthing products, the inclusion of a body contact pad not only enhances general testing but also makes it easier to evaluate grounding setups more effectively.



Understanding Electric Field Measurement


When assessing electric fields, there are two main approaches:

  1. Potential-Free Measurements

  2. Potential Measurements

Using both provides the most accurate understanding of your electric environment.


Potential-Free Measurements


This method measures the electric field without any electrical connection to the ground or operator.

  • The device functions independently, unaffected by body capacitance or grounding.

  • Best for general ambient testing.


How to perform a potential-free measurement:

  1. Place the EMF meter in the desired location.

  2. Ensure it is insulated from surfaces and the operator.

  3. Step back at least 1 meter (3 feet) to avoid influencing the reading.

Potential Measurements


This method references a specific potential—either your body or a grounded object—to measure the voltage difference between that reference point and the surrounding field.

Two techniques:


  • Body Potential Reading: Hold the meter and touch the body contact pad. Your body acts as the reference ground.

  • Ground Potential Reading: Touch the meter’s alloy ground pad to a grounded object (e.g., grounding cable, mat, kitchen sink).

    Note: These readings are usually higher than potential-free measurements.


Measurement Goals & Practical Tips

  • Bedrooms (LFE mode): Aim for no lights on the meter within 1–2 meters of beds when using the handheld body potential method.

  • Computers & Laptops (LFE mode): Expect 10–15 V/m near a powered laptop or PC using the handheld body potential method. Higher levels suggest grounding is needed. → If already grounded, check for ground loops.

  • Grounding Computers: When grounding a laptop (e.g., via grounded Ethernet or monitor), ensure there is only one grounding path. Multiple connections can cause ground loops, raising electric fields instead of reducing them. (Read more Here.)

  • Grounded Sheets & Mats: The target is no lights on the meter (LFE Mode) using the handheld body potential method. If lights appear, the product may actually be increasing body voltage and should not be used until corrected.

⚠️ Important Notes

  • The MITO METER 2.0 [EURO] can detect down to 1–2 V/m, making them excellent for general screening of connected devices and cables.

  • They are not precision instruments for ultra-low bedroom testing where Building Biology guidelines recommend exposure below 0.3 V/m (And why we recommend no LED lights on LFE Mode within 1 to 2 meters of beds, to allow for voltage drop off.)

  • For most users, the Mito Meter 2.0 with its body contact pad is ideal for identifying electric field issues in everyday environments. Ultra sensitive people should invest in a low frequency professional meter that measures below 0.1 V/m.


Looking For Help?


If you’d like assistance creating a low-EMF office or a restful grounded bedroom sanctuary, reach out here.

 
 
 

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