How to use - VVV Group

For CM models

1) Getting Started

Package Included and Preparation

Unpack the device and check the package contents (thickness gauge itself, calibration plates/foils, batteries/rechargeable battery, manual).
Power on:

For battery-powered models, insert 2 x AAA batteries with the correct polarity.

For the CM-218, charge the built-in battery via USB before first use.

Initialization

Turn on the device, usually by holding down the power button.
Wait ~5 seconds for the self-test and initialization (the device typically displays the splash screen and battery indicator).

Selecting Units

Switch units of measurement (µm / mils / mm) using the corresponding button on the device.

2) Calibration (a mandatory step for accuracy)

Why Calibration?
Calibration aligns the device’s readings to actual measurement conditions (metal type, surface, etc.). Without it, measurements may be inaccurate. Calibration Types

Zero Calibration.

Conducted on a clean, uncoated metal surface.
Press and hold the “CALIB/ZERO” button (or equivalent) until a beep sounds and “ZERO” is displayed.

Multi-Point or Foil/Plate Calibration.

Use the supplied thickness standards (foils) to correct readings at different thickness levels.
The instrument adjusts to the actual values on the samples.

Tip: When measuring on a surface with significant curvature or inhomogeneity, it is best to calibrate on a similar, flat surface.

3) How to Take Measurements

Probe Positioning

Place the probe perpendicular to the surface—this is critical for accuracy.
Briefly and evenly press the probe onto the coating—the instrument will beep when the measurement is complete.

Measurement Modes

Single (SNG): A single measurement, one value is displayed.
Continuous (CON/CTN): Hold the probe on the surface and move it – the device will update the measurements.
Difference (DIF) (on some models): Shows the difference between the current and previous measurement.

Automatic Base Detection

Models automatically detect the base type (ferromagnetic – Fe, non-ferromagnetic – NFe) and select the appropriate measurement method (magnetic induction or eddy current).

4) Result Interpretation and Analysis

Results

Readings are displayed on the screen in the selected unit.
The CM-218 can store data (up to 1,500 measurements) and analyze it later on the device or via a PC (if available).

Features

Memory and measurement groups facilitate report generation and comparative analysis.
Some models (e.g., the CM-228Pro) may feature color indicators or Bluetooth connectivity for more in-depth analysis (see specific model).

5) Practical Recommendations

Measuring Conditions

Clean the surface of any dirt, oil, or grease before taking measurements.
Avoid the edges of lenses and corners, as readings at the edges may be distorted.
When measuring on strongly curved surfaces, take multiple measurements and use the average as a guide.

Errors and Automatic Shutdown

If the device displays an error or is unresponsive, try rebooting or performing a system reset (on some models, this can be done by holding the button for a long time).
The device will automatically shut off when idle to save power.

For ultrasonic models

1) Instrument Preparation

Package Contents and Power Supply

Remove the thickness gauge, transducer, calibration standard, and coupling agent (gel/ointment).
Set up the power supply according to the instructions (Ni-MH batteries/batteries, observing polarity).
Connect the transducer to the instrument.

Surface Cleaning

Clean the surface to be measured of corrosion, dirt, oil, and old coatings to ensure good ultrasonic contact.

2) Calibration (necessary for accuracy)

Contact Coupling Agent
Before calibration, apply a small amount of ultrasonic gel or other coupling agent to the surface and transducer. This eliminates air pockets and improves sound wave transmission.

Basic Calibration

Use a calibration standard (steel standard).
Press the probe onto the sample through the gel and initiate the calibration function in the instrument menu.
Wait for the indicators to fill/confirm completion (the instrument usually terminates automatically).

Setting the Velocity of Sound

In the calibration menu, select the velocity of sound corresponding to the material being measured, if known. This is critical for measurement accuracy.

3) Measurement Procedure

Making Contact

Apply adhesive to the measurement point.
Press the transducer firmly to the surface without moving the instrument until the result is displayed.

Reading Results

The screen will display the measured thickness value (in mm or inches, depending on the setting).

Measurement Modes

Some models allow you to save results, set thickness limits and warnings, and also display statistics.

4) Practical Techniques for Reliable Data

Multiple Measurements

If the surface is uneven, take several point measurements and use the minimum value (the most reliable for thickness gauges of this class) as a guide.

Surface Curvature

For pipes and cylindrical parts, rotate or move the transducer perpendicular to the object’s axis to find the smallest thickness value.

Temperature Effects

Since the speed of sound changes with temperature, when measuring hot parts, estimate the possible reading shift and adjust the speed of sound if possible.

5) Navigating Menus and Settings (Example)

Navigation

POWER/MENU button — enters the menu and turns the power on/off.
UP / DOWN — navigates through menu items/adjusts values.
OK — confirms selection.
ESC — exits the menu.

Measurement Menu

Select units of measurement (mm / inch).
Setting the speed of sound (important for different materials).
Saving data / viewing saved measurements.

6) Interpreting Results

Normal Readings

The value displayed by the instrument is the local material thickness at the measurement point.
If the reading varies at different points, this indicates thickness inconsistency (e.g., corrosion or wear).

Measurement Errors

If the device does not display a reading or displays an unusual result, ensure the binding agent is present and the transducer is making good contact with the surface.

7) Finishing Work

Remove any remaining binding agent from the surface and transducer.
Turn off the device and store it in its case.
If the device will not be used for a long time, remove the batteries.

For Tint Meters

1) Purpose of the Device

The Tint Meter measures the visible light transmission (VLT) of glass in percentage.

The VLT value reflects the percentage of visible light passing through the glass:

100% — completely transparent
70% — transmits 70% of the light
5% — practically opaque

Used for:

checking compliance with traffic regulations
checking the quality of tinting
expert vehicle assessments before purchase
certification checks

2) Preparation

2.1 Checking the Kit

The kit typically includes:

main device (two parts: transmitter and receiver, or a single unit)
charging cable or batteries
manual
calibration plate (on some models)

2.2 Power

Install the batteries or charge the built-in battery.
Make sure the battery level is sufficient for a series of measurements.

2.3 Power-on

Press the POWER button.
Wait for initialization (1-3 seconds).
Check the zero or ready-to-measure display.

3) Calibration

Calibration is mandatory before use, especially if the ambient temperature changes.

3.1 Zero Check

Align the measuring parts of the device without the glass in between.
Run the ZERO / CAL / RESET function.
Wait for confirmation (usually 100% or 0.0, depending on the model’s logic).

3.2 Automatic Self-Calibration

Most models perform an automatic calibration each time they are turned on. However, manual calibration improves accuracy.

4) Measurement Procedure

4.1 Glass Preparation

The glass must be clean.
Remove dust, moisture, and condensation.
Do not measure on a wet surface.

4.2 Correct Positioning
If the device is a two-piece device:

Place the transmitter on one side of the windshield.
The receiver should be directly opposite.
Make sure the elements are aligned.

If the device is a one-piece device (clip-on):

Carefully place it on the edge of the windshield.
The device should fit snugly and without distortion.

4.3 Taking a Measurement

Once correctly positioned, the device will automatically take a measurement.
After 1-2 seconds, the VLT value will be displayed as a percentage.
Record the result.

5) Interpreting the Results

Example:

75% → Meets most windshield requirements.
50% → Acceptable for side windows (varies by country).
<30% → Heavy tinting.

Important:

Factory tinting already reduces light transmittance.
Laminated glass provides a lower percentage.
Multilayer film may produce inconsistent results.

6) Practical recommendations for accuracy

Take at least three measurements at different points on the glass.
Avoid areas with silkscreen printing (black edges).
Do not measure near the edges of the glass.
Measure at temperatures between +5°C and +40°C.
If the result is inconsistent, restart the device and recalibrate.

7) Typical mistakes

Problem	Cause	Solution
Unstable readings	Loose contact	Move the device
Too low percentage (%)	Glass contamination	Clean the surface
Error on display	Low battery	Replace/charge
Unstable readings	Offset during measurement	Fix the position

8) Finishing Operation

Turn off the device.
Clean the measurement windows with a soft cloth.
Store in a protective case.
Remove the batteries for long-term storage.

9) Brief Operating Procedure

Turn on the device
Perform a zero calibration
Clean the glass
Install the device correctly
Take readings
Repeat the measurement at several points
Record the minimum value

For Vibration Meters

1) Purpose of the Device

The Vibration Meter measures mechanical vibration parameters of equipment.

Typically, three key parameters are available:

Vibration velocity (mm/s RMS) — the primary diagnostic indicator for rotating equipment
Acceleration (m/s² or g) — sensitive to bearing defects
Displacement (µm) — suitable for low-frequency vibrations

Used for:

Preventive diagnostics
Bearing condition monitoring
Identifying imbalance
Assessing shaft alignment
Post-repair inspection

2) Preparation for Operation

2.1 Checking the Kit

The standard kit includes:

Main device
Vibration sensor (usually piezoelectric)
Magnetic attachment or probe
Sensor cable
Batteries or charger

2.2 Power

Install the batteries or charge the battery pack.
Make sure the battery charge is sufficient.

2.3 Connecting the Sensor

Connect the vibration sensor to the device.
Check the connector for tightness.

3) Selecting the Measurement Mode

Before you begin, determine what exactly you are evaluating.

If your goal is the overall condition of the equipment:→ Select velocity (mm/s RMS)

If you are checking bearings:→ Use acceleration (g or m/s²)

If you are analyzing low-frequency vibration:→ Select displacement (µm)

Also:

Select units of measurement
If necessary, set the range (manual or automatic)

4) Preparing the Measurement Point

This is a critical step.

Only measure on operating equipment.
The surface must be:

clean
metallic
free of paint at the contact point (preferred)

3.The measurement is taken:

on the bearing housing
on a massive part of the structure
as close as possible to the vibration source

Do not measure:

on thin housings
on plastic parts
on components with play

5) Taking the Measurement

5.1 Installing the Sensor

There are three mounting methods:

Magnetic base (preferred)

Reliable contact
Minimum distortion

Manual clamping

Fast
Less stable

Using a feeler gauge

For hard-to-reach areas
Less accurate

The sensor must be:

Pressed firmly
Perpendicular to the surface
No movement during the measurement

5.2 Taking the Reading

Install the sensor.
Wait 2–3 seconds for the sensor to stabilize.
Record the reading.
Repeat the measurement 2-3 times.

6) Practical diagnostic methodology

To ensure an accurate assessment:

1.Measure in three directions:

horizontally
vertically
axially

2.Measure:

on the input bearing
on the output bearing
on the engine and on the driven mechanism

3.Compare:

Current value
Previous measurements
Symmetric nodes

7) Typical signs of malfunctions

Symptom	Possible Cause
Increased vibration speed	Imbalance
High acceleration	Bearing defect
Increased axial vibration	Misalignment
Unstable jumps	Loose fasteners

8) Common Operator Errors

Poor sensor contact
Measuring on a painted surface
Measuring on cold/non-operating equipment
Comparing incompatible points
Ignoring temperature conditions

9) Completing Work

Remove the sensor.
Clean the magnetic surface.
Turn off the instrument.
Record the results in the inspection log.

10) Brief Operational Algorithm

Connect the sensor
Select the measurement parameter
Prepare the contact point
Install the sensor securely
Take readings
Repeat in several directions
Compare with standards and previous measurements