Problems that result from using wood at the wrong moisture content continue to be among the most common frustrations and failures plaguing the woodworker. Such woes can be avoided by using modern moisture meters. For typical woodworking applications two principal types of meters are available. One is based on the direct current electrical resistance of the wood and involves driving small, pin-type electrodes into the wood surface; the other uses the dielectric properties of the wood and requires only surface contact of the meter with the board. Each type of meter has its strengths and weaknesses. Resistance meters have the disadvantage of leaving small pinholes wherever the electrodes were inserted. The radio-frequency meters are extremely quick to use but are less versatile because a given electrode style works for only a particular area and depth of field.