Im sorry you are having frustrating issues w the GE-IDS.
I tried using the probe on the first IDS. I gave up trying to learn how to use it.
after all , I use Past Experience , and recordings in the Red Engineer Lined Notebook [ RELN ]
its very true the manual that explains how to use the Unit should be re-written for clarity.
For my purposes ,( longer , lower temperature IDS'ing ) , Im pleased with the unit.
Id never use the unit on hotter days .
BTW : this topic initially was this one :
https://forums.egullet.org/topic/166120-ge-profile-smart-indoor-smoker/page/6/
No idea why it has been moved, but that's not really a problem.
I use the GE-IDS for tougher meat , but these days pre-treat that meat w SV.