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This may be an odd question, but should the probe for the digital thermometer be verical or horizontal when checking basking platform temps? I ask because the temp reading is way different between the two. I don't know if the probe should hang just above vertically or lay on the platform. A or B?
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i say flat, lay it on a rock about that is about as high as your turtle would be when basking. Place the probe on the top of that.

What I did was put something on top the dock .. like a rock the height of my turtle and put the probe on it.

so horizontal at turtle height? Or verical at turtle height? I'm concerned because it's a difference of about 20 degrees!

Let me guess, when it's horizontal, it's much warmer? I'm more inclined to think it is the more correct temp, though the basking area has an effect. I use a paper cup with thermometer to measure the temps.

It makes sense that when it's horizontal that it's much warmer. I mean, when it's horizontal more of the actual probe is getting direct light. This will probably give you a more accurate reading. Can you use underwater digital thermometers to measure basking temperatures also?

In the diagram, its on the platform, so thats why I think it would be much warmer. Yes, more of the probe is exposed too, but I'm not sure if that would have the same impact.

You are quite right Steve! The temp is indeed higher horizontally on a rock or on the platform. It says it's 110-112. If it's like diagram B it says it's @ 88-90. so trust the horizontal on the rock?

trust the horizontal. Its exposing much more of the thermometer just like the length of the turtles shell. I'd try to back your light off a lil bit.

I shall! I have adjusted it way too much! I am happy it's the horizotal i should trust, because I couldn't get the light closer!

Also make sure the basking area is dry, and if using a rock to elevate, don't let the probe touch the rock.