Most models of the CD V-700 are constructed using a two-piece case made of die-cast and stamped aluminum with a distinctive yellow paint (John Deere Yellow), a Civil Defense “CD” decal and check source. The upper, die-cast part of the case contains a groove around the outer edge for a rubber gasket that renders the case water-tight. These have often deteriorated over the years but can be replaced with a section of rubber bead as used for mounting household screen windows in their frames. This section of the case also houses the meter, the printed circuit board and the battery holders. Mounted to the top of the upper case is a carry handle in which the probe clips in for storage, a connector for a headphone and the control knob. 
The inside of the unit contains high voltage electronics of up to 900 volts, so care is recommended when operating with the case open. Inside the lower, stamped aluminum portion of the case is a printed diagram corresponding to the make and model of the unit that the lower case shipped with. In the decades since these units were made, it is common to find case bottoms have been switched between different makes and models, so the diagram may not match the actual mechanical and electrical properties of the unit. 
Power is typically supplied by 2–5 D cell batteries, though early models used three B batteries in conjunction with two D-cell batteries. The most common cells employed are common alkaline primary batteries but rechargeable batteries can also be used. The common alkaline batteries have the disadvantage of a good chance of leakage of corrosive fluids when the unit is placed into storage for long periods, so it is advisable to remove the batteries for storage. 
The units were shipped with a packet containing a silica gel to absorb any moisture inside the container and maintain the electronic components of the device. This packet should either be replaced or regenerated in an oven annually. 
Unlike many newer devices of this type, the CD V-700s are not equipped with a visual or audible alarm for excessively high levels of radiation.