How to use the car battery tester, how to use it correctly?

The usage of an automotive battery tester is relatively straightforward, but to ensure accuracy and safety, certain steps and precautions must be followed. Below are the detailed steps on how to correctly use an automotive battery tester:

I. Preparation

1. Select the Appropriate Tester: Choose a handheld or benchtop battery tester based on your needs. Handheld testers are portable and suitable for outdoor or emergency situations; benchtop testers are powerful and offer high measurement accuracy, making them ideal for professional automotive repair settings.

2. Ensure the Vehicle is Off: Before using the tester, ensure the vehicle is turned off and all electrical equipment is switched off to ensure the accuracy of the test results.

3. Connect the Tester: Correctly connect the positive and negative clips of the tester to the positive and negative terminals of the battery. Ensure a secure connection to avoid loosening or falling off during the test.

II. Operating Steps

1. Turn on the Power Switch: Start the tester and turn on the power switch.

2. Select the Test Mode: Depending on the type and function of the tester, select the corresponding test mode. Common test modes include standard testing, in-depth testing, and quick testing. Standard testing provides basic battery information, in-depth testing offers detailed performance parameter analysis, and quick testing gives a rough status of the battery within a short period.

3. Wait for the Test Results: Wait for the tester to complete the test, which usually takes a few seconds to a few tens of seconds. During the test, keep the tester securely connected to the battery to avoid interfering with the test results.

III. Interpreting Test Results

1. Voltage: When the battery voltage stabilizes at 12.6V or above, it indicates good battery condition. When the voltage is between 12.2V and 12.6V, it suggests the battery is in average condition and may require close monitoring and timely charging. If the voltage is below 12.2V, the battery is in poor condition and may need to be replaced.

2. Cold Cranking Amps (CCA): When the CCA reaches 80% or more of the rated value, it indicates the battery can normally start the vehicle. When the CCA is between 50% and 80% of the rated value, it suggests a decline in the battery's starting ability but is still usable. If the CCA is below 50% of the rated value, the battery's starting ability is severely insufficient and should be replaced.

3. Internal Resistance: When the internal resistance is less than 30% of the rated value, it indicates good internal conductivity of the battery. When the internal resistance is between 30% and 50% of the rated value, it suggests a decline in internal conductivity but is still usable. If the internal resistance is above 50% of the rated value, the battery's internal conductivity is extremely poor and should be replaced.

IV. Precautions

1. Safe Operation: When using the tester, always follow safe operating procedures to avoid hazards such as short circuits and electric shocks.

2. Regular Calibration: To ensure the accuracy and reliability of the tester, it is recommended to regularly calibrate and maintain it.

3. Scope of Application: Pay attention to the applicable scope and model of the tester to ensure compatibility with the battery. Different models and specifications of testers may be suitable for different types of batteries.

4. Testing Environment: Avoid testing in high temperature, humid, or environments with strong electromagnetic interference, as this may affect the accuracy of the test results.

In summary, correctly using an car battery tester and accurately interpreting the test results help identify battery issues and take appropriate measures, thereby ensuring the normal startup and operation of the vehicle.