How do I use a multi tester to check my battery?
battery tester November 29th, 2009I go a 7 function multi tester that i want to use to check car battery. I know it must do that, but I have not idea which setting to use.
Your car battery will probably be around 12V. Pick a DC voltage range a bit more than that, eg 20V range. Do not use a current range, or an AC range or resistance (or buzzer) range, or it could kill the meter.
A well charged battery could show 13.8V If you accidentally short the battery, the wire will explode, I’ve done it. You can test it on a fused supply, eg to a light. If you turn on some high current load, like aircon or screen heater, or full beam lamps, without the engine running, the voltage might drop. If it goes below say 11V it might not be well charged.
DC ranges are often marked with a symbol of two lines - a solid horizontal line above a dashed horizontal line, like this
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November 29th, 2009 at 11:28 am
the only useful function you’ll find is DC volt, and that won’t tell you anything about your battery besides a drained condition. take it to a store where they can test amperage while applying a load. yer little 10 amp multimeter ain’t gonna test a 600 cold cranking amp battery to save your soal. don’t even try, you’ll fry yourself.
References :
http://www.xowey.com
November 29th, 2009 at 11:43 am
Your car battery will probably be around 12V. Pick a DC voltage range a bit more than that, eg 20V range. Do not use a current range, or an AC range or resistance (or buzzer) range, or it could kill the meter.
A well charged battery could show 13.8V If you accidentally short the battery, the wire will explode, I’ve done it. You can test it on a fused supply, eg to a light. If you turn on some high current load, like aircon or screen heater, or full beam lamps, without the engine running, the voltage might drop. If it goes below say 11V it might not be well charged.
DC ranges are often marked with a symbol of two lines - a solid horizontal line above a dashed horizontal line, like this
————
- - - - - - -
References :
November 29th, 2009 at 12:08 pm
no you have a manuel with it? i would google the item you want to use and try to find a pdf version of the manuel.
References :
November 29th, 2009 at 12:50 pm
Nathan has hit the nail on the head. The best home test for a battery is carried out first thing in the morning. If the starter motor spins the engine into life, the battery is OK. If the starter motor labours the engine into life, the battery is past its best. If the starter motor only goes "clunk", the battery is shot.
The starter motor puts a far greater drain on the battery’s reserves than any other item of electrical equipment, and this makes it the best indicator of the condition of the battery.
References :
Driver & DIY mechanic for more years than I care to remember.