What Do Professional ANCEL Battery Testers Actually Measure?

Professional battery testers provide a detailed analysis of your battery’s condition, going beyond basic voltage readings to assess key factors that influence battery performance and longevity. Here’s what professional battery tester measures to ensure your vehicle is in top shape.

Voltage 

The most basic, yet critical, measurement taken by battery testers is voltage. Voltage indicates the state of charge and serves as an initial indicator of the battery’s health. A healthy, fully charged battery will have a voltage between 12.6V and 12.8V when the engine is off. If it falls below 12.4V, it could be undercharged or failing. When the engine is running, the voltage should rise to 13.7V to 14.7V, as the alternator charges the battery. Voltage readings help diagnose whether the battery is functioning properly or needs further testing.

Load Testing 

A key feature of battery load tester is their ability to perform a load test. This test simulates the electrical demands placed on the battery during engine operation. The tester applies a load and checks how well the battery maintains voltage under stress. A significant voltage drop during this test indicates that the battery may be struggling to perform under real-world conditions and could be failing. 

Cold Cranking Amps (CCA) 

Cold Cranking Amps (CCA) is another critical measurement. This indicates the battery’s ability to deliver current at 0°F (-18°C) for 30 seconds while maintaining a minimum of 7.2V. It simulates the real-world conditions of starting an engine in cold weather. A higher CCA value means the battery can provide a larger surge of power, which is essential for reliable engine starts in colder climates. Professional testers subject the battery to a load test, checking its performance under simulated stress to ensure it can handle extreme conditions.

State of Charge (SOC) 

The State of Charge (SOC) provides insight into how much energy is stored in the battery. It’s typically expressed as a percentage, where 100% means a full charge and 0% means the battery is empty. Testing the SOC helps determine if the battery is overcharged, undercharged, or operating optimally. SOC is crucial for diagnosing charging problems or confirming if the battery needs recharging.

Internal Resistance 

Internal resistance refers to the friction within the battery that limits the flow of current. As a battery ages, its internal resistance increases, which can lead to slower charging and reduced performance. Professional testers measure this resistance to assess the battery’s efficiency. High resistance can indicate that the battery is nearing the end of its lifespan and may need replacing soon.

Charging System Check 

In addition to checking the battery itself, a professional battery tester also evaluates the charging system, which includes the alternator. A failing alternator may not provide enough charge to the battery, leading to undercharging and reduced battery life. The tester checks if the alternator is maintaining a proper voltage range during operation. If there’s an issue with the charging system, the tester can pinpoint the problem, helping prevent future breakdowns.

ANCEL BST600 Professional Car Battery Tester 

For those seeking an advanced solution, the ANCEL BST600 provides an upgraded testing experience.

• Updated Testing Tech: Cutting-edge methods enhance testing, improving accuracy and efficiency.
• 12V & 24V Battery Load Tester: Measures loads for both 12V and 24V systems with precision.
• Fast & Accurate: Offers quick, reliable results for peace of mind.
• Built-In Printer: Instantly prints test results, providing easy documentation and record-keeping.

This professional car battery tester offers advanced features that provide detailed diagnostics, giving you peace of mind about the state of your battery and charging system.