#Tumblr battery meter how to

If the measured reading is less than 12.2 volts, the battery’s resting voltage is weak, which means it most likely needs to be charged or replaced. Once the resting voltage has been determined, it is time to get a reading on the crank cycle. This is the moment that the vehicle is turned on and the battery is under the most draw because of the higher amount of energy needed to drive the starter motor. To get this reading, a second person will be needed for the purpose of starting the ignition. As soon as the car is turned on, the voltage reading will drop for a quick moment, but should not fall below 10 volts. If it falls below 10 volts, it means the battery does not have sufficient turnover strength and is prone to failure. Again, in this case, recharge or replacement of the battery may be necessary.

Immediately following the crank cycle, the vehicle will begin to idle and maintain a steady draw from the battery. With the motor running, the multimeter rating should stay in the 14 to 14.5 volt range. Rotate the knob of the multimeter and set it to 15-20V DC voltage (a battery generates DC power).Disconnect the battery from the circuit.How to check battery voltage using a multimeter The voltage across the battery terminals is too low compared to its rated voltage on the label.The battery appears to charge to 100 percent very quickly, only to see the charge getting drained off too fast.Physical issues like leaking, heating, physically broken terminals, or bulging.Test the battery for faults if any of the following symptoms show up: The alternator’s job is to generate energy to feed the electrical system and charge the battery while the vehicle is running.View our online selection of clamp meters and multimeters! Dropping below 14 means either the battery is weak and unreliable for sustained vehicle operation or the alternator is failing. Always set the dial to a higher range than the specified voltage of the battery. Connect the multimeter leads to the battery’s terminals (red probe to the battery’s positive terminal and black probe to the battery’s negative terminal).Connect the plug of the red probe to the VΩmA port of the multimeter, and the black probe to the COM port.For a 9V battery, selecting the 15-20V range on the multimeter dial should work fine.

#Tumblr battery meter how to

The battery is typically considered dead if the multimeter reads below half the voltage level specified on the battery.įigure 2: Testing a battery using a multimeter How to check battery amperage using a multimeter If the reading shows a considerably low value (say If the reading shows a value greater than 7V for a 9V battery, the battery is still fit to use.