Argus Analyzers AA350 Support

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What battery type do I choose when there is no indication of battery type on the battery?

If you are testing a car battery, choose WET as nearly all car batteries are of this type.

How do I test 12 batteries connected together in a pack?

If the batteries are in series, you do not need to disconnect them from each other to test.  You can safely and accurately test each battery individually as long as you attach only across a single 12V battery.   

If the batteries are in parallel, you can safely but not accurately test a battery while it is connected to the other batteries.  In parallel configurations we suggest disconnecting the batteries to increase the accuracy of your measurements. 

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Why does my AA tester often indicate a failed alternator when testing batteries installed on motorcycles?

Because most motorcycles do not have alternators.  The software of the AA series that evaluate alternator performance is designed to look for specific wave patterns that result from the output of triple wound alternators.  Most motorcycles (except the very largest) use a device called a rectifier to generate DC voltage to charge the battery.  The output wave form of a rectifier will be considered a ‘fail’ by the AA series alternator test algorithms.  

When testing motorcycle charging systems, use the indicated battery voltage as your guide to determine correct function.  If the voltage is between 13.2 and 14.8 when the engine is running the charging system appears to be working correctly.

What battery type do I choose when there is no indication of battery type on the battery?

If you are testing a car battery, choose WET as nearly all car batteries are of this type.

Why is the tester not turning on when I attach it to the battery?

The analyzer clamps are connected to the wrong poles of the battery.  Reverse the connections and try again.

The battery voltage is below 6V.  If the battery is drained below 6V, the tester will not turn on.  You must charge the battery above 6V before testing. 

Why do I get a different answer if I test the same battery again?

A very slight difference in the quality of the connection between clamp and battery terminal will have an impact on the internal resistance, capability (CCA, A), and battery life results. Generally these differences are quite small and can be ignored (less than 5%).  If the differences are large, repeat the test and ensure a high quality contact between clamps and the lead posts of the battery.   Note: Special attention to connection quality must be given to batteries with only side-pole terminals.