1. Introduction
The KINGBOLEN BM560 and BM550 are professional automotive battery analyzers designed to quickly and accurately assess the health of various vehicle batteries and the working condition of the alternator. These tools are essential for both professional mechanics and DIY enthusiasts to maintain optimal vehicle performance.
Product Overview
The KINGBOLEN BM560 and BM550 battery testers offer comprehensive diagnostic capabilities for automotive batteries. The BM560 model supports 6V and 12V batteries, while the BM550 model extends compatibility to 6V, 12V, and 24V batteries. Both models feature a 1.8-inch screen and are designed for ease of use.
Key features include:
- Multi-function Testing: Battery health test, cranking test, charging test, and load test.
- Wide Battery Compatibility: Supports regular flooded, AGM flat plate, AGM spiral, GEL, and EFB batteries.
- Broad Vehicle Application: Suitable for cars, motorcycles, trucks, RVs, ATVs, SUVs, boats, yachts, mowers, and golf carts.
- Multiple Test Standards: Compatible with CCA, BCI, CA, MCA, JIS, DIN, IEC, EN, SAE, and GB standards.
- Reverse Polarity Protection: Ensures safe operation by preventing damage from incorrect connections.
- Waveform Monitoring (BM560 only): Real-time voltage fluctuation monitoring with automatic record saving.
- Multilingual Support (BM560 only): English, Portuguese, French, German, Italian, Japanese, Polish, Russian, Spanish, Chinese.
- Lifetime Free Upgrade (BM560 only): Continuous software updates for enhanced functionality.
- Screenshot Function (BM560 only): Capture test results for review or printing.
Model Differences
| Feature | BM550 | BM560 |
|---|---|---|
| Test Range | 6V/12V/24V | 6V/12V |
| CCA Range | 100-2000 CCA | 100-2000 CCA |
| AH Range | 2AH-220AH | 2AH-220AH |
| Screen Type | 1.8-inch High-definition Backlit Screen | 1.8-inch Color Screen |
| Language Support | English | 9 Languages |
| Basic Functions | Voltage Test(V), Resistance Test(Ω) | Battery Analysis, Startup Test, Charging Test, Load Test |
| Voltage Waveform Monitoring | No | Yes |
| Voltage Waveform Playback | No | Yes |
| Voltage Record | No | 10 Records |
| Test Record | No | Yes |
| Battery Multimeter | No | Yes |
| Screenshots | No | Yes |
| Reverse Protection | Yes | Yes |
| Reverse Polarity Test | Yes | Yes |
| Theme Selection | No | Yes |
| Free Upgrade | No | Life-time |
2. Safety Information
Always observe the following safety precautions when using the battery tester:
- Wear appropriate eye protection and clothing.
- Ensure the vehicle is in a well-ventilated area.
- Avoid sparks or open flames near the battery.
- Do not touch moving engine parts or hot surfaces.
- Keep the tester away from children.
- The copper clamps feature reverse polarity protection and are spark-proof, but always double-check connections before proceeding.
3. Setup
Before using the KINGBOLEN BM560/BM550, ensure the vehicle's ignition is off and all accessories are disconnected.
- Connect the Clamps: Attach the red positive (+) clamp to the positive terminal of the battery and the black negative (-) clamp to the negative terminal of the battery.
- Power On: The tester will automatically power on once correctly connected to the battery.
- Language Selection (BM560 only): If using the BM560, navigate to the 'Setup' menu to select your preferred language. The BM550 is English-only.
4. Operating Instructions
The device features a user-friendly interface with navigation buttons (Up, Down, Left, Right) and 'OK' for selection, and a 'Return' button.
4.1. Battery Test
This function assesses the overall health of your battery.
- From the main menu, select 'Battery Test' (or 'Check' then 'Battery Test' on BM560).
- Select the battery type (e.g., Regular Flooded, AGM Flat Plate, GEL).
- Enter the battery's CCA (Cold Cranking Amps) rating, usually found on the battery label.
- The tester will display results including State of Health (SOH), State of Charge (SOC), internal resistance (R), and voltage (VOL).
4.2. Cranking Test (Startup Test)
This test evaluates the starting capability of the battery and the starter motor.
- From the main menu, select 'Startup Test' (or 'Check' then 'Startup Test' on BM560).
- Follow the on-screen prompts to start the engine.
- The tester will analyze the cranking voltage and time, providing a result on the starter motor's performance.
4.3. Charging Test
This function checks the vehicle's charging system, including the alternator.
- From the main menu, select 'Charging Test' (or 'Check' then 'Charging Test' on BM560).
- Start the engine and keep the RPM between 2500 to 3500 as instructed.
- The tester will measure loaded, unloaded, and ripple voltage, indicating if the charging system is working correctly.
4.4. Load Test
The load test assesses the battery's ability to maintain voltage under a simulated load.
- From the main menu, select 'Load Test' (or 'Check' then 'Load Test' on BM560).
- Follow the on-screen prompts, which may include keeping the engine RPM between 2000 to 2500 for a full load test.
- The tester will display current, minimum voltage, and load capacity.
4.5. Waveform Monitoring (BM560 only)
The BM560 can monitor real-time voltage fluctuations. This is useful for diagnosing intermittent issues.
- From the main menu, select 'Waveform'.
- The screen will display a graph of voltage over time.
- The device automatically saves these records.
4.6. Records and Screenshots (BM560 only)
The BM560 allows you to review past test data and capture screenshots.
- Review Records: Select 'Records' from the main menu to view previously saved test results. This allows for comparison over time.
- Screenshot Function: During any test, long-press the 'Up' and 'Down' arrow buttons simultaneously to capture a screenshot of the current display.
Video 1: Demonstration of connecting the BM560 and performing various battery tests.
5. Maintenance
- Cleaning: Wipe the device with a soft, dry cloth. Do not use abrasive cleaners or solvents.
- Storage: Store the tester in a dry, cool place away from direct sunlight and extreme temperatures.
- Cable Care: Inspect the cables and clamps regularly for any signs of wear or damage. Replace if necessary.
- Software Updates (BM560 only): The BM560 supports lifetime free updates via its Mini USB interface. Connect the device to a computer and follow the instructions on the KINGBOLEN website for updates.
6. Troubleshooting
- Inaccurate Readings: Ensure the battery terminals are clean and the clamps are securely attached. Loose or corroded connections can lead to incorrect results.
- Variable Real-time Voltage: The voltage displayed during real-time testing is influenced by the vehicle's starting state and the battery's charging state. Fluctuations are normal under these conditions.
- Device Not Powering On: Check that the clamps are correctly connected to the battery terminals (red to positive, black to negative). Ensure the battery has sufficient charge to power the device.
- BM560 Not Supporting 24V: The BM560 model is designed for 6V and 12V batteries only. For 24V systems, use the BM550 model.
7. Specifications
| Specification | BM550 | BM560 |
|---|---|---|
| Voltage Range | 6V/12V/24V | 6V/12V |
| CCA Range | 100-2000 CCA | 100-2000 CCA |
| AH Range | 2AH-220AH | 2AH-220AH |
| Display | 1.8-inch Backlit Screen | 1.8-inch Color Screen |
| Supported Battery Types | Regular Flooded, AGM Flat Plate, AGM Spiral, GEL, EFB | |
| Test Standards | CCA, BCI, CA, MCA, JIS, DIN, IEC, EN, SAE, GB | |
| Operating Temperature | 0°C to 50°C (32°F to 122°F) | |
| Storage Temperature | -20°C to 70°C (-4°F to 158°F) | |
| Housing Material | Acid-resistant ABS plastic | |
| Certification | CE | |
8. User Tips
- Not an OBD Scanner: This device is a battery tester and analyzer, not an OBD-II diagnostic scanner. It will not connect to your vehicle's ECU for engine codes or other system diagnostics.
- Check Battery Type and CCA: Always ensure you select the correct battery type and input the accurate CCA value for precise test results.
- Regular Testing: Perform regular battery tests, especially before long trips or during extreme weather, to proactively identify potential issues.
- Review Historical Data: Utilize the record-keeping function (BM560) to track your battery's performance over time and identify trends.
9. Warranty and Support
The KINGBOLEN BM560 model includes a lifetime free software upgrade service. For any technical support or inquiries, please contact KINGBOLEN customer service.
