1. Introduction
The AUTOOL BT960 battery system tester utilizes the most advanced conductance testing technology available today. It is designed to conveniently, quickly, and accurately measure the actual cold cranking current capacity of automotive starting batteries, assess the health status of the battery itself, and rapidly detect common faults in automotive starting and charging systems. This functionality aids maintenance personnel in quickly and accurately determining the location of automotive faults, facilitating faster vehicle repairs.
The BT960 supports testing 6V, 12V, and 24V batteries and offers various test functions including Lead-acid Test, Lithium Battery Test, Cranking Test, Charging Test, Load Test, Voltage Measurement, and Leakage Monitoring. It features a 3.2-inch HD color screen for clear display of results and a built-in thermal printer for instant test reports.
2. Package Contents
Please check the package contents upon receipt to ensure all items are present and undamaged:
- 1 x AUTOOL BT960 Car Battery Tester
- 3 x Full copper core Kelvin clips (test leads)
- 1 x User Manual
- 1 x Printing paper roll
- 1 x Storage bag
3. Device Overview
Familiarize yourself with the components and controls of the AUTOOL BT960:
| Label | Component |
|---|---|
| A | Print Port |
| B | HD Color Screen (3.2-inch) |
| C | Electric Clamps (Test Leads) |
| D | Return Key / Power Key |
| E | Print Key |
| F | OK / Confirm Key |
| G | Up / Down / Left / Right Navigation Keys |
| H | Battery Compartment |
4. Specifications
The AUTOOL BT960 offers the following technical parameters and test ranges:
| Parameter | Value |
|---|---|
| Voltage Measurement Range | 0-80V |
| Current Measurement Range | 0-10A |
| Operating Temperature | -20°C to 50°C |
| Power Supply | 4 AAA Batteries, TYPE-C: 5V/1A |
| Standard | Range |
|---|---|
| CCA (Cold Cranking Amps) | 30-2000 |
| IEC (Internal Electrical Technical Commission) | 30-2500 |
| EN (European Automobile Industry Association) | 30-3000 |
| DIN (German Auto Industry Committee) | 30-2500 |
| JIS (Japan Industrial Standard) | 28A19R-N135 |
| GB (China National Standard) | 30-300AH |
5. Setup
Follow these steps to set up your AUTOOL BT960 for use:
- **Install Dry Batteries (Optional)**: The device supports dry battery power supply. Open the battery compartment (H) on the back of the device and insert 4 AAA batteries, ensuring correct polarity.
- **Install the Power Cable**: Connect the main test cable (C) to the dedicated port on the top of the BT960 tester. Ensure a secure connection.
- **Connect to the Battery**: Connect the red clamp of the test leads to the positive (+) terminal of the battery and the black clamp to the negative (-) terminal.
This video demonstrates unboxing, dry battery installation, connecting the power cable, and connecting the clamps to a battery.
6. Operating Instructions
The AUTOOL BT960 features a user-friendly interface with a 3.2-inch HD color screen and intuitive navigation buttons.
6.1. General Navigation
- Use the Up/Down/Left/Right Navigation Keys (G) to move between menu options.
- Press the OK/Confirm Key (F) to select an option or confirm an action.
- Press the Return Key / Power Key (D) to go back to the previous screen or power off the device (long press).
- The Print Key (E) is used to print test results.
6.2. Lithium Battery Test
This function allows testing of various lithium battery types.
- From the main menu, select "Lithium Battery Test".
- Choose the specific battery type: Lithium iron batteries, Polymer lithium batteries, Ternary lithium batteries, or Other battery.
- Select the battery voltage (e.g., 12.8V (4x), 25.6V (8x), etc.).
- The tester will display the battery status, including voltage, SOC (State of Charge), current, resistance, and life percentage.
6.3. Lead-Acid Battery Test
This function is for testing lead-acid batteries commonly found in vehicles.
- From the main menu, select "Lead-acid Test".
- Choose the battery type: Regular-Flooded, AGM Flat Plate, GEL, AGM Spiral, EFB, or Other Type.
- Select the battery voltage (e.g., 12V, 24V, 36V, etc.).
- Select the measurement standard (e.g., CCA (USA), IEC (International), EN (Europe), DIN (Germany), JIS (Japan), GB (China), MCA).
- Enter the rated value (e.g., 680 A (CCA)) as found on the battery label.
- Press OK to start the test. The tester will display the battery status, including voltage, SOC, current, resistance, and life percentage.
6.4. Cranking Test
This test evaluates the vehicle's starting system.
- From the main menu, select "Cranking Test".
- Follow the on-screen prompts to start the vehicle.
- The tester will analyze the starter system and display results such as current voltage, minimum voltage, and a diagnosis (e.g., "Normal voltage").
6.5. Charging Test
This test assesses the vehicle's charging system (alternator).
- From the main menu, select "Charging Test".
- Start the engine and wait for 15 seconds as prompted.
- Increase the engine RPM (revolutions per minute) as instructed by the tester.
- The tester will display the charging system's performance, including battery voltage, minimum voltage, and maximum voltage, along with a diagnosis.
6.6. Load Test
This test checks the battery's ability to maintain voltage under load.
- From the main menu, select "Load Test".
- Turn on all vehicle electrical devices (e.g., headlights, radio, AC) as prompted.
- Start the engine and wait for 15 seconds.
- The tester will display the maximum load testing results, including battery voltage and minimum voltage, along with a diagnosis.
6.7. Voltage Measurement
The device can display real-time voltage and waveform data.
- From the main menu, select "Volt. measure".
- The screen will show the current voltage, RMS voltage, minimum voltage, and maximum voltage.
- It also provides a real-time display of voltage rise, fall, and other trend changes, enabling comparison and analysis of measured values against dynamic variations for quick assessment of voltage conditions.
6.8. Leakage Monitoring
This feature detects even the slightest leakage by monitoring current changes, allowing for timely identification of leakage issues and extending battery life.
- From the main menu, select "Current measure".
- Connect the yellow clamp to the negative terminal of the battery and the black clamp to the vehicle's ground.
- The device will display the current leakage in Amperes (DC).
- Press "Zero" to reset the reading or "Hold" to freeze the current value.
6.9. Data Printing
The built-in thermal printer allows you to print test reports.
- After completing a test, navigate to the "Review" or "Print" option.
- You may be prompted to set the date, time, or vehicle identification number (VIN).
- Press the Print Key (E) to print the test report.
6.10. Language Settings
The device supports 14 languages.
- From the main menu, select "Languages" or "Settings" and then "Language Selection".
- Scroll through the list and select your preferred language (e.g., English, Portuguese, Spanish, French, German, Italian, Russian, Turkish, Thai, Japanese, Traditional Chinese, Korean, Simplified Chinese, Polish).
- Press OK to confirm.
7. Safety Information
The AUTOOL BT960 is designed with multiple safety protections to ensure safe operation.
7.1. Reverse Polarity Protection
The device features reverse polarity protection and is equipped with insulated test clamps. This ensures that even if the positive and negative terminals are connected incorrectly, neither the tester nor the battery will be damaged.
8. Maintenance
- **Cleaning**: Wipe the device with a soft, dry cloth. Do not use abrasive cleaners or solvents.
- **Storage**: Store the tester in its storage bag in a cool, dry place away from direct sunlight and extreme temperatures.
- **Battery Care**: If using dry batteries, remove them if the device will not be used for an extended period to prevent leakage.
- **Test Leads**: Inspect the test leads and clamps regularly for any signs of wear or damage. Replace if necessary.
9. Troubleshooting
- **Device not powering on**: Check if the test leads are correctly connected to a battery with sufficient charge, or if the internal AAA batteries are installed correctly and have power.
- **Inaccurate readings**: Ensure the test clamps are securely connected to clean battery terminals. Verify that the correct battery type and standard (e.g., CCA value) are entered for the test.
- **Printer not working**: Check if the printing paper is installed correctly and if there is enough paper. Ensure the printer cover is closed properly.
- **Screen frozen**: Try pressing and holding the Power Key (D) to restart the device.
10. User Tips
- For best results, ensure battery terminals are clean and free of corrosion before connecting the clamps.
- Always follow the on-screen prompts carefully during testing procedures.
- When performing cranking, charging, or load tests, ensure the vehicle is in a well-ventilated area.
- Keep the user manual handy for quick reference to specific test parameters and functions.
11. Warranty and Support
AUTOOL provides a 3-year warranty for the BT960 Car Battery System Tester. For damage caused by non-human factors, AUTOOL promises to resend parts for free within 3 years from the date of purchase.
For any technical assistance, warranty claims, or product inquiries, please contact AUTOOL customer support. Refer to the official AUTOOL website or your purchase documentation for the most current contact information.
