8-Channel 18650 Battery Capacity Tester User Manual

1. Product Overview

The diymore 8-Channel 18650 Battery Capacity Tester is a versatile electronic load tester module designed for comprehensive analysis of 18650 lithium-ion and lithium iron phosphate batteries. Featuring a 2.4-inch high-definition color screen, it provides clear, intuitive, and convenient operation for real-time monitoring of battery voltage, operating current, capacity measurement, and running time. Its 8 independent channels allow for simultaneous testing without interference, and it supports various working modes including charging, discharging, and activation.

Figure 1: Top-down view of the 8-channel 18650 Battery Capacity Tester.

2. Features

• 2.4-inch Color Display: High-definition screen for clear data visualization and intuitive operation.
• Battery Compatibility: Supports 18650 lithium-ion and lithium iron phosphate batteries.
• Spring Battery Holder Design: Ensures convenient and fast battery installation and removal.
• External Test Function: Allows for external test modes, providing flexibility for various battery types.
• Real-time Multi-parameter Display: Monitors battery voltage, operating current, capacity, and running time.
• 8 Independent Channels: Each channel operates independently, preventing mutual interference.
• Channel Synchronization: Supports synchronized parameter setup for all 8 channels or individual channel configuration.
• Cycle Charging and Discharging: Automatic mode supports a single charge-discharge-charge cycle.
• Safety Features: Includes battery reverse connection protection, temperature detection, active heat dissipation, and overheating protection.

3. Specifications

Figure 2: Product dimensions.

4. Setup

1. Power Supply Connection

   Connect a DC 12-19V/60W power supply to the DC 5.5x2.1mm high current interface on the tester. Ensure the power supply meets the specified voltage and wattage requirements to avoid damage and ensure proper operation. The device includes reverse connection protection.

   

   Figure 3: DC 5.5x2.1mm power input. Must be DC 12-19V/60W power supply.

2. Battery Installation

   Insert 18650 batteries into the spring battery holders. The spring design facilitates easy installation and removal. Ensure correct polarity (+/-) when inserting batteries.

   

   Figure 4: Test Cell Holder for 18650 Battery.

   

   Figure 5: Battery holder insertion/removal.

3. External Test Connection (Optional)

   For external testing, connect your battery or load to the 2P terminal blocks (P1-P8). This allows for testing various types of batteries with strong flexibility.

   

   Figure 6: Front View with labeled components. P1-P8 are 2P terminal blocks for expansion testing.

5. Operating Instructions

5.1. Controls and Display

The tester features a 2.4-inch color display and several control buttons:

• D1: 2.4-inch color display screen
• B1: Run/Stop button (R/S)
• B2: Menu keys (M)
• B3: Channel button (S)
• B4: Adjustment button

Indicator lights (L1-L8) for each channel provide status feedback:

• Flashing: Running
• Solid (Changliang): Done
• Off (Out): Stop

Figure 7: Indicator light status description.

5.2. Working Modes

The tester supports various working modes, selectable via the menu:

1. Automatic Mode: Charging → Discharging → Full Stop.
2. Charge First, Then Discharge: Charging → Discharging → Stop.
3. Discharge First, Then Charge: Discharging → Charging → Stop.
4. Charge Only: Charging → Stop.
5. Discharge Only: Discharging → Stop.
6. Activation Mode: Designed for starved batteries. Forces power on and will not stop automatically until manually intervened.

5.3. Channel Synchronization and Parameter Setting

You can set up synchronization for all 8 channels or individually configure parameters for each channel. Use the Menu (B2) and Adjustment (B4) buttons to navigate and modify settings.

5.4. Setup Menu Parameters

The Setup Menu allows configuration of various test parameters:

Figure 8: Setup Menu options.

• Channel Indication: Displays the currently selected channel.
• Sync CHN Setting: Option to synchronize settings across channels (Yes/No).
• Mode: Selects the working mode (Automatic/Charging/Discharging/Activation).
• Vol-CHG1: First Charging voltage setting (e.g., 4200mV).
• Vol-CHG2: Re-charging voltage setting (after discharging) (e.g., 4200mV).
• Cur-CHG: Charging current setting (e.g., 1500mA).
• Cur-END: Charging End current setting (e.g., 100mA).
• Cur-DSG: Discharge current (e.g., 2000mA).
• Vol-STOP: Discharge stop voltage setting (e.g., 2800mV). This setting is independent of charging.
• IDLE: Static time setting, representing the alternating waiting time for work steps (battery cooling time) (e.g., 1 Min).

5.5. Real-time Parameters Display

During operation, the display shows real-time data for monitoring:

Figure 9: Real-time parameters display.

• Real-time Battery Voltage: Current voltage of the battery.
• Real-time Current: Current flow during charge/discharge.
• Working Mode: Current active mode (e.g., AUTO).
• Work Step Status: Current status of the test program (e.g., STOP).
• Program Running Time: Total duration of the program operation (hours: minutes: seconds).
• Temperature: Internal core temperature of the device.

5.6. Work Step Parameters

The Work Step Parameters screen provides a detailed breakdown of each step in a test cycle:

Figure 10: Work Step Parameters display.

• Channel Indication: Displays the channel number.
• CHG1 (First Charge): Shows charging voltage, charging current, standing time (minutes), and charging capacity.
• DSG (First Discharge): Shows discharge stop voltage, discharge current, standing time (minutes), and discharge capacity (main reference data for capacity measurement).
• CHG2 (Re-charging): Shows recharging voltage, recharging current, standing time (minutes), and recharging capacity.

5.7. Voltage and Current Curve Display

The tester can display real-time voltage and current curves, providing a visual representation of the battery's performance over time.

Figure 11: Voltage and Current Curve display.

• Voltage Coordinate: Y-axis for voltage.
• Current Coordinate: Secondary Y-axis for current.
• Time Coordinate: X-axis for time.
• Voltage Curve: Red line representing voltage changes.
• Current Curve: Green line representing current changes.

6. Maintenance

• Cleaning: Regularly clean the device with a soft, dry cloth. Avoid using abrasive cleaners or solvents.
• Storage: Store the tester in a cool, dry place away from direct sunlight and extreme temperatures.
• Battery Holders: Ensure battery holders are free from debris and corrosion for optimal contact.
• Ventilation: Keep the cooling fans (F1, F2) clear of obstructions to ensure proper heat dissipation.

7. Troubleshooting

• Device Not Powering On:
  • Verify that the power supply is connected correctly to the DC 5.5x2.1mm interface.
  • Ensure the power supply provides DC 12-19V and at least 60W.
  • Check the power cable for any damage.
• Battery Not Detected/Testing Not Starting:
  • Ensure batteries are inserted correctly with the right polarity in the spring holders.
  • Check for good contact between the battery terminals and the holder.
  • If using external test mode, ensure connections to the 2P terminal blocks are secure.
  • Verify that the selected working mode is appropriate for the battery state.
• Inaccurate Readings:
  • Ensure batteries are at room temperature before testing.
  • Check for clean contacts on both the battery and the tester.
  • Recalibrate if possible (refer to advanced settings if available, not detailed in this manual).
• Overheating Warning:
  • Ensure the cooling fans (F1, F2) are operating and not obstructed.
  • Operate the device in a well-ventilated area.
  • Reduce the test current if consistently overheating.

8. Warranty and Support

For warranty information, technical support, or service inquiries, please contact your retailer or the manufacturer directly. Keep your purchase receipt as proof of purchase.

A detailed user manual in PDF format is available for download: User Manual (PDF).