1. Introduction
The Hioki BT-3554 Handheld Battery Tester is a high-precision instrument designed for the diagnosis of lead-acid batteries. It provides quick and accurate measurements of internal resistance and voltage, essential for assessing battery health and predicting lifespan. This manual provides detailed instructions for the safe and effective operation, maintenance, and troubleshooting of your BT-3554 unit.
2. Safety Information
Please read and understand all safety precautions before operating the instrument. Failure to follow these instructions may result in injury or damage to the instrument.
- Always use the instrument within its specified measurement ranges.
- Do not attempt to measure batteries that are damaged, leaking, or show signs of overheating.
- Ensure test leads are securely connected before taking measurements.
- Avoid exposing the instrument to extreme temperatures, humidity, or direct sunlight.
- Do not disassemble or modify the instrument. Refer all servicing to qualified personnel.
- Wear appropriate personal protective equipment (PPE), such as safety glasses, when working with batteries.
3. Package Contents
Verify that all items listed below are included in your package:
- Hioki BT-3554 Battery Tester Main Unit
- L2020 Pin Type Lead (or equivalent test leads)
- Zero Adjustment Board
- Instruction Manual
- AA Alkaline Batteries (LR6) x 8
- Strap
- USB Cable (for data transfer, if applicable model)
4. Product Overview
The Hioki BT-3554 is a compact and robust battery tester. Below is an image of the device with its key components and controls highlighted.
Image: The Hioki BT-3554 Handheld Battery Tester. The device features a large digital display showing values like '3.100 mΩ' and '60.00 V', along with status indicators like 'COMP PASS'. Various buttons for operation, memory, range selection, and power are visible on the front panel. Test leads with red and black connectors are attached to the top of the unit.
Controls and Display
- Display Screen: Shows measurement values (resistance, voltage), battery status, memory number, and various indicators (e.g., Bluetooth, hold, comparison results).
- Power Button (Orange): Turns the unit on and off.
- READ Button (Blue): Initiates a measurement.
- MEMO Button (Blue): Accesses memory functions.
- CLEAR Button (Blue): Clears memory data.
- HOLD Button (Purple): Freezes the current display reading.
- OADJ Button: Performs zero adjustment for resistance measurements. Press and hold for 2 seconds to activate.
- RANGE Button: Cycles through measurement ranges for resistance (Ω) and voltage (V).
- Arrow Buttons (Up, Down, Left, Right): Used for navigation within menus and adjusting settings.
- ENTER Button: Confirms selections or settings.
- COMP Button: Activates or deactivates the comparison function.
- DATE Button: Sets or displays the current date.
- Bluetooth Indicator: Shows Bluetooth connection status.
5. Setup
5.1 Installing Batteries
- Ensure the unit is powered off.
- Locate the battery compartment on the rear of the unit.
- Open the battery cover.
- Insert eight AA alkaline batteries (LR6), observing correct polarity (+/-).
- Close the battery cover securely.
5.2 Connecting Test Leads
- Connect the red test lead plug to the red terminal on the tester.
- Connect the black test lead plug to the black terminal on the tester.
- Ensure connections are firm and secure.
5.3 Initial Power On
Press the orange power button to turn on the unit. The display will illuminate, and the unit will perform a self-test before entering measurement mode.
6. Operating Instructions
6.1 Basic Measurement (Resistance and Voltage)
- Turn on the tester.
- Perform a zero adjustment (see Section 6.2) for accurate resistance measurements.
- Connect the test leads to the battery terminals, ensuring correct polarity (red to positive, black to negative).
- Press the READ button. The internal resistance (mΩ) and voltage (V) will be displayed simultaneously.
- To change the measurement range, press the RANGE button.
6.2 Zero Adjustment (OADJ)
Zero adjustment is crucial for accurate internal resistance measurements.
- Connect the test leads to the provided zero adjustment board.
- Press and hold the OADJ button for approximately 2 seconds until 'OADJ' appears on the display.
- The display will show '0.000 mΩ' upon successful adjustment.
6.3 Using Memory Functions
The BT-3554 can store measurement data.
- Saving Data: After a measurement, press the MEMO button to save the current reading. The memory number will increment.
- Recalling Data: In measurement mode, press the MEMO button repeatedly to cycle through stored data. Use arrow keys to navigate if available.
- Clearing Data: Press the CLEAR button to delete stored data.
6.4 Comparison Function (COMP)
The comparison function allows you to set upper and lower limits for resistance and voltage to quickly assess battery health (PASS/FAIL).
- Press the COMP button to enter comparison setting mode.
- Use the arrow keys and ENTER button to set the desired upper and lower limits for resistance and voltage.
- Once limits are set, press COMP again to activate the function.
- During measurement, the display will show 'PASS' or 'FAIL' based on the set criteria.
6.5 Bluetooth Connectivity
The BT-3554 features Bluetooth SMART for data transfer to compatible devices (e.g., smartphones, tablets) running the dedicated Hioki application.
- Ensure Bluetooth is enabled on your receiving device.
- On the BT-3554, the Bluetooth indicator will show connection status.
- Refer to the Hioki application's instructions for pairing and data transfer procedures.
7. Maintenance
7.1 Cleaning
Wipe the instrument with a soft, dry cloth. For stubborn dirt, use a cloth lightly dampened with water and a mild detergent. Do not use abrasive cleaners or solvents.
7.2 Battery Replacement
When the battery indicator on the display shows low power, replace all eight AA batteries promptly to ensure accurate measurements and prevent data loss.
7.3 Storage
When not in use for extended periods, remove the batteries from the unit to prevent leakage. Store the instrument in a cool, dry place away from direct sunlight and extreme temperatures.
8. Troubleshooting
| Problem | Possible Cause | Solution |
|---|---|---|
| Unit does not power on. | Dead or incorrectly installed batteries. | Replace batteries, ensuring correct polarity. |
| Inaccurate resistance readings. | Zero adjustment not performed or incorrect. | Perform zero adjustment (OADJ) correctly before measurement. |
| Display shows 'OVER' or 'OL'. | Measurement value exceeds selected range. | Select a higher measurement range using the RANGE button. |
| Bluetooth connection issues. | Bluetooth not enabled on device, out of range, or app issue. | Ensure Bluetooth is on, move closer to device, restart app/tester. |
| Unit freezes or behaves erratically. | Temporary software glitch. | Remove batteries for a few minutes, then reinsert and restart. |
9. Specifications
| Specification | Value |
|---|---|
| Brand | Hioki |
| Model Number | BT-3554 |
| Measurement Type | Voltmeter (Internal Resistance and Voltage) |
| Power Source | Battery Powered |
| Item Weight | 2 Pounds (approx. 0.91 kg) |
| Upper Temperature Rating | 50 Degrees Celsius |
| Package Dimensions | 11.45 x 10.9 x 5.6 inches |
| First Available Date | March 4, 2016 |
10. Warranty and Support
The Hioki BT-3554 Battery Tester is covered by a manufacturer's warranty against defects in materials and workmanship. Please refer to the warranty card included with your product for specific terms and conditions, including warranty period and coverage details.
For technical support, service, or inquiries regarding your Hioki product, please contact Hioki customer service or an authorized service center. Contact information can typically be found on the Hioki official website or in the product documentation.
