AUTOOL BT260

AUTOOL BT260 Power Automotive Circuit Probe Tester User Manual

Model: BT260 | Brand: AUTOOL

1. Introduction

The AUTOOL BT260 Power Automotive Circuit Probe Tester is a versatile diagnostic tool designed for testing electrical systems in 6V, 12V, and 24V vehicles, boats, motorcycles, heavy-duty equipment, and trucks. This manual provides detailed instructions for the safe and efficient operation of your BT260 tester, helping you to diagnose electrical issues with ease.

AUTOOL BT260 Power Automotive Circuit Probe Tester with display showing 0.0V

Figure 1: AUTOOL BT260 Power Automotive Circuit Probe Tester. The device features a sharp probe tip, a color display, and control buttons, designed for easy handling and clear readings.

2. Product Features

The AUTOOL BT260 offers a range of features to enhance automotive electrical diagnostics:

  • Convenient and Efficient: Directly detects current polarity, continuity, and component grounding without rewiring or voltage drop, significantly improving work efficiency.
  • Extended Reach: A 20-foot cable allows testing across the entire vehicle without constantly repositioning ground connections.
  • Clear Display: Features a TFT color display (160 x 128 dpi) for easy reading of test results.
  • Portable Design: Lightweight (0.11 kg / 3.7 oz) and compact for convenient carrying and use.
  • Integrated LED Flashlight: Equipped with an LED flashlight on the head for easy operation in dark conditions.
  • Safety Features: All clips and cables are made from copper for improved stability. Includes quick self-test and short-circuit protection with an automatic safety circuit breaker.
  • Multi-language Support: Supports English, German, French, Russian, Spanish, Italian, and Portuguese.
AUTOOL BT260 Power Automotive Circuit Probe Tester highlighting key features

Figure 2: Key features of the AUTOOL BT260, including multi-language support, positive/negative distinction, resistance testing, short-circuit protection, long cable, LED lighting, and copper construction.

3. Safety Information

Always observe the following safety precautions when using the AUTOOL BT260 to prevent injury or damage to the tool or vehicle:

  • Wear appropriate eye protection when working on vehicle electrical systems.
  • Ensure the vehicle's ignition is off before connecting or disconnecting the tester, unless specific test procedures require otherwise.
  • Avoid touching hot engine parts or moving components.
  • Do not use the tester if the cables or probe tip are damaged.
  • Keep the tester away from water, oil, and grease.
  • Never apply voltage to the probe tip when the tester is connected to the vehicle's battery and the power switch is pressed, as this can damage the unit.
  • The BT260 is designed for 6V, 12V, and 24V systems. Do not use it on systems outside this voltage range.

4. Setup

Before using the AUTOOL BT260, ensure it is properly assembled and connected to a power source.

  1. Connect the Probe Tip and Power Cord: Insert the probe tip into the main unit and securely connect the power cord to the base of the tester.
  2. Connect Electricity Supply: Attach the red battery clamp to the positive (+) terminal of the vehicle's battery and the black battery clamp to the negative (-) terminal or a suitable chassis ground. The tester will power on automatically.

Video 1: Demonstrates the initial setup of the AUTOOL BT260, including connecting the probe tip and attaching the battery clamps to the vehicle's power source.

AUTOOL BT260 Power Automotive Circuit Probe Tester with all accessories

Figure 3: The AUTOOL BT260 tester shown with its complete set of accessories, including the main unit, probe tip, battery clamps, and extension cable.

5. Operating Instructions

5.1. Voltage Test

To perform a voltage test:

  1. Ensure the BT260 is powered on and connected to the vehicle's battery.
  2. Point the probe tip to the desired circuit point (positive or negative).
  3. The BT260's display will show the voltage of the circuit point. The LED lights on the probe will indicate polarity (red for positive, green for negative).

Video 2: Demonstrates how to perform a voltage test using the AUTOOL BT260, showing the probe tip contacting a circuit and the display indicating voltage.

AUTOOL BT260 display showing voltage reading during a test on a car battery

Figure 4: The BT260's screen displaying a voltage reading while testing a car battery, illustrating its real-time diagnostic capability.

5.2. Resistance Test

To test for resistance or continuity:

  1. Connect the battery clips to a metal part of the car (ground).
  2. Point the probe tip to the electric circuit or component you wish to test.
  3. The BT260 will display the resistance value. A reading of "OL" indicates an open circuit (no continuity), while a numerical value indicates continuity and resistance.

Video 3: Illustrates the process of performing a resistance test with the AUTOOL BT260, showing how to ground the device and probe a circuit for continuity.

5.3. Changing Language Settings

The BT260 supports multiple languages. To change the language:

  1. Press the function key (yellow button on the body of BT260) 3 times to navigate to the loudspeaker icon.
  2. Then, press and hold the upward button, and simultaneously press the function key 5 times to enter the "Language" menu.
  3. Press the function key to select your desired language.
  4. Press and hold the function key for 3 seconds to save the language setting.
  5. Press the function key once to return to the main menu.
Instructions on how to change language settings on the AUTOOL BT260

Figure 5: Step-by-step visual guide for changing the language settings on the AUTOOL BT260 tester, showing button presses and screen prompts.

Video 4: Demonstrates how to access and change the multi-lingual options on the AUTOOL BT260, showing the button sequence and menu navigation.

6. Maintenance

Proper maintenance ensures the longevity and accuracy of your AUTOOL BT260 tester:

  • Cleaning: Wipe the unit with a soft, damp cloth. Do not use abrasive cleaners or solvents.
  • Storage: Store the tester in its protective bag in a dry, cool place away from direct sunlight and extreme temperatures.
  • Cable Inspection: Regularly inspect the power cable and probe tip for any signs of wear, cuts, or damage. Replace if necessary.
  • Battery Clamps: Keep the battery clamps clean and free of corrosion to ensure good electrical contact.

7. Troubleshooting

If you encounter issues with your AUTOOL BT260, refer to the following common troubleshooting steps:

ProblemPossible CauseSolution
Tester does not power on.Incorrect battery connection; low vehicle battery voltage; damaged cable.Ensure battery clamps are securely connected to the correct terminals. Check vehicle battery voltage. Inspect cables for damage.
Inaccurate voltage/resistance readings.Poor contact with circuit; corroded battery clamps; faulty probe tip.Ensure firm contact with the circuit. Clean battery clamps. Inspect probe tip for damage.
Screen is blank or frozen.Software glitch; power interruption.Disconnect and reconnect the power supply. If the problem persists, contact customer support.
Safety circuit breaker trips frequently.Overload on the circuit being tested; short circuit.Reduce the load on the circuit or investigate for a short circuit. The BT260's protection feature is working as intended.

8. Specifications

SpecificationValue
BrandAUTOOL
ModelBT260
Power SourceBattery Powered (6V/12V/24V vehicle battery)
ColorYellow
Item Weight0.11 Kilograms (approx. 3.7 ounces)
Product Dimensions (L x W x H)9.06 x 7.87 x 3.15 inches
Measurement TypeVoltmeter or Ohmmeter
DisplayTFT Color Display (160 x 128 dpi)
Cable Length20 feet

9. Warranty and Support

AUTOOL products are manufactured to high-quality standards. For warranty information, technical support, or service inquiries, please refer to the warranty card included with your product or visit the official AUTOOL website. Keep your purchase receipt as proof of purchase for warranty claims.

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