1. Introduction
The Autel PowerScan PS100 is a comprehensive circuit tester designed for diagnosing electrical systems in 6- to 30-volt vehicles. It integrates multiple functions including an AVOmeter, test light, built-in flashlight, short circuit indicator, relay/component tester, continuity tester, and bad ground indicator. This tool is intended to provide a fast and accurate solution for electrical system diagnostics, streamlining the troubleshooting process for technicians.
2. Safety Information
Always observe basic safety precautions when operating this tool to prevent personal injury or damage to the vehicle and the tool itself. Read and understand all instructions before use.
- Wear appropriate eye protection.
- Keep clothing, hair, hands, tools, test equipment, etc., away from all moving or hot engine parts.
- Operate the tool in a well-ventilated area.
- Do not use the tool near open flames or combustible materials.
- Avoid contact with live electrical components.
- Ensure the vehicle is in park/neutral with the parking brake engaged.
3. Package Contents
Verify that all items listed below are included in your package:
- Autel PS100 Probe Tester
- Rugged Carrying Case
- Cigarette Lighter Adapter
- Test Clamp
- 20ft Extension Cable
- User Manual (this document)
4. Product Overview
The Autel PowerScan PS100 is designed for ease of use and durability. Familiarize yourself with the main components of the tool.
- Probe Tip: Used to contact circuits for testing.
- Head Lights: Illuminates the work area.
- LCD Display: Shows voltage, resistance, frequency, duty cycle, and other test results.
- Power Switch: Momentary rocker switch to apply positive or negative voltage to the probe tip.
- Mode Button: Cycles through the four working modes (DC Voltage, AC Voltage, Resistance, Tone On/Off).
- Speaker: Provides audio feedback for certain functions.
- Circuit Breaker Reset: Resets the internal circuit breaker if overloaded.
- Auxiliary Ground Lead: Connects to a ground point for continuity and resistance testing.
5. Setup and Power Supply
The Autel PS100 can be powered by two methods:
- Vehicle Battery Power Supply: Connect the red test clamp to the positive (+) terminal of the vehicle battery and the black test clamp to the negative (-) terminal.
- Cigarette Lighter Power Supply: Insert the cigarette lighter adapter into the vehicle's cigarette lighter socket.
Once connected, the tool will power on, and the LCD display will activate.
6. Operating Modes
The Autel PS100 features four working modes, easily switchable by pressing the Mode button. The current mode is indicated on the LCD display.
- DC Voltage Mode: Displays the DC voltage at the probe tip.
- AC Voltage Mode: Displays the maximum voltage, minimum voltage, frequency, and duty cycle of an AC signal.
- Resistance Mode: Measures the resistance between the probe tip and the auxiliary ground lead.
- Tone On/Off Mode: Toggles the audio tone feature. This can be useful to silence the tool during prolonged testing.
7. Key Functions
The PS100 offers various diagnostic capabilities beyond a standard multimeter.
7.1. Component Activation
The tool can activate components by supplying positive or negative voltage to the probe tip. This function allows for testing components both in-hand and in-vehicle.
- To activate with positive voltage: Press the Power Switch forward. The Red LED will light, and the LCD will display the battery voltage.
- To activate with negative voltage: Press the Power Switch rearward. The Green LED will light, and the LCD will display "0.0V" (ground).
This is useful for testing lights, motors, wipers, radiator fans, relays, and fuel injectors.
7.2. Polarity Identification
The PS100 quickly identifies positive, negative, and open circuits.
- Positive Connection: Red LED illuminates, accompanied by a high-pitched beep.
- Negative Connection: Green LED illuminates, accompanied by a low-pitched tone.
- Open Circuit: No LED light will illuminate.
7.3. Continuity Testing
Checks the continuity of switches, relays, diodes, and other components.
In Resistance mode, touch the probe tip to one end of the component and the auxiliary ground lead to the other. The display will show the resistance value if continuity exists.
7.4. Short Circuit Locating
The tool can help locate short circuits by following the circuit path and observing voltage drops or changes in polarity indications.
7.5. Bad Ground Contact Checking
Instantly tests for bad ground contacts. The response of the LED lights will indicate if a true ground is present.
8. Quick Self-Test
Before testing a circuit or component, perform a quick self-test to ensure the tool is functioning correctly.
- Connect the tool to a power source (vehicle battery or cigarette lighter).
- Press the Power Switch forward (towards the probe tip). The Red LED should light, and the LCD display will show the battery voltage. If the tone feature is on, a high-pitched tone will sound.
- Release the Power Switch. The LED will turn off, and the tone will cease.
- Press the Power Switch rearward (away from the probe tip). The Green LED should light, and the LCD display will show "0.0V" (ground). If the tone feature is on, a low-pitched tone will sound.
- Release the Power Switch. The LED will turn off, and the tone will cease.
If the tool responds as described, it is ready for use.
9. Overload Protection
The Autel PowerScan PS100 is equipped with internal short-circuit protection. If the tool becomes overloaded, its internal circuit breaker will trip to prevent damage. The circuit breaker is self-resetting. If it trips, remove the overload condition, and the tool will reset automatically.
10. Applications
The Autel PS100 is designed to work with almost all 12V-24V electrical systems. This includes a wide range of vehicles and equipment:
- Cars
- Motorcycles
- Motorboats
- Large Trucks
- Other 12V-24V electrical devices
The included 20ft extension cable provides extended reach for testing along large vehicles and complex circuit systems.
11. Maintenance
To ensure the longevity and optimal performance of your Autel PowerScan PS100, follow these maintenance guidelines:
- Cleaning: Wipe the tool with a soft, damp cloth. Do not use abrasive cleaners or solvents.
- Storage: Store the tool and its accessories in the rugged carrying case in a dry, clean environment when not in use.
- Cable Care: Avoid kinking or sharply bending the cables. Inspect cables for damage before each use.
- Probe Tip: Keep the probe tip clean and sharp for accurate contact.
12. Troubleshooting
If you encounter issues with your Autel PowerScan PS100, refer to the following common troubleshooting steps:
| Problem | Possible Cause | Solution |
|---|---|---|
| Tool does not power on. | No power connection or poor connection. | Ensure power clamps are securely connected to the battery terminals or the cigarette lighter adapter is fully inserted. Check vehicle battery voltage. |
| No reading on LCD display. | Incorrect mode selected or no circuit contact. | Verify the correct operating mode is selected. Ensure the probe tip makes good contact with the circuit. |
| Circuit breaker trips frequently. | Overload condition or short circuit. | Reduce the load on the circuit. Check for short circuits in the component or wiring being tested. |
| Inaccurate readings. | Poor connection or dirty probe tip. | Clean the probe tip. Ensure solid contact with the test point. Perform a quick self-test. |
13. Specifications
| Feature | Specification |
|---|---|
| Operating Voltage | 6 to 30 Volts DC |
| Power Source | Vehicle Battery Powered |
| Cable Length | 20ft (plus additional 20ft extension cable) |
| Display | Color LCD |
| Overload Protection | Internal Circuit Breaker |
| Color | Red |
| Package Dimensions | 9.96 x 7.52 x 3.78 inches |
| Item Weight | 2.8 Pounds |
14. Warranty and Support
For warranty information or technical support, please refer to the official Autel website or contact Autel customer service directly. Keep your purchase receipt for warranty claims.