Shutao 4-Channel 18650 Battery Capacity Tester User Manual

1. Product Overview

The Shutao 4-Channel 18650 Battery Capacity Tester is designed for comprehensive analysis of 18650 lithium batteries. It features four independent channels, allowing simultaneous charging, discharging, and capacity testing. This device also includes internal resistance measurement and automatic cycling functions to optimize battery performance and assess health.

Figure 1: Overview of the Shutao 4-Channel 18650 Battery Capacity Tester. This image shows the device from an angled perspective, highlighting the four battery slots, the central cooling fan, and the display screen.

2. Package Contents

Verify that all items are present in your package:

• 1 x 18650 Lithium Battery Capacity Tester Module

3. Component Identification

Familiarize yourself with the various components and interfaces of the tester.

Figure 2: Labeled diagram of the tester's components. This image provides a top-down view of the device with numbered labels pointing to specific parts for easy identification.

1. Type-C 5V Power Supply Interface (Input 1)
2. Type-C 5V Power Supply Interface (Input 2)
3. Channel 1 Battery Holder
4. Channel 2 Battery Holder
5. Channel 3 Battery Holder
6. Channel 4 Battery Holder
7. Channel 1 External Terminal
8. Channel 2 External Terminal
9. Channel 3 External Terminal
10. Channel 4 External Terminal
11. Radiator Fan
12. Monitor Display
13. Menu /M Key
14. Adjust /S Key
15. Start/Stop /R/S Button
16. Channel /CHN Key
17. CHN1/1 Channel Status Indicator
18. CHN2/2 Channel Status Indicator
19. CHN3/3 Channel Status Indicator
20. CHN4/4 Channel Status Indicator

The display provides real-time information during operation:

Figure 3: Display interface explanation. This image shows a close-up of the tester's screen, with numbered labels indicating what each displayed value represents.

1. Real-time Voltage
2. Real-time Current
3. Cumulative Capacity (mAh)
4. Accumulated Energy (mWh)
5. Battery Internal Resistance (mR)
6. Cumulative Running Time
7. Channel Indication
8. Status Indicator (e.g., STA:STOP)
9. Mode Menu (e.g., MODE:AUTO)
10. Stop Discharge Voltage
11. Cycles (LOOP)

4. Setup

1. Power Connection: Connect the tester to a 5V DC power source using one of the two Type-C interfaces. An adapter and cable are typically included.
2. Battery Insertion: Insert flat-top 18650 batteries into the designated battery holders (3, 4, 5, 6). Ensure correct polarity (+ and -). The tester supports flat-top 18650 batteries.
3. Stabilization: After installing a battery, allow a few seconds for the voltage and internal resistance readings on the display to stabilize before proceeding with tests.

5. Operating Instructions

The tester allows for independent operation of its four channels.

Figure 4: Display and control buttons. This image provides a detailed view of the tester's screen and the four control buttons located below it, used for navigation and operation.

5.1. Basic Navigation and Channel Selection

• Use the Channel /CHN Key (16) to switch between the four independent channels (CHN 1 to CHN 4).
• The Menu /M Key (13) is used to enter or exit menu settings.
• The Adjust /S Key (14) is used to change values or select options within a menu.
• The Start/Stop /R/S Button (15) initiates or terminates a test cycle.

5.2. Automatic Charge and Discharge Cycles

The tester supports fully automatic charging and discharging cycles (1-9 cycles adjustable in auto mode).

1. Select the desired channel using the Channel /CHN Key.
2. Press the Menu /M Key to enter the mode selection.
3. Use the Adjust /S Key to select 'AUTO' mode.
4. Adjust the number of cycles (LOOP: 1-9) using the Adjust /S Key if needed.
5. Press the Start/Stop /R/S Button to begin the automatic cycle. The charging process automatically stops when the battery is full.

5.3. Internal Resistance Measurement

The device utilizes the DC two-wire method to provide reference internal resistance values.

• For the most accurate reading, measure internal resistance when the battery is fully charged.
• The internal resistance value is displayed as 'mR' on the screen (5).

5.4. Setting Stop Discharge Voltage

You can choose from 11 stop-discharge voltage levels (2.5V to 3.5V).

1. Select the desired channel.
2. Enter the menu using the Menu /M Key.
3. Navigate to the 'STOP' voltage setting.
4. Use the Adjust /S Key to select the desired stop discharge voltage (2.5V, 2.6V, ..., 3.5V).
5. Confirm the setting and exit the menu.

5.5. Important Usage Notes

• Discharge current is fixed at a maximum of approximately 1A (non-adjustable, non-constant current).
• Charging voltage is fixed at 4.2V.
• This tester is not compatible with LiFePO4 batteries.

6. Safety Information

The device incorporates several safety features to ensure safe operation:

• Overheating Protection: The integrated radiator fan (11) and internal sensors help prevent the device from overheating during operation.
• Automatic Power-Off: Settings are automatically saved in case of power loss.
• Charge Cutoff: Automatic charge cutoff prevents overcharging of batteries.
• Discharge Stop: Configurable stop discharge voltage prevents over-discharging.

Always ensure correct battery polarity when inserting batteries to prevent damage to the device or batteries.

7. Maintenance

• Keep the device clean and free from dust. Use a soft, dry cloth for cleaning.
• Avoid exposing the tester to moisture or extreme temperatures.
• Ensure the cooling fan (11) is not obstructed to maintain proper airflow.
• Store the device in a dry, cool place when not in use.

8. Troubleshooting

• Internal Resistance Readings Appear High at Low Voltages: If internal resistance readings seem unusually high, reinstall the battery. This can often provide a more accurate measurement.
• Device Not Powering On: Ensure the Type-C power cable is securely connected to a functional 5V DC power source. Try a different cable or adapter if necessary.
• Battery Not Detected: Verify that the battery is correctly inserted with the correct polarity and that it is a compatible 18650 flat-top lithium battery.

9. Specifications

Figure 5: Device dimensions. This image shows the length and width of the tester, indicating measurements of 147mm (5.78 inches) and 102mm (4.00 inches).

10. Warranty and Support

For warranty information and technical support, please refer to the seller's policies or contact the manufacturer directly. Specific warranty details are not provided in this manual.