Albercorp Cellcorder User manual

Cellcorder
Instruction Manual
Revision 5.0
990 South Rogers Circle, Suite 11
Boca Raton, FL 33487
Tel: [phone] Fax: [phone]
http://www.alber.com

i
1. WARRANTY AND LIMITATION OF LIABILITY
LIMITED WARRANTY
Albércorp warrants that the software product will perform in accordance with the
accompanying written materials for a period of ninety (90) days from the date of receipt.
Some states and jurisdictions do not allow limitations on duration of an implied warranty,
so the above limitation may not apply to you. To the extent allowed by applicable law,
implied warranties on the software product, if any, are limited to ninety (90) days.
CUSTOMER REMEDIES
Albércorp's entire liability and your exclusive remedy shall be, at Albércorp's option,
either return of the price paid, or replacement of the software product that is returned to
Albércorp with proof of purchase. This Limited Warranty is void if failure of the
software product has resulted from accident, abuse or misapplication. Any replacement
software product will be warranted for the remainder of the original period or thirty (30)
days, whichever is longer.
Albércorp shall not be liable for any data or programs stored in or used in conjunction
with this software product. Without prejudice to the foregoing generality, Albércorp shall
not be liable for the loss or corruption of data or programs stored in or used in
conjunction with this or any other software product, nor shall Albércorp be liable for the
cost of retrieving or replacing lost or corrupted data.
Albércorp's sole and exclusive liability, for any and all losses and damages arising out of
any cause whatsoever, shall in no event exceed the purchase price of the software product
purchased.
NO LIABILITY FOR CONSEQUENTIAL DAMAGES.
ALBÉRCORP SHALL NOT IN ANY CASE BE LIABLE FOR ANY DAMAGES,
INCLUDING SPECIAL, INCIDENTAL, INDIRECT, EXEMPLARY, COLLATERAL
OR CONSEQUENTIAL, ARISING FROM BREACH OF WARRANTY, BREACH OF
CONTRACT, NEGLIGENCE OR UNDER ANY OTHER LEGAL THEORY ARISING
FROM THE WARRANTY HEREIN STATED OR THE PURCHASE OF PRODUCT,
INCLUDING, WITHOUT LIMITATION, LOSS OF PROFITS, USE OR GOODWILL.
Some states and countries do not allow the exclusion or limitation of incidental or
consequential damages; therefore, the above exclusion or limitation may not apply to
you. This warranty gives you specific legal rights, and you may also have other rights
which vary state to state and country to country.

ii
2. SOFTWARE LICENSE AGREEMENT
THIS IS A LEGAL AGREEMENT. PLEASE READ BEFORE INSTALLING
SOFTWARE.
Any use of this media other than to review this Software License Agreement constitutes
your acceptance of and agreement with the terms of this Software License Agreement
with respect to the Albércorp Software. If you do not accept and agree to these terms, you
must return the full product with proof of purchase to Albércorp within thirty (30) days
for a full refund. Installation or use of this software product constitutes your acceptance
of and agreement with the terms of this Software License Agreement.
LICENSORS. All software on this media is licensed to you by Albércorp.
GRANT OF LICENSE. You are granted the right to use the Albércorp Software on a
single personal computer. You may copy the software to use with this personal computer
to any one hard disk drive of this personal computer and to the memory of this personal
computer, provided that you reproduce all copyright and trademark notices, restricted
rights legends, and other proprietary markings.
RESTRICTIONS. You may not sublicense, rent or lease the Albércorp Software. You
may not reverse engineer, decompile, disassemble, modify, translate or create derivative
works of the Software.
LIMITED WARRANTIES AND LIMITATION OF LIABILITY. The limited warranties
and limitation of liability in Section 1 of this file apply to, are incorporated in, and are
made a part of this Software License Agreement.
EXPORT LAW ASSURANCES. You acknowledge and agree that the Software is
subject to restrictions and controls imposed by the United States Export Administration
Act (the "Act") and the regulations there under. You agree and certify that neither the
Software nor any direct product thereof is being or will be acquired, shipped, transferred
or exported, directly or indirectly, into any country, or used for any purpose, except as
authorized by the Act and the regulations.
GOVERNMENT LICENSEE. If you are acquiring the software on behalf of any unit or
agency of the United States Government, the provisions of Section 3 apply to, are
incorporated in, and are made a part of this Software License Agreement.

iii
GENERAL. This Software License Agreement will be governed by the laws of the State
of Florida, except for that body of law dealing with conflicts of law. Should you have any
questions concerning this Software License Agreement, or if you desire to contact
Albércorp for any reason, please contact:
Albércorp.
990 South Rogers Circle, Suite 11
Boca Raton, FL 33487
email: [email protected].
3. GOVERNMENT PROVISIONS
The Government acknowledges the representations of the Albércorp software as
"Restricted Computer Software" as the term is defined in Clause 52.227-19 of the Federal
Acquisition Regulations (FAR) and is "Commercial Computer Software" as that term is
defined in Clause 52.227-7013(a)(1) of the Department of Defense Federal Acquisition
Regulation Supplement (DFARS). The Government agrees that:
(i) if the software is supplied to the Department of Defense (DOD), the software is
classified as "Commercial Computer Software" and the Government is acquiring only
"restricted rights" in the software and its documentation as that term is defined in Clause
252.227-7013(c)(1) of the DFARS, and
(ii) if the software is supplied to any unit or agency of the United States Government
other than DOD, the Government's rights in the software and its documentation will be as
defined in Clause 51.227-19(c)(2) of the FAR.
RESTRICTED RIGHTS LEGEND. Use, duplication, or disclosure by the Government is
subject to restrictions as set forth in subparagraph (c)(1)(ii) of the Rights in Technical
Data and Computer Software clause at DFARS 252.227-7013.
Albércorp 990 South Rogers Circle, Suite 11, Boca Raton, FL 33487
Information in this document is subject to change without notice.
Cellcorder Instruction Manual, Revision 5.0
1999, 2000 Albércorp., 990 South Rogers Circle, Suite 11, Boca Raton, FL 33487.
This manual may not be copied in whole or in part without express written permission from Albércorp.
Microsoft Windows is a registered trademark of Microsoft Corporation.

iv
Safety Information
• Except as explained in this manual, do not attempt to service Albércorp equipment
yourself. Opening the equipment may expose you to dangerous voltages. Refer
servicing beyond that described in this manual to authorized personnel.
• Do not allow liquids or moisture to get into the equipment. If liquid does get into the
equipment, unplug it immediately and contact your nearest authorized service center
or Albércorp directly.
• Ensure equipment is provided adequate ventilation. Do not block equipment
ventilation openings.
• Do not exceed equipment voltage or power ratings and capabilities.
• Make sure that equipment is properly grounded.
• Do not let unauthorized persons operate the equipment.
• The maximum voltage the Cellcorder can read is 16V. Do not attempt to read
Overall Volts. Use a separate meter, then enter the reading manually under the
SG/TEMP/OV mode.
• Never let any Cellcorder metal surfaces come in contact with a battery post or
grounded rack while testing with the unit.
• Do not attempt to read internal resistance of an open cell/module while the battery is
on-line.

v
Table of Contents
1INTRODUCTION................................................................................................3
1.1 General Description.................................................................................3
1.2 Test Procedure Overview.........................................................................3
1.3 Test Modes...............................................................................................4
1.3.1 Voltmeter..........................................................................................4
1.3.2 Multimeter........................................................................................4
1.3.3 Specific Gravity and Temperature....................................................5
1.4 System Features.......................................................................................5
1.4.1 Float Voltage Readings ....................................................................5
1.4.2 Internal Cell Resistance....................................................................5
1.4.3 Intercell Resistance...........................................................................5
1.4.4 Auto Ranging....................................................................................5
1.4.5 Data Extraction and Analysis...........................................................6
1.4.6 System Display.................................................................................6
1.4.7 Power................................................................................................6
2RECEIVING AND ACCEPTANCE TESTING.........................................................7
2.1 Unpacking................................................................................................7
2.2 Cellcorder Initial System Test .................................................................7
3OPERATING INSTRUCTIONS...........................................................................10
3.1 General Concepts...................................................................................10
3.2 Before Using the Cellcorder..................................................................11
3.3 General Operating Notes .......................................................................11
3.4 Operation Notes.....................................................................................12
3.4.1 Multimeter Mode............................................................................13
3.4.2 Connecting the Test Leads .............................................................14
3.4.3 Taking the Readings.......................................................................15
3.4.4 Storing Data for More Than One String.........................................16
3.4.5 Voltmeter Mode..............................................................................17
3.4.6 Entering Specific Gravity, Temperature and Overall Volts ...........18
3.4.7 Uploading Specific Gravity and Temperature Readings................19
3.4.8 Programming Test Parameters........................................................20
3.4.9 Battery Charging ............................................................................21
3.5 Error Codes and Warning Messages......................................................22
3.5.1 Resetting the Cellcorder .................................................................24
3.6 Diagnostics ............................................................................................25
3.6.1 Keypad (KEYBRD)...........................................................................25
3.6.2 Display............................................................................................25

vi
3.6.3 A/D Channel (AD CHAN) ................................................................25
3.6.4 Relays.............................................................................................26
3.6.5 RS-232............................................................................................26
3.7 Memory Management............................................................................27
3.8 Calibration .............................................................................................28
3.8.1 Entering the Calibration Screen......................................................28
3.8.2 Entering the Password....................................................................28
3.8.3 Recording the Before Calibration Readings...................................29
3.8.4 Calibrating the Cellcorder ..............................................................31
3.8.5 Backing Up and Restoring the Calibration.....................................35
4APPENDIX A: CELLCORDER PARTS LIST.......................................................36
5APPENDIX B: SYSTEM SPECIFICATIONS ......................................................37
6APPENDIX C: CELLCORDER CALIBRATION LOG...........................................38

1
What's New
This section describes some of the many new features and enhancements in the
Cellcorder. Several improvements have been made to both the Cellcorder
hardware and software.
Hardware
A new circuit now helps protect the unit if it is accidentally placed across a high
voltage circuit. The protection circuit senses the input voltage across the current
carrying leads and, if the input voltage exceeds 24 volts, a beep sounds and the
test current relays are disabled. Earlier models without this feature can be
upgraded. As a reminder, it is still potentially hazardous to exceed the rated
voltage of the Cellcorder (16 volts).
A fuse on the Cellcorder rear panel now helps protect the operator and the
Cellcorder if the unit comes in contact with a battery post or grounded rack
during testing. Replace this fuse with a ceramic 1 amp fuse only. The symptoms
of a blown fuse while testing are (1) the Cellcorder voltage reading indicates zero
to one-half of the cell voltage being tested, and (2) the Cellcorder displays a Low
Current - Cell or Connect Problem error message. Although this modification
reduces the risk of damage to the Cellcorder, remember to never let any
Cellcorder metal surfaces come in contact with a battery post or grounded rack
while testing with the unit.
Firmware
The new version of firmware incorporates changes that have resulted in some
Cellcorder keypad entry changes. The new changes, described below, are
compared to the earlier methods of operation.
Relay Diagnostics This diagnostic requires that you now press and hold the
TEST key to activate the relay drivers. Release TEST to stop the relay drivers.
Previously, you did not hold the TEST key, and ESC exited the diagnostic.
Error Message for Low Current The error message for test current below
20 Amps now indicates that the TEST key must be pressed for at least one
second to retry the test.
Reset for Locked Cellcorder The key sequence for resetting a locked up unit
has changed. To reset the unit, press ON and F1 simultaneously. The previous
sequence was to press ON and TEST simultaneously. See warning in the
Resetting the Cellcorder section.

2
A/D Channel 3 Diagnostic The key sequence to activate the A/D Channel 3
Diagnostic now requires pressing the TEST key after selecting Chan 3.
Previously, pressing TEST was not required.
Calibration for Current The key sequence to activate the Current calibration
now requires pressing the TEST key after selecting option 4 - Current.
Previously, pressing TEST was not required.
Performing a Resistance Test The Test button must be pressed for longer than
1 second before the test will begin.
WARNING The maximum voltage the Cellcorder can read is 16V. Do not
attempt to read Overall Volts. Use a separate meter, then enter the reading
manually under the SG/TEMP/OV mode.
WARNING Never let any Cellcorder metal surfaces come in contact with a
battery post or grounded rack while testing with the unit.
WARNING Do not attempt to read internal resistance of an open cell/module
while the battery is on-line. An open cell can be determined by the abnormally
high voltage across it and the low voltage across all other cells/modules. Refer to
Application Note CC-001 for further details.

3
1 Introduction
This section describes the features of the Cellcorder.
1.1 General Description
The Albércorp Cellcorder is a data storing battery multimeter that provides fast,
accurate information in a fraction of the normal test time. Compact and light
weight in design, this intelligent test unit displays and records readings of cell
float voltage, internal cell resistance, and intercell connection resistance. Other
data, such as specific gravity and temperature, can be entered manually.
The Cellcorder may be used on a single cell or multicell module. Readings up to
seven strings of 256 cells each or 28 strings of 64 cells can be stored and
displayed on a bright fluorescent display. The Cellcorder features are further
enhanced by a computer link and software that allows the transfer of readings to
a personal computer (PC) for further analysis and report generation.
1.2 Test Procedure Overview
The Cellcorder is a self-contained, battery powered unit comprised of a
microprocessor, load resistor, display, and rechargeable battery. Two sets of test
leads are provided: a standard set of digital voltmeter probes and a three clip set
used in the multimeter mode. Optional test leads are available from Albércorp.
When using the three clip set, connect the two larger test clips across the cell and
its associated intercell connector (from the positive post of the cell being tested to
the positive of the next cell), and connect the third smaller conductor clip to the
negative terminal of the cell being tested. (Refer to Application Note CC-002.)
After the leads are connected, the test sequence is initiated. First, the Cellcorder
reads and records the cell float voltage. Next, the unit connects a fixed resistance
across the cell and intercell being tested and forces a current of approximately
70 Amps to flow for a few seconds. During the load condition, the unit reads the
current and voltage and calculates the intercell connection resistance and internal
cell resistance.

4
Upon completion of testing, you can connect the Cellcorder to a PC-compatible
computer via the RS-232 serial port and initiate the menu-driven data extraction,
analysis, and report program. The imported information can be displayed in an
easy to read bar graph format. You also have the option of defining a custom
generated report or generating a report using Albér standard analysis.
1.3 Test Modes
This section describes the test modes of the Cellcorder.
1.3.1 Voltmeter
In this mode, the Cellcorder is used with standard voltmeter probes to take
monthly or quarterly float voltage readings. When the probes access the first
cell, the reading is displayed and, within two seconds, the unit beeps and
indicates on the display that the reading has been stored. As the probes are
lifted and make contact with the next cell, the Cellcorder automatically
indexes the display and memory storage to the next higher number. This
mode allows you to take valid recorded readings at a rate of ten to twelve per
minute.
1.3.2 Multimeter
The Cellcorder is used in this mode to take internal cell resistance and
intercell connection resistance readings on each cell. A test harness
consisting of three clips is connected as follows:
1) Large red clip to the positive post of the cell being tested.
2) Small black clip to the negative post of the cell being tested.
3) Large black clip to the positive post of the next cell.
After connection, the Cellcorder tests and reads in the following sequence:
1) The cell voltage is read to automatically scale the Cellcorder for the
correct range.
2) A load resistor is connected across the cell and associated intercell. The
resulting test current is approximately 70 Amps (or 50 Amps for 4V
through 12V modules).
3) While current is flowing, the unit reads cell voltage, current, and intercell
voltage drop, then calculates internal cell and intercell resistances.

5
1.3.3 Specific Gravity and Temperature
Specific gravity (SG) and temperature readings can be entered manually or
automatically from a compatible data storing hydrometer. In automatic mode,
the user connects the hydrometer to the Cellcorder via an RS-232 cable and
transfers the readings by pressing the appropriate function key.
In manual mode, the display prompts for the readings for each cell. The
Cellcorder automatically inserts the first two numbers of the specific gravity
reading to speed up the entry process. For example, for a reading of 1215, the
display shows SG = 12 _ _ and the user enters the 1 and 5. After specific
gravity is entered, enter the temperature.
1.4 System Features
This section describes the features of the Cellcorder.
1.4.1 Float Voltage Readings
The Cellcorder measures the voltage applied during full float operation. The
voltage range covers all cells or modules up to 16 volts. Reading accuracy is
to four full digits.
1.4.2 Internal Cell Resistance
Internal resistance of a cell can be determined by how that cell responds to a
momentary load. The instantaneous voltage drop and load current applied are
used to calculate the resistance. The Cellcorder algorithms make this
measurement possible on cells that are floating on-line. This method is useful
for determining weak, potentially failing cells when comparing internal cell
resistance of all the like cells in the string. For more information, refer to
Application Note CC-001.
1.4.3 Intercell Resistance
The Cellcorder measures and displays the total resistance of the connection
between the terminals of two cells electrically connected to each other. This
measurement includes resistance of the connector and the contact resistance
at the points of connection to the cell terminals.
1.4.4 Auto Ranging
The Cellcorder automatically selects the correct voltage range and load
resistor for the test being performed.

6
1.4.5 Data Extraction and Analysis
Upon completion of testing, the user connects the Cellcorder to a PC-
compatible computer with the supplied RS-232 cable. The Albér data
extraction program is executed and test results are imported into the program.
Data is analyzed and displayed in an easy-to-read bar graph or tabulated
format. (Refer to the Battery Analysis User's Guide.)
1.4.6 System Display
The test sequence instructions and test results appear on a bright, easy-to-
read fluorescent display.
1.4.7 Power
The Cellcorder is powered by a self-contained, sealed lead-acid rechargeable
battery. Refer to Application Note CC-003 for optimizing battery life.
Recharge or AC power operation is via a wall plug transformer module.

7
2 Receiving and Acceptance Testing
This section describes the receiving and initial testing of the Cellcorder.
2.1 Unpacking
Upon receipt of the Cellcorder, inventory all contents of the shipment. If there is
any visible damage to the case or box, notify the freight carrier immediately for a
damage claim. Unless otherwise noted, shipment of the unit is F.O.B.
Boca Raton, Florida. Any shipping damage claims must be made by the
purchaser directly to the freight carrier.
The Cellcorder is designed to provide many years of service. The components of
the Cellcorder are like those in a computer, and proper care should be provided
when handling. The carrying case will help protect the unit from minor bumps
during daily use.
Verify that all contents are in the box and carrying case. Each system should
include the materials described in Cellcorder Parts List. This equipment has
passed several phases of quality control; however, if any of the contents are
missing, contact Albércorp immediately.
2.2 Cellcorder Initial System Test
Connect the AC adaptor to the POWER port on the rear of the Cellcorder, then
plug the adaptor into a wall receptacle. The CHARGE indicator should light. Do
not connect any other leads to the unit at this time.
Press the ON key on the front of the Cellcorder. After a series of beeps and a
system self test, the unit defaults to the Cellcorder Main Menu:
_ _MAIN MENU_ _ _ *
1 - MODE SELECT
2 - DIAGNOSTICS
3 - SETUP
NOTE: An asterisk ( * ) on the top right of the menu indicates memory
configuration is 7 x 256.

8
Press 2 on the numeric keypad to display the Diagnostics Menu:
_ _DIAGNOSTICS MENU_ *
1 KEYBRD 4 RELAYS
2 DISPLAY 5 RS232
3 AD CHAN
You may select any option from the Diagnostics Menu to ensure the unit is in
working condition. Press the designated number on the keypad to select an
option.
Keybrd This displays the Keypad Diagnostic screen. Press any key except
ON or ESC and the display indicates the key pressed. Press ESC to
return to the Diagnostics Menu.
Display The display goes through a self-test, illuminating each segment of
the display. When complete, the unit returns to the Diagnostics
Menu.
A/D Channel Albércorp recommends that you use this diagnostic only when
instructed by Albércorp technical support. This selection displays
the reading from the analog to digital converter. Press ESC to
return to the Diagnostics Menu.
Relays WARNING: If this diagnostic is enabled while the unit is
connected to a voltage source, the Cellcorder can be permanently
damaged.
Before you select the Relays diagnostic, verify that no leads are
connected to the Cellcorder. A warning is displayed to ensure the
leads are disconnected. Press and hold TEST to activate this
diagnostic. A clicking noise will be heard as each relay is checked.
Release TEST to stop the relay drivers, and press ESC to return to
the Diagnostics Menu.

9
RS-232 Serial Port Diagnostic requires the use of a loopback connector
(not supplied). The loopback connector can be simulated by
connecting pin 2 to pin 3 of the RS-232 port. After connection,
press TEST. The unit sequences through a series of transmit and
receive signals and logs the errors on the display. After the
sequence is started, the unit counts from 0 to 255 and continues
cycling 0 to 255 until ESC is pressed. If errors exist, the error
count field increments.
This completes Cellcorder diagnostic acceptance testing. Before beginning
operation, turn the Cellcorder off by pressing the ON key on the keypad; the ON
key operates as an ON/OFF key.

10
3 Operating Instructions
This section describes the operation of the Cellcorder.
3.1 General Concepts
The Cellcorder is designed to improve the ease and accuracy of taking periodic
maintenance readings. An effective maintenance program that meets the
recommendations of most battery manufacturers calls for the following
measurements:
INTERVAL
PARAMETER Monthly Quarterly Semi-
Annually Annually
Cell Voltages X
Intercell Resistance X
Internal Resistance -
Vented Cells X
Internal Resistance -
Sealed Cells X
Specific Gravity X
Temperature Profile X
Capacity -
Vented Cells Every 3 to 5 years until signs of degradation, then once every year.
Capacity -
Sealed Cells Every year.
NOTE: VRLA or sealed cells need to be tested more frequently because of their
shorter life expectancy and lower reliability.
The Cellcorder saves time acquiring and analyzing these readings. This is
especially true of float voltage readings, where the average time to measure 60
cells is less than five minutes.
The Cellcorder, with its internal cell resistance measurement, is very effective in
locating weak or problem cells. Because it is not susceptible to the normal noise
sources present or the charger and pulsating load ripple currents, the Cellcorder
can be used on-line on all battery installations.

11
Cellcorder resistance measurements should be used in conjunction with baseline
information on the batteries being maintained. Either obtain the cell resistance
baseline data from the battery manufacturer or Albércorp, or acquire it with a
capacity test.
Take Cellcorder readings according to the table above; the resistance readings
dictate which battery string should be subjected to capacity testing. If one or
more cells exhibit cell resistance 30% to 40% higher than the average or baseline
value, then those cells should be capacity tested using a single cell tester, such as
the Albércorp SCT-200. If the majority of cells are above the normal expected
readings, then the entire string should be capacity tested.
3.2 Before Using the Cellcorder
Check that the Cellcorder carrying case contains two sets of test leads, the battery
charger module, and the RS-232 cable.
Prior to testing, charge the Cellcorder for at least eight hours to guarantee six
hours of battery operation. If the batteries wear down during testing, plug in the
charger module and keep testing. If the battery is overdischarged, let the unit
charge for 15 to 30 minutes before using it plugged into the AC.
Data readings are stored in EEPROM memory chips and are not affected if the
batteries are fully discharged.
Verify the Cellcorder is calibrated or has been calibrated within the last year. The
easiest way to check calibration is to read a known voltage and use a known
shunt as an intercell connector. (Refer to Calibration.)
3.3 General Operating Notes
At power up, the Cellcorder displays the Main Menu:
_ _ MAIN MENU _ _ *
1 - MODE SELECT
2 - DIAGNOSTICS
3 - SETUP
An asterisk ( * ) on the top right of the menu indicates memory configuration is
7 x 256. Each menu function is explained in detail in following sections. The
Main Menu functions are as follows:

12
Mode Select Allows you to determine whether the Cellcorder will be used as a
voltmeter, battery multimeter (volts and resistance), or as a
recorder for specific gravity (SG) and temperature. NOTE: SG and
temperature readings must be taken with a separate instrument.
Diagnostics Allows you to test the keyboard keys, the front panel display, and
the individual measuring channels.
Setup Allows you to enter the Calibration, Test Parameter or Memory
Configuration setup screens.
3.4 Operation Notes
To power on the Cellcorder, press the ON key. (The ON key operates as an
ON/OFF key.) After the display shows the firmware revision level, the Main
Menu appears. At the Main Menu, select option 3 - Setup, then select
3 - Memory Configs. A warning message appears.
CAUTION: Do not change memory configuration after data has been taken, or
the memory will be scrambled. Changing back will unscramble the memory.
To continue, press ENTER, then select either 7 x 256 (7 strings of 256 cells) or
28 x 64 (28 strings of 64 cells). After memory configuration is selected, it
remains as the default configuration, even if the Cellcorder is powered off. (Refer
to Memory Management.)
After memory is configured, select option 1 - Mode Select from the Main Menu
to display the following:
_ _ MODE SELECT MENU _ *
1 - MULTIMETER
2 - VOLTMETER
3 - SG / TEMP / OV
Select which measuring function to use. The voltmeter mode is automated to
make it easy to use, since this mode is used most. It is recommended that the
Cellcorder be used in voltmeter mode for quarterly float voltage readings.
CAUTION: When voltage readings coincide with resistance measurements, the
voltage readings must be taken first.

13
Skewing Effect When resistance readings are taken, there is a skewing effect of
the cell voltages that leads to a small error. As the first half of the cells are
resistance tested using an approximately 70 Amp load test, those voltages
become depressed until the charger can bring them back to normal float levels.
This means that the voltages of the remaining cells have to increase to make up
the difference, since the overall voltage is controlled by the charger.
The skewing effect is particularly noticeable on small and weak cells. For large
batteries such as mini-tank cells, the effect is not as noticeable, but there is still a
small error in the voltage readings.
3.4.1 Multimeter Mode
When this mode is selected, the screen prompts the user to specify how many
intercell connection readings are to be taken. (Refer to Connecting the Test
Leads and to Application Note CC-002.) Select Combine when using test
leads that do not support intercell readings. The intercell readings will be
zero on the display.
ENTER INTERCELL TYPE
1 SINGLE 3 TRIPLE
2 DUAL 4 QUAD
5 COMBINE
After selecting the number of intercell readings, the screen prompts the user
to specify whether the battery is smaller or larger than 1000 ampere hours.
This selection has to do with the timing of the load being applied.
_ _ CELL CAPACITY _ *
SELECT AMP HOUR RATE
1 0 - 1000 AH
2 MORE THAN 1000 AH
After the amp hour selection is made, the Cellcorder checks if float voltage
readings, using the voltmeter mode, were already taken. If they were, the
following screen appears: