West Mountain Radio CBA IV User manual

www.westmountainradio.com
1020 Spring City Drive
Waukesha, WI 53186
262-522-6503
[email protected]
©2017 West Mountain Radio, All rights reserved. All trademarks are
the property of their respective owners.
CBA IV
Computerized Battery Analyzer
(and CBA HR)

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West Mountain Radio Operating Manual
CBA HR
Introduction
Thank you for choosing the West Mountain Radio Computerized Battery Analyzer (CBA). The CBA is a powerful
test instrument that measures, graphs, and compares performance of both primary and secondary (rechargeable)
batteries and individual cells. The CBA allows for the precise measurement of battery capacity and takes the
guesswork out of choosing the best battery for your application.
The CBA is much more than a simple battery voltage tester or a battery load tester. It will test virtually any type
or size of battery, any chemistry or number of cells, up to 55 volts. Now anyone can do scientic battery tests for
a reasonable price.
The CBA alone is capable of tests up to a maximum of either 40 amps or 150 watts for short periods of time.
For continuous operation, suggested values are 20 amps or 100 watts, whichever is higher. When used with an
optional amplier, tests can be done at 500 watts.
The CBA not only tests the total amount of energy stored in a battery (capacity in amp-hours), but also graphically
displays and charts the voltage versus time using a constant current load. Graphs may be displayed, saved
and printed, and the axis parameters can be changed at anytime. Multiple test graphs of the same battery, or
multiple batteries, may be compared or overlaid; a very useful feature. Battery test data may be printed in color
or black and white to paper or convenient test labels to put directly on the tested batteries. An optional external
temperature probe provides automatic over temperature test cuto󰀨.
The CBA is ruggedly built and supplied with 12 gauge wire and Powerpole®connectors for battery test
connections. It is small with a high performance cooling system and quiet fan. LED indicators are visible from
across a room that display communication and test status.
Standard software supplied with the CBA is easy to use, intuitive, and designed to protect both the CBA and
batteries being tested. It provides automatic sensing of battery cell count, a safety check of the test rate, and
recommends a minimum safe discharge voltage. There are user editable and recallable battery test proles and
Capacity Discharge tests may be viewed in Amp Hours, Watt Hours or Minutes. The Charge Monitor Test mode
charts and records voltage rise during a charge or discharge. Lab calibration current adjustment is a standard
user feature to improve accuracy for testing at very low discharge rates, or for critical applications.
The optional Extended Software license provides all the features of the standard version, but adds ve additional
test modes: Time Discharge, Duty Cycle, Constant Power, Multiple Discharge and Constant Resistance. Results
can be graphed as Voltage vs. Amp hours, Watt hours, Minutes or Ragone depending on the type of test. Ragone
graphs require the weight of the battery/batteries to be accurate.

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West Mountain Radio Operating Manual
Powerpole® is a registered trademark of Anderson Power Products
A CBA IV enables another test: Power Prole. This test is very useful for power supply testing or solar cell
analysis. The resulting graph displays Voltage vs. Amps or Watts. The Extended Software version also adds
the ability to graph battery temperature with CBA III and CBA IV (when the optional temperature probe is
connected). An additional lab calibration feature makes it possible to compensate for test lead resistance,
giving accurate readings at the battery terminals.
When using a CBA III with a 500W Amplier, Extended Software is required.
When using a CBA IV with a 500W Amplier, Standard or Extended Software will provide provisions for
operation with ampliers for testing at high discharge rates or doing destructive testing.
CBA HR
Specically designed to test and evaluate small cells and batteries – those capable of supplying quite low
discharge currents. Such small cells must be evaluated using even greater measurement precision than what
is capable with CBA IV model. Designed to precisely test virtually any small size battery, any chemistry or
number of cells, from 0.7 to 10 volts. The CBA HR is capable of testing batteries at load currents from 1 mA to
1000 mA, (10 watt maximum), in increments of 1 mA.
An optional 4-wire test harness improves voltage measurement accuracy by minimizing the voltage sensing
lead wire resistance e󰀨ect. Some optional harnesses also include an external magnetic probe, which when
used with optional Extended Software allow logging of battery / ambient temperature and automatic over-
temperature test cuto󰀨.
Standard Software is supplied with the CBA HR. In addition to the four basic test modes included with the
CBA IV (Mission Prole, Discharge, Charge Monitor, and Power Prole), the CBA HR adds two additional test
modes (Duty Cycle and Multiple Discharge) to allow user simulation of real world battery load variations found
in typical remote sensor sleep / transmit applications.
The optional Extended Software license provides the ability to graph battery temperature when the optional
magnetic temperature probe is connected. This optional temperature probe is included in selected test harness
assemblies and is connected to the CBA HR via a 3.5mm accessory input.
The CBA HR is not designed to be used with optional West Mountain Radio 500 watt CBA Ampliers. For
higher test currents and voltages that exceed the CBA HR’s ratings - use the West Mountain Radior CBA IV,
which can accommodate one or more 500W Ampliers.
CBA IV Specications
Electrical
• Maximum continuous discharge rate: 100 watts
• Maximum limited term discharge rate with < 3500 ma-hour battery: 125 watts
• Maximum limited term discharge rate with < 1000 ma-hour battery: 150 watts
• 0-3 amp accuracy: typically better than + - 10 mA
• 3-40 amp accuracy: typically better than + - 45 mA
• 0-5 volt accuracy: typically better than + - .005 volts
• 5-15 volt accuracy: typically better than + - .01 volts
• 10-60 volt accuracy: typically better than + - .05 volts
• Maximum operating voltage: 55 Volts (48 Volt Lead Acid Telecom supported)
• Maximum discharge rate: 40 Amps (Battery dependent, 100 watt continuous)
• Minimum discharge voltage to maintain 30 Amps 0.9 Volts (Battery dependent)
• Minimum Voltage for a 40 Amp discharge: 2 Volts at completion of test (Battery dependent)
• Minimum discharge rate: 0.01 Amps (10 mA)
• Residual current drain, battery connected while not in use: < 3 mA @ 12 volts

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West Mountain Radio Operating Manual
Hardware / Software
• High performance micro controller with USB interface and 12 bit A/D conversion
• USB powered: CBA does not use battery being tested to run the CBA or fan
• Computer Interface: USB Type A to B (Cable Included)
• Load Connections (Battery Test): Powerpole (+) / (-)
• I/O Port: 5 pin at header for Temp Input & Serial Port
• LED indicators: System ready and Test in progress, viewable from across a room
• Internal over temperature sensing and protection
• Internal user replaceable fuse: ATO / ATC 25 Amp ; ships with spare 40 Amp
• Graph printing on any standard color or B&W printer
• Battery test label printing on standard 5110
CBA HR (High Resolution) Specications
Electrical
• Maximum continuous discharge rate: 10 watts
• Maximum discharge current: 1000 mA (1.0 Amp)
• Minimum discharge current: 1.0 mA (0.001 Amp)
• Discharge Current Accuracy: better than +/- 20 uA @ 1 mA discharge
• Maximum operating test voltage: 10 volts
• Minimum operating test voltage: 0.7 volts
• Voltage reading accuracy: better than +/- 0.01 volts
• Residual current drain, battery connected while not in use: < 200 uA @ 9 volts
Hardware / Software
• High performance micro controller with USB interface and 12 bit A/D conversion
• USB powered: CBA does not use battery being tested to run the CBA or fan
• Computer Interface: USB Type A to B (Cable Included)
• Load Connections (Battery Test): Powerpole (+) / (-)
• I/O Port: 3.5 mm for Temp Input & Remote Voltage sensing (4-wire) – when using temperature input, remote
voltage sensing harness must also be used
• LED indicators: System ready and Test in progress, viewable from across a room
• Internal over temperature sensing and protection
• Internal user replaceable fuse: ATO / ATC 2 Amp
• Graph printing on any standard color or B&W printer
• Battery test label printing on standard 5160 / 8160 stick-on labels
• Dimensions: 1.5” H x 2.8” W x 3.6” D
• Weight: 4 oz.

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West Mountain Radio Operating Manual
Safety Precautions
The West Mountain Radio CBA family of battery testers are inherently safe, but the batteries being tested are
not. Any system that stores energy is potentially dangerous. Some types of batteries are safer than others, but
all are capable of causing explosions or res.
For technical information on a specic battery, refer to the Battery Manufacturers website. Most battery
labels have limited information, but the manufacturer’s website usually includes more detailed technical
information. General information for batteries is also available on the West Mountain Radio CD. Select Battery
Information and FAQs.
Primary Safety Considerations:
• Never discharge a battery at a higher discharge rate than it was designed for.
• Never use a battery that has poorly insulated, frayed wiring, or exposed metal parts.
• Never connect a battery with reverse polarity.
• Never test a battery near ammable materials.
• Never allow a battery to reach a temperature that is too hot to touch.
• Recharge batteries immediately with an appropriate battery charger after the test is completed. Some
types do not like to remain discharged for extended periods of time.
• Never test or charge batteries while unattended.
• Always have a re extinguisher nearby.
CBA Operating Requirements:
• Never connect a battery with the polarity reversed.
• Always connect the USB cable to the CBA BEFORE connecting the battery.
• Be aware the heatsink of the CBA is at battery potential (positive terminal of battery).
• Never connect a battery to the CBA if that battery is connected to something else.
• Contact West Mountain Radio for support before connecting to a USB hub.
• Operate the CBA in a cool dry location.
• Never allow metal parts or wiring of the battery to come in contact with the metal heat sink of the CBA.
• Never allow the cooling fan to be blocked or jammed.
• Do not ignore the warnings from the CBA Software.
• The CBA can get hot. Do not touch the metal heat sink while, or shortly after, conducting a high power
test.
Lead Acid Battery Safety Warnings:
Adhere to all safety considerations with lead acid batteries, especially while charging. These batteries, especially
automotive and marine types, give o󰀨 explosive hydrogen gas when charged. A nearby or internal spark or
ame can cause a lead acid battery to explode sending liquid acid and lead shrapnel in all directions. This is
particularly dangerous and frequently causes blindness or severe scarring injuries.
Never use a standard lead acid battery without proper ventilation. Sealed lead acid batteries such as gelled or
AGM (absorbed glass mat) types are much safer. Automotive and marine types are not as safe and should be
used in protective ventilated housings.
Never make the last connection to a lead acid battery that may cause a spark on the terminal. Always connect
the load or charger last, and at a safe distance away from the battery.

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West Mountain Radio Operating Manual
NiCad, NiMh, and Alkaline Safety Warnings:
Adhere to all safety considerations, as these types of batteries can also be dangerous. If they are shorted
out or charged/discharged at too high a rate, they can overheat and explode. A single D size NiCad cell can
actually melt a 10 penny (9 gauge) nail (it is not recommended to attempt.)
Lithium Safety Warnings:
Reprinted with permission of the Academy of Model Aeronautics
Words in bold and ( ) were added by West Mountain Radio
Lithium Battery Fires
Lithium batteries are becoming very popular for powering the control and power systems in our models. This
is true because of their very high energy density (amp-hrs/wt. ratio) compared to NiCads or other batteries.
With high energy comes increased risk in their use. The, principal, risk is FIRE which can result from improper
charging, crash damage, or shorting the batteries. All vendors of these batteries warn their customers of this
danger and recommend extreme caution in their use. In spite of this many res have occurred as a result of
the use of Lithium Polymer batteries, resulting in loss of models, automobiles, and other property. Homes and
garages and workshops have also burned. A lithium battery re is very hot (several thousand degrees) and is
an excellent initiator for ancillary (resulting) res. Fire occurs due to contact between Lithium and oxygen in the
air. It does not need any other source of ignition, or fuel to start, and burns almost explosively.
These batteries must be used in a manner that precludes ancillary re. The following is recommended:
1. Store, and charge (discharge), in a reproof container; never in your model.
2. Charge (discharge), in a protected area devoid of combustibles. Always stand watch over the charging
(discharging), process. Never leave the charging process unattended.
3. In the event of damage from crashes, etc, carefully remove to a safe place for at least a half hour to
observe. Physically damaged cells could erupt into ame, and, after su󰀩cient time to ensure safety,
should be discarded in accordance with the instructions which came with the batteries. Never attempt
to charge (discharge) a cell with physical damage, regardless of how slight.
4. Always use chargers designed for the specic purpose, preferably having a xed setting for your
particular pack. Many res occur in using selectable/adjustable chargers improperly set. Never attempt
to charge Lithium cells with a charger which is not specically designed for charging Lithium cells.
Never use chargers designed for Nickel Cadmium batteries.
5. Use charging systems that monitor and control the charge state of each cell in the pack. Unbalanced
cells can lead to disaster if it permits overcharge of a single cell in the pack. If the batteries show any
sign of swelling, discontinue charging, and remove them to a safe place outside as they could erupt into
ames.
6. Most important: NEVER PLUG IN A BATTERY AND LEAVE IT TO CHARGE (DISCHARGE),
UNATTENDED OVERNIGHT. Serious res have resulted from this practice.
7. Do not attempt to make your own battery packs from individual cells. These batteries CANNOT be
handled and charged casually such as has been the practice for years with other types of batteries. The
consequence of this practice can be very serious resulting in major property damage and/ or personal
harm.

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West Mountain Radio Operating Manual
Primary Safety Considerations:
• Never discharge a battery at a higher discharge rate than it is designed for.
• Never use a battery that has poorly insulated or frayed wiring or exposed metal parts.
• Never connect a battery with reverse polarity.
• Be aware the heatsink of the CBA is at battery potential (positive terminal of battery).
• Never test a battery near ammable materials.
• Never allow a battery reach a temperature that causes it to get so hot that it may be too hot to touch.
• Recharge batteries immediately with an appropriate battery charger after tests are completed. Some
types do not like to remain discharged for extended periods of time.
• Never test or charge batteries while unattended.
• Always have a re extinguisher nearby.
Liability Disclaimer
West Mountain Radio will not be liable to you (whether under the law of contract, the law of torts or otherwise)
in relation to the contents of, or use of, or otherwise in connection with, the CBA (“product”):
• To the extent that the product may cause any bodily or equipment damage;
• For any indirect, special or consequential loss of any kind;
• For any business losses, loss of revenue, income, prots or anticipated savings, loss of contracts or
business relationships, loss of reputation or goodwill, or loss or corruption of information or data.
By using this product, you agree to the limitations of liability set forth in this disclaimer are reasonable.

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West Mountain Radio Operating Manual
Getting Started
It is recommended to read this entire manual and help les for a full understanding of the CBA and software
operation.
1. From the CD ROM opening screen, click on “Software and Hardware Installation”. Follow the instructions
on the screen to complete both the hardware and software installations.
2. Connect the CBA to the PC’s USB port using the supplied cable before connecting a battery.
NOTE: If the Windows message “Found new Hardware” appears, the previous step was not completed.
3. Start the West Mountain Radio CBA program.
NOTE: For a CBA III the green LED will come on when the program starts. For CBA IVHR the LED will light as
soon as the drivers are installed. e soware should start with a “New Test” screen in the “Auto-Check” prole.
4. In the “New test” window select the “Battery Type” (chemistry) and select or type in the “Capacity Ah”.
NOTE: To convert mAh (milliampere hours) to Ah (Ampere hours) divide by 1000. If the capacity rating is not
printed on the battery contact the manufacturer or visit their web page.
5. Connectthebatterywithveryshort,solid,lowresistanceconnectionsusingtheproperconnectorsandpolarity.
WARNING: Be certain that you have the polarity correct. For Standard convention: RED to RED,
BLACK to BLACK, and PLUS to PLUS, MINUS to MINUS.
6. The battery voltage will display the resting fully charged battery voltage on the right side of the screen. Click
the ‘Detect’ button for the software to suggest some baseline settings after selecting the chemistry type.
If the number of cells or average pack voltage is not correct, check that the proper battery type was
entered. If sure the average pack voltage or cell count is incorrect, change the software estimate to the
correct value in either the “Voltage” or “Cells”.
7. The discharge current in the “Test Amps” can also be suggested by the software by clicking ‘Suggest’.
This calculation is based on the battery capacity and chemistry type. If preferred to run a test at

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West Mountain Radio Operating Manual
di󰀨erent discharge rate, change the “Test Amps” window.
WARNING: Do not choose a higher discharge rate than the battery is capable of. See the the
battery manufacturer’s specications.
NOTE: If the no load battery “Voltage” multiplied times the “Test Amps” selected (Volts x Amps = Watts) exceeds
the wattage rating of the CBA, or the default recommended maximum discharge rate for a given battery type,
the soware will prompt to lower the discharge current before starting a test. e CBA will run tests at up to 150
watts, for short periods of time, with a battery that has a rated capacity of 1 Amp-Hr or less, up to 125 watts below
3.5 Amp-Hrs and 100 watts for any capacity battery. e CBA HR will run tests up to 10 watts, with maximum
voltage of 10 volts and maximum current of 1 Amp.
8. Type in a “Test Name” for the test that positively identies the test for future reference, perhaps write a
number on the battery and use that number, or a unique description of the battery and the test.
9. Press the “Start” button in the “New Test” window. Optionally press “OK” and use the button or
selecting “Test --> Start”
If the settings are correct notice the graph will appear and auto-scale. The red LED on the CBA will
come on and the fan will start. The virtual LED and fan on the right panel will start also. The “Current”
will ramp up to the “Test Rate” value and the voltage will start to record on the graph.
10. The test will continue until the test “Cuto󰀨 V” is reached. At that point the test will automatically
stop and the program will beep and display “Test Complete”. Everything will return to the
stopped condition ready for another test or to save the le. Disconnect the battery at this time.
WARNING: Do not ever leave a battery connected after a test completes! Leaving a battery in
a discharged state for prolonged period of time could over discharge and damage the battery.
CAUTION: The battery and the CBA may be HOT
11. When the test is complete go to the “File” menu and save the le if desired.
NOTE: e le name will default to the test name but it may be changed to another name if desired. If the
program is closed or another test is run, a prompt will ask if wanting to save the completed test already on the
screen. One lename can contain multiple test names.
12. To start another test, start at step 4 of these instructions. Click the button or “Test--> New.” . When
starting the new test, a prompt will ask if desire to save the previous test and start a new test or add that

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West Mountain Radio Operating Manual
test to the graph on the screen.
After running a discharge test on a rechargeable battery, the battery should be recharged. Most batteries are
rated for many recharge cycles depending on the battery type and on the discharge rates, sometimes 1000’s
of cycles. Most batteries should not be left at their fully discharged cuto󰀨 voltages but should be stored in a
partially charged state for maximum battery life. Discharged batteries should also be promptly disconnected
from the CBA to prevent its small parasitic draw from further reducing the battery voltage, which in some cases
could eventually decrease voltage to a point that might compromise battery life.
Program Features
The installation and basic operation is covered in the Getting Started section of this manual and Help le. This
section gives a detailed explanation of using the program and its features.
File Menu
New:
Starts a new test document. This will initialize a new blank graph.
Overlay:
Allows for opening a saved test document and to overlay the tests in that le over the test graph or graphs
already on the screen as long as they are the same type. Once there is a series of graphs for battery comparison
on the screen, these may be saved under an existing or new le name.

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
NOTE: If there are test graphs on the screen no longer wanted, right click on the graph trace and select “Delete test” to
remove that graph trace.
When selecting properties, it is possible to change the graph style, but only if the test was done and saved on
Version 2 or later of the software.
Open:
Opena any saved le. Old test les from the previous version 1 of CBA software may be opened by changing
“Files of type” from .bt2 to .bt1. When opening and displaying an old style .bt1 le, at the time of saving, it will
be converted to the new .bt2 and saved in the new format.
Close:
Will close the le displayed on the screen and prompt to save it.
Save:
Saves the test document graph currently displayed on the screen.
Save As:
Saves a test under a new le name as a copy or to save the same le in a di󰀨erent folder location.
Export:
Converts the test le to .CSV (Comma Separated Values) comma separated le format and allows it to be
saved for data manipulation with a spreadsheet program such as Excel®, or a text viewer.
Print, Print Preview and Print Labels:
For a discussion of printing functions refer to the help section on printing.

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West Mountain Radio Operating Manual
Recent Files:
A convenient way to open les that were recently used from a list of the last eight les.
Exit:
Closes the program and will prompt to save a le of the tests on the screen.
Test Menu
New Test:
Opens a “New Test” window. This new test can be appended to the currently open graph or le.
Start, Stop, Properties:
These will be grayed out unless a “New Test” window was created and selected “OK” instead of “Start”. If
available, then start a test or stop a test in progress. Properties will allow you to change the test name before
starting a test or graph type at any time.
Chart Properties:
Allows for change to the graph scaling or put a title on the graph
Tip: It is recommended not to change the graph scaling as the automatic scaling works very well.
Tools menu
Preferences:
Ability to customize certain settings for the program such as “Temperature Units” (degrees C or F), Charting
Options, and End of Test alerts
“Save window size and position” causes the program to come back with the same window the next time you
open it.
“Open last le(s) on startup” causes the program to reopen the displayed test data next time the program is
stated.
“Stop test when battery temperature reaches” “xx degrees” - allows for test termination when a battery exceeds
the set point temperature – requires optional magnetic Temperature Probe to be attached to battery being tested.

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West Mountain Radio Operating Manual
“Print charts in black-and-white” is for setting display to code the test line graphs for identity when not color
coded.
“Anti-Alias chart text” smoothens the text graphics.
“Anti-Alias chart graphics” smoothens the graph graphics.
Audio tone and Repeat tone allow for audio notication when a test has ended.
Lab Calibrate:
“Tools”, “Lab Calibrate”, depending on the software license (Standard or Extended) and hardware versions,
provides options for calibration of Temperature, Discharge Current, and test lead Voltage drop. These are
advanced options and should only be used by technically competent users having access to laboratory calibration
standards.
Temperature Calibrate:
The optional temperature probe may be calibrated at room temperature by comparing it to a room temp
thermometer. For highest accuracy place a lab grade thermometer and the CBA temperature probe in water
heated to the temperature of interest for testing. Calibration consists of setting the software value to read the
exact temperature show on the lab-grade thermometer. Enter this value in either degrees C or F window.
In the standard version of the software the temperature is displayed and the temperature may be used as a
safety feature to automatically stop a test at a user set maximum battery temperature.
Current Calibrate:
An advanced option that only functions below 3 Amps. If there is a need for the most precise measurements and
access to a lab quality ammeter that has known NIST traceable calibration, this option is available. This option
allows a calibration o󰀨set to center the CBA’s calibration within a 12 bit window. In other words, it is possible to
adjust the discharge current in 1 mA increments but only within a 10 mA measurement window (applies to CBA
IV, the CBA HR has 1 mA discharge current accuracy). A change may not be noticeable unless it is on the cusp
of switching to the next 12 bit data level. This feature is useful to calibrate at especially low discharge rates below
500 mA. Do not use this option without complete understanding. For best accuracy at low discharge currents
(below 1 amp) use a CBA HR.

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West Mountain Radio Operating Manual
Voltage Calibrate is grayed out and only available with an Extended License (or as standard with the CBA HR). See
the section of the manual on Extended Software Features.
CBA HR makes it is possible to use laboratory grade instruments to more precisely calibrate the voltage reading
(at a specic current level) to better compensate for lead-wire voltage drop between the test battery and CBA HR
internal sensing circuits. For highest precision, you may wish to use an optional 4-wire test connection harness,
which routes the voltage sensing leads into the CBA HR via its 3.5 mm accessory connector. When a 3.5 mm
plug is inserted, the CBA HR changes its voltage sensing from the large Powerpole current leads, to the 3.5 mm
accessory connector (which is then extended to the test battery terminals via optional harness).
Help
Contents, Index, Search:
Access to these les directly from the program instead of from the CD-ROM or our web page.
About CBA:
Displays the current software version running on your computer. To determine the rmware revision within the
CBA hardware, select Tools > CBA Devices.

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West Mountain Radio Operating Manual
Test Conguration
To begin testing a battery click “File-->New” or the button.
Notice that the “New Test” window defaults to the “Prole” “<Auto-Check> and is in the auto check mode. This
proles only needs the basic information to run a test, and the software will do the rest. Be sure to provide the
“Test Name”, the “Battery Type” (chemistry) and provide the battery’s rated “Capacity”.
Prole
Prole defaults to “<Auto Check>” which causes the program to automatically recommend appropriate test
discharge current and cuto󰀨 voltage from the user entered “Battery Type” and “Capacity”. It then reads battery’s
fully charged voltage and makes a cell count estimate and recommends a test cut-o󰀨 voltage and discharge
current. This prole only requires the basic information to run a test, and the software will do the rest. Be sure to
provide the “Test Name”, the “Battery Type” (chemistry) and provide the batteries rated “Capacity”.
A user may manually override any parameter and run a test or save those custom settings as a new “Prole”.
To add and save a new prole, use the mouse to highlight “<Auto Check>”. Then type in an appropriate name
for a new custom prole name. The program will ask to save it as a new prole or update the information for the
existing “<Auto Check>” information.
After saving a prole or proles, recall them by typing in part of the prole name or selecting it from the drop
down menu.
NOTE: If a saved prole was selected and then test parameters are changed, a promptwill ask to save those changes to the
existing prole, or allow you to save the prole under a new name.

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
If a prole is no longer needed, highlight it and use the “Delete” button to the top right of the “New Test” window.
Battery Type
The “Battery Type”, drop-down selection, must be chosen correctly in order for the software to recommend how
to test that particular type of battery. Select the type of battery you are about to test.
NOTE: If using an unusual type of battery that is not on the list, it is recommended to select Other/Custom and then
manually set the test parameters. If unsure about any parameters - review the battery specications or contact the battery
manufacturer or contact West Mountain Radio.
Voltage
This is the rated average pack or cell voltage (average of a discharge cycle) of a battery, not the fully charged
voltage which is actually measured by the CBA when a battery is rst connected (and displayed on right-side of
main screen). In the “<Auto Check>” mode this is automatically calculated from the user provided battery type
information and from the CBA’s reading of the fully charged battery voltage.
Verify this voltage is correct before starting a test!
NOTE: Manually changing this will also change the battery cell count.
Cells
This represents the number of series cells estimated to be in the pack. Using the “Detect” button will let the
software estimate this automatically. Verify the number of cells is correct before starting a test!
Detect Button
Clicking here will ll in “Voltage” and “Cuto󰀨 V:” based on the current CBA reading. Additionally using the Battery
Type, the number of cells will be estimated.
Capacity
The “Capacity” (Ah): is the rated capacity of the battery in Ah (Ampere Hours). This must be typed in or selected
in order for the software to recommend an appropriate discharge rate. Normally this information is on a sticker
on the battery, otherwise contact the manufacturer. If the capacity is in mAh (milliampere Hours) divide by 1000
to convert to Ah.
Weight
The “Weight” of the battery is optional information, not needed to run a test. It is saved with the le and is needed
to plot a Ragone graph but only with the Extended version software upgrade.
Test Name
This is a required eld and a test cannot be started without a test name. Be sure to choose a name which identies

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West Mountain Radio Operating Manual
the battery and the current test so that it may identify the test in the future. It is suggested that, depending on the
testing application, a naming convention be adopted.
NOTE: e soware automatically records battery chemistry, Ah rating and the discharge rate with every battery test. A saved
le may contain multiple tests. If desired, take advantage of this feature by saving les containing multiple tests within that
le name. Include the date and/or time in the test name to identify a test among a series of tests of the same battery. Identify
your batteries with unique labels tied to the test le name.
Test Cuto󰀨 Voltage
The program will automatically recommend the “Test Cuto󰀨 V” (voltage at which the test and discharge stops)
that is appropriate for the chemistry selected in the “Battery Type”.

NOTE: 100% discharge is never 0 volts for any type of battery. ere is an industry standard for each chemistry. Lead-Acid
battery 1.775 volts per cell; nickel 0.9 volts per cell and lithium 2.8 volts per cell. e 100% discharge voltages may vary
slightly between dierent manufacturers and may be dependent on temperature. It is recommended to verify this voltage
from battery manufacturers’ specications.
NOTE: It is possible to manually change the cuto voltage for any reason, but do so with caution. Do not lower the voltage
without good reason as most batteries can be damaged due to over discharge. Lead and lithium chemistries are particularly
susceptible to this type of damage. It is commonly believed that nickel cells actually benet from discharge to 0 volts if they
are then quickly re-charged. However, a pack of nickel cells should never discharged to near zero volts as a pack of cells could
become unbalanced and damaged. e soware will give a warning before starting a test if you have lowered the test cuto
voltage below recommendations.

NOTE: Raising the Cuto voltage will cause the load test to terminate at an earlier point, with a resulting decrease in the
amount of energy depleted from the battery during the test. If a battery fails to provide the energy expected, insure the Cuto
voltage was correctly set.
Test Type
Normally this would be set to Discharge. A Discharge Test provides a regulated constant current discharge. The
other test option featured in the standard version is Charge Monitor which uses the CBA as a recording voltmeter to
chart voltage versus time for evaluation of a charger. A CBA IV enables additional standard tests, one for power
supply characterization: Power Prole and also Mission Prole. A CBA HR enables the same tests as included with
the CBA IV, plus adds Duty Cycle and Multiple Discharge.
The Extended License allows for additional tests to become available including, Timed Discharge, Constant Resistance,
Constant Power, Multiple Discharge, and Duty Cycle.
A West Mountain Radio CBA Charger Interface board provides the ability to perform a Charge Discharge Test.
WARNING: Never hook the CBA to a battery that has something else connected that is not totally ground
isolated. To test a charger in the charge monitor mode the charger must be totally electrically isolated
from the computer ground.
Sample Rate
Sets how often data is added to the graph. Faster value will add more data to the graph, which gives more
resolution to the test results, but results in larger test les. Long tests, such as discharging a lead-acid battery at
1/20 C, can use longer values as the battery voltage will not move very fast. This is only available to users with
Extended Software License.

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West Mountain Radio Operating Manual
CBA Ampliers
Notice the amplier selection buttons are now available allowing use of one to four CBA Ampliers. Be careful
NOT to check these buttons if the test setup does not include properly connected and active ampliers. If the test
does include ampliers, ensure they are connected and turned on and YOU MUST check the appropriate button
so the software sets and records the current correctly. Ampliers have a current gain of 10X and a power rating of
500 watts each. The software reduces the CBA current draw to the corresponding level and records the current
and power that would be measured at the battery terminals.
The “New Test” header includes the CBA serial number and name and indicates that the software is registered
to run the Extended features enabled.
The CBA HR is designed for high resolution, precise current testing and cannot operate CBA Ampliers.
Tests
Mission Prole (CBA IV Only)
This is a simplied discharge test that can be used for application specic testing. Using values from the “real-
world” application in which the battery will be used, you may test several di󰀨erent batteries to see which one is
best suited. There is an option to run a test until it meets the requirements of the application (Pass) or run until
the battery is depleted. If the battery is depleted before the minimum time is reached, the test fails - while going
beyond the minimum time is a pass.
Information about the Battery section, Amplier section, Cuto󰀨 Voltage and Sample can be found in the Test
Conguration section of the Help.
Average Current Draw:
The amount of current that will be drawn by the “real-world” system you are using should be entered in this
eld. The CBA will draw this amount of current from the battery until the minimum duration is met or the battery
depleted.
Minimum Duration:
How long the battery will be used in minutes. When the time of the test reaches or surpasses this point the test
will Pass.
Automatically stop when minimum duration is reached:
Selecting this option will either end the test when the battery is depleted or after the number of minutes specied
in the Minimum Duration eld. Whichever comes rst.
Discharge Test
This is a classic test for measuring and analyzing battery capacity. Using a constant current discharge, the
battery voltage lowers until the cuto󰀨 voltage is reached and the test stops. Optionally, using a temperature
probe, the battery temperature can be monitored and kept within safe levels. The Extended License enables
users to not only graph temperature but also, when the temperature limit is reached, have a recovery time for the
battery temperature to lower and allow the test to then continue.
Information about the Battery section, Amplier section, Cuto󰀨 Voltage and Sample can be found in the Test
Conguration section of the Help.

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West Mountain Radio Operating Manual
Tests Amps:
This eld species the desired discharge rate. Using the battery specications, enter a safe discharge rate that
will not exceed the capability of the battery you are testing. Click the ‘Suggest’ button to have the CBA software
make a suggestion for a typical discharge rate..
Graph:
View the graphical results for a Discharge test in Amp Hours, Watt Hours, Minutes or, with an Extended License,
Ragone. This can be changed at any time during the test or after it is completed, and also when opening a saved
le. To do this, right click on the graph area and choose ‘Chart Properties’. Or select “Test --> Chart Properties”.
Graph Temperature:
This is an Extended License feature allowing to graph the battery temperature side by side with the battery data.
A Voltage versus Time graph is recommended for this option.
Recovery Time:
This setting is enabled with an Extended License and allows the test to pause and the battery to “Recover” when
the temperature gets above a user specied limit (as set in Tools > Preferences). After the recovery time expiries the
test resumes until the test is stopped or the voltage cuto󰀨 is reached.
Capacity Check:
This feature allows to verify the battery capacity correlates to the manufacturer claimed battery capacity. Ensure
the capacity window on the new test prompt matches the battery to be tested. This information is usually found

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West Mountain Radio Operating Manual
on a sticker on the battery. If unable to nd the battery capacity, contact the battery manufacturer. The default
Threshold is 80% and has a range of 50% to 100% of the specied capacity. Thus, 2200 mAh battery must
supply at least 2.2 Ah * 80% = 1.76 Ah before the voltage drops below the cuto󰀨 voltage. A pass or fail result is
indicated in the legend and the status bar. A vertical dotted line on the graph indicates the Ah required to pass.
Capacity Type:
Select from Percent, Minimum Amp Hours, or Minimum Watt Hours as the pass Threshold. Using the suggest
button will make the Threshold 80% of the battery capacity.
Timed Discharge Test
This test will discharge the battery until the user specied duration has expired, and then stop the test. This
di󰀨ers from the normal Discharge test, which would discharge a battery until the cuto󰀨 voltage has been used. A
typical application of this test is to discharge the battery to a certain capacity, for example, a Lithium battery that
needs to be at 30% charge before shipping.
Information about the Battery section, Amplier section, Cuto󰀨 Voltage and Sample can be found in the Test
Conguration section of the Help.
Test Amps: