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A diagnostic tool is a gadget generally used to take certain measurements and to detect any flaws in the functioning of a piece of machinery. These tools can simulate actual loads that a machine may have to undergo. Heavy duty circuit testers are used to check electrical circuits in RV trucks, motorcycles, snowmobiles, and cars. A fuel injection tester is another convenient tool for most vehicles.
Features and working of the Diagnostic Tool Diagnostic tools are of numerous types. A carbon pile load tester simulates cranking and is used to test starters, alternators, and regulators. Twin meters display both the battery voltage as well as the load current. The meters have a color coding for a passed or failed diagnosis. An ultraviolet leak detection lamp uses twelve LEDs to fool proof diagnosis. An automotive logic probe is a circuit tester used for vehicular voltage testing for power and grounding as well as computerized engine and body controls. This device can test 6, 12, and 24 volt systems. A greater impedance rating draws less current, thus being safe for delicate electronics such as microprocessors, electronic sensors, and electronic ignition systems. A/c diagnostic systems are versatile gadgets that run 20 tests simultaneously for various components such as the evaporator, condenser, compressor, clutch cycling switch, orifice tube, and hose. An intrinsic printer enables the output of diagnostic printouts. Battery testers normally test for defective alternators or diodes. Some of the tests carried out include battery load test, state of charge, and charging system test. Analog battery testers have an internal loading capacity of around 120 amps. Both flooded lead acid and absorbed glass mat batteries are tested with equal accuracy. Advanced battery algorithms help in sharper diagnosis. The QC mode is applicable for quality control testing and is eases record keeping of the battery inventory. Battery conductance testers can examine batteries without any need for charging prior to testing and the device works on the power of the battery itself. A code reader can analyze codes from OBD-1, OBD-2, and CAN vehicles. A clamp digital meter can measure AC/DC voltage up to 600 volts and AC/DC current up to 100 amps. It offers features such as one touch auto zero, resistance measurement, as well as peak and data hold function. A single battery charge allows around 50 hours of usage. An airbag simulator replaces the actual air bag, thus eliminating the possibility of the airbag opening during the diagnostic phase. The auto ranging digital multimeter offers around 41 tests including frequency and duty cycle testing, as well as capacitance and diode testing. This device has an auto power off feature and data hold and relative charge functions. The digital display may have a bar graph and a back light for visibility in darkness too. Some multimeters can be connected to a personal computer. A dual trace lab scope allows the user to test two signals simultaneously, with a split screen displaying both graphing DMM and scope patterns. The ignition troubleshooting feature provides a digital display of the firing kV, burn kV, and the burn time readings. A cylinder compression tester checks the pressure up to around 300 pounds per Square inch (PSI). A coolant and battery refractometer is used to check the freezing point of ethylene or propylene glycol based coolant systems. This tool is also applicable to check the power of electrolyte solution batteries. The working temperature ranges from around 32 degrees F to -60 degrees F. What to look for in a diagnostic tool Most diagnostic systems are designed to be compact and user-friendly. Digital meters are generally preferred to analog meters as they are more accurate and also easier to read. Some multimeters have a built-in beeper for continuity testing. Certain diagnostic tools have a wireless infrared printer. Sensitive diagnostic tools are covered in a rubber padding to protect the device in case of accidental drops. A single button can change the reading from RPM to true RMS to amperage. A recessed meter protects the tester from undue impacts. Battery system analyzers are occasionally fan cooled to prevent overheating. The life of the tester is increased with the incorporation of heavy duty contacts and a fine copper wire. Some reputed manufacturers of diagnostic tools include Associated Equipment, Assenmacher, AutoXray, Bright Solutions, Cal Van, Electronic Specialties, Ferret Instruments, Fluke, Grip, K-D Tools, Midtronics, Milton, OTC, Robinair, Solar, Sheffield Research, Tool Aid, Thexton, UView, and Waekon. Discuss this article on the forums. (0 posts)
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