EXCESS RIPPLE DETECTED
One or more diodes in the alternator are not functioning or there is stator
damage, which is shown by an excessive amount of AC or ripple current
supplied to the battery. Check to ensure the alternator mounting is sturdy
and that the belts are in good shape and functioning properly. If the
mounting and belts are good, replace the alternator.
An alternator is designed to create the electrical energy necessary to
charge the battery and provide for the vehicle’s electrical system load.
Since the alternator creates AC, (alternating current), it must be rectified
into DC, (direct current), to charge the battery and supply power to the
rest of the system. To accomplish this, the alternator uses diodes which
allow current flow in only one direction, changing AC current to DC
current. When one or more of the diodes fail, the AC ripple current from
the alternator to the battery will exceed normally acceptable limits.
•
10
•
VOLTMETER
The Micro500 can also function as a voltmeter. The operating range of
the voltmeter is 0 through 30 Vdc.
IMPORTANT:
If the Micro500 is connected above 30 Vdc, the circuit
board may be damaged.
To use the voltmeter function, press the
PRINT/VIEW
button. Then use
the blue arrow buttons to scroll to the appropriate selection, then press
the enter button to make the selection.
Use the red and black clamps as probes. The analyzer cannot detect
negative voltage. If the analyzer is connected in reverse polarity, the
analyzer will shut off.
To turn off the voltmeter, disconnect the analyzer and press the
PRINT/
VIEW
button. The analyzer will automatically shut off if 0 Vdc is detected
for 1 minute.