Battery diagnostics
Validating electrical energies
A new standard for measuring the energy a battery can actually deliver.
The Spectro CM-12 uses Multi-Model Electrochemical Impedance Spectroscopy to classify capacity and assess cold-cranking performance and state of charge in about 30 seconds. Each result is validated against a battery matrix to support a clear service decision.
30 sec
Typical test time
27.5–300 Ah
Supported capacity
3–12 V
Standard test range
300–1,250 A
CCA test range
The leading health indicator
Capacity reveals what a cranking test can miss.
A battery may still deliver strong cold-cranking amps while its usable energy has already faded. In a Johnson Controls analysis of 800 AGM starter batteries, 48% became unusable due to low capacity, compared with 12% due to low CCA.
Reading capacity and CCA together gives service teams a more complete view of battery condition and helps identify batteries that are likely to fall short before the next service interval.
48%
Failures linked to capacity fade
12%
Failures linked to low CCA
Source: Johnson Controls Power Solutions EMEA, AABC Europe 2017, Mainz, Germany.
From measurement to action
Validate the battery against the work it must perform.
A matrix turns a complex electrochemical response into an application-specific service threshold.
01
Measure
Scan the battery non-invasively across multiple frequencies to classify capacity and assess CCA, state of charge, resistance, and anomalies.
02
Validate
Compare the response with a matrix built from same-type batteries at known performance levels.
03
Decide
Apply the selected MORE threshold and return a practical pass, service, or replacement decision.
Fleet-ready diagnostics
Test before a weak battery disrupts the route.
For truck starter batteries, a capacity threshold is commonly set near 50%. A passing result supports continued service; a failing result calls for replacement even when cranking performance still appears strong.
- Open battery test platformDownload model-specific matrices for different vehicles, equipment, marine systems, and battery chemistries.
- QR-enabled historyAssociate batteries with historical readings, vehicle records, and work orders.
- Non-invasive testingAssess batteries in service without the heat and downtime of a full discharge test.
Connected records
Turn individual tests into fleet intelligence.
The tester connects to a host by Bluetooth and can optionally share results through CadexCloud over Wi-Fi. Local and cloud workflows can retain battery status, charge level, resistance, temperature, VIN records, and work orders.
Shared records give technicians, fleet supervisors, and owners a consistent view of battery condition across vehicles and service locations.
Battery aging trend
Capacity fades while cranking power can remain in range.
The plotted test population shows many batteries retaining acceptable CCA as capacity declines. A CCA-only test can therefore overlook batteries that have enough instantaneous power but insufficient energy for dependable operation.
Multi-Model EIS is especially useful for larger batteries because it classifies capacity without requiring a lengthy discharge test.
Spectro CM-12
Test capabilities at a glance
Measurement
Capacity, CCA, state of charge, resistance, temperature, and battery anomalies using Multi-Model EIS.
Frequency and timing
Typical 30-second scan from 2,000 Hz to 4 Hz; lower-frequency configurations are available.
Battery range
3–12 V standard, 24 V on request; 35–300 Ah; 300–1,250 A CCA.
Battery support
Starter and deep-cycle batteries in lead-acid and lithium-based chemistries, subject to matrix availability.
Power and connections
Internal lithium-ion battery for approximately 250 tests, Bluetooth host connection, Wi-Fi cloud connection, and USB-C charging.
Physical and compliance
182 × 96 × 47 mm; 430 g net; IP52. Designed for applicable CSA, UL, CE, RoHS, REACH, RED, WEEE, ISTA 3A, and FCC Type A requirements.
Put battery evidence to work
Choose a diagnostic threshold that fits the application.
Explore Spectro Modular or talk with Cadex about matrices, fleet workflows, and battery-specific requirements.