Abstract: A user interface for a software-driven system includes a switch selectable between a plurality of discrete positions, a database of functions performable by an execution unit within the system, and software configured to correlate positions of the switch with functions within the database. Indicia may be provided at the various discrete positions identifying the functions corresponding to these positions. By placing the switch in a particular discrete position, the user can select a function from the database. The indicia may be interchangeable, and the database and software upgradeable, such that additional or different functions may be selected via the user interface without resort to substantial hardware upgrades. A display and optical indicators may provide system state information to the user. A software-driven battery charging/testing system includes means for executing battery-related functions, means for storing a database of battery-related functions, and means for selecting from the database.

Abstract: A battery testing/charging system includes an execution unit, such as a battery tester/charger, a receptacle configured to receive an external booster pack, and an outlet configured to power the booster pack when the booster pack is connected to the outlet. The receptacle removably receives the booster pack, such that the booster pack can be removed and separately carried when the execution unit is not required. The receptacle may be integrated with the execution unit. Alternatively, the execution unit may be mounted on a cart, and the receptacle integrated with the cart. The cart may also include an accessory storage tray and an output device bracket. The execution unit may receive partial or total power from the booster pack.

Abstract: A remote-controlled battery charging/testing system includes an execution unit capable of performing at least one battery-related function and a control panel remotely connected to and in operable communication with the execution unit. Communication may be wired or wireless. The control panel is installed in an ergonomically-suitable position such that the user does not need to bend or stoop to provide input to the battery charging/testing system. Both the execution unit and the control panel may be cart-mounted for portability and mobility. In cart-mounted configurations, the control panel is adjustable to maintain an ergonomically-suitable position. In free-standing configurations, the execution unit may be installed so as to be conveniently located yet unobtrusive, with the control panel installed in an ergonomically-suitable, accessible position.

Abstract: An alternator and starter tester system having a starter current zero test. The current is measured before and after a solenoid of a starter motor is energized and deenergized to determine if the starter motor should be failed. This allows the operator to quickly determine if the starter motor is stuck on during normal starter motor testing.

Abstract: An apparatus for holding a starter motor for testing has a base, a first pad mounted to the base that provides a support rest to a first side of the starter motor, a ratcheting arm having a second pad for contacting a second, opposite side of the starter motor, and a pivotal ratchet assembly to grip the starter motor between the two pads.

Abstract: An alternator and starter tester system is provided that includes a protective hood or cover, a controller connecting an LCD touch-screen, an alternator main harness connector, a starter harness self-test connector, a barcode connector, USB host and USB function connectors, an Ethernet connector, and a compact flash connector. A multiplexer is also provided to reduce the number of connectors required for various alternators that have the same type of connections but have signals on different pins.

Abstract: An apparatus for testing an alternator has a base, a motor mounted to the base and a pulley extending from the motor. A belt is connected to the motor pulley and the alternator. A mount mounts the alternator to the base, and a pivoting idler arm pivotally is mounted with respect to the base and has an idler pulley that engages the belt to apply tension to the belt.

Abstract: An apparatus and method for testing vehicle motor rotary accessory devices has a base and a housing assembly connected to the base. A mounting component is attached to the base. The apparatus includes a door cover which is rotatably attached to a side of the housing assembly and the mounting component. A switch assembly is mounted to the mounting component and positioned to contact a portion of the door cover when the door cover is rotated to a prescribed position.

Abstract: An apparatus for supporting an alternator for testing has a base, a turret having a socket defined therein, and a holding pin having two ends with a head at one end adapted to be inserted into the socket and retained therein. An elongated extension portion extends from the turret when the head is inserted in the socket, and engages with a portion of the alternator.

Abstract: An apparatus for holding a starter motor for testing has a base, a first pad mounted to the base that provides a support rest to a first side of the starter motor, a ratcheting arm having a second pad for contacting a second, opposite side of the starter motor, and a pivotal ratchet assembly to grip the starter motor between the two pads.

Abstract: An alternator and starter tester system is provided that includes a protective hood or cover, a controller connecting an LCD touch-screen, an alternator main harness connector, a starter harness self-test connector, a barcode connector, USB host and USB function connectors, an Ethernet connector, and a compact flash connector. A multiplexer is also provided to reduce the number of connectors required for various alternators that have the same type of connections but have signals on different pins.

Abstract: An method and apparatus testing an alternator and/or starter assembly including a power source for energizing the alternator and/or starter, a computer processor for monitoring electrical current supplied to energize the alternator and/or starter wherein the computer processor also monitors electrical voltage across the alternator. The invention also includes a first switch coupled to the computer processor which is enabled if excess current is required to energize the alternator; a second switch coupled to the computer processor which is enabled to place a heavy load on an output of the alternator if the voltage exceeds a maximum limit; a third switch coupled to the computer processor which is enabled if the current supplied to energize the starter exceeds a maximum limit.

Abstract: An apparatus and method for testing vehicle motor rotary accessory devices has a base and a housing assembly connected to the base. A mounting component is attached to the base. The apparatus includes a door cover which is rotatably attached to a side of the housing assembly and the mounting component. A switch assembly is mounted to the mounting component and positioned to contact a portion of the door cover when the door cover is rotated to a prescribed position.

Abstract: An apparatus for supporting an alternator for testing has a base, a turret having a socket defined therein, and a holding pin having two ends with a head at one end adapted to be inserted into the socket and retained therein. An elongated extension portion extends from the turret when the head is inserted in the socket, and engages with a portion of the alternator.

Abstract: An apparatus for testing an alternator has a base, a motor mounted to the base and a pulley extending from the motor. A belt is connected to the motor pulley and the alternator. A mount mounts the alternator to the base, and a pivoting idler arm pivotally is mounted with respect to the base and has an idler pulley that engages the belt to apply tension to the belt.

Abstract: An apparatus for holding a starter motor for testing has a base, a first pad mounted to the base that provides a support rest to a first side of the starter motor, a ratcheting arm having a second pad for contacting a second, opposite side of the starter motor, and a pivotal ratchet assembly to grip the starter motor between the two pads.

Abstract: A method and apparatus for data and command input and display in a battery charger and/or tester includes an alphanumeric keypad and alphanumeric display, as well as menu display and menu selection keys.

Abstract: An apparatus and method that allows information about the product to be transferred to the testing device so that the pertinent tests can be run. After the product is tested and repaired, updated information can be encoded onto the medium and the medium can be stored with the product for later retrieval.

Abstract: A method and apparatus for data and command input and display in a battery charger and/or tester includes an alphanumeric keypad and alphanumeric display, as well as menu display and menu selection keys.