As an avid car enthusiast with a Bentley Continental GT Speed, I understand the importance of maintaining a reliable battery. That’s why I decided to try out the ANCEL BA101 professional battery tester. Here’s my in-depth review of this product.
Design and Build Quality
Upon unboxing, the ANCEL BA101 impresses with its compact and sturdy design. Weighing just 350 grams, it’s lightweight yet feels robust. The red colour gives it a professional look, and the 3.0-foot cable is thick and flexible, instilling confidence about its durability.
Features and Performance
The BA101 is not your average battery tester. It’s equipped with a wide testing range of 100-2000 CCA, promising 99.6% accuracy, which is more extensive and precise than many of its competitors. The device adheres to various standards including JIS, EN, DIN, SAE, and more, ensuring it’s compatible with a broad range of vehicles.
What sets the BA101 apart is its ability to test multiple aspects of your vehicle’s electrical system. Not only does it provide detailed information about your battery’s voltage, charge, and starting power, but it also assesses the alternator’s charging and the starter’s cranking conditions. The additional checks on the vehicle’s charging system, such as load voltage and ripple status, are incredibly useful.
Ease of Use
The BA101 features a large LCD display with white backlighting and adjustable contrast, making the test results easy to read even in low light. The interface is user-friendly, with straightforward buttons to navigate through the menu. I didn’t need any internal batteries, as it draws power directly from the 12V battery, which is a convenient feature.
Safety and Reliability
Safety is a priority with the BA101. It comes with built-in protection against reverse polarity and overload, which gives peace of mind, especially for those who are not professional mechanics. The device’s compliance with multiple industry standards further attests to its reliability.
Transferring and Printing Data
One of the smart features of the BA101 is the ability to transfer and print test data. Although it requires downloading drivers and using a data cable, the process is straightforward. This feature is particularly useful for keeping records or sharing information with your mechanic.
Price and Value
Priced at £64.99, the BA101 offers incredible value for its features and performance. The fact that it can accurately assess various components of your vehicle’s electrical system, coupled with its user-friendly design and safety features, makes it a worthwhile investment for any car owner.
Conclusion
After testing the ANCEL BA101 on my Bentley Continental GT Speed, I’m thoroughly impressed. Its comprehensive testing capabilities, high accuracy, ease of use, and safety features make it an essential tool for car owners. Whether you’re a professional mechanic or a car enthusiast, the BA101 is designed to help you keep your vehicle running smoothly. It’s a small price to pay for peace of mind and avoiding the inconvenience of sudden battery failures.
