Troubleshooting short circuits with the pulsar, Bench testing with the pulsar – IPA Tools 9000 Pulsar Standard Kit User Manual

Page 14

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NOTE: Latching is a common term used to describe a vehicle’s
computer system turning on and staying on for extended periods
of time when a car is at rest. Latching can lead to parasitic draw
and drained batteries.

m. When testing is complete, follow reverse instructions from

section “i” back to prevent memory loss to the vehicle’s
computer system. Be sure to reapply memory savers and other
protective devices.

n. To find and repair the problem in a specific circuit, follow

standard procedures for reconnecting the battery. Connect the
PULSAR

directly into the problematic circuit by using the

appropriate adapter and begin troubleshooting.

NOTE: If excessive current draw is not found, there still may be a
problem with a momentary computer check. This may occur
during the time the car is at rest. To be sure this is not the
problem the PULSAR

can be left connected for an extended

period of time on “Peak

Hold”. Return to the car later to verify the

maximum amperage drawn.

15. TROUBLESHOOTING SHORT CIRCUITS WITH

THE PULSAR

:

The PULSAR

allows you to safely send current into a circuit at a limit of

your choice while viewing the current draw. The versatility of the
Pulsar’s adjustable current limiter lets you set a desired amperage rating
while chasing down steady or intermittent overload and short conditions
(1 - 50 Amps).

a. Select Automatic Mode or Manual Mode. (See Sections 4 & 5)

b. Select the proper adapter and connect in line with the fuse box or

circuit.

c. Dial in the desired Amp Limit, up to 50 amps.

d. Engage the PULSAR

and observe current draw. In Automatic

mode, you are free to move about the vehicle, shake testing
wiring harnesses and exploring the circuit for the source of
intermittent shorts or overloads. While you are looking for
problems, the internal computer of the PULSAR

continually

monitors the circuit for an overloaded or short circuit condition. If
a short exists, the PULSAR

turns off the circuit in 0.05 seconds

and enters PULS mode (See section 11). Once the source of the
overload is removed, the PULSAR

resumes supplying constant

power. While troubleshooting, this allows you to repeatedly
investigate the cause of a short circuit until you locate the source
of the problem.

16. BENCH TESTING WITH THE PULSAR

:

Bench testing is a common practice where an electrical component is isolated
from the rest of the circuit and tested for proper operation. The most common
examples are light bulbs, horns, fans and electric motors. The PULSAR

allows

you to safely send power to this equipment, either manually or automatically,
while viewing current draw.

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