Electrical Test Equipment History
Multimeters, lab scopes, test lights and network diagnostics in automotive use.
Why did battery registration become necessary?
Short answer: Some modern vehicles adjust charging strategy based on battery age and type.
Some modern vehicles adjust charging strategy based on battery age and type. Battery registration with a scan tool became necessary after replacement on these vehicles.
How did start-stop systems change electrical service?
Short answer: Start-stop systems shut off the engine at stops.
Start-stop systems shut off the engine at stops. They required stronger batteries such as AGM and added diagnostic considerations for battery and charging systems.
How did automotive lighting change electrical service?
Short answer: Lighting evolved from incandescent bulbs to halogen, HID and LED.
Lighting evolved from incandescent bulbs to halogen, HID and LED. Each change required new diagnostic and replacement procedures.
How did power windows and locks change electrical diagnosis?
Short answer: Power windows and locks added motors, switches and later modules.
Power windows and locks added motors, switches and later modules. Technicians needed electrical testing skills to diagnose these systems.
Why did body control modules change electrical testing?
Short answer: Body control modules centralized control of lighting and accessories.
Body control modules centralized control of lighting and accessories. Technicians began using scan tools as well as meters to diagnose these circuits.
How did high-voltage systems change electrical safety?
Short answer: Hybrid and electric vehicles introduced high-voltage systems.
Hybrid and electric vehicles introduced high-voltage systems. Shops adopted insulated tools, PPE and procedures to work safely.
General guidance only. Follow the vehicle and tool manufacturer's procedures, and confirm vehicle coverage on the tool maker's list before buying.