Circuit provides constant-current load for testing batteries

Suppose that you need to test a 1.5V, AA-size alkaline battery. You can apply a short circuit and measure current, or you can measure open-circuit voltage, but neither method properly tests the battery. A suitable test current of approximately 250 mA gives you a more reasonable test. You can use a 6Ω resistive load at 1.5V, which produces an output voltage of 1.46V at an ambient temperature of 25°C if the battery is in excellent condition. A poor battery might produce less than 1.2V. Given the load, the output current at 1.2V will be 200 mA instead of 250 mA. The battery will have just 80% of a full load current. Instead, you can use the circuit in Figure 1 to produce a constant-current load.

Circuit provides constant-current load for testing batteries

The circuit uses a 9V battery and a voltage regulator to produce a steady power-supply voltage of 5V. From that voltage, the circuit produces a constant sink current, which is independent of the battery’s output voltage, using IC1, IC2, and Q3. Your choice of current depends on battery size. You calculate the sink current of this circuit as ITEST=1/R19×[VCC×R18/(R4+R18)], where ITEST is the current you are testing and VCC is the voltage of resistive divider R4 and R18. The voltage across R19 should range from 0.3 to 0.85V for AAA and AA batteries. Transistor Q3 should be in its active region. Resistor R14 limits Q3’s base current to a safe level.

A suitable choice for the operational amplifier, IC2, is also important. You should use a single-supply op amp with a rail-to-rail input and a rail-to-rail output, such as Analog Devices’ OP484ES or OP496GS.

When you connect the battery under test, Q2 turns on, which then turns on Q1, applying voltage from the 9V battery to the regulator. That action lights D3, indicating that the battery under test has enough voltage to be tested. LEDs D4, D5, and D6 indicate the battery’s condition. Table 1 shows the voltage ranges necessary for these LEDs to light.

For More Details:Circuit provides constant-current load for testing batteries


About The Author

Ibrar Ayyub

I am an experienced technical writer holding a Master's degree in computer science from BZU Multan, Pakistan University. With a background spanning various industries, particularly in home automation and engineering, I have honed my skills in crafting clear and concise content. Proficient in leveraging infographics and diagrams, I strive to simplify complex concepts for readers. My strength lies in thorough research and presenting information in a structured and logical format.

Follow Us:
LinkedinTwitter

Leave a Comment

Your email address will not be published. Required fields are marked *

Scroll to Top