Screwy AAA Battery

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  • Thread starter Thread starter Roy Long
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SUMMARY

The discussion centers on an Energizer AAA alkaline battery that initially measured 3024 millivolts on an IDeal 61-340 multimeter, raising questions about the accuracy of the reading. Participants suggested checking for AC versus DC readings and the possibility of a faulty internal connection. Ultimately, the issue was resolved by adjusting the meter settings, revealing the correct voltage of 302.4 millivolts DC, leading to the conclusion that the battery was defective and should be recycled.

PREREQUISITES
  • Understanding of multimeter functions, specifically autoranging and manual range settings.
  • Knowledge of DC voltage measurement techniques.
  • Familiarity with battery types and their expected voltage outputs.
  • Basic troubleshooting skills for electrical components.
NEXT STEPS
  • Research how to properly use an IDeal 61-340 multimeter for accurate voltage readings.
  • Learn about the differences between AC and DC voltage measurements.
  • Investigate common battery failure modes and how to identify them.
  • Explore recycling options for alkaline batteries and their environmental impact.
USEFUL FOR

This discussion is beneficial for electronics enthusiasts, hobbyists working with batteries, and anyone interested in troubleshooting electrical measurement issues.

Roy Long
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I have an oddball single AAA 1 1/2-volt Energizer alkaline battery that measures 3024 millivolts on my multimeter. (The decimal for some reason isn't there)
I have checked other triple A batteries, and they read normal around 1.5 volt.
Question please: Why would it do that?
Thank you.
Roy Long
 
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Welcome to PF.

Is it maybe an AC reading instead of DC? It sounds like you meter is autoranging? I don't know what could cause an AAA alkaline battery to generate an AC voltage -- maybe a bad/intermittant internal connection?
 
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berkeman said:
Welcome to PF.

Is it maybe an AC reading instead of DC? It sounds like you meter is autoranging? I don't know what could cause an AAA alkaline battery to generate an AC voltage -- maybe a bad/intermittant internal connection?
Thank you. I've checked those things. Internal problems would show up on other batteries I checked for reference I would think.
 
So it is reading 3024mVdc? What if you take the meter off of autorange and force a DC and then an AC range? What meter is it?
 
Ok. I'll try that. Yes. it is mVdc.
It's an IDeal 61-340 meter. (Old I know)
OK. Problem solved. I rearranged it and it's reading 302.4 millivolts DC.
That was it.
Thank you!
 
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Ah, okay, that makes more sense. That battery goes in the Recycle Pile! :smile:
 
Yes. Thank you!
 
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