Testing batteries

Hi,

Can I test AAA, AA, C, etc. batteries to see if they're good, like car batteries. Check the voltage and get for instance, 12.8v(100%), 12.5v(50%), 11.8v(10%) If so, do I put a load on it while testing? Like a light bulb.

Thanks.

Thanks. Specifications like this:

I didn't see anything in those links to help you. You need to know the load that the manufacturer wants for the load test and the voltage curve that will result. You could put 100 Ohms or so across your meter leads and see if the battery drops much below the rated voltage, with some practice you will develop a sense of when your batteries are starting to fail. This is crude but not much worse than the cheap testers like this one

Curiosity is good. You should do whatever it takes to satisfy it. But, the only load that makes sense in testing batteries is the load that you are gonna apply. Batteries destined for a digital camera need to be tested at high load. But that would give pessimistic readings if you were gonna use the batteries in a clock.

For a quick check, Stick 'em in a flashlight and see how dim it is.

Used to be able to buy batteries with a built-in tester. Peel that off and use it. Can't find any in my battery box. Not sure they make 'em any more. Expect that function cost way more than people were willing to pay. mike