The slow-boat has birthed and produced more goodies, one of which I had high hopes for (VAC8010F-80V if anyone wants to look it up) but disappointed me right out of the box. The display screen is scratched and they've skimped on component population, first noticed by lack of temperature readout and different measuring input terminals than shown in the pics/instructions (of which I had to get off the web), ergo one less pre-made connector with lead they need to supply.
Admittedly, I lack relevant testing experience and equipment making me overly cautious not to release magic smoke from this kit but in testing so far, can't seem to get it to work as expected in "self-powered" mode, indicating the measuring device has to be powered by an external source for full functionality?
I also failed to get it to read ~0.5A draw through the hall sensor though it does give a seemingly accurate read on heavier loads - until the load's jumper wire failed making me initially think I'd cooked my power supply
If the power isolation instruction is crucial to either safety or accuracy of this device, I'm not sure it will be of any use in this project, which is a pity as it boasts some very useful features I'm still exploring. Is there a way to isolate two power feeds off the same source?
So the idea I could better gauge cranking power requirements with this device has somewhat evaporated (though I admit I still can't get my head round the voltage drop part of the equation anyway!). It's a pity as the LifePo>jump lead adapter should be arriving anytime soon.