Hello, new to the forums, only had the Pico scope a month.
I have a Volvo which is reading a charging voltage of 15.6v, the battery test on the picoscope says the battery is ok but needs charging.
On closer inspection of the battery the cells are bone dry, and there is clear evidence of foaming and over spill from the caps.
Id like to know whether the voltage regulator is located on the alternator as part of the unit or controlled buy a computer somewhere else.
also is the high charge rate normal for a modern car like this,(2012 Volvo V40 D2) the condition of the battery say to me that it isn't.
so the alternator could be at fault charging at such a high rate or if this is normal the battery is incorrect for this vehicle.
Voltage regulator is inside alternator but voltage is controlled by control module via LIN connection. Charge voltage is calculated by battery voltage (calculated by outside temperature).
Remove the LIN wire connector from alternator and check voltage then. If voltage is still high then you have faulty alternator (voltage regulator).
Maximum allowed voltage is 15.0V at temperatures +10C to -30C. Check that you have correct temperature displayed in instrument panel. And voltage measurement is done in CEM (Central Electrical Module) so if there is voltage drop then regulation is incorrect.