Incorrect infrared temp reading

IR temperature readings can vary depending on the distance to the target and the reflectivity of the surface. For example, when testing heated seats, we put masking tape on the seat then measure the temperature of the tape. This eliminates differences in surface reflectivity. Here's an interesting paper on the subject. Regarding battery temperatures, maybe it's a difference between a shiny…

Thanks for the link Benjamin. Very interesting.

How out to lunch are we talking here? tens of degress or hundreds. I too would recommend some test spots on some other items to see if your readings are actually because of reflectivity or something. Using tape or dusting it with foot powder or baby powder is a good way to get some of that shine off and get a better reading. The shine can pick up temperatures that are behind you even so a hot…

Thanks team, I never did take that into consideration. Let me run a few examples and get back to u all. I will use my handheld infrared thermometer as a comparison.

I tired testing with and with out the infrared temp reading several years ago on a few dozen vehicles. with the batteries at various temperatures. The test results always came back the same, with and with out a temp reading. I stopped using that function altogether….

On the Toyota/Lexus tester, requires the temp reading, though. Scan my hand?

This is my first use for the day.

Yeah, that's a pretty wild discrepancy. Apologies, I assumed you were talking just a few degrees difference.

Ben- try it. See if it changes your results.

Interesting. Cooler, the battery tester calculates a lower CCA on the same battery within a couple of minutes. 84°F (the back of my hand) vs 101°F (the battery) both hot off a test drive.

I will have to reach out to Midronics technical support. BTW Benjamin, what is the tool or software being displayed in your response ??

Midtronics DSS-5000

Hmmmm Nice !!