On the routine check, visual and the float voltage readings of the battery are being taken. The float reading only indicates the battery state of charge where the visual check ensure the physical battery condition like container crack, terminals corrosion, burning marks and etc.

The more important data and questions are :

1.	Is the battery bank ready to support the critical load when power failure occurred?
2.	Could the battery bank capacity be verified?
3.	What are the battery capacity and the supporting time?
4.	Can the service determine the faulty or deteriorate battery prior to the next power outrage?
5.	Could the service preamp the customer on the battery operating life?

The answers for all the above is no on normal routine service and are valid question to ensure the smooth operation of a critical 24x7 operation.

The benefits of a battery monitoring system are:

1.	It is on-line real-time and continuously monitor the float voltage, charging/discharging status, current and operating temperature etc. Providing accurate and automatic capturing of data and report generation. This will provide documentary evidence on the life of each battery.
2.	Trending capability allows abnormal voltage deviations and gradual change overtime to be identified.
3.	It provides event log of all activities affecting the battery bank.
4.	It provides 24/7 alarm notification when operating parameters are exceeded. Alarm conditions will activate relay output and/or dial out modem.
5.	It can generate battery capacity report on each individual battery immediately after a discharge test.
6.	Recording and analysis of data allows remedial action for individual cell to extend battery life.
7.	Purchase batteries through planned schedules, not emergency replacement.
8.	Save time through allowing: a. Remote retrieval of data and save traveling time. It has remote access capabilities via – modem, building management system or TCP/IP. b. Monitor more batteries, more frequently with less manpower. c. Reduction in manpower requirement in the event of a discharge test.
9.	User Friendly Graphical interface allow the user to access to important data of each battery anytime easily. a. Operating Mode – Floating, Discharging, Charging b. Individual battery voltage c. String voltage, current and capacity d. Operating temperature e. Actual Load Information f. Full Discharge/Recharge curve
10.	Generation of various reports a. Discharge report detailing current, voltage and start and end time (duration) b. Life prediction report