Bench Test
Verifying that the unit works by connecting it to a supply on the bench before it is fitted to the vehicle. This removes the uncertainty of whether a problem appearing after installation comes from the device or from the installation. For the AXI LFT20 the manufacturer makes this test mandatory before installation.
On the LFT20 the test is described directly: the red wire is touched to the positive post of the battery and the black wire to the negative; you visually confirm that the motor moves forwards and backwards and that the switch behaves as expected. Because there is no control board, processor or sensor inside the kit, the behaviour is direct and predictable.
- Why it matters: doing the same verification after installation is complete is far more laborious; the box has to be removed and the cables pulled back.
- How it is done: the unit is tested while it sits fixed and unloaded, so that it does not touch moving parts.
- Polarity: positive and negative must be verified before connecting; remember that reverse polarity protection is not present on every product.
The same approach is useful on products with a control board: some settings such as pairing, direction and travel range are much easier to make while the unit is accessible. The general rule is to see the device working correctly on its own before taking the vehicle apart.
The context where this term is used: Converting a tractor hydraulic lever to electronic control