It seems that I have to explain this every time Voltwatch2 comes in during these discussions.

First of all, the voltwatch is not a replacement for a good LOADED voltmeter. Everyone should have a decent ESV in their flight box.

Second, the voltwatch, by design, IS a loaded voltmeter. It is in the circuit when everything on the plane is powered up. By that definition, it is measuring the load on the battery during operation and gives you an instantaneous indication of battery load.

Put one in, turn everything on, and wiggle the sticks. The LED's will flicker "down" to show what the load is during those stick movements. If it goes to the red any time, well, it is showing a couple of possible conditions.... a weak or discharged battery, a bind in the linkage, or the control surface.

It is a healthy way to monitor battery conditions immediately before and after each flight.