What Is Calibration?

Over time, all breath alcohol detectors may need to be recalibrated. Calibration is a process of adjusting the internal software so that the device can gauge specific blood alcohol concentration (BAC) levels. If the sensor becomes saturated, then the results of the device can become skewed. This is due to the fact that the manufacturer originally calibrated the device at a time when the sensor was unsaturated. The calibration process is similar to winding a clock. When the clock is first set it displays the accurate time. However, over time the clock can gradually drift a few minutes, and eventually can be off by a reasonable amount if you do not occasionally reset the clock. View a presentation explaining the calibration process.

When a unit is received for calibration the following items are evaluated: Battery Cover, Battery Wire/Connection, Display, Operation Buttons, Audio Alerts, Mouthpiece Inlet/Outlet, and Calibration. After calibration of the unit has been completed the accuracy is verified with a 2-point accuracy check and a Full Diagnostic Summary (pictured) is included with your unit, ensuring that it has been thoroughly inspected and returned to you in working order.

Calibration Frequency

All digital breath alcohol detectors offered from Q3 Innovations (Q3) come pre-calibrated, but it is recommended that you have a breath alcohol detector verified for accuracy every 1-12 months, depending on frequency of use. If you are using the breath alcohol detector multiple times daily, it is suggested to have the device calibrated at least monthly. If you do not use the breath alcohol detector daily but still use it several times a month, then it is suggested to have it verified at least every 6 months. If you use the alcohol detection only on rare occasions, then you should have it calibrated at least yearly. Calibration helps ensure that your device is operating correctly, and is an inexpensive way to greatly increase the useful life of your breath alcohol detector.

What Is the Cost of the Calibration Service?

The cost of a calibration service is $19.99 per calibration for the Slim, Slim 2, Precision, and Elite models; $24.99 per calibration for the ABI and PRO models; and $29.99 per calibration for the PT500, and PT750 models. This price includes Q3’s return cost of ground shipping within the continental United States. Looking to save on future calibrations? Check out our calibration service plans.

What Are The Procedures to Have My Breath Alcohol Detector Calibrated?

1. Print and complete the Calibration Order Form: Download now or Download now

2. Ship the unit (postage prepaid) to the following address:

Q3 Innovations
Attn: Service Center
2349 Jamestown Ave., Suite #4
Independence, IA 50644

To ensure delivery and tracking of your unit, we strongly recommend that you use obtain delivery confirmation with the shipment.

3. Enclose payment (payable to Q3 Innovations), and note that the unit needs to be recalibrated. Include your return shipping address.

4. A Q3 service technician will calibrate the unit.

5. Your product will be verified, recalibrated and shipped out within 5 business days.

For customers located in Canada, please contact our Canada Calibration Service Center for procedures on having an AlcoHAWK calibrated in Canada:
 
Alcowise
1003 Guildwood Blvd.
London, Ontario
Canada N6H 5G4
Tel: 226-663-6343

Frequently Asked Questions

Q. Can I recalibrate a breath alcohol detector myself?
R. No. Recalibration requires the use of advanced breath alcohol simulators to correctly perform recalibration.

Q. Which breath alcohol detectors can Q3 calibrate?
R. Q3 can calibrate all AlcoHAWK®Series and the FC Series breath alcohol testers.

Q. If I did not purchase a breath alcohol detector directly from Q3, can I have Q3 recalibrate my device?
R. Yes. Simply follow the procedures described above.

Q. Is recalibration included in the warranty?
R. No. The warranty is limited to any defects with the unit, and does not include routine maintenance such as recalibration