Which breathalyzer is best for me?
It depends on the application. Please review our Comparison Chart and Selection Guide to determine which model is best for your personal or workplace needs.
What is the difference between a semi conductor sensor and a fuel cell sensor?
Semiconductor Sensors commonly use a tin-oxide substance and are more economical. They are commonly used in Alcohol Screening Devices. Fuel Cell sensors commonly use platinum metal and are higher cost. Also, they are more specific for ethyl alcohol and reduce false positives from substances such as ketones that are similar in chemical structure to alcohol. They are commonly used in evidential grade devices.
What is the difference between a screener, an evidential unit, and a workplace tester?
A screener is a unit that can screen individuals for the “presence” of alcohol. A screener is also commonly used for personal use. An evidential unit is a fuel cell sensor that is also used for screening purposes, but will generally be within +/- .005% BAC all the way up to .400%. A workplace tester is a unit that is a fuel cell unit that can do an air blank, print, and do confirmation tests. A workplace unit is used for companies/people who do alcohol testing on people for Random, Pre-Employment, Reasonable Suspicion, Post-Accident, Return to Duty, and Follow Up. For more information on workplace testing Click here.
How accurate are breath alcohol detectors (a/k/a breathalyzers)?
Every alcohol detector has a margin of error. However, it's safe to say that the greater the price, the greater the accuracy and specificity. For more information about the types of units available, compare our products in our Comparison Chart.
What are the requirements of a unit if I am conducting workplace testing?
The unit must be able to take an air blank, print, do confirmation tests and have portable equipment to do calibrations. A testing policy is also required. See our workplace testing page for more information. For more information on workplace testing Click here.
What model do I need to test my employees for the presence of alcohol?
If the testing is on safety sensitive employees, it is regulated by the DOT. The type of unit needed is a workplace tester such as the EV30 or Phoenix 6.0. If the testing is for NON-DOT testing, then the FC Series or the AlcoHAWK® series would meet your needs as a screener. See our workplace testing page for more information. For more information on workplace testing Click here.
What model(s) are used by law enforcement officials for preliminary screening devices?
An evidential unit is ideal for law enforcement officials throughout the U.S. The FC Series, SD-5, and AlcoSensor models are commonly used by police officers. In addition, several law enforcement officials are now using the AlcoHAWK®, including the new PT500, PT500P and PT750, as their preliminary screening device because the semiconductor technology is more affordable than fuel cell technology.
What are the ramifications if a breath alcohol tester has not obtained FDA 510(K) pre-marketing notification?
The Food and Drug Administration (FDA) classifies all breath alcohol testing devices as “medical devices” requiring “pre-marketing clearance” through the submission of a 510(k) Application. The 510(k) enables the FDA to determine if the device is “safe and effective” for over-the-counter use. Thus, before any breath alcohol tester can be commercially distributed and sold in the United States for personal use, FDA 510(k) pre-marketing notification clearance is necessary. The entire AlcoHAWK® Series is 510(k) pre-marketing notification cleared by the FDA.
Do alcohol detectors have to be calibrated?
Over time, all alcohol testers need to be recalibrated or have the sensor replaced. Calibration is a process where you program the internal software so that it can gauge specific BAC levels. If the sensor becomes saturated, then the results can become skewed. This is because the unit was originally calibrated when the sensor was unsaturated. This process is sort of like winding a clock. When the clock is first set it displays accurate time. However, over time the clock gradually drifts a few minutes, and eventually can be off by quite a bit if you do not occasionally reset the clock. When selecting an alcohol tester, it is imperative to select a unit that is capable of being calibrated. View a presentation explaining the calibration process.
Why does Q3 not offer replacement sensor modules in lieu of calibration?
Q3’s trained technicians perform a full diagnostic check on all aspects of the unit as part of the routine calibration process. Thus, the calibration process offered by Q3 is more than simple calibration. Q3 technicians test all aspects. Also, it is our opinion that a user will not know if the replacement module is accurate or out of calibration itself. Finally, the cost of the replacement module is more than the full diagnostic process that Q3 provides.
Is my blood alcohol concentration (BAC) the only factor in determining whether I can get a drunk driving charge?
No. Most states generally look for factors that reflect your impairment. BAC is a guideline approach used by police departments; however, you can receive a drunk driving or reckless driving charge even if your BAC is below the legal limit if you are impaired.
What is the advantage of a device that displays BAC readings to the thousandth decimal place (i.e., .000%) versus a device that displays BAC readings to the hundredth decimal place (i.e., .00%)?
Breath alcohol testers that offer BAC readings to the hundredth decimal place (i.e., .00%) often do so by rounding the digit that would otherwise appear in the thousandth decimal place. For instance, if a person’s blood alcohol content is .075%, then a device that displays readings to the hundredth decimal place (i.e., .00%) would round up the final digit and the device would display .08%. Similarly, if a person’s blood alcohol content is .084%, then a device that displays readings to the hundredth decimal place (i.e., 00%) would round down the final digital and the device would display .08%. Devices that offer readings to the thousandth decimal place (.000%) give the user the final “check digit” to remove the speculation of which way the device is rounding.
What is Sensor Recognition Technology?
Sensor Recognition Technology™ is a technology offered with all AlcoHAWKS® that monitors certain types of abnormal sensor conditions. If the unit detects certain abnormal conditions, a message will be displayed to warn the user that servicing is required.
What is an Electric Pressure Sensor?
This sensor ensures that the user exhales through the mouthpiece with the required force for five seconds. This is a vital function because only samples of air from the deep lung are proportionate to blood alcohol content. This important feature prevents an intentional short exhale which can affect accuracy.
AlcoHAWK® Breathalyzer Models
Slim
Precision
ABI
PRO
Elite
PT400
PT500
PT500P
PT750
What is the difference between all of the AlcoHAWK® models?
Please see our Comparison Chart to see the differences.
How accurate are the AlcoHAWKS®?
The AlcoHAWK® Series units test your breath sample after approximately five seconds for the “presence” of alcohol. The extended blowing time reduces the chance of getting a diluted breath sample of the upper respiratory tract. The AlcoHAWK® Series units meet the required standards set forth by the Department of Transportation (DOT) and National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) to be an approved breath alcohol screening device.
How should I clean my AlcoHAWK®?
Use of a mild disinfectant cleaner and a soft cloth on the outside of the case is recommended periodically to keep your unit clean. Do not use alcohol to clean the unit.
AlcoHAWK® Slim
What do the following error messages mean on the AlcoHAWK® Slim?
Lo |
This means “low battery”. It is time to replace the AA batteries. Use only alkaline batteries. |
SNR or PL |
The sensor is not ready for testing. This can occur if the test subject does not wait at least 20 minutes after smoking, eating, or drinking before using the unit, or if the unit has not been used for an extended period of time. Perform another test. |
rP |
Repeat the test because the unit did not detect and even alcohol concentration in the breath sample. This can occur if the user varies the blowing force when performing a test or if the exhaust port is obstructed. Perform another test. |
H |
The unit detected a very high alcohol concentration above 0.40%. |
AlcoHAWK® Precision
What are the differences between the AlcoHAWK® Elite and AlcoHAWK® Precision?
The AlcoHAWK® Elite offers three upgrades over the AlcoHAWK® Precision: 1) the elegant blue-lit LCD display; 2) the temperature check feature to display the temperature at the time of testing; and 3) dashes displayed on the LCD to signify progress of breath sample.
What do the following error messages mean on the AlcoHAWK® Precision?
SNR |
The sensor is not ready for testing. This can occur if the unit has not been used for several days and if the unit has not been primed. If the SNR message is displayed, press the Power ON/OFF button once to turn off the unit and repeat test. |
Sht |
The user had a short exhale time during the test, which likely means the user did not exhale steadily and continuously for at least 5 seconds. Perform another test. |
reP |
Repeat the test because the unit did not detect and even alcohol concentration in the breath sample. This can occur if the user varies the blowing force when performing a test or if the exhaust port is obstructed. Perform another test. |
H |
The unit detected a very high alcohol concentration above 0.40%. |
Err |
The sensor has been damaged and will need to be returned for servicing. If this error message occurs more than two consecutive times, please visit the support page to get information on getting your unit serviced. |
AlcoHAWK® ABI
What do the following error messages mean on the AlcoHAWK® ABI?
ErH |
The sensor has been exposed to pollutants or high alcohol levels and the unit requires servicing. Please visit the support page for information on getting the unit serviced. |
Hot |
This likely means that you've blown into the unit with an extremely high level of alcohol in your breath. This often occurs if you take a drink of alcohol and then immediately blow into the unit to see what your BAC level is. This saturates the sensor and can cause permanent damage. If you receive the "hot" message, then you have likely damaged the sensor. Do not use the unit for 15 minutes and let the sensor dry out. Perform another test without alcohol on your breath. If the unit still reads "hot", please visit the support page for information on servicing your unit. |
What is the difference between the ABI and the Pro?
The Pro has Flow Check Technology™ and a full kit configuration.
AlcoHAWK® Pro
What is Flow Check Technology™?
This is a technology that is offered with the Pro, Precision and Elite that monitors if a sufficient air volume is exhaled while testing.
What does it mean when I get a reading of "Hot" when using the AlcoHawk® Pro?
If you get a "hot" message when using the AlcoHAWK®, this likely means that you've blown into the unit with an extremely high level of alcohol in your breath. This often occurs if you take a drink of alcohol and then immediately blow into the unit to see what your BAC level is. This saturates the sensor and can cause permanent damage. If you receive the "hot" message, then you have likely damaged the sensor. Do not use the unit for 15 minutes and let the sensor dry out. Perform another test without alcohol on your breath. If the unit still reads "hot", please visit the support page for information on servicing your unit.
AlcoHAWK® Elite
What do the following error messages mean on the AlcoHAWK® Elite?
SNR or POL |
The sensor has been polluted. This can occur if the test subject does not wait at least 20 minutes after smoking, eating, or drinking before using the unit. If the POL message is displayed, press the Power ON/OFF button and repeat a new test. |
Sht |
The user had a short exhale time during the test, which likely means the user did not exhale steadily and continuously for at least 5 seconds. Perform another test. |
reP |
Repeat the test because the unit did not detect and even alcohol concentration in the breath sample. This can occur if the user varies the blowing force when performing a test or if the exhaust port is obstructed. Perform another test. |
H |
The unit detected a very high alcohol concentration above 0.40%. Please wait 15 minutes and perform another test. |
Why is the temperature-check feature in the AlcoHAWK® Elite useful?
All alcohol testers should be operated between 50 – 104 º F to ensure maximum results. If a breath alcohol test is performed in a temperature below 50 º F, the results of a breath alcohol testing device are often higher than the subject’s true BAC. If a breath alcohol test is performed in a temperature above 104 º F, the results of the breath alcohol testing device are often higher than the subject’s true BAC. The AlcoHAWK® Elite’s temperature-check feature displays the current temperature when the user first activates the Elite. If the temperature at the time of testing is below 50 º F, the Elite displays “Cool” on the LCD screen to warn the user that the temperature is below the optimal temperature testing range. If the temperature at the time of testing is above 104 º F, the Elite displays “Hot” on the LCD screen to warn the user that the temperature is above the optimal temperature testing range.
AlcoHAWK® PT400
What is the main difference between the AlcoHAWK® Slim, Precision, ABI, Pro and Elite units and the AlcoHAWK® PT400?
All of the AlcoHAWK PT series units, including the PT400, use PT Core™ Fuel-Cell Technology. The AlcoHAWK® Slim, Precision, ABI, Pro and Elite units use semi-conductor sensors. The AlcoHAWK® PT series units are a favorite for law enforcement, clinics, corrections, schools and other settings where professional alcohol testing is performed.
Why is the PT400 only available internationally?
Unlike the PT500, the PT400 does not have the DOT/NHTSA or FDA 510(k) clearances needed for mass distribution in the USA. The software for the PT400 fuel-cell is a lower cost option specifically designed for international customers with different regulation and testing protocols. The PT400 does not include the advanced pressure sensor technology that comes with the PT500.
Is it possible to get a reading on the PT400 when I do not even blow into the unit?
Yes, since the PT400 unit does not include a pressure sensor the unit will automatically take a reading after the 5 second blow time. It is imperative that the tester reads the manual and understands that they need to blow immediately when the “Blow Now” message is displayed on the unit to ensure a deep lung breath sample. Since the unit does not have a pressure sensor it is possible that the user could blow for 2 or 3 seconds or stop blowing at the end resulting in a skewed BAC reading.
What is Pressure Check Technology™ and why is it so important?
Pressure Check Technology™ ensures that the user blows with enough force to start a test and also ensures that they continue to blow through the unit throughout the entire test. This technology is important to ensure that a deep lung breath sample was obtained to allow for an accurate BAC reading. The PT500, PT500P and PT750 all feature the Pressure Check™ Technology.
Is the PT400 as accurate as the other fuel-cell units?
Yes, the PT400 is as accurate as the other fuel-cell units, ±.005 at .05% BAC, given that the user gives a deep lung breath sample when testing. The user will need to take a deep breath when the unit is initializing and immediately “Blow Now” when signaled by the unit.
What do the following error messages mean on the AlcoHAWK® PT400?
|
Low Battery. Install two (2) new AA alkaline batteries. |
"High" |
The unit will read “High” if the BAC is over the alarm point setting. The default setting is 0.020% BAC. |
AlcoHAWK® PT500
What is Advanced Pressure Check Technology™?
A sensor is placed in the unit to ensure that the user blows with enough force to start a test and ensures they continue to blow through the unit throughout the entire test. The AlcoHAWK® PT500, PT500P and PT750 all have Advanced Pressure Check Technology™.
What do the following error messages mean on the AlcoHAWK® PT500?
|
Low Battery. Install two (2) new AA alkaline batteries. |
"Insufficient Breath Sample" |
The user failed to provide a sufficient breath sample. Repeat test and have user blow firmly and steadily for the entire test. |
AlcoHAWK® PT500P
What is the difference between the AlcoHAWK® PT500 and the AlcoHAWK® PT500P?
The AlcoHAWK® PT500P has the same great features of the AlcoHAWK® PT500 plus it has wireless printing capabilities.
What do the following error messages mean on the AlcoHAWK® PT500P?
What do the following error messages mean on the AlcoHAWK® PT500P?
|
Low Battery. Install two (2) new AA alkaline batteries. |
"Insufficient Breath Sample" |
The user failed to provide a sufficient breath sample. Repeat test and have user blow firmly and steadily for the entire test. |
AlcoHAWK® PT750
What is the difference between the AlcoHAWK® PT750 and all other AlcoHAWK® units?
The AlcoHAWK® PT750 has PT Core Fuel-Cell Technology™ just like the other PT series units plus other features. The AlcoHAWK® PT750 is our most advanced unit with wireless printing capabilities, a rechargeable lithium battery, countdown timer, test memory, passive testing abilities, password protection and USB port connectivity.
What do the following error messages mean on the AlcoHAWK® PT750?
|
Low battery. Recharge the battery. |
"Air Blank Failure" |
The unit detected alcohol in the air capture system during its start-up cycle. Restart the unit. If the message repeats contact Q3 for assistance. |
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