FREQUENT QUESTIONS ARTICLES FREQUENT QUESTIONS Breathalyzer specification Breathalyzers are complex devices (except for gadgets and toys) made of carefully selected and specially designed components: computer flow meter alcohol sensor databases of reference measurements software designed specifically for the sensor model mechanical air treatment system power system Therefore, they should not be treated as toy gadgets, but precise measuring devices. As such, they have their own restrictions on use, because through ineasonable use / storage they can relatively easily be so-called decayed or even damaged. Why does a breathalyzer need to be calibrated? ABSOLUTELY EVERY breathalyzer under the influence of many factors decalibrates and after some time does not indicate correctly. Depending on the class of the device and how it is stored and used, it may take place a year after the purchase or even shortly after the first use of the breathalyzer (you can read about factors that drastically reduce the lifetime of the breathalyzers in the next section). Okay, but where does the need for regular calibration come from? With the passage of time, the sensor made of noble alloys (semiconductor – gold / electrochemical – platinum) wears out (oxidizes) and its indications differ from those stored in the database of reference measurements. Therefore, these devices require periodic calibration, i.e. re-setting of the reference data. If you want your breathalyzer to indicate correctly, you must have it serviced (calibrated) at an authorized service center at least as specified in the instructions of the device! In the case of the simplest and cheapest breathalyzers, it is usually around 6 months or 300 measurements, and in the case of more expensive, more professional devices, the service interval is usually around 12 months or 1000 measurements. Therefore, the need for calibration is not a defect of the breathalyzer and is not subject to complaint. Please do not expect that a breathalyzer that is not calibrated regularly will show correct results. Therefore, the need for calibration is not a defect of the breathalyzer and is not subject to complaint. Please do not expect that a breathalyzer that is not calibrated regularly will show correct results. What "KILLS" a breathalyzer? You are probably wondering whether you can extend the overall life of the breathalyzer and maintain the reliability of the results indicated by it. Unfortunately, the process of oxidation of the active surface of the sensor cannot be stopped. However, there is also good news – by avoiding certain factors and by following the instructions of a given breathalyzer, you can significantly slow down the degradation process of the breathalyzer sensor. The most important of these features are: Do not take the measurement immediately after consuming alcohol or when you know that its concentration in the exhaled air is high (e.g., the popular party game – "who blows more"). Blowing into a breathalyzer immediately after drinking alcohol may cause damage to the sensor and improper measurements. In extreme cases, the sensor can only be replaced. Do not eat, drink or smoke for 30 minutes before taking the measurement. Eating, drinking and smoking immediately before measuring can not only affect the result but also simply dirty or even damage the sensor. Do not store the breathalyzer close to volatile substances, including alcohol. Do not blow fluids and fumes into the sensor and do not immerse the device in fluids. Also, do not clean the device with detergents. Store the breathalyzer in a dry place. Avoid direct exposure to sunlight (e.g., under the car windshield) and temperatures outside the range of 0-40 ° C. Adhere to the service interval (regular calibration) for your device – even if it seems to be showing correctly. What is calibration? Calibration is a control and optimization process that configures the breathalyzer software so that it correctly indicates the alcohol value in the air taken. The breathalyzer is tested and its efficiency is determined on special simulators containing very precise alcohol concentrations. In case the results differ from reality, the software is reset and the initial nominal values are set. How many times can you calibrate? It is difficult to answer this question unequivocally, because the overall lifetime of the breathalyzer is closely related to the class of the sensor used in a given model. Good quality electrochemical sensors often withstand even 5-6 years of regular use and calibration, while the cheapest semiconductor sensors can be replaced after just one year. This does not mean, of course, that there are no good quality semiconductor sensors or "bad" electrochemical sensors. For this reason, we advise against buying a breathalyzer from "random" sellers or at the so-called "stall". However, it can be assumed that the average lifetime of the breathalyzer is approx. 3-4 years, which with 2 calibrations per year gives 6-8 calibrations. It is worth noting that the calibrations themselves do not significantly reduce the efficiency of the sensor (more or less like a regular measurement), therefore there are no contraindications to calibrate a little more often than recommended in the manual. How often can you calibrate? The answer is very simple: as often as predicted by the manufacturer of the device and when it is suspected that the results are incorrect (e.g., when, despite not consuming alcohol, the measurement result is different than 0.0 ‰. It should be remembered that in the case of breathalyzers, the time and number of measurements are decisive. So if the calibration is planned, for example, every 6 months or 300 measurements, then the device should be calibrated as soon as at least one of these conditions is met, not both! All breathalyzers purchased in our store are covered by the 12 month free calibration program, which means that within the first year from the date of purchase of the device you can calibrate them any number of times for FREE! FREQUENT QUESTIONS Breathalyzer specification Breathalyzers are complex devices (except for gadgets and toys) made of carefully selected and specially designed components: computer flow meter alcohol sensor databases of reference measurements software designed specifically for the sensor model mechanical air treatment system power system Therefore, they should not be treated as toy gadgets, but precise measuring devices. As such, they have their own restrictions on use, because through ineasonable use / storage they can relatively easily be so-called decayed or even damaged. Why does a breathalyzer need to be calibrated? ABSOLUTELY EVERY breathalyzer under the influence of many factors decalibrates and after some time does not indicate correctly. Depending on the class of the device and how it is stored and used, it may take place a year after the purchase or even shortly after the first use of the breathalyzer (you can read about factors that drastically reduce the lifetime of the breathalyzers in the next section). Okay, but where does the need for regular calibration come from? With the passage of time, the sensor made of noble alloys (semiconductor – gold / electrochemical – platinum) wears out (oxidizes) and its indications differ from those stored in the database of reference measurements. Therefore, these devices require periodic calibration, i.e. re-setting of the reference data. If you want your breathalyzer to indicate correctly, you must have it serviced (calibrated) at an authorized service center at least as specified in the instructions of the device! In the case of the simplest and cheapest breathalyzers, it is usually around 6 months or 300 measurements, and in the case of more expensive, more professional devices, the service interval is usually around 12 months or 1000 measurements. Therefore, the need for calibration is not a defect of the breathalyzer and is not subject to complaint. Please do not expect that a breathalyzer that is not calibrated regularly will show correct results. Therefore, the need for calibration is not a defect of the breathalyzer and is not subject to complaint. Please do not expect that a breathalyzer that is not calibrated regularly will show correct results. What "KILLS" a breathalyzer? You are probably wondering whether you can extend the overall life of the breathalyzer and maintain the reliability of the results indicated by it. Unfortunately, the process of oxidation of the active surface of the sensor cannot be stopped. However, there is also good news – by avoiding certain factors and by following the instructions of a given breathalyzer, you can significantly slow down the degradation process of the breathalyzer sensor. The most important of these features are: Adhere to the service interval (regular calibration) for your device – even if it seems to be showing correctly. Store the breathalyzer in a dry place. Avoid direct exposure to sunlight (e.g., under the car windshield) and temperatures outside the range of 0-40 °C Do not store the breathalyzer near volatile substances, including alcohol. Do not blow liquids or fumes into the sensor or immerse the device in liquids. Also, do not clean the device with detergents. Do not eat, drink or smoke for 30 minutes before taking the measurement. Eating, drinking and smoking immediately before measuring can not only affect the result but also simply dirty or even damage the sensor. Do not measure immediately after drinking alcohol, or when you know that its concentration in the exhaled air is high (e.g., the popular party game – "who blows more"). Blowing into a breathalyzer immediately after drinking alcohol may cause damage to the sensor and improper measurements. In extreme cases, the sensor can only be replaced. What is calibration? Calibration is a control and optimization process that configures the breathalyzer software so that it correctly indicates the alcohol value in the air taken. The breathalyzer is tested and its efficiency is determined on special simulators containing very precise alcohol concentrations. In case the results differ from reality, the software is reset and the initial nominal values are set. How many times can you calibrate? It is difficult to answer this question unequivocally, because the overall lifetime of the breathalyzer is closely related to the class of the sensor used in a given model. Good quality electrochemical sensors often withstand even 5-6 years of regular use and calibration, while the cheapest semiconductor sensors can be replaced after just one year. This does not mean, of course, that there are no good quality semiconductor sensors or "bad" electrochemical sensors. For this reason, we advise against buying a breathalyzer from "random" sellers or at the so-called "stall". However, it can be assumed that the average lifetime of the breathalyzer is approx. 3-4 years, which with 2 calibrations per year gives 6-8 calibrations. It is worth noting that the calibrations themselves do not significantly reduce the efficiency of the sensor (more or less like a regular measurement), therefore there are no contraindications to calibrate a little more often than recommended in the manual. How often can you calibrate? The answer is very simple: as often as predicted by the manufacturer of the device and when it is suspected that the results are incorrect (e.g., when, despite not consuming alcohol, the measurement result is different than 0.0 ‰. It should be remembered that in the case of breathalyzers, the time and number of measurements are decisive. So if the calibration is planned, for example, every 6 months or 300 measurements, then the device should be calibrated as soon as at least one of these conditions is met, not both! All breathalyzers purchased in our store are covered by the 12 month free calibration program, which means that within the first year from the date of purchase of the device you can calibrate them any number of times for FREE! AFFORDABLE PRICE Good things are rarely cheap, but not always expensive. This is what it is with AlcoForce devices. We use technologies and components for our devices in the manner of conduct for quality / quality. AlcoForce breathalyzers, although cheaper than their competitors, always achieve high marks in measurement precision tests. Here are some of ours: xsAlcoForce xs ‘This breathalyzer fulfills its role in 100%.” (more…) raptorAlcoForce Raptor ‘Speed, efficiency and precision are the features that describe this professional equipment best.” (more…) × QUALITY – multi-stage production control – the highest standards and quality procedures – each breathalyzer is subject to precision control not only after production but also before admitting it to the market. International service network: London, Warsaw, Poznań, Prague × PRECISION Various technologies are used in the production of breathalyzers. The most universal and reliable is electrochemical technology, which until recently was very expensive and used only in police breathalysers. Today, AlcoForce offers electrochemical equipment. Sensors suitable by AlcoForce are optimized for the intended use of the breathalyzer and now we create a structure that does not differ from the number of more expensive devices from other manufacturers. Today, AlcoForce offers electrochemical equipment. Sensors suitable by AlcoForce are optimized for the intended use of the breathalyzer and now we create a structure that does not differ from the number of more expensive devices from other manufacturers. ×
ARTICLES FREQUENT QUESTIONS Breathalyzer specification Breathalyzers are complex devices (except for gadgets and toys) made of carefully selected and specially designed components: computer flow meter alcohol sensor databases of reference measurements software designed specifically for the sensor model mechanical air treatment system power system Therefore, they should not be treated as toy gadgets, but precise measuring devices. As such, they have their own restrictions on use, because through ineasonable use / storage they can relatively easily be so-called decayed or even damaged. Why does a breathalyzer need to be calibrated? ABSOLUTELY EVERY breathalyzer under the influence of many factors decalibrates and after some time does not indicate correctly. Depending on the class of the device and how it is stored and used, it may take place a year after the purchase or even shortly after the first use of the breathalyzer (you can read about factors that drastically reduce the lifetime of the breathalyzers in the next section). Okay, but where does the need for regular calibration come from? With the passage of time, the sensor made of noble alloys (semiconductor – gold / electrochemical – platinum) wears out (oxidizes) and its indications differ from those stored in the database of reference measurements. Therefore, these devices require periodic calibration, i.e. re-setting of the reference data. If you want your breathalyzer to indicate correctly, you must have it serviced (calibrated) at an authorized service center at least as specified in the instructions of the device! In the case of the simplest and cheapest breathalyzers, it is usually around 6 months or 300 measurements, and in the case of more expensive, more professional devices, the service interval is usually around 12 months or 1000 measurements. Therefore, the need for calibration is not a defect of the breathalyzer and is not subject to complaint. Please do not expect that a breathalyzer that is not calibrated regularly will show correct results. Therefore, the need for calibration is not a defect of the breathalyzer and is not subject to complaint. Please do not expect that a breathalyzer that is not calibrated regularly will show correct results. What "KILLS" a breathalyzer? You are probably wondering whether you can extend the overall life of the breathalyzer and maintain the reliability of the results indicated by it. Unfortunately, the process of oxidation of the active surface of the sensor cannot be stopped. However, there is also good news – by avoiding certain factors and by following the instructions of a given breathalyzer, you can significantly slow down the degradation process of the breathalyzer sensor. The most important of these features are: Do not take the measurement immediately after consuming alcohol or when you know that its concentration in the exhaled air is high (e.g., the popular party game – "who blows more"). Blowing into a breathalyzer immediately after drinking alcohol may cause damage to the sensor and improper measurements. In extreme cases, the sensor can only be replaced. Do not eat, drink or smoke for 30 minutes before taking the measurement. Eating, drinking and smoking immediately before measuring can not only affect the result but also simply dirty or even damage the sensor. Do not store the breathalyzer close to volatile substances, including alcohol. Do not blow fluids and fumes into the sensor and do not immerse the device in fluids. Also, do not clean the device with detergents. Store the breathalyzer in a dry place. Avoid direct exposure to sunlight (e.g., under the car windshield) and temperatures outside the range of 0-40 ° C. Adhere to the service interval (regular calibration) for your device – even if it seems to be showing correctly. What is calibration? Calibration is a control and optimization process that configures the breathalyzer software so that it correctly indicates the alcohol value in the air taken. The breathalyzer is tested and its efficiency is determined on special simulators containing very precise alcohol concentrations. In case the results differ from reality, the software is reset and the initial nominal values are set. How many times can you calibrate? It is difficult to answer this question unequivocally, because the overall lifetime of the breathalyzer is closely related to the class of the sensor used in a given model. Good quality electrochemical sensors often withstand even 5-6 years of regular use and calibration, while the cheapest semiconductor sensors can be replaced after just one year. This does not mean, of course, that there are no good quality semiconductor sensors or "bad" electrochemical sensors. For this reason, we advise against buying a breathalyzer from "random" sellers or at the so-called "stall". However, it can be assumed that the average lifetime of the breathalyzer is approx. 3-4 years, which with 2 calibrations per year gives 6-8 calibrations. It is worth noting that the calibrations themselves do not significantly reduce the efficiency of the sensor (more or less like a regular measurement), therefore there are no contraindications to calibrate a little more often than recommended in the manual. How often can you calibrate? The answer is very simple: as often as predicted by the manufacturer of the device and when it is suspected that the results are incorrect (e.g., when, despite not consuming alcohol, the measurement result is different than 0.0 ‰. It should be remembered that in the case of breathalyzers, the time and number of measurements are decisive. So if the calibration is planned, for example, every 6 months or 300 measurements, then the device should be calibrated as soon as at least one of these conditions is met, not both! All breathalyzers purchased in our store are covered by the 12 month free calibration program, which means that within the first year from the date of purchase of the device you can calibrate them any number of times for FREE! FREQUENT QUESTIONS Breathalyzer specification Breathalyzers are complex devices (except for gadgets and toys) made of carefully selected and specially designed components: computer flow meter alcohol sensor databases of reference measurements software designed specifically for the sensor model mechanical air treatment system power system Therefore, they should not be treated as toy gadgets, but precise measuring devices. As such, they have their own restrictions on use, because through ineasonable use / storage they can relatively easily be so-called decayed or even damaged. Why does a breathalyzer need to be calibrated? ABSOLUTELY EVERY breathalyzer under the influence of many factors decalibrates and after some time does not indicate correctly. Depending on the class of the device and how it is stored and used, it may take place a year after the purchase or even shortly after the first use of the breathalyzer (you can read about factors that drastically reduce the lifetime of the breathalyzers in the next section). Okay, but where does the need for regular calibration come from? With the passage of time, the sensor made of noble alloys (semiconductor – gold / electrochemical – platinum) wears out (oxidizes) and its indications differ from those stored in the database of reference measurements. Therefore, these devices require periodic calibration, i.e. re-setting of the reference data. If you want your breathalyzer to indicate correctly, you must have it serviced (calibrated) at an authorized service center at least as specified in the instructions of the device! In the case of the simplest and cheapest breathalyzers, it is usually around 6 months or 300 measurements, and in the case of more expensive, more professional devices, the service interval is usually around 12 months or 1000 measurements. Therefore, the need for calibration is not a defect of the breathalyzer and is not subject to complaint. Please do not expect that a breathalyzer that is not calibrated regularly will show correct results. Therefore, the need for calibration is not a defect of the breathalyzer and is not subject to complaint. Please do not expect that a breathalyzer that is not calibrated regularly will show correct results. What "KILLS" a breathalyzer? You are probably wondering whether you can extend the overall life of the breathalyzer and maintain the reliability of the results indicated by it. Unfortunately, the process of oxidation of the active surface of the sensor cannot be stopped. However, there is also good news – by avoiding certain factors and by following the instructions of a given breathalyzer, you can significantly slow down the degradation process of the breathalyzer sensor. The most important of these features are: Adhere to the service interval (regular calibration) for your device – even if it seems to be showing correctly. Store the breathalyzer in a dry place. Avoid direct exposure to sunlight (e.g., under the car windshield) and temperatures outside the range of 0-40 °C Do not store the breathalyzer near volatile substances, including alcohol. Do not blow liquids or fumes into the sensor or immerse the device in liquids. Also, do not clean the device with detergents. Do not eat, drink or smoke for 30 minutes before taking the measurement. Eating, drinking and smoking immediately before measuring can not only affect the result but also simply dirty or even damage the sensor. Do not measure immediately after drinking alcohol, or when you know that its concentration in the exhaled air is high (e.g., the popular party game – "who blows more"). Blowing into a breathalyzer immediately after drinking alcohol may cause damage to the sensor and improper measurements. In extreme cases, the sensor can only be replaced. What is calibration? Calibration is a control and optimization process that configures the breathalyzer software so that it correctly indicates the alcohol value in the air taken. The breathalyzer is tested and its efficiency is determined on special simulators containing very precise alcohol concentrations. In case the results differ from reality, the software is reset and the initial nominal values are set. How many times can you calibrate? It is difficult to answer this question unequivocally, because the overall lifetime of the breathalyzer is closely related to the class of the sensor used in a given model. Good quality electrochemical sensors often withstand even 5-6 years of regular use and calibration, while the cheapest semiconductor sensors can be replaced after just one year. This does not mean, of course, that there are no good quality semiconductor sensors or "bad" electrochemical sensors. For this reason, we advise against buying a breathalyzer from "random" sellers or at the so-called "stall". However, it can be assumed that the average lifetime of the breathalyzer is approx. 3-4 years, which with 2 calibrations per year gives 6-8 calibrations. It is worth noting that the calibrations themselves do not significantly reduce the efficiency of the sensor (more or less like a regular measurement), therefore there are no contraindications to calibrate a little more often than recommended in the manual. How often can you calibrate? The answer is very simple: as often as predicted by the manufacturer of the device and when it is suspected that the results are incorrect (e.g., when, despite not consuming alcohol, the measurement result is different than 0.0 ‰. It should be remembered that in the case of breathalyzers, the time and number of measurements are decisive. So if the calibration is planned, for example, every 6 months or 300 measurements, then the device should be calibrated as soon as at least one of these conditions is met, not both! All breathalyzers purchased in our store are covered by the 12 month free calibration program, which means that within the first year from the date of purchase of the device you can calibrate them any number of times for FREE!