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Alcohol Interlocks

An alcohol interlock consists of a handset to conduct breath alcohol tests and communicate with the driver and an Electronic Control Unit (ECU) that is connected to the power and control circuits of the vehicle.
An alcohol interlock controls the normal operation of a vehicle through connections with the vehicle ignition and starting circuits. To operate the engine, the driver must provide an acceptable breath sample with an alcohol concentration below the set point.
At our Service Centres, we ensure that every installation goes smoothly and according to plan. Our trained technicians are certified and know exactly how to treat your vehicle. If, however, you experience difficulties with your alcohol interlock, please contact us for assistance.
During normal operation, the device requests the driver to provide breath samples at fixed or random intervals to ensure that alcohol has not been consumed while operating the vehicle.
No, alcohol interlocks will never cause the vehicle engine to stop. The handset will notify you of the retest request, and the timer will activate to enable you sufficient time to stop in a safe location before providing a breath sample. We do not recommend performing a breath test while the vehicle is in motion.
Yes, alcohol interlocks may be installed on motorcycles, but certain modifications may apply.
If the breath alcohol tester is being used by multiple people it is strongly recommended to use a new mouthpiece for each individual. If the tester is used by a single person, a new mouthpiece is not necessary each time. However, moisture collects in the mouthpiece and if moisture enters the tester it may damage the equipment’s capabilities and result in costly repairs that are not covered by warranty. If a new mouthpiece is not used each time ensure that the mouthpiece is visibly dry.

Calibration

Calibration is the process of checking and adjusting the alcohol sensor in your breath tester to ensure that it provides accurate results. Calibration tests must be conducted at regular intervals to ensure proper function.
Without calibration, the sensor will begin displaying inaccurate and inconsistent results and eventually become damaged.

Calibration ensures that the sensor is in great working condition, results will be accurate and accuracy will be consistent. Calibration also ensures that all components of the breath tester are working properly, free of defects and are well maintained, extending the overall lifespan of the product.

In addition, damage to the sensor caused by delaying calibration is not covered under the device warranty.
Calibration may be conducted with a breath alcohol simulator or a compressed gas alcohol standard.

A breath alcohol simulator uses an alcohol reference solution to mimic a person providing a breath sample. An alcohol reference solution is a liquid with a known alcohol concentraiton. The breath alcohol simulator connects to the breath tester and provides a sample. If the results indicate an incorrect breath alcohol concentration, the breath tester is adjusted to the accurate reading.

Compressed gas alcohol standard is a mixture of nitrogen and ethanol of precise concentration. The gas tank connects to the breath tester and the gas flow is analyzed. If the results do not correspond to the known alcohol concentration indicated on the gas tank, the breath tester is adjusted to the accurate reading.

No matter which calibration method is used, a trained laboratory technician must perform the calibration tests.
Depending on the type of breath tester and its use, recommended calibration intervals may vary. Most breath testers with a display screen will display CAL when the tester is due for calibration. For breath testers with LED lights, refer to your user manual to determine how calibration notification is displayed.

In general, a personal breath tester will indicate that calibration is required after 1 year of operation. For law enforcement , breath testers should be calibrated once per month.

Calibration is needed sooner if your breath tester is providing inconsistent results, abnormally high or low, or the device is not displaying results at all.
Accurate calibration is an essential aspect for maintaining the integrity and quality of all breath alcohol testing instruments. ACS offers a variety of calibration options to meet the specific requirements of your device.

For price information for calibration of your device, please contact us.
With 40 years of experience producing and maintaining breath alcohol testing products, we know how to keep your device working to its greatest potential. When your breath tester requires calibration, simply send it to ACS and we’ll calibrate it and ensure that all components are in optimal condition.

Alternatively, you can enroll in the ACS Product Protection Plan, which includes four calibrations per year as well as many other services to ensure that your device is perfectly maintained and kept in great working condition.

With our experience and expertise creating industry-leading breath alcohol testing technology, there is no better way to ensure that your breath tester is working accurately and in optimal condition.
To maintain the accuracy of the device, most alcohol testers require calibration each year from the first date of use or after a set number tests. When calibration is due, “CAL” will appear on the display of the device. When the tester is due for a calibration, contact an authorized Service Centre.

Warranty

Yes, there is a one-year warranty that is included when you purchase any breathalyzer that only covers factory defects. Damages caused by misuse or mishandling are the owner’s responsibility. If a device needs to be repaired outside of warranty, please ship it prepaid to [insert address here].
Yes, you can extend the warranty for your breathalyzer by contacting us.

Repairs

Store your device indoors, at room temperature when not in use. Ensure that the breathalyzer is not used/stored in extremely hot or cold environments or in direct light for prolonged periods of time.
If your device is still within the one-year warranty, you can ship it prepaid to the nearest service centre for repair. The device will be repaired or replaced if a factory defect has been assessed. If the warranty has expired, we will assess the damage(s) and provide you with a quote.
Equipment that requires service should be individually wrapped and packed securely before it is shipped prepaid to an authorized service centre.

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