How to Use the BACtrack S35 Personal Breathalyzer
09 May, 2023
The BACtrack S35 personal breathalyzer is one of the smallest and most convenient alcohol testers. Its compact design makes it easy to carry and use anytime. Operating the S35 is simple. Power on the device and wait for the countdown timer. Once ready, blow to the mouthpiece and wait for the results. In just a few seconds, you will know your Blood Alcohol Concentration (BAC). The BAC is the percentage of alcohol in the bloodstream.
People use a breathalyzer to check their intoxication degree before driving. It helps them monitor their alcohol consumption and prevent their BAC from reaching hazardous levels. Therefore, it helps minimise drink driving and other consequences. Moreover, breath testing is the most efficient method to determine the blood alcohol level in real time. This article will present the features of BACtrack S35, how to use the device and understand the BAC results.
Features of the BACtrack S35 Personal Breathalyzer
Breathalyzers use sensing technology to estimate the amount of alcohol in the bloodstream through the breath. The BACtrack S35 personal breathalyzer utilises the MicroCheck sensor, an advanced semiconductor technology that delivers unparalleled precision at its price point. It contains a tin-oxide substance that reacts when it comes in contact with alcohol. The reaction produces tiny electrical charges based on the alcohol concentration. Afterwards, it converts the electrical currents into the BAC value.
The S35 also features user-friendly functions to help enhance accuracy and efficiency in breath tests. The mouthpiece design ensures that only the breath goes to the sensors while keeping out ambient air, fumes, and other airborne gases. Thus, the effectiveness of BACtrack’s breath capture system minimises inaccurate readings. Moreover, it has a detachable mouthpiece for replacing every test. For example, use a new mouthpiece if you want to share the device with others to avoid compromising the results.
The BACtrack S35 personal breathalyzer has a one-touch operation, enabling breath testing in seconds. This feature allows individuals to use the device without complicated instructions. Furthermore, it displays the BAC results on a bright, easy-to-read LCD screen. The screen shows the BAC results in percentage, which is the standard unit of measure in alcohol breath testing. Therefore, it is easy for individuals to interpret their alcohol levels or degree of intoxication.
Product Specifications
- Dimensions: 2.50 x 2.25 x 0.66 inches
- Weight: 1.7 oz (47 grams) with batteries
- Battery life: approximately 150 tests
- Sensor accuracy of +/- 0.01 at 0.02% BAC
- Warm-up time of 15-25 seconds
- Blowing time of 3 seconds
- Response time within 10 seconds
- BAC Range: 0.000 – 0.400% BAC
Operating the BACtrack S35 Personal Breathalyzer
A breath test is the most convenient method of estimating the BAC because it is non-invasive and fast. Using a breathalyzer does not require professional supervision. Therefore, individuals can self-administer the test. The BACtrack S35 personal breathalyzer activates at a press of a button. Powering on the device will automatically initiate a countdown timer as the sensors warm up. To prepare for the test, inhale deeply and blow consistently for five seconds.
While blowing, you will hear a beeping sound indicating the device is capturing the breath sample. The end of the beeping sound signals the end of the sample collection. The sensors process the breath sample and display the BAC results on the LCD screen within 10-15 seconds. Hence, the breath test procedure completes in less than a minute. It is fast and efficient for individuals who want to know their BAC instantly.
The one-step procedure of the BACtrack S35 personal breathalyzer enables individuals to know their impairment level without hassle or complicated steps. It is also valuable in monitoring alcohol intake to help prevent over-consumption. For instance, you may use the breathalyzer every hour or after a few rounds of drinks to see how much your BAC has increased. It is also vital to follow the breath testing guidelines for the most accurate results.
Usage Guidelines
- Wait 15-20 minutes after eating, drinking, or smoking before using a breathalyzer
- Give a long and steady blow instead of a short hard blow
- Avoid testing in enclosed spaces or with poor ventilation
- Do not expose the sensors to smoke or saliva
- Do not use mouthwash, breath sprays, or other alcohol-based products before the test
BACtrack S35 Personal Breathalyzer: BAC Results
The BAC indicates the percentage of alcohol in the bloodstream, which is directly related to a person’s level of impairment. Therefore, the rate of BAC increase depends on the amount of intake. The BACtrack S35 personal breathalyzer can measure the BAC up to 0.40%. Knowing your BAC level is essential to deter drink driving. In Australia, the legal limit is 0.05% BAC. It means there must be no more than 0.05g of alcohol for every 100 ml of blood.
The higher the BAC, the more severe the symptoms of impairment. For example, an alcohol level of up to 0.04% can have relaxing and euphoric effects. The mood may be slightly elevated, and inhibitions lowered. However, at 0.05% BAC and above, severe symptoms will start to manifest, such as blurry vision, impaired hearing and judgement, lower reaction time, and poor coordination. Unfortunately, these effects pose significant hazards in driving.
Furthermore, a BAC of 0.10% and above brings gross motor impairment, including the inability to stand or walk without assistance. Extremely high alcohol levels can also lead to nausea, mental confusion, total blackout, and alcohol poisoning. Thus, devices like the BACtrack S35 personal breathalyzer are valuable to help control intake, especially at lower levels. It also helps individuals avoid getting drink driving charges, such as fines, imprisonment, and license disqualification.
Benefits of Using a Personal Breathalyzer
- Easy to use and give fast BAC results.
- Efficient screening tool for determining alcohol consumption regardless of the amount.
- Help monitor the increase or decrease of the BAC every hour.
- Low-cost device.
- Give reliable results following the correct breath test guidelines.
- Help avoid health and safety risks.
Conclusion
The BACtrack S35 personal breathalyzer is a convenient portable device that is easy to use. Individuals can self-administer a breath test in a few steps by turning the device on and blowing after a few seconds. Breathalyzers give fast results within seconds after providing a breath sample. Therefore, it is quicker and more reliable than other test methods. Moreover, the S35 provides various user-friendly features to help enhance their accuracy.
Understanding how a breathalyzer works and how alcohol affects your body is vital in building responsible consumption behaviour. Additionally, a breathalyzer like the S35 promotes alcohol awareness and safe driving. By spending a few seconds to check the BAC, it can assist people in making informed decisions. Thus, the availability of personal breathalyzers helps reduce road accidents. For more robust alcohol testing needs, you may visit Breathalysers Australia. They offer a wide selection of pro-grade breathalyzers for high-precision tests.