Breathometer is a portable device intended to measure Blood Alcohol Content (BAC) using a smartphone app. The device plugs into the audio jack of a smartphone to read the BAC level. On the other hand, BACtrack features breathalyzer devices with various functionalities. One of the types is a smartphone breathalyzer, which connects remotely to a mobile phone via Bluetooth. Moreover, BACtrack has a wide range of breath testers, from small keychains to professional-grade devices.

The availability of breathalyzers for personal use has helped many individuals manage their alcohol consumption. It helps them be aware of their blood alcohol concentration levels and keeps them from exceeding the legal limit. As a result, it promotes responsible drinking and deterring drink driving. This minimises road accidents, injuries, and other risks. In this article, we will compare the features and functions of the two devices as well as their usage guidelines.

Breathometer vs BACtrack Breathalyzers – Accuracy

The accuracy of breath testing devices is critical towards making smarter decisions. The Breathometer was founded by entrepreneur Charles Michael Yim to provide individuals with convenient ways to test their BAC. The device uses sensors to measure blood alcohol levels and display the results through a smartphone app.

On the other hand, BACtrack is a reputable breathalyzer company that developed reliable breath devices. Most breathalyzers use fuel cell technology. This technology is the one used by law enforcement units to screen drivers on the road. Additionally, the fuel cell breathalyzers of BACtrack, like S80 Pro, have undergone a series of independent testing. The rigorous tests by experts show the device produces consistent and reliable results comparable to police breathalyzers.

In choosing a breathalyzer, it is essential to prioritise accuracy among other functionalities. This helps avoid making wrong decisions due to false readings. Thus, it is advisable to research the device’s features and read reviews before buying. This can give valuable information on the reliability of the device and how well it works.

Factors Affecting the Results

• Type of sensor – the sensitivity and specificity of the sensor play a vital role in the accuracy of the BAC readings.
• Mouth alcohol – alcohol residue in the mouth can increase the BAC. This can happen if the person does not wait at least 15 minutes after drinking before using a breathalyzer.
• Medication – alcohol can interact with certain OTC or prescription medications, causing the BAC to increase.
• Environmental conditions – temperature and humidity may affect the breathalyzer. In addition, the presence of smoke, fumes, or alcohol vapour can interfere with the device.
• Calibration – breathalyzers need to maintain periodic recalibration to maintain good working conditions.

Breathometer vs BACtrack Breathalyzers – Ease of Use

Breathalyzers are easy to use with their non-invasive nature. It only requires a breath sample by blowing into the mouthpiece. It also has user-friendly operations, allowing testing in seconds. Likewise, it can deliver the results in seconds. The ease of use also depends on the individual features of the device.

To use the Breathometer, plug the cord into the smartphone jack of the iOS or Android device. Then, open the mobile app and blow to the device when prompted. The device will then analyse the sample and show the BAC results on the phone. The app will also provide instructions on the steps to follow.

Meanwhile, BACtrack breathalyzers can be used in two ways – through the device itself or a smartphone app. To use the standalone device, press the power button and wait for it to warm up. At the start signal, blow steadily for five seconds or longer. For smartphone use, connect the breathalyzers (Mobile Pro, C6, C8) to the BACtrack app via Bluetooth. After providing a sample, the device will deliver the BAC result to the app.

Features of BACtrack Units

Most BACtrack breathalyzers feature a one-touch button for efficient operation. By pressing the power button, it enables alcohol testing in seconds. Additionally, it has an internal breath pump to capture the precise breath sample. This ensures that only deep lung air goes through the sensors.

Some models, like the BACtrack Trace Pro, have a memory system that can recall the last ten readings. Furthermore, the smartphone app can store the previous BAC results and track them in a graph. This helps to understand a person’s drinking habits better. Likewise, the app can estimate when the BAC will return to 0.00% through the ZeroLine technology.

Breathometer vs BACtrack Breathalyzers – Sensor Technology

Breathalyzers rely on alcohol sensors to measure the BAC. The Breathometer has developed its sensing technology to analyse the alcohol concentration levels in the breath. The main types of sensors used are semiconductor and fuel cell technology. Semiconductor sensor provides reliable readings, but it can be affected by environmental conditions and other substances.

Fuel cell breathalyzers are more specific to ethanol. It is not subject to interference by acetone or ketones in the breath. Therefore, it minimises the likelihood of false positives. Moreover, fuel cell sensors remain stable for a long time. It provides consistent and accurate blood alcohol content readings despite back-to-back testing. This is the technology used by police officers in roadside screening.

BACtrack offers blood alcohol testing devices using semiconductor and fuel cell sensor technologies. For instance, the BACtrack Go features an advanced MicroCheck semiconductor sensor for quick alcohol readings. This technology undergoes a burn-in process, providing reliable results compared to standard units in the market. Meanwhile, the BACtrack fuel cell breathalyzers have police-grade accuracy, delivering precise readings with every use.

Breathalyzer Usage Guidelines

To use breathalyzers effectively, it is crucial to wait at least 15 minutes after eating, drinking, or smoking. Waiting allows the alcohol to be absorbed into the bloodstream and accurately reflects the level of intoxication. Then, blow consistently for five seconds or longer. Avoid inconsistent blow patterns, such as short and sudden bursts of breath, to prevent errors.

If the breathalyzer detects errors or inconsistencies or the sample is not sufficient, it will notify a flow error message. Therefore, the individual will need to retest. This measure is vital to get accurate levels of alcohol in check.

Conclusion

Breathalyzers are portable devices that provide alcohol testing. It analyses the breath to measure the BAC or level of intoxication. The Breathometer works by plugging the device into the headphone jack of a smartphone. Then, it displays the BAC results through an app. Conversely, BACtrack features a wide range of breath alcohol testers. It has models using semiconductor and fuel cell sensors. Both technologies deliver accurate results, but the latter is more specific to ethanol.

BACtrack breathalyzers have a one-touch button for efficient operation. Likewise, the smartphone breathalyzers connect to an iOS or Android device through Bluetooth technology. This allows for more convenient testing as it does not require wires. To ensure accurate results, it is vital to follow the breath test guidelines. For example, always wait 15 minutes after drinking before taking the test. Overall, reviewing the features of a breathalyzer can help make informed decisions to ensure responsible alcohol consumption.