truck-icon-red-banner

Same day local dispatch

australia-icon-red-banner

Australian owned

Breathalysers

1-3 year warranty

breathalyser

Australia's industry specialist

Draeger Alcotest vs BACtrack: A Comparison Guide

20 October, 2023

A person showing a breathalyser connected to a smartphone via Bluetooth.

Draeger Alcotest and BACtrack are two manufacturers that specialise in producing breathalysers. These devices are crucial in various settings such as law enforcementworkplace safety, and personal use. Draeger is known for its expertise in medical and safety technology products. On the other hand, BACtrack was the first company to obtain FDA approval for developing breathalysers for consumer use. Although their devices serve a similar purpose, they may differ in terms of sensor performance, features, and operation.

The availability of personal breathalysers has helped many people control how much they drink. These devices show their alcohol levels, preventing them from breaking the law and incurring road penalties. These penalties include fines, license suspension, alcohol interlock, and even jail time. Thus, this simple tool promotes responsible behaviour, making roads safer for everyone. This article will compare the sensor, features, and device operation of Draeger and BACtrack.

Draeger Alcotest vs BACtrack: Sensor Performance

Draeger Alcotest and BACtrack are two well-known brands. They specialise in breathalysers, which measure the Blood Alcohol Concentration (BAC) in individuals. The breathalyser sensor plays a crucial role in accurately detecting and measuring the amount of alcohol present in a person’s breath. It works by detecting the molecules of alcohol, usually through a chemical reaction or an electrical current.

Draeger uses advanced sensor technology. It offers different measurement functions depending on the specific model. Some of their devices use an infrared sensor (IR), while others use an electrochemical (EC) fuel cell sensor. Both sensor types can provide precise and reliable measurement results.

On the other hand, BACtrack primarily uses fuel cell sensors in most of its products. These sensors offer accurate and reliable alcohol measurements. The advantage of using fuel cell sensors is that they are highly sensitive and have quick response times. Overall, with their advanced sensor performance and sophisticated product designs, both brands continue to be market leaders in the breathalyser industry.

Advantages of Fuel Cell Breathalysers

  • High accuracy: the fuel cell sensor technology can accurately measure alcohol levels in the person’s breath. It makes sure the readings are correct.
  • Quick response time: they provide immediate results for active breath alcohol tests.
  • Long service life: the electrochemical fuel cell technology ensures durability and reliable performance over time.
  • Reliable results: their technology is identical to that used by market leaders, guaranteeing reliable and trustworthy results.
  • Versatile use: these breathalysers are applicable for both active and passive breath alcohol tests.
  • Suitable for any climate: fuel cell breathalysers provide accurate measurements, whether the temperature is high or low.

A person holding a breathalyser

Draeger Alcotest vs BACtrack: Device Features

The Draeger Alcotest facilitates both active and passive breath alcohol testing. It has a quick recovery time, ensuring rapid availability for subsequent tests. The user-friendly interface includes one-touch menu buttons for easy operation, while a convenient connection port allows for data transfer and printing. Additionally, the Draeger features automatic sampling, which provides precise measurement technology without manual intervention.

Moreover, the Draeger air outlet ensures proper ventilation during the breath sample collection process. It also has a backlit LCD display that ensures clear visibility, even in low-light conditions. Conversely, BACtrack offers a single-button operation, allowing users to easily activate the device and begin testing within seconds. The built-in breath pump ensures precise results by capturing only deep lung air. This technology guarantees a high accuracy level.

For added convenience, certain models, like the BACtrack Trace Pro, come equipped with a memory capacity that can recall the last ten readings. This feature allows users to track their alcohol levels over time and gain a better understanding of their drinking habits. The accompanying smartphone app takes this functionality a step further by storing and graphing previous BAC results.

Response Times and Other Considerable Features

Response time refers to the time it takes for a breathalyser to provide a result after a person blows into it. Both Bactrack and Draeger have quick response times within seconds. Their advanced sensor technology allows them to promptly measure alcohol concentrations in breath samples.

Both units come with a replaceable mouthpiece, ensuring a high degree of hygiene. Additionally, they run on rechargeable batteries, offering long-lasting power and eliminating the need for frequent battery replacements. This saves users from the hassle of buying and replacing batteries. These features, along with their compact design, make them an ideal choice for responsible drivers.

A woman using a breathalyser

Draeger Alcotest vs BACtrack: Device Operation

The Draeger Alcotest operates in a simple and straightforward manner. When using the device, the individual blows evenly into the funnel without interruption and without touching it. A continuous tone indicates a sufficient flow of breath. During the breath sample collection, the display shows an empty bar that gradually fills up. If the sampling is successful, a prominent “click” sound is heard as the tone stops.

Next, the device will display a rotating progress symbol, indicating that the device is analysing the breath sample. Finally, it will show the result on the display. For BACtrack, the user turns on the device and waits for the sensors to warm up. Once the sensors are ready, a timer starts. When the timer approaches zero, the user takes a deep breath and exhales steadily for a few seconds.

After the collection of the breath sample, the device analyses it and displays the BAC on the LCD screen within 10 to 15 seconds. However, if the user does not blow properly, the device will indicate an error on the screen. In such cases, the individual may need to provide another sample for accurate measurement.

Maintenance Guidelines

Proper maintenance of breathalysers is crucial to ensure accurate and reliable BAC readings. Regular maintenance helps to prolong the lifespan of the device and ensures that it is functioning at its optimal level. It typically includes tasks such as battery replacement, and cleaning the device.

Additionally, sensor calibration service is essential. It adjusts the breathalyser to accurately measure alcohol concentrations. A technical expert will perform this calibration process, following the manufacturer’s guidelines. Moreover, cleaning the breathalyser helps to maintain accurate readings by removing any residue or impurities that may affect the sensor technology. By following these practices, users ensure accurate alcohol level measurements.

Conclusion

In comparing Draeger Alcotest and BACtrack, both brands excel in the breathalyser industry. Draeger employs advanced sensor technology, including infrared and electrochemical sensors. BACtrack primarily uses highly specific fuel cell sensors, offering quick response times and accuracy. Draeger’s devices feature automatic sampling and user-friendly interfaces, while BACtrack provides one-button operation and memory storage for tracking alcohol levels. Both brands stand as market leaders, catering to the varied needs of users seeking accurate and convenient breath alcohol testing solutions.

Draeger operates with a straightforward process, signalling successful sampling with a distinct sound and displaying results promptly. BACtrack, on the other hand, requires users to follow a timer-based procedure for accurate readings. Proper maintenance, including sensor calibration and regular cleaning, is vital to ensuring these devices function effectively. Adhering to manufacturer guidelines for calibration and cleaning ensures accurate results, making these devices reliable tools for alcohol testing needs.

0
    Shopping Cart
    Your cart is emptyReturn to Shop
      Calculate Shipping
      Shipping options will be updated during checkout.

      Your Perfect Match

      Also Recommended

      Why upgrade?

      Your Perfect Match

      Why upgrade?

      Your Perfect Match

      Why upgrade?

      Your Perfect Match

      Also Recommended

      Why upgrade?

      Your Perfect Match

      Also Recommended

      Why upgrade?

      Your Perfect Match

      Also Recommended

      Why upgrade?

      Your Perfect Match

      Also Recommended

      Why upgrade?

      Your Perfect Match

      Also Recommended

      Why upgrade?

      Your Perfect Match

      Also Recommended

      Why upgrade?

      Is Device Size Important?

      Is Device Size Important?

      Is Device Size Important?

      Driving Restrictions? (P Platers, Zero Tolerance etc)

      Your Perfect Match

      Also Recommended

      Why upgrade?

      Your Perfect Match

      Also Recommended

      Why upgrade?

      Your Perfect Match

      Key Benefits

      Your Perfect Match

      Key Benefits

      A person showing a breathalyser connected to a smartphone via Bluetooth.

      Would you like extra mouthpieces?

      Your Perfect Match

      Why upgrade?

      Your Perfect Match

      Also Recommended

      Why upgrade?

      Your Perfect Match

      Also Recommended

      Why upgrade?

      You may be interested in…

      Thank you for registering your breathalyser.

      Our system will now automatically send you a notification when your calibration is due.

      Your Perfect Match

      Also Recommended

      Why upgrade?

      Are you Testing Employees?