The AlcoSense® Elite 3 is a fuel cell breathalyser designed to measure breath alcohol levels. It is a portable device that comes with a zip pouch, five mouthpieces, two AAA batteries, and a user's manual.
Function Description:
The primary function of the AlcoSense® Elite 3 is to provide an indication of alcohol on the breath. It utilizes a fuel cell sensor for accurate measurement of breath alcohol content (BAC). The device offers two testing modes: Normal Mode and Fast Mode.
Important Technical Specifications:
- Indication of %BAC: 0.000 to 0.200 %BAC by LCD Display.
- Accuracy: +/- 0.005 at 0.050% BAC.
- Warm-up Time: 3 seconds to 4 minutes.
- Response Time: Within 10 seconds at 0.10% BAC.
- Sensor Type: Fuel Cell Sensor.
- Power Supply: 2 x AAA Batteries (Alkaline Only).
- Weight: 83g (including batteries).
- Dimensions (mm): 97.5 (high) x 53.8 (wide) x 18 (thick).
- Mouthpiece Compatibility: Only compatible with AlcoSense mouthpieces.
- Ambient Conditions:
- Operation: 5 - 40°C
- Storage: 0 - 50°C
Usage Features:
Normal Mode:
- Insert Mouthpiece: Place a mouthpiece into the designated slot.
- Power On: Press the power button.
- Warm-up: The breathalyser will warm up until it displays "0".
- Blow Sample: Blow into the mouthpiece for 4 seconds or until a "click" sound is heard.
- Display Result: The BAC result will be shown for 10 seconds. Readings exceeding 0.200%BAC will be displayed as 'OL'.
Fast Mode:
This mode is for quick detection of alcohol presence or absence.
- Complete steps 1-2 of Normal Mode.
- Blow Gently and Press Button: Blow gently through the mouthpiece while simultaneously pressing the power button.
- Display Result: The result will be 'P' if the alcohol level detected is less than 0.020%BAC, or 'F' if it is more than 0.020%BAC.
Additional Usage Notes:
- The device features an automatic shut-off when not in use to conserve battery.
- When the device is off, pressing and holding the power button allows users to view the number of tests performed since the last calibration ("C") and the number of tests where alcohol was detected ("A").
Warning Display Indicators:
- Flo: Indicates an insufficient breath sample. Users should power on the unit again and ensure a strong, steady breath during sampling.
- bAt: Signals low battery power, requiring battery replacement.
- CAL: Appears for 3 seconds before warming up for a test if over 1000 tests have been performed, indicating the need for calibration.
- OL: Displayed for readings exceeding 0.200%BAC.
Important Warnings and Disclaimers:
- Wait at least 20 minutes after eating or drinking (including alcohol-based mouthwash) before testing to avoid interference from residual mouth alcohol.
- Avoid testing in high wind or poorly ventilated/enclosed spaces, as this can affect warm-up time.
- Do not blow smoke, saliva, or other contaminants into the mouthpiece to prevent sensor damage. Wait at least 20 minutes after smoking.
- The breathalyser is not a tool to justify drinking and driving.
- Do not blow fluid into the instrument, as this will damage the sensor and void the warranty.
- Store the device away from extreme temperatures or high humidity and out of reach of children.
- Blood alcohol concentration can continue to rise for up to 2 hours after drinking. If a caution result or a result is close to the designated BAC, retest after 20 minutes.
- It can take 10 hours or more for alcohol levels to return to zero after a high BAC. A further test should be done the following morning.
- This product provides an indication of alcohol on the breath; it does not accurately measure blood alcohol concentration (BAC), which requires a blood test.
- Users should not rely on this product's information as an accurate indication of their BAC, level of intoxication, or fitness to drive.
- The manufacturer and supplier are not responsible for decisions or actions taken based on the product's use.
- The product must be used according to the manual and kept dry.
Maintenance Features:
Changing Batteries:
- Unlock Cover: Slide the battery cover upwards.
- Remove Cover: Push the battery cover sideways to detach it.
- Replace Batteries: Change the batteries and reattach the cover.
Recalibration & Service:
- The AlcoSense® Elite 3's fuel cell sensor requires recalibration over time, depending on usage and alcohol exposure.
- Manufacturer Recommended Calibration: Every 6 months or after 500 uses, whichever comes first.
- Australian Standards Requirement: Calibration every 1 month to maintain compliance.
Warranty Details:
- Guarantee: 3-year warranty from the date of purchase, covering defects in workmanship and parts under normal use and care. Repairs, replacements, or refunds are at the discretion of Andatech.
- Proof of Purchase: A purchase docket or receipt is required for warranty claims.
- Service during Warranty Period: Contact 1300 800 200 or visit support.andatech.com.au to obtain a Return Authorisation Number (RA#). The RA# must be clearly stated on the packaging. Shipping costs for warranty returns are borne by the customer.
- Extent of Warranty: Limited to defects in workmanship or parts. Excludes manuals, packaging, normal wear and tear, calibration costs, damage from accidents, misuse, improper operation, unauthorized modification, missing parts, tampering, lightning strikes, power surges, liquid ingress, use outside Australia, or improper power/cable connection.
Product Registration:
Users can register their warranty, sign up for calibration reminders, and schedule calibrations online at my.andatech.com.au. A physical registration form is also provided in the manual, to be mailed to Andatech Pty Ltd, PO BOX 3038, Nunawading VIC 3131 Australia.