In the world of breathalyzers, calibration is the key for the entire device’s purpose of capturing and accurately reporting your BAC. At ACE, we make sure every single ACE XS is efficiently calibrated to ensure that every test provides the peace of mind you deserve. So, you might be wondering, what exactly is calibration, and why should I care? This post aims to help you answer all of these questions and provides you with some tips to make sure you get the most out of your XS.
To begin, it is important to understand that calibration is the process that all XS devices undergo in our facilities before they are shipped out to you. Essentially, the sensors of the devices are exposed to a concentration of alcohol vapor that mimics the results of a regular test. The goal here is to compare the BAC concentration amount of the calibrator to the results of the device’s sensor and then adjust the device to match the precise concentration of the calibrator. If the device is not calibrated at all, readings will be inaccurate and unreliable, yielding false positives and negatives which could become extremely dangerous for the user if you are using the breathalyzer to justify a ride home.
Overtime, the breathalyzer’s sensor can begin to drift, causing the device to slowly lose its calibration. This can occur for the following reasons:
- Prolonged storage in cold, hot, damp or poorly ventilated areas
- Sensor aging
- Repeated use and residue buildup
- Incorrect breath samples (short or contaminated breaths)
To get the most out of your ACE XS, we recommend getting your device calibrated by shipping it to one of our services centers every 12 months and/or after 1000 tests (the recalibration form can be found at the bottom of this page). It is crucial to ensure your device is always calibrated to make sure you are comfortable making the best decisions for yourself and others whenever you are drinking on a night out.
- To ensure you are getting the most out of your ACE XS, here is a list of tips to keep you and your device clean and safe.
- Store your device in a place that is not too cold or hot to protect your sensor’s durability
- Do not blow too hard into the device, pretend you are whistling without making any noise
- After a long period of storage, carry out three tests before your official test to ensure the sensor is operating normally again
- Avoid testing in noisy environments, as loud sounds can interfere with the accuracy of the sensor
- Wait three minutes in between each test for the sensor to reset
- Do not store the device near alcohol-based agents like disinfectants and do not use them to clean the device
- Use a new mouthpiece for each test you carry out, as they should only be used once
If you follow these tips, you will feel reassured that your XS will always provide results that best reflect your BAC. If you believe you need to have your device recalibrated, feel free to send your device to us along with the attached Calibration Return Receipt and your calibration payment, and we will have your XS back to you in no time!
