Breathalyzers are getting popular even among individuals to measure the concentration of alcohol content in the blood. They function based on various technologies such as semiconductor oxide technology, fuel cell sensor and spectrophotometer technology. Personal breathalyzers are now designed with simple usage instructions which enable the measurement of Blood Alcohol Content possible for individuals also. Once the breathalyzer is calibrated with the help of person from where the product is bought, it could be effectively used as and when necessary to measure the BAC from the breathe sample of the person. The breathalyzer could be used by pressing the start button which will display a countdown to take the sample. Once the countdown reaches to zero, the person should blow into the breathalyzer for 5 seconds continuously and at a stable pace. The equipment will indicate when the blowing should be stopped and also if the sample is inadequate. The sensor will now measure the level of alcohol of air present deep in the lungs and convert it into the BAC which is displayed on the LCD screen.

To get accurate results, it is better that the person measures the alcohol level 15 to 20 minutes after eating, drinking or smoking due to three reasons. First the time taken for the alcohol to get absorbed into the blood level would vary from 15 to 20 minutes depending on the body metabolism. This is essential to ensure accurate results from the sensor. Second the breath of the person would be heavily loaded with alcohol content if the sample taken immediately after the consumption of alcohol. This would result in high level of BAC measurement in the sample. Lastly, the sample taken for measurement of Blood Alcohol Content should be free from any form of contamination from food, smoke, alcohol etc which would otherwise result in damaging the sensor. It is therefore better to wait for 15 – 20 minutes after eating, drinking or smoking before taking the measurement. The breathalyzer, after use should be stored in a cool and dry place as extreme temperature variations could damage the sensor. Further if the equipment is not used for more than three to four months, it would result in the sensor getting dry and damaged. Hence even if there is no need, it is better to blow into the sensor at least once in a month so that the sensor surfaces are always kept in good moist condition.

The breathalyzer readings remain accurate for longer spans of time. However the equipment should be calibrated at frequent intervals to ensure this accuracy. To calibrate the breathalyzer, a sample of know level of Blood Alcohol Concentration is blown into the sensor. Then the readings on the LCD screen are adjusted to display the known BAC level. This way, the accuracy of the breathalyzer is maintained and ensured. As observed, the usage and maintenance of breathalyzers are very simple and easy – applicable every for a common man. With such simple requirements, the breathalyzers are getting popular especially among individuals to ensure safety while driving.