NCJ Number
129274
Journal
Journal of the Forensic Science Society Volume: 30 Issue: 6 Dated: (November/December 1990) Pages: 349-356
Date Published
1990
Length
8 pages
Annotation
Ten models of the new Draeger Alcotest 7110 breath testing instrument were tested for radio-frequency interference, acetone, accuracy, and precision, and the results were compared with those obtained from a Breathalyzer 900 instrument and with corresponding blood tests.
Abstract
The most important change in the specifications of the Draeger Alcotest 7110 involves the change in wavelength from a 3.4 to 9.5 micron region to reduce interference from endogenous compounds such as acetone. The present study shows that the instrument meets the requirements of the South Australian Police regarding portability, shielding of radio-frequency interference, and discrimination against acetone. Comparison of breath results (monthly averages) and corresponding blood results as accumulated during the first few months of operations showed no difference between the two techniques. The 10 Draeger Alcotest 7110 units were superior to the Breathalyzer 900 units, the instrument they will replace for evidential testing in South Australia. 8 references (Author abstract modified)