What is a Breathalyzer?

A breath alcohol analyzer, or Breathalyzer, is a device used to estimate blood alcohol content (BAC) from a breath sample. "Breathalyzer" is actually a trademark from one manufacturer of these devices, but has become a common term for all such instruments. AlcoHAWK, Alcotest, Alcosensor, Datamaster, Intoxilyzer, and Intoximeter are some other brand names in use today.

There are a number of models of breath alcohol analyzers that are intended for consumers. These hand-held Breathalyzers are less expensive and can be much smaller than the devices used by law enforcement. They can be useful in determining a user's BAC proactively, before he or she decides whether to drive.

The U.S. Government's National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) maintains a " Conforming Products List" of breath alcohol devices approved for law enforcement use.

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Also See:

• Personal Portable Breathalyzers
• DUI / DWI Laws by State
• DUI / DWI Attorneys by State
• SR-22 Auto Insurance Quotes