Many people use a portable monitoring device like the BACtrack S35 or C8 Smartphone to estimate their alcohol level. These devices measure Blood Alcohol Content (BAC) in a person’s system through the breath. Both are efficient and reliable for alcohol detection but differ in features and accuracy. The BACtrack S35 breathalyzer utilises a MicroCheck sensor for quick alcohol reading. On the other hand, the BACtrack C8 uses fuel cell sensor technology with high accuracy.

Personal breathalyzers help many individuals manage their alcohol consumption. They are easy to use and deliver results in seconds. Moreover, people use it to check their BAC before driving. Hence, it deters drink driving, which may lead to accidents or getting legal charges. This review offers a comparison of the two devices to help you decide which one is right for you. It will also provide information on how to use a breathalyzer and its maintenance.

BACtrack S35 Breathalyzer vs C8 Smartphone: Features Comparison

The BACtrack S35 breathalyzer incorporates MicroCheck semiconductor technology. This sensor uses a tin-oxide substance that reacts with alcohol in the breath. It undergoes a patented burn-in process, which gives more precise readings than standard semiconductor breathalyzers in the market. Additionally, it is easy to use on the go and requires no extra setup.

On the other hand, the BACtrack C8 Smartphone is one of the smallest breathalyzers utilising advanced fuel cell sensors. The Blufire fuel cell technology has police-grade accuracy and can trace alcohol concentrations up to 0.400% BAC. It is an affordable device with more advanced functions. Moreover, it can connect to a smartphone or compatible devices to deliver the BAC results.

Choosing a breathalyzer would depend on several factors. An important thing to consider is the level of precision and the frequency of testing. For alcohol screening or low-volume use, the BACtrack S35 is ideal. However, for those who rely on accuracy for driving or work purposes, the C8 Smartphone is a suitable option.

Common Features

• Ultra-portable design: the breathalyzers are compact-sized and can fit in the palm of the hand. It is easy to carry and use.
• Breath capture system: contains a mini-solenoid pump to help draw out deep lung air. It also locks out ambient air and fumes from entering the device.
• One-touch operation: enable testing in seconds with a single press of a button.
• Detection range: 0.000 to 0.400% BAC.
• LCD screen: the easy-to-read display of the BAC results.
• Extra mouthpieces: detachable mouthpieces make it easy to share the device with others for hygienic reasons. It also minimises the possibility of interfering with the BAC readings.

Differences Between the BACtrack S35 Breathalyzer and C8 Smartphone

The main difference between the BACtrack S35 breathalyzer and C8 Smartphone is their sensor type. This influences the accuracy of the BAC results. In particular, the fuel cell sensor of C8 provides more stability and consistency in consecutive testing. Additionally, it lessens the likelihood of false positives because of its specificity to ethanol. Hence, other substances in the breath will not impact the reading.

The C8 Smartphone has the added advantage of “dual-mode” operation. You may select between “Standalone Mode”, which allows you to use the device on its own, and the “App Mode”. The App Mode enables pairing with an Android or iOS device to deliver the BAC results directly to the smartphone.

Furthermore, C8 includes ZeroLine technology that estimates the time when the BAC will return to 0.00%. This feature is available on both the device and smartphone app. Therefore, it is more convenient for individuals to monitor their sobriety. Lastly, it has adjustable blow time settings. Longer blow time enhances the accuracy of the results.

The BACtrack App

The App mode operation enables the C8 breathalyzer to connect to a smartphone via Bluetooth. After testing the breath, it sends the BAC results to the app. It also enables storing and tracking previous BAC information, including the time and date of the test. Additionally, you may add pictures and write notes relating to your alcohol consumption.

The BACtrack app also integrates with Apple Health tools. This includes how various activities affect blood alcohol levels. You may also categorise your results from others through the “Friends Mode”. Lastly, the app can help book an Uber ride if you have too much.

How to Operate the BACtrack S35 Breathalyzer and C8 Smartphone

Operating the BACtrack S35 breathalyzer and C8 is quick and easy. To start breath testing, press the power button and wait for the sensors to warm up. It will signal when the device is ready to prepare you to give a sample. At the signal, take a deep breath and blow steadily to the device for six seconds or longer.

The device will analyse the breath sample and provide a reading of the BAC level on the display. For C8 Smartphone, it will directly transfer the data to your paired device under the App mode. An error indicator will notify if the breath sample is not sufficient. In this case, you will need to start the process again.

Keep in mind that any remaining alcohol in your mouth can interfere with the results and may cause false positives. Hence, it is vital to wait 15 to 20 minutes after eating, drinking, or smoking before using a breathalyzer. The waiting period will provide enough time for the ethanol to dissipate from your mouth and throat. It also allows alcohol in the stomach to reach the lungs for exhalation.

Maintenance and Care of Breathalyzers

Using a breathalyzer is simple but requires regular maintenance to maintain accuracy. Firstly, it is important to replace and clean the mouthpiece after each use. This helps keep the device free from germs or contamination. Secondly, avoid exposing the sensors to excessive saliva or moisture, as it may damage the device.

Thirdly, all breathalyzers require recalibration every six to 12 months, depending on the sensor type and frequency of use. This process involves cleaning and resetting the sensors to uphold their accuracy and performance. Lastly, avoid dropping the device or exposing it to extreme temperatures or direct sunlight.

Conclusion

The BACtrack S35 breathalyzer and C8 Smartphone are portable devices convenient for measuring the BAC and managing alcohol consumption. They can give the results within 10 to 15 seconds to help individuals make informed decisions. Their main difference is the type of sensors which impacts the accuracy. BACtrack S35 utilises a MicroCheck semiconductor sensor, while C8 Smartphone employs BluFire fuel cell sensor technology. Fuel cell breathalyzers are less likely to produce false-positive results.

They are both easy to use with the one-touch operation of BACtrack. However, C8 Smartphone offers more advanced functions, including tracking and sobriety monitoring. Overall, the BACtrack S35 and C8 breathalyzers are both reliable devices for alcohol detection. With proper maintenance, they can provide accurate BAC measurements. Ultimately, choosing a device will depend on personal preferences, testing needs, and budget. You may get the BACtrack C8 at Breathalysers New Zealand online.