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Revision as of 09:02, 2 November 2005
A breath alcohol ignition interlock device (BIID or IID) is a breathalyzer installed into a car that will not allow the car to start until given a breath sample that has a lower Breath Alcohol Content(BAC) than the ignition interlock has programmed into it.
At random times after the engine has been started the ignition interlock will require another breath sample. If the breath sample isn't provided or the sample provided exceeds the ignition interlock's preset BAC level it will log the event, warn the driver and then start up a specific alarm system (e.g., lights flashing, horn honking, etc.) until the ignition is turned off.
Many countries have or are adding the ignition interlock as a penalty for drivers convicted of driving under the influence, especially repeat offenders. Some politicians in the U.S. have called for such devices to be installed in all motor vehicles sold.
Modern ignition interlock devices use an ethanol-specific fuel cell for a sensor, limiting what may be read as alcohol. The fuel cell creates a current when it comes into contact with alcohol on the user's breath, which is then analyzed by the computerized portion of the device. If the reading is too high, the interlocked vehicle will not start.
The devices keep a record of the activity on the device and the interlocked vehicle's electrical system. This record, or log, is printed out or downloaded each time the device's sensors are calibrated, most often at 30, 60, or 90 day intervals. Authorities may require periodic review of the log. If violations are detected, then additional sanctions can be implemented.
Calibration is performed using either a pressurized alcohol/gas mixture at a known alcohol concentration, or with an alcohol wet bath arrangement that contains a known alcohol solution.
A common misconception is that interlock devices will "turn off" vehicles if alcohol is detected, thereby creating an unsafe driving situation. This is not true, as interlock manufacturers would have difficulty obtaining liability insurance.
The reliability of alcohol breath testing machines remains is a subject of controversy. Generally larger machines are more reliable than are smaller ones.
External links
- Ontario Ministry of Transportation: Ignition Interlock
- Florida Ignition Interlock Program
- MADD: Ignition Interlock - Issue Brief
- Breathalyzer/Breath-Tester Accuracy
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