BACtrack Element -- Frequently Asked Questions


Who uses the BACtrack Element?

What is the value of spending $119 on the BACtrack Element when I see breathalyzers on Breathalyzer.net for $50?

What are the differences between the BACtrack S80 Pro, the BACtrack S75 Pro, and the BACtrack Element?

Why is the Element's fuel cell sensor technology important?

Can I use the same mouthpiece more than once?

Can I use the BACtrack Element for personal use?




Who uses the BACtrack Element?

The Element is used by a wide variety of professional groups to screen for alcohol intoxication. Law enforcement personnel use the Element during roadside breath alcohol testing to help determine if a subject may be over the legal driving limit of 0.08 %BAC.

The Element is also used by hospitals, alcohol treatment centers, and schools to quickly and accurately test for the presence of alcohol.

The Element is also sold to consumers for personal use. Because the Element has received FDA 510(k) clearance, it can be legally marketed and sold directly to consumers for personal use. Families dealing with an alcoholic family member, and persons who have received one or more DUI convictions often use the Element because of its accuracy and affordable price.

What is the value of spending $129 on the Element when I see breathalyzers on Breathalyzer.net for $50?

The Element has specific features and technology that help provide more accurate test results. First, the Element uses a fuel cell sensor (Xtend Sensor Technology). These types of sensors are generally more accurate than semiconductor-based sensors, and also more expensive. The Lifeloc FC Series breathalyzers use fuel cell sensor technology; the starting retail price for these models is $480.00. In addition to increased accuracy on each test, the Element's fuel cell sensor will remain accurate for a much longer period of time - up to thousands of tests. In fact, using the product regularly can actually help keep the Element accurate, as the moisture in exhaled human breath is beneficial to the sensor.

The Element also uses a miniature air pump inside the product to more accurately collect a breath sample. During use, you can actually feel the "click" of the pump collecting the breath sample.

What are the differences between the BACtrack S80 Pro, the BACtrack S75 Pro, and the BACtrack Element?

The major differences among these fuel cell sensor models are the size of the fuel cell sensor, and the overall appearance. The S80 Pro's larger fuel cell sensor will provide readings that are slightly more accurate than the S75 Pro and Element. The S75 Pro and Element are similar in terms of accuracy, but obviously look different. The S75 Pro has been designed to reduce unnecessary size and weight, and has a front-facing mouthpiece, and the Element is the smallest of the fuel cell models with dimensions of approximately 2" x 4.75" x .75". Lastly, the BACtrack S80 Pro kit includes 50 mouthpieces, while the BACtrack S75 Pro kit includes six, and the Element includes five.

Why is the Element's Xtend fuel cell sensor technology important?

A fuel cell sensor provides the following benefits:

  • It will not show a false positive for someone who is diabetic or on a low calorie diet. Other semiconductor models will sometimes show a false positive result for these individuals.

  • It provides more accurate and more consistent results as compared with semi-conductor models. For example, with the Element, you are more likely to show the same test result when you test someone repeatedly in a very short period of time.

  • It will remain accurate for up to thousands of tests.

  • It is more accurate at higher BAC concentrations. For example, if someone is very intoxicated, say 0.22 %BAC, the Element is more likely to provide an accurate test result as compared to semiconductor models, which often lose accuracy at higher BAC values.

    Can I use the same mouthpiece more than once?

    Yes. Each mouthpiece can be reused by the same person, or, if desired, by more than one person. This is often the case in personal-use or entertainment-use situations. However, for maximum accuracy and to eliminate the spread of germs, it is strongly recommended that professional users dispose of mouthpieces after each test.

    The Element comes with six mouthpieces. Additional Packs of 50 and Packs of 10 are available.

    Can I use the BACtrack Element for personal use?

    Yes. The Element is FDA 510(k) cleared for consumer use. The Element is often a top choice for individuals who have previously had a DUI and have an ignition interlock device in their car. The Element is approximately the size of a cell phone, and it can be carried in a pocket or purse or stored in a car. It is quick and easy to turn on and operate; no special training is necessary.


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