All about the Breathalyzer Test

You have probably heard of a breathalyzer before but how do they work? Actually, there are several different kinds of breathalyzers. The term breathalyzer is just the generic term for a breath testing device.

A breathalyzer is used to determine a person's level of intoxication but they are not fool proof. A breath test is simply a piece of evidence that can be used against you in a case to prove your guilt. There are two main types of breath tests that a police officer may administer.

The first breath test may be administered from a small hand held device that the officer will use in the field. This is known as a PBT or preliminary breath test. This is to determine if you are intoxicated and will give the officer the ability to arrest a suspect.

The breathalyzer typically found at the police station will use a technology known as infrared spectroscopy or gas chromatography. Many current day machines use a combination of infrared and fuel cell technology.

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