Q3 Innovations AlcoHAWK Elite User manual

Owner’s Manual
v022510© 2010 Q3 Innovations

TABLE OF CONTENTS
INTRODUCTION 1
EFFECTS OF ALCOHOL 2
PREPARATION 3
COMPONENTS DIAGRAM 4
OPERATION 5
READ THE RESULTS 6
ERROR MESSAGES 6
PRECAUTIONS 7
SPECIFICATIONS 8
ACCESSORIES 9
VERIFICATION AND CALIBRATION 9
WARRANTY 10
DISCLAIMER 11

1
INTRODUCTION
Intended Use
This Breath Alcohol Tester is intended to measure alcohol in human
breath. Readings obtained by this device are used in the diagnosis of
alcohol intoxication. The accuracy of this device has been established at
a Blood Alcohol Concentration (BAC) of 0.008 and 0.032. Accuracy at a
BAC greater than .032 has not been established.
Overview
This tester provides a digital reading of a person’s approximate BAC
in seconds. The AlcoHAWK® Elite is powered by a 9 volt battery that
generally lasts between 100-200 tests when using an alkaline battery.
Please read this entire manual before use.
Effects of Alcohol
Variations among people and other factors, such as altitude and air
temperature, affect the degree of intoxication. Some people may
become intoxicated at low BAC levels. A low BAC on a breath alcohol
tester does not mean that a person’s reaction times can respond to any
emergency encountered. You should not drink alcohol and drive or use
any machinery after consuming alcohol. There is no safe way to drive
under the inuence of alcohol. Even one drink can make you unsafe.
Calibration
It is very important to have the instrument calibrated as recommended
in this owner’s manual (see Verication and Calibration, pg. 9). Failure
to do so may result in readings that are inaccurate.

EFFECTS OF ALCOHOL
BAC Dose-Specic Effects
0.020-0.039% Generally no loss of coordination, slight euphoria or loss of shyness.
Depressant effects are not apparent.
0.040-0.069%
General feeling of well-being, relaxation, lower inhibitions, sensation of
warmth. Euphoria. Some minor impairment of reasoning and memory.
Lowering of caution. Driving skills may be impaired.
0.070-0.099%
Slight impairment of balance, speech, vision, reaction time, and hearing.
Euphoria. Judgment and self-control are reduced. Caution, reason and
memory are impaired. Driving skills are always impaired.
0.100-0.129%
Signicant impairment of motor coordination and loss of good judgment.
Speech may be slurred. Balance, vision, reaction time and hearing will
be impaired. Euphoria.
0.130-0.159%
Gross motor impairment and lack of physical control. Blurred vision
and major loss of balance. Euphoria is reduced and dysphoria begins
to appear.
0.160-0.249% Anxiety and restlessness predominates. Nausea may appear. The
drinker has the appearance of a “sloppy drunk.”
0.250-0.299% Needs assistance in walking. Total mental confusion. Dysphoria with
nausea and some vomiting.
0.300-0.399% Loss of consciousness.
0.400% + Onset of coma, possible death due to respiratory arrest.
Bailey, William J., Drug Use in American Society, 3rd ed., Minneapolis: Burgess, 1993.
2

PREPARATION
Installing the Battery
Apply a small amount of pressure on the battery cover located on the
back of the product. Push down and away from the product to release
the cover. Install one 9 volt alkaline battery and slide cover back in
place. See the following diagram.
3
BATTERY
COVER
INDENTATION
9 VOLT
BATTERY
BATTERY
COVER ATTACHED
BATTERY
COVER DETACHED

COMPONENTS DIAGRAM
4
Inserting a Mouthpiece
Insert a new mouthpiece rmly into the hole located on the top of the left
side of the unit. A gap of approximately 1/2 cm will remain between the
larger portion of the mouthpiece and the side of the unit. See diagram
below.
MOUTHPIECE LED DISPLAY
EXHAUST PORT
HAND GRIP
ON/OFF BUTTON
MOUTHPIECE
PORT MOUTHPIECE
INSERTED

5
OPERATION
Operating Instructions
Wait 20 minutes after you smoke, eat or drink before testing. Fail-
ure to wait 20 minutes can give wrong BAC readings and damage
the sensor.
Step 1) Insert a NEW MOUTHPIECE each time you perform a test.
Step 2) If it has been more than 24 hours since the device was last
used, PRIME THE SENSOR by blowing into the mouthpiece
for 4 to 5 seconds before turning on the device.
Step 3) PRESS the Power On/Off button. A single beep will sound and
the unit will display the temperature in Fahrenheit (F).
Note: If the unit reads a temperature below 50 F, “Cool” appears on
the LCD display to warn the user that the temperature is lower than the
suggested testing range. If the temperature is above 104 F, “Hot” appears
on the LCD display to warn the user that the temperature at the time of
testing is higher than the suggested testing range.
Step 4) After the temperature scan, WAIT until the COUNTDOWN IS
COMPLETE and you hear a SINGLE BEEP. The unit will
display “RDY” when the device is ready for use.
Note: The unit will restart the countdown at 10 if the sensor is not ready
after the initial countdown from 60.
Note: The device will not shut off until a test is performed or until 15
seconds of non use elapses.

Step 5) Take a DEEP BREATH AND BLOW STEADILY (for at least 5
seconds) until a BEEP sounds to signal completion of the test-
ing.
Note: The unit will display a 0.000 after approximately 1 – 2 seconds if
a trace level of alcohol is not detected in the breath sample (i.e., at least
0.001% BAC).
Step 6) For more testing, wait one (1) minute and repeat steps 1 – 5.
READ THE RESULTS
The displayed result is an estimate of the test subject’s BAC. A breath
alcohol tester cannot determine the exact BAC in the blood of the test
subject. Correlation between BrAC and BAC depends on many factors,
such as temperature and health conditions. Therefore, only use this
device as a tool to screen for the presence of alcohol.
Many people consider a 0.02% or greater a positive test for alcohol in
“zero tolerance” screening. Most states have 0.08% as the legal BAC
limit for tasks such as operating a motor vehicle. Some states prohibit
driving commercial vehicles or any vessel with a 0.04% BAC or higher.
Many states prosecute people for driving under the inuence at any
level.
ERROR MESSAGES
Error Message Cause and Course Of Action
SNR
The sensor is not ready for testing. This can occur
if the unit has not been used for several days and if
the unit has not been primed. If the SNR message
is displayed, press the Power On/Off button
once to turn off the unit and follow the operating
instructions again.
6

Error Message Cause and Course Of Action
Sht
The user had a short exhale time during the test,
which likely means the user did not exhale steadily
and continuously for at least 5 seconds. Repeat
test.
reP
The unit is signifying to repeat the test because the
unit did not detect an even alcohol concentration
in the breath sample. This can occur if the user
varies the blowing force when performing a test or
if the Exhaust Port (see Components Diagram) is
obstructed. Repeat test.
H The unit detected a very high alcohol concentration
(above 0.400% BAC).
Err
The sensor has been damaged and will need to be
returned for servicing. If this error message occurs
more than two consecutive times, please contact
Q3 Innovations for instructions to have your unit
serviced.
PRECAUTIONS
1. After drinking, smoking and eating, users should wait at least 20
minutes before testing.
2. Avoid testing in strong winds, in a closed room with a heavy amount
of smoke, or where alcohol is being consumed.
3. When the green light below PWR is blinking, replace the 9V alkaline
battery.
4. Do not blow cigarette smoke, food or liquid into the unit.
5. Only use the unit in a temperature range of 10 - 40°C or 50 - 104°F.
7

8
Operation above or below this range may affect the results.
6. Do not leave the device connected to the AC/DC outlet when the unit
is not being used.
7. Avoid testing in the presence of any liquids that contain any kind of
alcohol or acetone. These substances may interfere with the results
of the test.
8. Conditions that increase the amount of ketones on the breath, such
as diabetes and low caloric intake, may cause a false positive test.
(i.e., showing a non-zero reading despite not drinking alcohol)
9. Do not use this device as a tool to determine whether you or anyone
else should operate any motor vehicle or machinery.
10. BAC changes over time depending on many factors. BAC at one
time can differ from BAC a few minutes later.
11. You cannot use the results of this product in court.
12. Do not let yourself or anyone else drink and drive. Always use a
designated driver when you or anyone else drinks alcohol.
SPECIFICATIONS
Housing Shock resistant, molded plastic
Battery 9V Alkaline (included)
Battery Life 60-120 tests1
Sensor Sensitive semi-conductor sensor
Blowing Time 5 seconds
Response Time 3-10 seconds1
Digital Display 4 Digits ( 0.000 % B.A.C.)
Operating Temp 10 - 40°C (50 - 104°F)
Detection Range 0.000 - 0.400% BAC ( Blood Alcohol Content)
Air Sample 5 Second Deep Lung Sample
Calibration Required periodically. Visit www.q3i.com.
Operation Single Button
Warranty 1 Year Limited Warranty
1. Estimates, results may vary.

9
ACCESSORIES
Visit our online store at www.q3ats.com to purchase the following ac-
cessories.
• Mouthpieces
• Wall Adapter
• Mesh Carrying Bag
• Leather Carrying Pouch
• Hard Carrying Case
VERIFICATION AND CALIBRATION
Calibration of the AlcoHAWK® Elite occurs during manufacturing
using advanced alcohol simulation equipment. The manufacturer
passes known BAC levels through the sensor to set baseline values
for testing. During testing, the unit compares users’ breath samples
to these baseline values. If the verication determines that the BAC is
not consistent with actual BAC levels, a technician calibrates the unit.
The accuracy of breath alcohol testers can uctuate after six to twelve
months, depending on frequency of use and operating conditions. We
recommend sending the unit in for calibration after 200 tests have
been performed, or every six to twelve months if less than 200
tests have been performed.
If the unit is providing inconsistent results, unusually high or low read-
ings, or no readings at all, a professional needs to recalibrate the unit.
For recalibration or support, please visit www.q3i.com or call 888-399-
1687. During recalibration, a technician will perform a diagnostic check
on the unit and reset the baseline sensor values.

ONE-YEAR LIMITED WARRANTY
Q3 Innovations (Q3I) warrants this unit to be free from defects in
workmanship or material (excluding calibration) under normal use for
ONE (1) YEAR from the date of retail purchase by the original purchaser
(”Warranty Period”). The warranty covers parts and labor on covered
repairs; software updates if applicable; and ground freight back to
the customer (USA only). Except as provided above or applicable
law, Q3I provides this product “as is.”
If a defect arises and Q3I receives a valid claim within the War-
ranty Period, at its option, Q3I will either (1) repair the product, (2)
exchange the product with a product that is new or which has been
manufactured from new or serviceable used parts and is at least
functionally equivalent to the original product, or (3) refund the
purchase price of the product. When a refund is given, the return
product to Q3I becomes Q3I’s property. The warranty does not
cover freight to Q3I. The warranty is void if anyone tampers with,
maliciously damages, or physically abuses the unit.
This warranty is limited to the original consumer purchaser and is not
transferable to, or enforceable by, any subsequent owner.
For warranty service during the Warranty Period, please follow the
below instructions:
1. Call 888-399-1687 or email [email protected] to obtain an RMA num-
ber and shipping instructions. Return the unit postage paid, insured
and in suitable packaging.
2. For your protection, obtain a proof of delivery receipt. Shipping costs
are your responsibility.
3. You must enclose the following with the unit:
a. The completed RMA form (available at www.q3i.com/support.
php)
b. Your name, complete return address and written description of
the problem. (No PO Box please.)
10

c. Your telephone number to reach you during normal business
hours.
d. A copy of your dated sales receipt or invoice.
DISCLAIMER
Q3I makes no warranties, expressed or implied, as to the ability of this
unit to determine whether, or to the extent to which, a test subject’s
mental or physical functionality, or judgment, is impaired by blood
alcohol including whether the test subject is intoxicated, under any
denition of that word. Q3I expressly disclaims any liability for incidental,
special, or consequential damages of any nature under any legal theory.
Any act or failure to act based upon a reading from this product is at
the test subject’s or user’s own risk. Q3I assumes no responsibility for
consequences to users or test subjects who use this product and are
later under the inuence of alcohol or to have had their judgment or
any mental or bodily function impaired by alcohol. Correlation between
BrAC and BAC depends on many variables, such as temperature and
health conditions of the test subject. A safe or low BAC reading does not
mean that the test subject’s physical or mental performance or judgment
(including reaction times) can respond to any emergency encountered.
A breath alcohol tester cannot determine the exact concentration of
alcohol in the blood of a test subject.
Q3I does not warrant that the operation of the product will be error-free.
Q3I is not responsible for any consequences arising from failure to
follow instructions or relating to the product’s use. This warranty does
not apply: (a) to consequences caused by accident, abuse, tamper-
ing, misuse, ood, re, earthquake or other external causes; (b) to
consequences caused by operating the product outside the permitted or
intended uses described by Q3I; (c) to consequences caused by service
performed by anyone who is not a representative of Q3I or a Q3I Autho-
rized Service Provider; or (d) to a product or part that has been modied
to alter functionality or capability without the written permission of Q3I.
TO THE EXTENT PERMITTED BY LAW, THIS WARRANTY AND THE
11

REMEDIES SET FORTH ABOVE ARE EXCLUSIVE AND IN LIEU OF
ALL OTHER WARRANTIES, REMEDIES AND CONDITIONS, WHETH-
ER ORAL OR WRITTEN, STATUTORY, EXPRESS OR IMPLIED. AS
PERMITTED BY APPLICABLE LAW, Q3I SPECIFICALLY DISCLAIMS
ANY AND ALL STATUTORY OR IMPLIED WARRANTIES, INCLUD-
ING, WITHOUT LIMITATION, WARRANTIES OF MERCHANTABILITY
AND FITNESS FOR A PARTICULAR PURPOSE AND WARRANTIES
AGAINST HIDDEN OR LATENT DEFECTS. IF Q3I CANNOT LAW-
FULLY DISCLAIM STATUTORY OR IMPLIED WARRANTIES, THEN TO
THE EXTENT PERMITTED BY LAW ALL SUCH WARRANTIES ARE
LIMITED TO THE DURATION OF THE EXPRESS WARRANTY AND
TO THE REPAIR OR REPLACEMENT SERVICE AS DETERMINED BY
Q3I IN ITS SOLE DISCRETION.
Q3I does not authorize any Q3I reseller, agent, or employee to make
any modication, extension, or addition to this warranty. If anyone deter-
mines any terms to be illegal or unenforceable, the legality or enforce-
ability of the remaining terms shall not be affected or impaired.
EXCEPT AS PROVIDED IN THIS WARRANTY AND TO THE MAXI-
MUM EXTENT PERMITTED BY LAW, Q3I IS NOT RESPONSIBLE
FOR DIRECT, SPECIAL, INCIDENTAL OR CONSEQUENTIAL DAMAG-
ES UNDER ANY LEGAL THEORY, INCLUDING BUT NOT LIMITED TO
LOSS OF USE; LOSS OF REVENUE OR INCOME; LOSS OF ACTUAL
OR ANTICIPATED PROFITS (INCLUDING LOSS OF PROFITS FROM
A CONTRACT); LOSS OF THE USE OF MONEY; LOSS OF ANTICI-
PATED SAVINGS; LOSS OF BUSINESS; LOSS OF OPPORTUNITY;
LOSS OF GOODWILL, OR LOSS OF REPUTATION.
Some countries, states and provinces do not allow the exclusion or limi-
tation of incidental or consequential damages or allow limitations on how
long an implied warranty or condition may last, so the above limitations
or exclusions may not apply to you. This warranty gives you specic le-
gal rights, and you may also have other rights that vary by country, state
or province. This limited warranty is governed by and construed under
the laws of the country where the product was purchased.
12

DO NOT DRINK ALCOHOL AND DRIVE
ALWAYS USE A DESIGNATED DRIVER
AFTER DRINKING ALCOHOL
BE SAFE AND DRINK RESPONSIBLY

Q3 INNOVATIONS
Personal Safety and Monitoring Devices
v022510© 2010 Q3 Innovations
2349 Jamestown Ave., Suite #4 • Independence, IA 50644
Tel: [phone] • Fax: [phone]
Sales Email: [email protected] •
Service Email: [email protected]
www.q3i.com