Common Alco-Sensor Error Codes.
Intoximeters breath alcohol instruments are engineered to display common Alco-Sensor error codes when a problem arises. For the most part, Alco-Sensor instruments are designed to provide accurate results time after time. However, there may be occasional instances where the instrument cannot provide a result or correctly process a breath sample because of an internal problem in the instrument.
The good news is that the instruments will provide diagnostic information in the form of an error code that will help the user determine the cause of the problem. Furthermore, some common Alco-Sensor error codes encountered can be corrected on the spot, avoiding the need to send the instrument in for repair, saving you time and money.
Here are some common Alco-Sensor error codes and the required fix for each:
Alco-Sensor III
“SET” – you will see this on the display if the SET button is not in the down position. The Set button must be done before a test can be administered. You will also see the SET display during the Calibration procedure, at which point you would press the SET button down into place.
“bAt”, or “.888” – the 9V battery is low and needs to be replaced. Replace with a new 9V alkaline battery. However, if this does not fix the problem it could indicate a deeper problem with the circuit board or battery connectors and the instrument would have to be sent in for evaluation and repair.
“bAd”, or “BAD” – The instrument was unable to complete a blank test in preparation for a test or during the Calibration procedure. This could indicate a weak fuel cell. If this happens, press the “SET” button down and let the instrument rest for a few minutes then attempt again. If this does not fix it then the instrument will need to be sent in for evaluation and repair.
Alco-Sensor IV
“bat” or “v001” – The 9V battery is low and needs to be replaced. Replace with a new 9V alkaline battery. However, if this does not fix the problem it could indicate a deeper problem with the circuit board or battery connectors and the instrument would have to be sent in for evaluation and repair.
“V02” – ‘SET’ button is not in the down position. Press it down to lock into place and the test will continue. If “SET” still appears after pressing the button then it could mean the button is broken. Send the instrument in for evaluation and repair.
“V04” – The sampling valve did not release and the breath sample was not captured. This could be caused by a number of factors; send the instrument in for evaluation and repair.
“MAN” – An automatic sample cannot be taken by the instrument. The breath intake manifold is not working properly and needs to be replaced. However, please note that a manual sample may still be taken. Refer to the owner’s manual for instructions on how to perform a test using the manual sampling button.
“V12” or “RFI” – Radio frequency interference detected. Move the Alco-Sensor IV to area without radios, cell phones or other sources of radio waves and re-attempt test. If it persists send the instrument in for evaluation and repair.
“NOGO” – Invalid breath sample during testing. Instruct subject to blow steadily—not too fast nor too slowly (refer to owner’s manual for instructions). If it persists it could indicate a problem with the breath manifold. Send the instrument in for evaluation and repair.
Alco-Sensor FST
“bat” – – The AA batteries are low and need to be replaced. Replace with new AA batteries (Alkaline for best results). However, if this does not fix the problem it could indicate a deeper problem with the circuit board or battery connectors and would have to be sent in for evaluation and repair.
“E11” – Failed blank. The fuel cell is not clear of residual alcohol from prior test, or the device has detected foreign matter in the fuel cell. Turn off the instrument and let it rest for a few minutes before attempting to test again. If this does not fix the problem send the instrument in for evaluation and repair.
“flo lo” – Breath flow is too weak to provide a proper sample. Instruct the subject to blow a little more forcefully.
“flo hi” – Breath flow is too strong. Instruct the subject to blow a little less forcefully (refer to owner’s manual for proper technique)
Alcomonitor CC
“NOGO” – Invalid breath sample during testing. Instruct subject to blow steadily—not too fast nor too slowly (refer to owner’s manual for instructions). If it persists it could indicate a problem with the breath manifold. Send the instrument in for evaluation and repair.
“tank low flow” – The dry gas tank may be empty; check the regulator to see how much gas remains in the tank and replace with a new tank if necessary.
“temperature low” – The instrument temperature is too low to perform a test or calibration. Allow adequate time for the instrument to warm up. If the instrument will not come to operating temperature try moving the instrument to a warmer room, if the current room is very cold. Send the instrument for evaluation and repair if the problem persists.
“check last inspection date” – A reminder message that two years have passed since last factory recertification. A recommended factory recertification is due. This date can be overridden by accessing the inspection date feature and resetting the inspection date (see owner’s manual).
Alco-Sensor V XL
“RFI detected” – The instrument detected radio frequency. Move the Alco-Sensor VXL to another room, away from cell phones, radios, etc., and attempt the test again.
“high blank” – Blank test unsuccessful. Let the Alco-Sensor VXL rest for a few minutes and try again.
“insufficient sample” – Subject did not provide an adequate breath sample. Instruct the subject on the proper way to blow.
Visit our troubleshooting page for more information on common and not so common Alco-Sensor error codes and proper troubleshooting techniques.