Is the Alco-Sensor FST approved as a PBT?

The Alco-Sensor FST is approved in many U.S. states for use as a Preliminary Breath Tester (PBT). Approval requirements vary by state and agency policy.

What accuracy does the Alco-Sensor FST provide?

The Alco-Sensor FST provides evidential accuracy that exceeds ±0.005 at 0.100 BrAC.

What sensor technology does the Alco-Sensor FST use?

It uses an electrochemical fuel cell sensor designed to provide ethanol-specific breath alcohol results.

How does the Alco-Sensor FST reduce operator error?

The device prompts the operator through the test sequence and supports automatic breath sampling, which helps reduce procedural and collection errors.

What is automatic breath sampling?

Automatic breath sampling captures a subject’s breath sample automatically during the test sequence, helping standardize collection and reduce operator involvement.

Does the Alco-Sensor FST support manual breath sampling?

Yes. A manual sampling override is available to capture a sample from subjects who have shy lung or are uncooperative.

Does the Alco-Sensor FST have a passive testing mode?

Yes. Passive test mode can screen for the presence of alcohol without changing a mouthpiece and can be used for rapid screening situations.

Can the Alco-Sensor FST be used right- or left-handed?

Yes. The ergonomic design supports right- or left-handed operation and is intended to allow one-hand use so the other hand remains free.

What is the benefit of the back-facing display?

The back-facing display allows the operator to view results while continuing to observe the subject during the test.

Can the Alco-Sensor FST test beverages for alcohol?

Yes. A drink sniffer attachment can be used to test beverages for the presence of alcohol.

Is the Alco-Sensor FST admissible in court?

The Alco-Sensor FST is an evidential breathalyzer with DOT approval. Whether results are admissible depends on jurisdictional rules, agency procedures, and how the test is administered.

What is an alcohol testing instrument?

An alcohol testing instrument is a professional breathalyzer device used to measure the concentration of alcohol in a person’s breath. These instruments are commonly used for workplace alcohol testing, law enforcement screening, corrections monitoring, and substance abuse treatment programs.

What is a DOT-approved breath alcohol tester?

A DOT-approved breath alcohol tester is a device that meets federal Department of Transportation standards for workplace alcohol testing under 49 CFR Part 40. These instruments are used for regulated alcohol testing programs including pre-employment, random, post-accident, reasonable suspicion, and return-to-duty testing.

How does a fuel cell breathalyzer work?

Fuel cell breathalyzers measure alcohol in deep lung breath using an electrochemical sensor. When alcohol molecules pass through the fuel cell sensor, a chemical reaction occurs that generates an electrical current proportional to the alcohol concentration. This technology provides accurate and repeatable breath alcohol readings.

What are alcohol testing instruments used for in the workplace?

Alcohol testing instruments are used in workplace safety programs to conduct pre-employment, random, post-accident, reasonable suspicion, and return-to-duty alcohol testing. These tests help employers enforce drug and alcohol policies, maintain regulatory compliance, and promote safer work environments.

Are professional breathalyzers used by law enforcement?

Yes. Law enforcement agencies use evidential-grade breath alcohol testing instruments to screen drivers, support investigations, and document alcohol impairment. Many professional devices include data storage, printing capabilities, and calibration tracking for proper documentation.

What is an evidential breath tester (EBT)?

An evidential breath tester (EBT) is a professional alcohol testing instrument designed to produce legally defensible breath alcohol results that stand in a court of law. EBT devices are commonly used in regulated workplace testing programs and law enforcement applications where documented results are required.

Who uses professional alcohol testing instruments?

Professional alcohol testing instruments are used by employers, law enforcement agencies, corrections facilities, substance abuse treatment centers, and school safety programs to monitor alcohol use and support compliance programs.

What accessories are used with alcohol testing instruments?

Common alcohol testing instrument accessories include disposable mouthpieces, portable printers, calibration equipment, simulators, dry gas standards, and carrying cases used to maintain testing accuracy and support proper documentation.

How accurate are professional breath alcohol testing instruments?

Professional breath alcohol testing instruments that use fuel cell sensor technology are designed to provide highly accurate and repeatable results. These devices measure alcohol from deep lung breath samples, which helps reduce false positives and improve reliability.

Intoximeters Alco-Sensor FST Breathalyzer

Q: Is the Intoximeters Alco-Sensor FST DOT approved?

Yes. The Intoximeters Alco-Sensor FST is approved by the U.S. Department of Transportation (DOT) for evidential breath alcohol testing. It is also approved as a DOT alcohol screening device.

Description

DOT-Approved Evidential Breathalyzer for Law Enforcement

The Intoximeters Alco-Sensor FST®, available from AlcoPro, is a DOT-approved evidential breathalyzer trusted by law enforcement and corrections agencies worldwide. Built for roadside enforcement, DUI investigations, and high-volume screening environments, the Alco-Sensor FST delivers court-defensible accuracy while minimizing operator error in real-world conditions.

As a specialized provider of professional alcohol testing equipment, AlcoPro supports agencies with expert guidance, calibration services, and compliant device selection.

How to Capture a Breath Sample with the Alco-Sensor FST

Why Agencies Choose the Alco-Sensor FST

U.S. Department of Transportation Approved

The Alco-Sensor FST is approved by the U.S. Department of Transportation (DOT) for evidential breath alcohol testing, meeting strict federal performance standards.

Approved as a PBT in Most States

This device is approved in most U.S. jurisdictions as a Preliminary Breath Tester (PBT) for roadside DUI enforcement and sobriety checkpoints.

Evidential Accuracy You Can Defend

Accuracy exceeds ±0.005 at 0.100 BrAC
High-specificity electrochemical fuel cell sensor
Resistant to false positives caused by non-alcohol compounds
Stable calibration performance over time

Fuel cell technology is the preferred standard for law enforcement breathalyzers, and AlcoPro recommends it exclusively for evidential and enforcement use.

Designed to Reduce Operator Error in the Field

The Alco-Sensor FST guides officers through a structured test sequence, ensuring consistent results regardless of operator experience.

On-screen prompts guide each test step
Automatic breath sampling captures deep lung air
Manual breath sampling override for shy lung or uncooperative subjects
Single-button operation for fast test initiation

These features reduce procedural errors that can compromise results during DUI arrests or court proceedings.

High-Volume Screening & Passive Alcohol Detection

Passive Test Mode

Screens individuals approximately every 10 seconds
No mouthpiece required
Ideal for checkpoints, school functions, corrections intake, and probation screening

Passive breath alcohol testing allows officers to quickly screen large groups for the presence of alcohol without using a new mouthpiece, improving efficiency and safety.

Ergonomic & Officer-Safety Focused Design

Right- or left-handed operation
One-hand use leaves the other hand free for subject control
Back-facing display allows continuous observation of the subject
Rugged design suitable for roadside and correctional environments

These design elements reflect real-world law enforcement needs — a key reason AlcoPro recommends the FST for patrol and booking use.

DOT Approved Alcohol Screening Device

The Alco-Sensor FST is an approved DOT alcohol screening device and appears on the NHTSA conforming products list of ASDs. This allows the device to be used in workplace testing programs as an alcohol screening device only. Do not use the Alco-Sensor FST to perform confirmation or passive alcohol testing in a DOT workplace testing situation.

Optional Alcohol Detection Accessories

Drink Sniffer Attachment

Detects the presence of alcohol in beverages, supporting:

Underage drinking enforcement
Probation and parole compliance
Campus and event policing

Technical Specifications (Quick Reference)

Sensor Type: Electrochemical Fuel Cell
Accuracy: ±0.005 at 0.100 BrAC
DOT Approved: Yes
PBT Approval: Most U.S. states
Test Modes: Active or Direct, Passive, Manual Override
Recommended By: AlcoPro for law enforcement use

Who Should Use the Alco-Sensor FST?

Police Departments
Sheriff’s Offices
Highway Patrol & State Police
Corrections Facilities
DUI Task Forces
Federal & Municipal Agencies
Substance abuse treatment screening
Probation and parole programs
Workplace screening tests

Expert Guidance from AlcoPro

AlcoPro is a trusted supplier of professional breath alcohol testing equipment, providing:

Device selection guidance by jurisdiction
Calibration and compliance support
Accessories, mouthpieces, and replacements
Ongoing product expertise for agencies and institutions

When agencies purchase the Alco-Sensor FST from AlcoPro, they gain a knowledgeable partner — not just a product.

Specs

Alco-Sensor FST Product Specifications

Sensor type	Electrochemical Oxidation (fuel-cell)
Range of measurement	.000 – .400 BrAC
Accuracy and precision	U.S. DOT approved for evidential use
Breath sampling	Automatic with manual over-ride
Response time	5-10 seconds for negative or positive results
Power requirement	2 AA batteries (included)
Test modes	Direct (mouthpiece) and Passive (sampling cup)
Calibration	Microprocessor controlled, using gas or wet bath simulator
Memory	Last test
Print capability	No
Temperature range	0 – 50
Size:	5″ x 2 1/2″, 6 oz, with batteries
Warranty	One year, parts and labor

Standard Equipment

Each Alco-Sensor FST breathalyzer comes with:

Hard-shell carrying case
25 mouthpieces
2 passive sampling cups
Drink sniffer accessory
2 AA batteries
Sure Grip Sleeve
Wrist strap
1 year warranty on parts and labor
Operators manual
Access to training videos
Optional mini alcohol gas can for up to 10 monthly calibrations (only for use in non-evidential testing programs)

Course Syllabus

Professional Breath Alcohol Testing & Screening Training

This training program is designed to provide law enforcement officers, corrections personnel, workplace testing professionals, and alcohol screening operators with the knowledge and practical skills required to effectively use the Intoximeters Alco-Sensor FST. Participants will learn proper testing procedures, device operation, passive screening techniques, calibration fundamentals, and best practices for obtaining accurate and defensible breath alcohol test results.

The course combines theoretical instruction with practical guidance to help users understand fuel cell technology, breath sample collection, and compliance requirements in professional testing environments. Upon completion, participants will be better prepared to operate the device confidently and maintain testing accuracy in the field.

What You Will Learn

Throughout this course, participants will gain a comprehensive understanding of professional alcohol screening procedures and device operation.

Course Modules

Introduction to Breath Alcohol Testing
Understanding Fuel Cell Sensor Technology
Alco-Sensor FST Features and Functions
Device Setup and Initial Configuration
Active (Direct) Breath Testing Procedures
Passive Alcohol Screening Techniques
Manual Breath Sample Collection Methods
Interpreting and Recording Test Results
Operator Safety and Best Practices
Calibration and Accuracy Verification
Routine Maintenance and Troubleshooting
Legal and Regulatory Considerations
Documentation and Reporting Procedures
Field Testing Scenarios and Practical Applications

Learning Outcomes

After successfully completing this course, participants will be able to:

Operate the Alco-Sensor FST with confidence and accuracy.
Conduct direct and passive alcohol screening tests.
Understand proper breath sample collection procedures.
Perform routine accuracy checks and calibration verification.
Minimize operator errors during testing.
Follow recommended safety and compliance protocols.
Interpret test results correctly and consistently.
Maintain device performance through proper care and maintenance.

FAQ

1. What is the Intoximeters Alco-Sensor FST?

The Intoximeters Alco-Sensor FST is a professional-grade breath alcohol screening device designed for law enforcement, corrections, workplace testing, and other alcohol screening applications. It uses advanced fuel cell sensor technology to provide accurate and reliable breath alcohol measurements.

2. Who can use the Alco-Sensor FST?

The device is commonly used by law enforcement officers, probation departments, correctional facilities, workplace testing professionals, school safety personnel, and other trained operators who require dependable alcohol screening results.

3. What type of sensor does the Alco-Sensor FST use?

The Alco-Sensor FST utilizes an electrochemical fuel cell sensor, which is highly specific to alcohol and helps reduce false positives caused by substances other than alcohol.

4. How accurate is the Alco-Sensor FST?

The device is designed to provide professional-level accuracy when properly calibrated and maintained according to manufacturer guidelines. Regular calibration helps ensure consistent and reliable test results.

5. What is passive alcohol screening?

Passive alcohol screening allows operators to detect the presence of alcohol without requiring the subject to blow directly into a mouthpiece. This feature is useful for rapid screening and high-volume testing situations.

6. Can the Alco-Sensor FST perform direct breath tests?

Yes. The device supports direct breath testing using a disposable mouthpiece, allowing operators to collect breath samples and obtain accurate alcohol concentration readings.

7. How often should the device be calibrated?

Calibration frequency depends on usage volume, departmental policies, and manufacturer recommendations. Regular calibration is essential to maintain accuracy and ensure dependable performance.

8. Is training required to operate the Alco-Sensor FST?

While the device is designed for ease of use, proper training is strongly recommended to ensure accurate testing procedures, result interpretation, and compliance with organizational requirements.

9. Does the Alco-Sensor FST store test results?

The device can retain recent testing information based on its operational design. Users should follow their agency or organization’s documentation procedures for maintaining test records.

10. What industries commonly use breath alcohol testing devices?

Breath alcohol testing devices are widely used in law enforcement, transportation, corrections, workplace safety programs, schools, rehabilitation programs, and security operations.

Calibration

Alco-Sensor FST Calibration Videos and Documents

How to conduct an Accuracy Check on the Alco-Sensor FST: Instructional Video.

How to conduct a Calibration Adjustment on the Alco-Sensor FST: Instructional Video.

Product Library

Alco-Sensor FST Specifications

Reviews