Device FAQ's

Q: How often does the device need calibration checks?
A: Typically, every 60 days.


Q: Can the device be affected by RF signals?
A: No, RF will not interfere with the operation of the device.


Q: Can the device be tampered with by computer?
A: No, proprietary software and a special interface connection is needed to communicate with the device.


Q: If the unit would malfunction, will it shut the vehicle off?
A: No, the unit has no means of interrupting operation of the vehicle once it is started.


Q: What happens if the vehicle would stall in traffic?
A: The interlock unit has a stall protect grace period which permits the participant to restart the vehicle without having to conduct another breath sample.


Q: What happens if the participant is out of state and experiences problems with his/her unit?
A: Most states currently have interlock programs in which service centers can assist them. Participants are instructed to contact the primary service center to be routed to the closest center for assistance.


Q: Will installation of the interlock damage the vehicle?
A: The interlock unit is only connected to the wiring of the vehicle under the dash and under the hood. At the end of the program, this wiring is restored to safe conditions.


Q: Will the unit lose memory if the battery is disconnected?
A: No, the unit has a back up lithium battery to protect the data log in memory.


Q: If a participant gets stranded and he/she thinks it is the unit causing a problem is there anything they can do?
A: The unit can self diagnose problems and the participant will be able to confirm if the unit is having problems by the condition of the service light.


Q: Can a vehicle be "HOT WIRED" to start without a breath test?
A: Yes, however the unit will detect that the vehicle has been started without a valid breath test and require a breath sample. If a passing breath test is not given the alarm horn will start honking and a START Violation will be logged into the memory and the interlock will activate early service recall. This is a serious program violation that is reported to the driving authorities.


Q: What happens when the interlock equipped vehicle needs repair?
A: Participants are informed that they need to contact the service center prior to having service conducted on their vehicle in the event that the repair shop has questions about the interlock. Documentation must be provided if the power to the vehicle is interrupted as the unit will record the power disconnect and the reconnect.