A&A has launched model FIt188, a watch with built-in alcohol tester and temperature sensor. Price is $18.

Manufacturers of alcohol breath testers in Hong Kong are strengthening their R&D capability in order to launch models with increased precision and functionality. This is a response to growing demand for both professional and personal testers in the US, the EU and Australia.

The latest releases in the professional line have fuel cell sensors that reduce the risk of false-positive readings from nonalcoholic substances. The sensors are usually imported from Germany. Designs have chambers that warm up automatically and flow detectors to keep air samples uncontaminated.

These advanced models can also measure exhale force and duration to ensure that a sample is genuine. The testers have an accuracy of ±0.01 percent BAC and can operate in temperatures between –40 and 85 C.

Hong Kong makers offer interlock devices as well. These testers are wired directly to vehicles. Upon detecting high BAC, the machines can prevent drivers from starting the car, honk the horn repeatedly, flash the parking lights or send real-time reports to police officers.

For personal testers, makers are releasing models with compact and practical features. Handheld versions have anti-slip grips, key rings or lanyards for ease of use.

Models are usually pocket-size and weigh less than 60 grams without the AAA or button-cell batteries. The best-selling designs have built-in thermometers, digital alarm clocks, timers and flashlights.

Suppliers are releasing more digital models to replace the earlier analog versions. Designs with LCDs can gauge alcohol levels in 0.01 increments and show both g/L and percent BAC measurements up to three decimal places. Some versions have graphic displays and dual color backlighting.

The personal testers have accuracy ratings of ±0.2 percent and are made with semiconductor sensors from mainland China, Taiwan and Japan. These have auto power-off functions and audible alerts calibrated according to buyers' specifications. Some models come with separate mouthpieces or blowing tubes and cleaning caps to ensure that breath samples are not contaminated by atmospheric conditions.

One innovation from A&A Product Co. Ltd is a multifunction watch fitted with a tester and a temperature sensor. The model has a cycle time of 16 seconds and measures from 0.2 to 1.5 percent BAC. It can have a plastic strap or a stainless steel band. The digital display also shows the date and day.

To improve durability and product performance, companies emphasize strict testing and adherence to international standards.

RK International (HK) Ltd only subcontracts to factories that follow ISO requirements. Models are tested three or four times throughout production. All shipments to the EU have the CE mark. The company also offers a warranty of six months to a year, depending on the type of tester.

Max Concept Technology Ltd uses calibrating equipment to align each sensor used in designs. Its Dongguan factory is equipped with plastic-molding and high-speed SMT allows the company to have more control over quality.

Max Concept's designs are CE-approved. Buyers have the option to request the use of RoHS compliant materials in production.

At A&A, the calibrating machines used for testing are the same as the ones employed by police forces in the US and the EU. This ensures that the level of accuracy is comparable to models produced in these markets.

The company also offers aftersales calibration services. Designs shipped to the EU bear the CE mark. All products come with a warranty of one to two years.

In Hong Kong, personal alcohol breath testers are priced from $2.50 to $25 per piece or set. These models have semiconductor sensors. Lower-priced versions at $2.50 to $3 are analog types, usually fitted with three LEDs that light up when ready to measure, or when users are under or over prescribed alcohol levels. Some analog designs have five-color LED displays with a range of BAC measurements printed as indicators. Materials, including the LEDs and sensors, are sourced in the mainland.

Digital versions can go for $4 to $25. These can have single or double displays, usually with ABS casings. Higher-priced models are fitted with Japan-made sensors and LCDs from Taiwan. Some designs have both digital and graphic interfaces, with auto cleaning and flow detecting features. Most personal testers are calibrated to sound alerts at specific BAC levels.

Makers usually offer professional testers in sets, with prices ranging from $250 to $700. These come with multicolor OLED handsets and controllers that are connected to the vehicle. Designs are made with imported fuel-cell sensors and can record and store data.

A&A's professional handsets have four-color screens. Models are fitted with navigation keys for up, down, left, right and OK functions. An optional cable can be used to download data to a PC. Controllers are built with an automatic ignition-control system and have a wired or IR communication device.

At Precise International (HK) Ltd, models are priced at about $2.80 each. The company offers portable alcohol testers mainly as premiums.