Michigan's NEW DataMaster DMT Breathalyzer
Out with the old and in with the new: Michigan's ubiquitous DataMaster breathalyzer machine is getting replaced.
In an effort to improve breathalyzer technology, Michigan plans on replacing its old BAC DataMaster breathalyzer machines with new DataMaster DMT machines. The DMT machines are made by National Patent Analytical Systems, Inc.
The new DataMaster DMT machines are much easier to use than the old BAC DataMasters. They have larger, full-color touch-screen operations. They run on Windows-based software, using programs such as Windows Media Player. Importantly, they now use an internal "dry gas simulator" to verify accuracy, as required by AC, R 325.2653, instead of the old external "wet bath simulator." This is designed to limit human error (and defense attacks) and reduce the multitude of problems incurred with the "wet bath simulator" process. Also, the DMTs have the capability of providing a real-time display and subsequent color printout of a subject's "alcohol curve" and "breath profile." This is in part intended to limit the "breathing pattern" defense to drunk driving, because the device displays and records the entire blowing process (not just the end result of the bodily alcohol content). Finally, the DMTs now display only the current subject's read-out, deleting the previous results.
A new DataMaster DMT machine costs approximately $6,300.00. The Michigan State Police (MSP) plans on purchasing 210 new DataMaster DMTs, replacing approximately 220 old ones. MSP will purchase the DMT for state and local police agencies if an agency makes at least 200 drunk-driving arrests per year and it has a lock-up facility. If the annual number of drunk-driving arrests is below 200, or the agency doesn't have a lock-up facility, the agency will have to purchase their own machines. MSP is able to finance the purchasing of the DMTs because it is using money given to them by the Michigan Secretary of State for driver's license reinstatement fees ($10.00 for every $125.00 paid to the state).