SD 400 Alkol Metre

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lion alcolmeter® SD-400
User Handbook: General

Issue 7 [RM40977]
0086
 Copyright 2012, Lion Laboratories Limited

lion alcolmeter® SD-400 User Handbook [v7]
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CONTENTS
1. Introduction........................................................................... 5
2. Principle of Operation…………………………………………. 6
3. Instrument Features….......................................................... 7
4. Subject Breath Test……….................................................... 10
5. Using the SD-400 with a Printer........................................... 14
6. Instrument Power Supply Systems...................................... 16
7. Clock and Calendar……………………………………………...18
8. Do’s and Don’ts...................................................................... 19
9. Calibration Checks and Adjustment…………….……..……..21

9A. Background……………………….……………….….…………. 21
9B. AlcoCal® Alcohol Standards……………………..…………….. 21
9C. Calibration Checking……………………………………………. 24
9D. Calibration Adjustment………………………………………….. 26
Appendix I: Warning and Error Messages……………………. 30
Appendix 2: Technical Details…………………………………… 31
Appendix 3: Alcohol Concentration Units…………………….. 34
Appendix 4: Lion Contact Information…………………………. 36
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PLEASE!
Read this Handbook carefully, BEFORE using
the instrument for the first time.
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1: Introduction
The lion alcolmeter® SD-400 is a hand-held, breath alcohol
analyser for use in traffic law enforcement, medical and industrial
safety applications. The instrument is easy-to-use, and allows a
complete breath test to be completed in about one minute.
The standard instrument version has a 500-test memory. This

records the date, time and result of each test, from where it can be
downloaded to a PC using software available from Lion.
This handbook is written for the lion alcolmeter® SD-400 as it is

most commonly used. However, because many of its operating
functions are configurable, it is not possible to cover all the
permutations of method operation in this handbook. Information on
the use of these additional features is available from Lion.
This handbook explains the following aspects of the instrument, so

please read it carefully:
 basic principles of operation

 how to run a breath test
 interpretation of results
 calibration checking
 calibration adjustment
 care and basic maintenance
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2: Principle of Operation
The lion alcolmeter® SD-400 uses an electrochemical fuel cell
sensor to measure the concentration of alcohol vapour in the
subject’s expired breath; a measured amount of which is drawn from
the mouthpiece into the fuel cell by means of the sampling system.
In the fuel cell a voltage is generated in proportion to the breath

alcohol concentration: it is therefore amplified and displayed in
terms of the subject’s alcohol level.
The breath sampling system is factory-set to sample deep-lung air; it

is the breath from the bottom of the lungs that truly reflects the
amount of alcohol in the body.
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3. Instrument Features
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1
8 7
Please note the following user features of the instrument:

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1 On/Off Switch 6 Spigot Mouthpiece
2 Indicator Lights 7 Function Switches
3 Display 8 Communications Port
4 Beeper 9 Power supply Unit
5 Sampling Port 10 Dongle Electronic key
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On/Off Switch (I-0)

Press once to switch on, press again to switch off. Use of the
On/Off switch is inhibited to prevent switch-off during a breath test.
Indicator Lights
 WAIT the system is not ready to sample;
probably because the sensor is not
clear of alcohol from the last test.
 READY the instrument is ready to sample.
 FLOW the subject is blowing hard enough.
 ANALYSING a sample has been taken: its alcohol
content is being measured.
Digital Display
Shows the subject’s alcohol level, time and date, the battery
condition, and error messages. It is illuminated for use at night.
Beeper
Gives audible messages of certain events and conditions.
Sampling Port
The entrance to the fuel cell and
breath flow sensor. This port must
NOT become blocked or restricted.
Spigot Mouthpiece
A new mouthpiece is fitted to the sampling port for
each breath test. This disposable item is individually
and hygienically wrapped.
A NEW mouthpiece MUST be used for each complete breath test: but
NOT essentially for repeated blows by a subject in the same test
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The Four Function Switches

These have various uses, as stated in this handbook. From the left,
they are referred to as B, C, and D (the On/Off switch is A).
Communications Port
This allows access to certain software routines (such as calibration
adjustment), when the Dongle key is fitted. If the instrument is used
with a printer, the printer cable is connected here. This port is also
used for transferring stored breath test data to a PC.
Power Supply
This is located on the back of the instrument and fitted with either 5
disposable alkaline batteries (AA) - the PSU; or the rechargeable
power unit the RPU. To remove from the main case, press and hold
down the release button on the main case, then pull down.
Dongle Electronic Key

A security key which is fitted to the
communications port so as to access
certain software routines, such as for
instrument calibration adjustment.
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4. Subject Breath Test
4.1 The Breath Test Procedure: Step-by-Step
Preliminary Questions
Ensure the subject has taken nothing by mouth for at least 15
minutes, and not smoked for at least 2 minutes. If necessary, wait.
Mouth alcohol generally disperses within 10 or 12 minutes, so a 15-

minute wait ensures its complete dispersal. Remember though that
many foods and even some ‘non-alcoholic’ drinks actually contain
traces of alcohol. Also, a glass of cold water will cool the mouth and
dilute saliva, and so temporarily reduce the breath alcohol level.
Switch On Instrument
Press and release the On/Off switch (1-0).
Diagnostics Test
The four indicator lights and the display bar segments are tested.
The sampling system is activated and the WAIT light comes on. The
time and date are then shown [any inaccuracy here has no effect on
the alcohol measurement]. The WAIT light stays on while the fuel
cell is checked to ensure there is no alcohol from a previous test.
READY – Attach Mouthpiece

When the READY light shows, unwrap a
mouthpiece (don’t touch the lipped end that
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the subject will put in his/her mouth), and attach it to the sampling
port: either way round.
Instruct the Subject

Tell the subject to take in a deep breath, hold it, then place the lipped
end of the mouthpiece in their mouth and seal their lips around it.
They must then blow STEADILY [not hard] and CONTINUOUSLY
until you say stop, and keep their hands away from the instrument.
Take the Breath Sample

The subject now blows. If he or she
blows hard enough the FLOW light
comes on and there is a continuous
tone; the subject must then continue to
blowing until the ANALYSING light
appears and a double beep is heard.
This means that the breath sample has
been taken into the sensor for analysis,
so the subject can now stop blowing.
Note the Alcohol Reading

Wait for the ANALYSING light to
go off, then note the subject’s
reading. If no alcohol was present
this will appear very quickly; but if
alcohol was present it may take up
to 30 seconds for the final reading
to be obtained. This will then be
displayed for a pre-set time.
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Discard Mouthpiece
Remove and discard the mouthpiece in a hygienic manner.
A NEW mouthpiece MUST be used for each complete breath test: but
NOT essentially for repeated blows by a subject in the same test
Wait …. or
Wait for the READY light to come back on [which shows that the
instrument is now clear of any alcohol from the last sample] before
proceeding to test either the same or a different subject. The time
taken for this to occur will depend on how much alcohol was present.
or ….. Switch Off

Switch off manually, or let it to do so automatically after a set time.
4.2 Invalid Breath Samples

If the subject sucks back, blows too gently, or does not blow for long
enough, the ANALYSING light will not come on, so no sample will be
taken for analysis. Depending on the situation, you may allow a
further try, perhaps after re-instruction. There is no need to change
the mouthpiece for repeated blows for the same sample.
4.3 The E2 Message

If E2 is displayed after the ANALYSING light comes on, the breath
alcohol level of alcohol in the breath sample was too high for
accurate measurement. This could be a genuine result, but more
likely it means mouth alcohol was present. The instrument will now
take some time to clear before the READY light comes back on.
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4.4 Manual Breath Sampling

The standard factory setting is that a breath sample can also be
taken manually. To do this, press C while the subject is still
blowing, but just before they run out of breath - so that deep-
lung air is still taken for analysis.
4.5 Automatic Switch Off

If the SD-400 is left switched on but not used, after a pre-set time it
will switch itself off automatically. Before doing so it emits a series of
high-pitched beeps. To cancel auto-power down at this time, press
and hold down the On/Off (1-0) switch until two beeps are heard.
4.6 Last Test Recall / Memory Capacity

When the READY light is on, press and release D. The display
shows the remaining memory capacity, then the Test Number and
the result of the last breath test, with its date and time. (See also
‘Using the SD-400 with a Printer’).
As standard, the SD-400 is supplied with 500-test memory, set to

Shunt [when the memory is full, the newest test is saved and the
oldest deleted].
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5. Using the SD-400 with a Printer

The SD-400 can also be used with a small, portable thermal printer
(Able Ap863), to generate a permanent record of each breath test.
This printout shows the instrument serial number, the dates of its last
calibration and check; and the breath test result, with date, time.
The printer is powered by its own rechargeable battery; mains and

12v chargers are available.
When the printer is first received, its battery will be

completely discharged. This means that the printer will
not operate, even if it is connected to an external power
source, until the battery has been fully charged. See the
label on the printer battery pack for initial charging time.
Each printer is supplied with the manufacturer’s User Guide.
Before carrying out a breath test, ensure that the printer cable is
securely connected to the communications port on the SD-400. You
do not need to switch the printer on: this is done automatically by
the instrument itself at the appropriate time.
Follow the Subject Breath Test instructions as in Section 4.1.

When the ANALYSING indicator light on the instrument goes off, the
printer will switch on and generate a printout.
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Last Test Recall [Reprint]

See page 13. Activating Last Test Recall also generates a further
printout of the last test.
Automatic Test Numbering

Every time a breath test is carried out, a four-digit sequential number
is printed automatically on the test record. This number is set to
0000 before dispatch of the instrument from Lion, and can then only
be reset by Lion or a local Lion distributor.
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6. Instrument Power Supply Systems
Low Power Warnings

The SD-400 instrument uses two-stage low power warning system:
a. First Stage - Flashing WAIT Light

Plus Triple, Low Pitched Beep
Power is low, but the instrument can still be used –
with no effect on breath sampling or analytical
accuracy.
Disposable batteries should be changed as
soon as possible once this warning appears:
rechargeable battery packs should be charged.
b. Second Stage - Four Flashing Bars (- - - - )

Plus Two Long, Low Pitched Beeps
Battery power is too low for instrument operation, so
further use of it is automatically inhibited.
AA Power Supply Unit [PSU]

To replace the batteries, ensure the instrument is switched off, then
press the release catch on its back and slide down the battery pack
to remove it. Remove all five batteries and replace with five new
alkaline ones, ensuring correct polarity. Now slide the power supply
unit into place, ensuring the release catch clicks positively to lock.
Use Only Alkaline AA Batteries
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Rechargeable Power Unit

A rechargeable power unit (RPU) is also available. A fully-charged
RPU should contain enough power for at least 1,200 breath tests, in
continuous operation. Mains and 12volt DC chargers are available.
When first received, the RPU will not be fully charged.
To fit the RPU, ensure the instrument is switched off, then press the
release catch on the back of the unit and remove the existing power
unit. Now fit the RPU, ensuring the release catch clicks positively
into place. Connect the RPU to the appropriate charger and leave
for about one hour to charge up fully, when the red LED goes out.
IMPORTANT - PLEASE NOTE:
 Switch the instrument off before removing and refitting

either the PSU [disposable batteries], or the RPU.
 Don’t attempt to recharge the AA cells.
 Don’t switch the instrument on while the RPU is charging.
 Don’t attempt to recharge the RPU when it is already fully

charged.
 Don’t leave the instrument with a flat power pack attached.

This shortens the life of the internal lithium battery which
powers the memory and clock circuits.
 Don’t carry either the PSU or the RPU in your pocket. If

the contacts were to short-circuit on a key or coin, serious
burns to your body could result.
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7. Clock and Calendar

The alcohol reading from each breath test is stored in memory, with
time and date. To check the accuracy of the time and date function,
switch the instrument on and when the READY light is on, press and
release B. The time (hh:mm) then the date (dd:mm) are displayed.
To re-set the time and date, the Dongle security key is needed.
Follow the procedure set out below:
1. Fit the Dongle key into the communications port;

switch on and, before the diagnostics sequence is
complete, press and hold down B. The system is
now in Manual Time and Date Set mode: release B.
2. The date and time can now be

set against the symbols on the
display. In each case, use B or
D to adjust this value, then C to
enter and move to the next.
3. When all five periods have been

set, the SD-400 displays the
new time and date; then it
switches itself off.
IMPORTANT NOTE:
Any inaccuracy in the time or date settings has no effect on
breath sampling or the accuracy of alcohol measurement.
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8. Some DO’s and DON’T’s
Some Important DO’s …

DO.. press the On/Off Switch gently.
DO.. keep the instrument in its leather pouch, whenever possible.
DO.. store the instrument either with batteries installed or a power

pack attached, to avoid discharging the internal battery.
DO.. change the batteries as soon as possible once the first stage
warning appears.
DO.. switch the instrument off before removing the battery pack.
DO.. use only genuine Lion mouthpieces and/or sampling cups,

or as produced by a Lion approved supplier.
DO.. use a clean Lion mouthpiece for each subject test.
DO.. ensure the mouthpiece is properly attached and locked in

place between the 400’s two upright mouthpiece locators.
DO.. ensure the subject blows through the wide-bore, lipped end
of the mouthpiece.
DO.. as far as you can, ensure the unit is regularly checked.
DO.. read this manual carefully, and follow the instructions given!
DO.. report memory or error (E) messages to your Supervisor.
DO.. keep the communications port fiitted with its cover.
DO.. use only alkaline batteries in the PSU.
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And Some Important DON’T’s …

DON’T.. test the subject if he may have been drinking or eating
in the last 20 minutes or smoking in the last 2 minutes.
DON’T.. permit the subject to hyperventilate immediately prior to

supplying his or her breath sample.
DON’T.. store the unit in extremes of hot or cold temperatures.
DON’T.. leave the instrument for long periods with no batteries or

a power pack attached to it. This will discharge the
internal battery to the memory and clock circuits.
DON’T.. subject the instrument to unnecessary shock.
DON’T.. use excessive force on the On/Off switch.
DON’T.. clean the case with chemical or abrasive products.

These could cause permanent damage.
DON’T.. allow the sampling port to get blocked. If you think it

may be blocked or restricted in some way then hand the
instrument to a Supervisor.for checking.
DON’T.. use other than the Lion mouthpieces. These have been
carefully designed and are specifically manufactured for
use with this instrument.
DON’T.. block the mouthpiece end while the subject is blowing.

This may harm the instrument.
DON’T.. reuse mouthpieces, for reasons of health and accuracy.
DON’T.. open the instrument or attempt any repairs. If you think

it is not working properly, hand it in for checking.
DON’T.. deviate from the instructions given in this handbook.
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9. Calibration Checks and Adjustment
9A. Background
The sensitivity of fuel cell to alcohol vapour changes slowly with time.
Therefore, to ensure continued optimum instrument operation, it is
necessary to CHECK its accuracy at regular intervals, and to carry
out an appropriate ADJUSTMENT when necessary.
It is for the user organisation to decide how often the accuracy is

checked, but it is recommended that a Calibration CHECK is
carried out at least once per month. Calibration ADJUSTMENT is
only required when the reading obtained from the calibration check is
unacceptable to the organisation; for example greater than 5% or
10% away from the value of the standard so used.
But of course, a calibration check can also be carried whenever it is

necessary to verify the accuracy of a breath test reading.
9B. AlcoCal® Alcohol Standards

The calibration check and adjustment processes are most
conveniently carried out using and AlcoCal® alcohol vapour
standards. This is a mixture of alcohol vapour in air at a known
concentration, contained in a pressurised cylinder.
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Provided it is within certain limits, the actual value of the standard is

not critical, but it must of course be known.
NOTE: a wet bath simulator may also be used for either process:
please contact Lion for relevant information, if required.
Two types of AlcoCal® standard are available:
 AlcoCal®-M: this disposable cylinder has a six-months

shelf life and contains sufficient vapour for
approximately 50 samples. The alcohol concentration
value is stated to within +/- 10% of the true value.
 AlcoCal®-2AL: a high-pressure disposable cylinder

fitted with a re-useable regulator. It contains sufficient
vapour for approximately 300 samples, and is supplied
with Connector Tubes for attachment to a mouthpiece
as used with the SD-400. The stated alcohol
concentration is within +/- 3%, and is valid for
approximately thirty-four months.
Units of Alcohol Measurement

The alcohol level in AlcoCal® standards is normally given in units of
mg/l BrAC (ie milligrams per litre Breath Alcohol Concentration).
But if the lion alcolmeter SD-400® is reading in some other unit of
measurement, the AlcoCal® standard will still be suitable for use,
since each such standard is supplied with an Explanatory Booklet
giving information on how to convert the mg/l BrAC value of the
AlcoCal® to the units actually used by the instrument.
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AlcoCal® Standards and Atmospheric Pressure Effects

The level of alcohol in a subject’s breath is completely unaffected by
changes in atmospheric pressure; the information below applies
only to the alcohol concentration in the AlcoCal® standard.
The stated alcohol value of each AlcoCal® standard applies only

when the cylinder is used at sea level at normal atmospheric
pressure (1 bar). At lower atmospheric pressures the alcohol
vapour concentration will be lower; but it will be higher at
atmospheric pressures greater than standard. This change in
alcohol concentration due to normal atmospheric pressure changes
at sea level is generally so small as to be negligible, but if the
AlcoCal® is used at high altitude, significant error would be produced
if a correction was not made. Finally, if the atmospheric pressure
even at sea level is very low [such as during a tropical storm], or is
very high, then must also be taken into account when using an
AlcoCal®.
Barometric Pressure Correction Look-up Table for AlcoCal®
Atmospheric AlcoCal® Value

Pressure mB mg/l BrAC
650 0.22
700 0.24
750 0.26
800 0.28
850 0.29
900 0.31
950 0.33
1000 0.34
1010 0.35
1050 0.36
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Example
A 0.35mg/l AlcoCal® is to be used where the atmospheric pressure
is only 950mB. Standard atmospheric pressure at sea-level is
1,013mB, so the BrAC value of the standard now becomes:
950 x 0.35 = 0.32mg/l BrAC (rounded down)

1,013
But If the atmospheric pressure was higher than standard, say

1050mB, then the value of the same AlcoCal® would be:
1,050 x 0.35 = 0.36mg/l BrAC (rounded down)

1,013
AlcoCal® Standards and Atmospheric Temperature Effects

Large ambient temperature changes will also modify the alcohol
level in the vapour leaving an AlcoCal® standard. They should
therefore be kept away from excess heat and cold, and if they are
exposed to such conditions, temperatures, should be allowed to
recover. Ideally, an AlcoCal® standard should not be used if it is
outside the temperature range 15 – 30°C.
9C. Calibration CHECKING

This procedure must be carried out when both the AlcoCal® and the
SD-400 are at room temperature in the range 15 – 30°C:
1. Prepare the AlcoCal® Standard

Note the value of the AlcoCal® to be used (making
allowance for atmospheric pressure and units of
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measurement, as previously described). Now fit the

Dispensing Top to the AlcoCal®-M, or the Connector Tube
to the regulator of the AlcoCal®-2AL. If the AlcoCal®-2AL
has not been used within the previous two hours, press and
hold down the push-button for about five seconds to flush
out of the regulator of any stale and depleted alcohol vapour.
2. Prepare the SD-400 Instrument

First, ensure this has not been used at all in the last hour.
Now put it into its Calibration Check Mode. This ensures

the SD-400 is in its correct temperature range; sets up the
digital display for use in this function; and stores the check
readings in a separate memory to that used for subject tests.
Switch the instrument on and then IMMEDIATELY press and

hold down C. This MUST be done BEFORE the diagnostics
sequence is complete. When a continuous tone is heard,
release C and wait for the READY light to flash [the display
shows the software version (eg 3.9)]. When the READY
light flashes, press and release B. The display shows CHC,
meaning the SD-400 is now in Calibration Check Mode.
3. Take Sample
When the READY light comes on, fit a new spigot
mouthpiece to the SD-400, then push this over the
Dispensing Top on the AlcoCal®-M or the Connector Tube
on the AlcoCal®-2AL to form an airtight fit. Push down the
Dispensing Top (AlcoCal®-M) or push-button (AlcoCal®-
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2AL) and allow vapour to flow for at least six seconds.

After about five seconds, but with vapour still flowing,
press and release C to take a sample of the vapour into the
SD-400. Now release the cylinder control to stop gas flow.
4. Note Reading
The reading given should normally be within plus or minus
0.03mg/l BrAC of the value of the AlcoCal® alcohol
standard, at the 0.35mg/l level. In other words, for a
0.35mg/l standard, the reading should be in the range 0.32 –
0.38mg/l. Using an AlcoCal® at 0.22mg/l the acceptable
range is proportionately lower, at 0.20 – 0.24mg/l. However,
it is emphasised that these stated ranges are for guidance
only: what constitutes an ‘acceptable’ reading during the
check procedure must ultimately be a decision of the user
authority, and the method and purpose of use of the
instrument itself.
If the reading was outside the acceptable range, wait for the
READY light to come on, then repeat the Calibration Check
procedure. If the reading is still outside the acceptable
range, the instrument requires Calibration Adjustment.
9D. Calibration ADJUSTMENT

First, you will also need a Dongle electronic key to put the SD-400
into Calibration Adjustment Mode.
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This procedure must be carried out when both the AlcoCal® and the
SD-400 are at room temperature in the range 15 – 30°C:
1. Prepare the AlcoCal® standard

Note the value of the AlcoCal® to be used (making
allowance for atmospheric pressure and units of
measurement, as previously described). Now fit the
®
Dispensing Top to the AlcoCal -M, or the Connector Tube
to the regulator of the AlcoCal®-2AL. If the AlcoCal®-2AL
has not been used within the previous two hours, press and
hold down the push-button for about five seconds to flush
out of the regulator of any stale and depleted alcohol vapour.
2. Prepare the SD-400 Instrument

First, ensure this has not been used at all in the last hour.
Now put it into its Calibration Adjustment Mode. This

ensures the SD-400 is in its correct temperature range;
allows an actual resetting of the instrument’s analytical
function to be made; and ensures the event is not stored in
the subject test memory. So insert the Dongle into the
Communications Port on the side of the instrument.
Now switch the instrument on and then IMMEDIATELY

press and hold down C. This MUST be done BEFORE the
diagnostics sequence is complete. When a continuous tone
is heard, release C and wait for the READY light to flash [the
display now shows the software version (eg 3.9)]. When the
READY light flashes, press and release D. The display now
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shows CAL, meaning that the instrument is now in its

Calibration Adjustment Mode.
3. Enter the Standard Value

You must now tell the SD-400 the value of the alcohol
standard that you are going to use to calibrate it: the
instrument will then automatically adjust itself to that value,
when you sample the vapour.
The word CAL disappears from the display and is replaced

by a value, such as 0.35. If this is not the value of the
AlcoCal® to be used, press B or D to adjust it so that it is:
then press C to enter, and move on. The beeper sounds
and the reading flashes five times to confirm that this is the
standard value to be used for calibration.
4. Take Sample
When the READY light comes on, fit a new mouthpiece to
the SD-400, then push this over the Dispensing Top on the
AlcoCal®-M or the Connector Tube on the AlcoCal®-2AL to
form an airtight fit. Push down the Dispensing Top
(AlcoCal -M) or push-button (AlcoCal®-2AL) and allow
®
vapour to flow for at least six seconds. After about five

seconds, but with vapour still flowing, press and release
C: this takes a sample of the vapour into the SD-400. Now
release the cylinder control to stop gas flow.
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5. Automatic Calibration
The instrument now calibrates itself automatically, then
switches itself off. You may now remove the Dongle key.
6. Confirmation Calibration Check

It is advisable now to carry out a Calibration Check to
ensure that the calibration was completed properly. You
may use the same or a different alcohol standard for this, as
you wish. There is no need to allow any delay: simply
switch on again and enter Calibration Check Mode, then
wait for the READY light to come on before proceeding as
before.
Calibration Error Messages

If the message E3 is shown during this calibration, it means
the fuel cell signal was too low for a proper automatic
adjustment to be made. This is most likely due to:
 incorrect sampling: repeat the entire process if
you think this might be the reason
 insensitive fuel cell: refer to service support
 faulty sampling system: refer to service support
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Appendix 1: Warning & Error Messages
A1.1 Warning Messages

Flashing WAIT Light
This is the first-stage low battery power warning: you may
still use the instrument, but batteries should be changed or
recharged as soon as possible when this first appears.
Four Bars on the Display

This is the second-stage low power warning: use is inhibited
until the batteries have been replaced or recharged.
Low Memory Countdown

When the remaining memory is within a preset number of
tests of being full, the remaining test number capacity is
shown on switch-on, plus three, long-and-short beeps.
A1.2 The E X Error Messages

The following messages will be shown on the digital display in the
event of a component or system failure. If any of these messages
appears, the instrument is automatically inhibited from further use.
EO Communications error when PC connected.
E1 Loss of fuel cell calibration data from memory.
E2 The breath alcohol level, as measured, was too high for
analysis [probably mouth alcohol].
E3 The fuel cell sensitivity is too low for calibration.
E4 The breath flow sensor output is too low for calibration.
E5 There is a fault with the breath sampling system.
E6 The instrument is either too hot [over +50C] or too cold
[below -10C] for use in breath testing.
E7 Temperature too low for calibration checking or adjustment.
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Appendix 2: Technical Details
A2.1 General
 Name:
- lion alcolmeter® SD-400 [version 3.4 or later].
 Designation:
- portable, hand-held breath alcohol measuring instrument.
 Automation:
- fully automatic, microcontroller-based operation. All operating
parameters such as breath flow rates, discard volume and alcohol
measuring units are pre-set using dedicated PC based software.
A2.2 Analytical
 Sensor:
- electrochemical fuel cell develops a voltage in response to alcohol.
 Specificity:
- unaffected by acetone, paint and glue fumes, foods, confectionary,
methane and all other likely breath contaminants.
 Response Time:
- within 30 seconds at 20C; 10 seconds at very low alcohol levels.
 Recovery Time:
- less than 10 seconds at zero alcohol; about 60 seconds at
0.35mg/l BrAC. Typically, 4 minutes at the top of the measuring
range [or faster, depending on firmware version].
(Note: at low alcohol levels the software configured Display Reset
Time may reduce the maximum possible breath sampling rate.)
 Calibration Period:
- recommended monthly Calibration Check, but actual Adjustment
should not be required more than once every six months.
 Long Term Drift:
- less than 0.02mg/l BrAC (ie .005% BAC) per month.
 Operating Temperature Range [Breath Analysis]:
- -5 to +40C, for optimum operation.
32
A2.3 Breath Sampling

 Automation:
- once the subject has complied with the minimum breath sampling
requirements, a fixed volume sample of breath is drawn from the
mouthpiece and passed directly into the fuel cell for analysis.
 Breath Pressure Sensor:
- high impedance, low power, silicon wafer diaphragm differential
device, with in-built temperature compensation.
 Minimum Breath Flow Rate:
- normally set at 25 litres per minute, but variable in the range 20 to
50 litres per minute.
 Minimum Breath Pressure:
- 7.0hPa (at a flow rate of 25 litres per minute).
 Minimum Breath Discard Volume:
- normally set to 1.5 litres.
A2.4 Electronics and Microcontroller

 Breath Test Data Memory:
- 500 subject breath tests.
 Internal Battery Backup:
- internal lithium battery protects configuration and calibration.
 Communications Port:
- 2 channel, serial interface, for full RS232 data transfer to download
stored data to a PC or Apple-Mac; or to a serial dot matrix printer.
 Breath Flow Measurement:

- precise flow measuring device and timer for determination of
expired breath volume ensure automatic deep lung breath sampling.
 Digital Display:
- four digit, illuminated LCD.
 Visual Indicators:
- four coloured LED's show the current status:
WAIT, READY, FLOW or ANALYSING.
 Audible Indicator:
- beeper indicates such events as reversed breath flow (subject
suck-back), a change of indicator light status, or a fault condition.
33
A2.5 Electrical
 Power Supply Options:
- a) 5 x 1.5V size `AA' alkaline cells.
b) a sealed 7.4V Lithium Polymer rechargeable battery pack -
capacity 850mAh.
 Battery Capacity:
- alkaline AA cells, at least 3000 tests and Rechargeable Power Unit
typically 1500 tests per charge [depending on conditions of use].
Visual and audible warnings of imminent and actual battery failure.
A2.6 Physical
 Dimensions:
- 169 x 80 x 39mm
 Weights:
- 517g (in pouch, Alkaline batteries); 527g (in pouch, RPU fitted)
 Shock and Vibration:
- case construction is from impact resistant, modified ABS.
Instrument complies with IEC 68-2-27 Part 2.1 Test EA and IEC 68-
2-6 Part 2.1 Test FC (in or out of pouch).
34
Appendix 3: Alcohol Concentration

Units
This is relevant in the instrument checking and calibration functions.
Like any other breath instrument, though it may be read in blood

alcohol units, the lion alcolmeter® SD-400 measures the
concentration of alcohol in the expired breath. Having made this
analysis it is then possible to report the result in breath alcohol
concentration units (BrAC).
However, it is also possible to report the reading in terms of an

equivalent blood alcohol level (BAC or BAL). To do this it is
necessary to make use of an assumed blood:breath ratio [the
actual value of this is close to 2,300:1, although this continues to be,
the subject of much scientific (and often misinformed) discussion].
A3.1 Breath Alcohol (BrAC) Units

BrAC Units: Written As:
milligrams per litre mg/l or mg/L
micrograms per hundred millilitres µg/100ml or µg/% or µg/dl
micrograms per litre µg/l or µg/L
grams per two hundred and ten litres g/210L
35
A3.2 Blood Alcohol (BAC) Units

BAC Units: Written As:
milligrams per hundred millilitres mg/100ml or mg/% or mg/dl
percent blood alcohol %BAC or %BAL
promille [weight/volume] g/l or ‰ w/v
promille [weight/weight]* g/Kg or ‰ w/w
A3.3 Blood:Breath Ratios

The true in-vivo ratio is close to 2,300:1, as it relates to pulmonary
arterial blood. The use of values lower than this will cause the
breath analysis to under-read the blood alcohol level. This is
sometimes adopted to as to give an allowance to the subject.
A3.4 Units and Ratio Conversion

The following measurements all represent the same absolute
concentration of alcohol in an individual's body at some point in time:
Breath alcohol levels as measured absolutely:
0.35mg/l 35 g/100ml 350 g/l
These convert to the following blood alcohol concentrations (all

figures are rounded down):
Ratio: 2 000:1
70mg/100ml .070%BAC 0.70‰ (w/v) 0.66‰ (w/w)
Ratio: 2 100:1
73mg/100ml .073%BAC 0.73‰ (w/v) 0.68‰ (w/w)
Ratio: 2 300:1
80mg/100ml .080%BAC 0.80‰ (w/v) 0.75‰ (w/w)
Note: the specific gravity of whole blood is about 1.06.
36
Appendix 4: Lion Contact Information
Mail
Lion Laboratories Limited
Ty Verlon Industrial Estate
Barry, Vale of Glamorgan, CF63 2BE
Wales United Kingdom
Telephone [main switchboard]

01446 724500
Main Fax
01446 724501
Telephone [technical service]

01446 724502
Telephone [sales]
01446 724576
Telephone [legal and forensic support]

01446 724503
Fax
01446 724593
E-mail
info@lionlaboratories.com
or, for technical service
service@lionlaboratories.com
World Wide Web: www.lionlaboratories.com
37

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`

lion alcolmeter® SD-400

User Handbook: General

 Copyright 2012, Lion Laboratories Limited

4. Subject Breath Test……….................................................... 10

5. Using the SD-400 with a Printer........................................... 14

6. Instrument Power Supply Systems...................................... 16

7. Clock and Calendar……………………………………………...18

8. Do’s and Don’ts...................................................................... 19

9. Calibration Checks and Adjustment…………….……..……..21

Appendix I: Warning and Error Messages……………………. 30

Appendix 2: Technical Details…………………………………… 31

Appendix 3: Alcohol Concentration Units…………………….. 34

Appendix 4: Lion Contact Information…………………………. 36

The standard instrument version has a 500-test memory. This

This handbook is written for the lion alcolmeter® SD-400 as it is

This handbook explains the following aspects of the instrument, so

 basic principles of operation

In the fuel cell a voltage is generated in proportion to the breath

The breath sampling system is factory-set to sample deep-lung air; it

Please note the following user features of the instrument:

On/Off Switch (I-0)

The Four Function Switches

Dongle Electronic Key

4. Subject Breath Test

4.1 The Breath Test Procedure: Step-by-Step

Mouth alcohol generally disperses within 10 or 12 minutes, so a 15-

READY – Attach Mouthpiece

Instruct the Subject

Take the Breath Sample

Note the Alcohol Reading

or ….. Switch Off

4.2 Invalid Breath Samples

4.3 The E2 Message

4.4 Manual Breath Sampling

4.5 Automatic Switch Off

4.6 Last Test Recall / Memory Capacity

As standard, the SD-400 is supplied with 500-test memory, set to

5. Using the SD-400 with a Printer

The printer is powered by its own rechargeable battery; mains and

When the printer is first received, its battery will be

Each printer is supplied with the manufacturer’s User Guide.

Follow the Subject Breath Test instructions as in Section 4.1.

Last Test Recall [Reprint]

Automatic Test Numbering

6. Instrument Power Supply Systems

Low Power Warnings

a. First Stage - Flashing WAIT Light

b. Second Stage - Four Flashing Bars (- - - - )

AA Power Supply Unit [PSU]

Use Only Alkaline AA Batteries

Rechargeable Power Unit

IMPORTANT - PLEASE NOTE:

 Switch the instrument off before removing and refitting

 Don’t attempt to recharge the AA cells.

 Don’t switch the instrument on while the RPU is charging.

 Don’t attempt to recharge the RPU when it is already fully

 Don’t leave the instrument with a flat power pack attached.

 Don’t carry either the PSU or the RPU in your pocket. If

7. Clock and Calendar