What do TruTouch devices do? TruTouchs test a person’s current actual alcohol content noninvasively. They combine a breakthrough advance in alcohol testing technology with an inherent biometric identity verification capability.
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How do TruTouchs perform their measurements? TruTouchs use only light (near-infrared spectroscopy) to measure tissue alcohol concentration and verify identity. The optical touch pad transmits light into the skin via direct contact and collects a portion of the light reflected back by the skin. This signal is analyzed to determine the alcohol concentration and simultaneously verify the user’s identity. No disposables or bodily fluids are involved.
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What is the TruTouch’s intended use? TruTouchs are designed for use as enrolled alcohol-screening devices. In other words, they are designed for the regular testing of a designated group of people, such as employees coming to (and going from) work every day.
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How does a person perform a test? The person being tested swipes his identification card and then places his forearm over the optical touch pad until the measurement is complete. That’s basically it. See Product Demo.
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How much time is required to complete a test? The measurement time is one minute.
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How does the identity feature work? When a person enrolls, the TruTouch forms a spectroscopic picture of the area being examined (a small portion of the forearm.) This picture is unique, like a fingerprint.
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What does enrollment involve? The enrollment process is very similar to the testing process, with two exceptions: 1) it takes two minutes rather than one, and 2) the enroller’s sobriety should be confirmed during enrollment, as this forms a baseline alcohol reading.
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Is enrollment required prior to testing? Yes.
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Can the near infrared light hurt my skin? No. The light used is completely safe for human skin exposure. It’s similar to holding a low-powered flashlight against one’s skin. It is safe for both short- and long-term exposure.
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Will the TruTouch irritate my skin? No. Using the TruTouch device is equivalent to placing your arm on any ordinary table. There is absolutely no effect from the contact.
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Do tattoos interfere with testing? Tattoos are generally NOT a problem for TruTouch devices. However, given the wide range of tattoos, inks, and potential scarring of the skin it is possible that some tattoos could prevent the device from making a measurement. TruTouch devices have strong quality-control protocols that will stop the measurement process if they determine that a given tattoo might interfere with an accurate reading..
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Do cosmetics, perfume, cologne, suntan lotion, etcetera interfere with testing? Most consumer products, used in moderation, will NOT prevent the device from making an accurate measurement. In cases where there is concern that consumer products, dirt or other surface contaminants may pose a problem, clean the skin before measuring. .
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Does skin pigmentation (from ethnicity, birthmark, liver spots, or tanning) interfere with the testing? No..
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What maintenance does my TruTouch require? Periodic cleaning with isopropyl alcohol wipes is recommended. (The optical touch pad needs to be kept clean.) The only other routine maintenance requirement is changing the light “bulb” approximately twice a year..
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Do I need to calibrate my TruTouch? No. TruTouch devices are specifically designed to perform for extended periods of time without user-initiated calibration. The device automatically performs frequent self-status checks to ensure that it is operating normally..
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Is training required to operate a TruTouch device? No. On-screen instructions will take the user through the test. For system administrators, a short training session or a few minutes with the user’s manual is all that most require.
Can I avoid a line during rush hour? Yes. TruTouch Guardians can be set to Random Mode, wherein only X% of employees will be tested for alcohol (everyone still swipes their ID card to learn if they’ve been randomly selected.) Another solution is using multiple devices.
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What operating conditions does the TruTouch require? The device requires an office-like environment (moderate temperature, humidity, and protection from the elements.) It plugs into a standard electrical outlet..
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Does the device require any additional equipment to operate? No—aside from a standard electrical outlet. The device has two USB ports and an Ethernet connection enabling it to interface with other input and output devices, but this is not required.