What does "interference" mean in the context of Intoxilyzer 8000 operation?

In the context of the Intoxilyzer 8000 operation, "interference" specifically refers to substances that can affect the accuracy of breath alcohol readings. This can include a variety of compounds, not just alcohol, that may be present in a person's breath at the time of testing. Common substances that might cause interference include acetone, methane, and other volatile organic compounds. These substances can yield false positive results or can skew the actual measurement of blood alcohol concentration (BAC) when detected by the Intoxilyzer system. Understanding how interference works is crucial for interpreting test results accurately and ensuring that the results reflect the true alcohol level present, rather than being influenced by extraneous substances.

The other options, while related to device functionality, do not address the fundamental meaning of "interference" within this specific operational context. For instance, issues with battery levels or mouthpiece malfunctions speak to device readiness and function rather than the analysis of breath content. Similarly, the need for calibration is a procedural requirement to ensure the device operates within specifications but does not pertain specifically to the concept of interference in breath analysis.