Editing Ignition interlock device (section)

==Design==
Modern ignition interlock devices use an alcohol-specific [[fuel cell]] for a sensor. A fuel cell sensor is an electrochemical device in which alcohol undergoes a chemical [[oxidation reaction]] at a catalytic electrode surface ([[platinum]]) to generate an [[electric current]]. This current is then measured and converted to an alcohol equivalent reading. Although fuel cell technology is not as accurate or reliable as [[infrared spectroscopy]] technology used in evidentiary [[breathalyzer]]s, they are cheaper and tend to be more specific for [[ethanol|alcohol]]. Alcohol, as defined here, includes isopropanol, sorbitol, menthol, methanol, and a host of other types of alcohols, in addition to ethanol, the consumed liquor.

The devices keep a record of the activity on the device and the interlocked vehicle's electrical system. This record, or log, is printed out or downloaded each time the device's sensors are calibrated, commonly at 30-, 60-, or 90-day intervals. Authorities may require periodic review of the log. If violations are detected, then additional sanctions can be implemented.

Periodic [[calibration]] is performed using either a pressurized alcohol–gas mixture at a known alcohol concentration, or with an alcohol wet bath arrangement that contains a known alcohol solution.

Some IIDs are equipped with cameras, which may be required by the jurisdiction or voluntarily used. The purpose of the camera is to identify "fail" results with the driver, which conveniently makes it easier to "clear" test failure reports when the "fail" result was triggered by a third party.