The BAC Datamaster and Datamaster CDM will eventually be replaced by the Draeger 9510. We initially thought it would be sometime in 2011. It now appears that it will be at some point in 2012. The Washington State Patrol has purchased dozens of these machines to serve as the new breath test device for DUI's. While they have not been formally deployed for use, it appears that the date is rapidly approaching.

Later this month, there will a presentation of the machine by members of the Washington State Patrol at a conference for the Washington State Association of Municipal Attorneys at the Skamania Lodge. While law enforcement and prosecutors are receiving previews of the Draeger, members of the defense bar are not included.

Some of the features of the Draeger 9510:

• Will utilize two technologies for detecting alcohol concentration (infrared spectrometry "IR" and electochemical "EC") and with two breath samples, will produce 4 readings.

• On the readings, the Draeger is capable of producing a graph for the "breath profile"

• On the current machine, the arresting officer is required to input data into an antiquated keyboard. On the Draeger, the officer can merely swipe a card through the machine for all of the information to be inputted.

I will make sure to update this blog as more information regarding the Draeger and the impact it has on Washington State DUI cases as it becomes available.