Breathalyzer source code must be disclosed

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Ivory tower thinking

Who "periodically recertifies" Breathalyzers? Why do we continually hear about how the previous model was notoriously inaccurate, when law enforcement wants to justify purchasing new units, but we never hear this stated about the current model (until there is a replacement available)? Imperical testing consistently shows the units to read 30-50% higher than consecutive blood tests (and it is blood alcohol that is purportedly being measured).

Furthermore, the machine doesn't simply measure alcohol levels in the breath. There is lengthy calibration procedure the officer must follow before each "use", in which there is ample opportunity for "human error" and deliberate "fiddling".

Being able to inspect the software involved will possibly reveal various potentials for inaccuracy in results. We have companies inspecting Windoze and FiredFox source code for "flaws", and announcing them, regardless of whether those flaws have appeared in real life experience. Why should a machine used to send people to prison, and potentially ruin their entire future, be subject to less scrutiny?

Furthermore, what possible objection is there to having a "technical expert" inspect source code? Presumably the TE could be required to sign a non-disclosure contract (and could probably be prosecuted, or at least sued, for disclosure even without such a contract). There would be no more danger of "leaks" than with any employee or contractor of the Breathalier machines.

This machines have one purpose (besides raising revenue for the government purchasing them): to accurately determine evidence that will be used in a criminal prosecution. There are only a few manufacturers. They should be sharing technology, with the goal of improving accuracy, not attempting to hide it from one another

Posted by: cdgoldin   Posted on: 11/04/05 You are currently: a Guest | Members login | Terms of Use

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