TEST STRIP RESISTANCE CHECK

摘要

A system for determining usability of an analytical test strip having two electrodes connected in series with a sample cell includes a test meter configured to receive the test strip. The sample cell receives a fluid sample, the sample cell with the received fluid sample having a frequency-dependent impedance. A microprocessor and circuit in the test meter cause application of an AC waveform across the sample cell via the electrodes upon detection of sample in the sample cell and concurrently measure of a current through the electrodes. The AC waveform has a frequency at which the characteristic impedance is substantially zero. The measured current is inversely proportional to a series resistance of the two electrodes. A hand-held test meter and a method for determining usability of an analytical test strip are also described.

主权项

1. A system for determining usability of an analytical test strip, the system comprising:
a) an analytical test strip having two electrodes connected in series with a sample cell, the sample cell being adapted to receive a fluid sample and configured so that the sample cell with the received fluid sample has a characteristic impedance that varies with frequency; and b) a test meter adapted to receive the analytical test strip, the test meter having at least one contained circuit and a microprocessor, the microprocessor and circuit being configured to detect the presence of the fluid sample in the sample cell of the received analytical test strip and, based upon the detection, cause application of an AC waveform across the sample cell via the electrodes and concurrent measurement of a current through the electrodes, wherein the AC waveform has a frequency at which the characteristic impedance is substantially zero, and the measured current is inversely proportional to a series resistance of the two electrodes.