Abstract: A method of distinguishing a control solution from a sample in an electrochemical test sensor is performed. The method includes adding a control marker to the control solution. The control solution includes the control marker and analyte. The test sensor includes working and counter electrodes, and a reagent. A potential is applied to the test sensor to oxidize the control marker and the analyte. The resulting electrical current is measured. A potential is applied to the test sensor lower than the other potential in which the potential is sufficient to oxidize the analyte and not the control marker. The resulting electrical current is measured. Determining whether a control solution or a sample is present based on the measured electrical currents. To increase the measured current, a salt may be added to the control solution in an amount sufficient to increase the electrical current by at least 5% as compared to a control solution in the absence of a salt.

Abstract: The present invention provides biosensor test devices for measuring the presence or amount of an analyte in a biological fluid. The devices have a base plate that has an electrode system embedded therein, and a hydrophilic porous material situated on the base plate. A hydrophobic protective layer is situated on the hydrophilic porous material, and a cover is placed on the hydrophobic protective layer to complete the device. Some embodiments also use an insulating layer, which can be situated between the base layer and the hydrophilic porous material. The cover of the device has an opening present therein, situated over the electrodes, so that the electrodes communicate with the exterior of the device through the groove. The insulating layer can also have a groove situated therein, which in one embodiment is placed to align with the groove in the cover. The invention also provides methods of manufacturing the devices, and methods of using them.

Abstract: The present invention is directed to spring-activated devices and methods for lancing the skin to obtain a small amount of blood for metabolic testing. In one embodiment, the depth penetration of the lancet needle can be seen by the patient during lancing the skin. In another embodiment, the device has only five moving parts for cocking and firing, a plunger, two springs, a slider and a button. In order to reduce manufacturing costs, the number of parts used in the device has been reduced and their configuration has been simplified to reduce construction time, and thereby save on labor costs.