Abstract: A disposable electrochemical sensor for the detection of an analyte such as glucose in a liquid sample is provided. The sensor has a working electrode and a reference electrode disposed within a sample-receiving cavity, and a reagent layer disposed within the sample-receiving cavity and over the working electrode. The reagent layer contains at least an enzyme for producing an electrochemical signal in the presence of the analyte. The sample-receiving cavity has a volume of less than 1.5 &mgr;l, and the sensor provides a stable reading of the amount of analyte in a period of 10 seconds or less. Where appropriate for the generation of electrochemical signal, for example in the case of glucose detection, the reagent layer also contains a mediator. The sensor is used in combination with a meter for detection of the analyte in a liquid sample.

Abstract: A disposable electrochemical sensor for the detection of an analyte such as glucose in a liquid sample is provided. The sensor has a working electrode and a reference electrode disposed within a sample-receiving cavity, and a reagent layer disposed within the sample-receiving cavity and over the working electrode. The reagent layer contains at least an enzyme for producing an electrochemical signal in the presence of the analyte. The sample-receiving cavity has a volume of less than 1.5 &mgr;l, and the sensor provides a stable reading of the amount of analyte in a period of 10 seconds or less. Where appropriate for the generation of electrochemical signal, for example in the case of glucose detection, the reagent layer also contains a mediator. The sensor is used in combination with a meter for detection of the analyte in a liquid sample.