??? Code?

[duck]

Why do all Blood Glucose Meters require us to enter the "code" when a new set of strips is introduced?

[nantomsuethom]

All of the meters that Thomas has need to have codes put in. Once the code is in you don't change it until you get a new bottle of strips with a different code.
I think the newest Prescision (?spell) or Prestige, not sure which one, automatically codes itself with new strips.
We were told if you don't put the code in your results may not be accurate.

[duck]

And again, why? What in the heck do we need to waste time entering a "code"? What about NOT entering the code can affect readings? And, why can't all strips by one manufacturer be the same stupid "code"?

(nantomsuethom, I was told the same thing you were, but now I'm wondering why? I mean seriously, how stupid is this? Is there anything else in your life that you have to enter the "code" for everytime you use it, outside of the PC world and ATMs?)

[Belinda]

My understanding is that they make different lots/batches. If we report the problems etc..this gives them an understanding if it is the chem strips or our meters. This way they can replace them whichever one it is...they have both replaced a meter for me and replaced strips..but this is only what I think it is :o

[David]

There's always some variation in the manufacturing process. Precision is possible with more expense but strips are expensive enough. Think of when you buy paint. One can may be slightly different than another, especially if they came from different batches. Painters deal with this by mixing the cans together to average out the variations, but test strips don't mix like paint does. Strip makers have two choices. They can have all strips fall with in a pre-selected variation, say Codes 10-20, toss out any that fall outside those numbers and leave the final meter calibration at the end user end. They could also have each strip sold be identical, say Code 15, but that would mean that many more strips would be discarded by the factory, with the added expense passed on to us.
David

[Dewey]

My understanding is that they make different lots/batches. If we report the problems etc..this gives them an understanding if it is the chem strips or our meters. This way they can replace them whichever one it is...they have both replaced a meter for me and replaced strips..but this is only what I think it is :o That makes alot of sense, Belinda. There's a variance in the production (of strips), so lot numbers (and codes) are assigned and if there's an issue with a specific code (or lot number), the company can more rapidly identify it. I looked it up online also, but all I found was:

"Almost every meter needs to be calibrated. That’s the meter’s way of letting itself know which factory-coded batch of strips you are using. If your meter doesn’t have automatic calibration, you’ll need to push a button or insert a calibrator when you open a new package of strips. Directions for calibration should come with both your meter and each package of strips." -from Website URL: "What's New In Blood Glucose Meters" (http://www.diabetes-self-mgmt.com/article.cfm?sid=1&tid=18&stid=39&aid=110&sk=5WY3)
If you're interested in a meter that doesn't need coding duck, the Ascensia Contour doesn't require it. I really like that meter - it's relatively small, and requires a small blood sample (0.6uL). Their URL is:

Ascensia Contour (http://www.bayercarediabetes.com/prodserv/products/contour/index.asp)

[TvBabe]

If you consider coding a problem switch to the Ascencia Meter's...they don't require putting in a code :)

[jacobsam622]

The reason for the code come down to money each meter company wants to make sure you buy the strip for their machine's. The advandage strip comes with a disk you insert into the machine. No coding required.

[archimeech]

Coding is merely an issue with the variation in production, just as Belinda stated. There is a range of acceptible deviation when it comes to production of strips. This is related to the code. By putting the code into the meter, you are able to get more accurate results. Some meters, such as the Ascensia do this automaticly, thereby freeing up the user from having to remember to change the code.

[duck]

It's just "one more thing" that I have to worry about, I was just curious why we have to do this. I've forgotten to update a code before and after realizing that, re-checked my sugars with very similar results...

I just found it funny that every type of meter I have ever owned required this. Thanks for the feedback, all.

[Eri's mom]

I know Eri's accu-chek compact doesn't require a code, but the complete did.

[archimeech]

There are some that don't require that you manually change the code. I would suggest one of those if you're having trouble remebering. I got over all of the, "just one more thing I have to do" syndrom a long time ago. Every day with diabetes brings us more things we have to do. It sucks, but it beats an early death.

[duck]

I'll never get over the "one more thing" mentality. I'd rather be like Forrest Gump and be able to say "That's good, it was one less thing to worry about" or whatever the **** he said when Lt Dan bought Apple stock for him.

I was thinking about it again today--I guess we have to enter the code because "quality control" at the plants that make strips *just* ain't so great, eh?

:whistling

[lgvincent]

I always make sure I change the code as soon as I use the last strip in a vial. The only one I worry about is the UltraSmart meter because I haven't been able to change the code without putting a strip in it first. That does create the potential of making me forget to change it.

[Funnygrl]

All medical equipment needs to be calibrated whether it is a blood pressure meter, a glucometer, or a piece of expensive lab equipment. This used to be a very difficult process, requiring you to take your meter to a lab to have it done, and many people didn't. Now it can just be done using a code or a chip. The code or chip is set at the factory. It's important to have your code set correctly to insure accuracy.

Ascensia meters require coding but they do it automatically.

[duck]

Okay, so if entering the dog-gone code calibrates the dog-gone meter, why the dog-gone **** do I have "calibration solution" that comes with every meter???

[Harold]

Okay, so if entering the dog-gone code calibrates the dog-gone meter, why the dog-gone **** do I have "calibration solution" that comes with every meter???
A "calibration solution" would be one that you applied then made an adjustment to the meter to make it give you a nominal reading. As far as I seen the solutions are "control solutions" for checking meter & test strips for accuracy. Using the solution will not fix or improve the meter, but it will waste a test strip.

[Funnygrl]

Control solution has a set amount of glucose in it as a way to test if the meter is working properly. In any type of scientific test there is a control.

[duck]

(I know what the control solution is) So we have control solutions and codes to make sure our meters are doubly precise? Is that the final lesson I need to take away from this? And if so, can I skip one in lieu of the other? (I really should take this up with Therasense, Bayer, J+J, B+D, etc., shouldn't I?)

:smartass:

[Funnygrl]

Do both. If you call the meter companies they will tell you the same thing. Plus, the coding only effects the meter. The control solution also tests the strips.