OneTouch cable for PC monitoring

Blackbeard · #1 (**permalink**) 09-05-2008, 11:25 AM

I use the OneTouch UltraSmart for my testing. I'd really like to keep track of things a little better, and the LifeScan/OneTouch systems allows for upload from the meter to a PC to do just that along with companion software. Problem is, you are required to buy their cable for $30. You used to be able to download the software, but I don't think this is available anymore and there is a required driver.

Now this really gets under my skin since they are making a killing off of the strips alone. I don't think the cable should cost that much even with embedded electronics, so I'm asking if anyone has schematics for a homemade USB cable that has been tested to work. Also, where can I get the software now?

Maybe this type of question is improper on this forum, but the forum seems to be such a "do what ever I can to help" type place, I'd think anyone with this knowledge would step forward. Sorry if this is misplaced. It really is a kind place to dwell once in a while.

patricia52 · #2 (**permalink**) 09-05-2008, 03:48 PM

Lots of us just enter our reading into excel and form our own reports. Are you good with spreadsheets?

owlyn · #3 (**permalink**) 09-05-2008, 04:02 PM

They will send you the cable for free. Just tell them that you had one of the older cables, but you got a new PC, and it doesn't have a serial port- only USB. If the first rep won't send one for free, keep trying. Took me two tries. The software is there- it's just hard to find. I have it (and the driver) if you need it.

ericm31 · #4 (**permalink**) 09-05-2008, 05:59 PM

Get your software here: LifeScan United Kingdom -- OneTouch Software

Same software....

Blackbeard · #5 (**permalink**) 09-05-2008, 06:37 PM

I tried getting a cable once through their web site. They bluntly refused me. I do seem to recall a link somewhere that said I could get the software from the UK site. Wonder why there would be a difference - could it be insurance company related?

I'll try again, this time on the phone. Might even ask my doctor.

Later

mortis505 · #6 (**permalink**) 09-05-2008, 07:16 PM

Order a free meter from one of the links in the freebies thread. Sometimes they send the software for free.

Blackbeard · #7 (**permalink**) 09-06-2008, 09:50 AM

Can you provide the phone number I should call to speak with someone about my replacement USB cable, please? It's confusing to me as to whether this is Lifescan or OneTouch in any event. I'll try the Google route in the meantime.

Thanks all

owlyn · #8 (**permalink**) 09-06-2008, 10:18 AM

It's the same company. Just call the number on the back of your meter.

Blackbeard · #9 (**permalink**) 09-06-2008, 05:57 PM

Thanks everyone!!

ericm31 · #10 (**permalink**) 09-06-2008, 07:00 PM

Quote:

Originally Posted by Blackbeard

Thanks everyone!!

What was your result?

Angellot · #11 (**permalink**) 09-06-2008, 07:47 PM

If you know a little about electronics you can build your own. Just use a trancevier chip, any should do, I used a MAX232. Just you the typical circuit diagram in the datasheet and you should be able to figure out the rest. I built one to connect to the serial port, make sure you install the driver. Good luck.

Here is a link: One Touch Profile's cable

Blackbeard · #12 (**permalink**) 09-07-2008, 05:54 AM

That should have been "Thanks everyone in advance". I haven't called yet. I will update the thread if/when I try.

Blackbeard · #13 (**permalink**) 09-07-2008, 06:14 AM

Quote:

Originally Posted by Angellot

If you know a little about electronics you can build your own. Just use a trancevier chip, any should do, I used a MAX232. Just you the typical circuit diagram in the datasheet and you should be able to figure out the rest. I built one to connect to the serial port, make sure you install the driver. Good luck.

Here is a link: One Touch Profile's cable

Thanks here also. I'll try making a serial cable and use it on the freeby OneTouch Mini I just ordered for free. If that works, I may try converting it to a USB cable also, and posting here with the results.

I'm assuming this design works with the newest meters?

jkane13 · #14 (**permalink**) 09-08-2008, 09:11 AM

I ordered one of these USB to Serial Cable - One Touch® Blood Glucose Meter Compatible [OT1] - $22.95 : Celeritous Technical Services, Corp., The Prototype Specialists last week. $23. Not a whole lot cheaper, but I figured by the time I built my own, it would have cost me close to that much in tools and parts.

The first one was defective, so I called them. They guy was VERY helpful. He sent me a replacement and it arrived Saturday. I tried it out, and it works perfectly. There was a return label in the box with postage included.

Good people to work with, and the cable did work. I was just unlucky to get a bad one on the first try.

Stuboy · #15 (**permalink**) 09-11-2008, 06:03 AM

This is pretty good software.

I just started using my Ultrasmart meter again today. Downloaded the software last night and cleared the meters memory of all the old old readings. Entered the weeks readings, insulin and carbs into the database manually and now i'll be uploading results daily. The graphs are good and its all good information to give to the doctor in a format he'll be familiar with when i see him on the 29th.

I just dont like having to fiddle about with test strips after using my Compact Plus GT for so long...

But it is handy being able to log everything that i log in my diary without having to carry my diary everywhere i go! That's the one thing that really puts this meter above the others... IMO