FAQ Listing
How can I know which version of the Accu-Chek Smart Pix device reader I am using?
Once your Accu-Chek Smart Pix device reader is plugged in and working, you can find version information at the top left of your screen.
Does the Accu‑Chek Instant meter require coding?
No, Accu‑Chek Instant meters do not require manual coding.
Is the Accu-Chek Smart Pix device reader compatible with all Accu-Chek meters and insulin pumps?
The Accu-Chek Smart Pix device reader is compatible with all Accu-Chek meters and pumps that offer infrared (IR) data transfer functionality.
Does the Accu-Chek Safe-T-Pro Uno lancing device meet legal requirements?
Roche Diabetes Care, as a manufacturer of medical devices, certified to European standards, complies with all applicable European directives. The lancing device is CE (Conformité Européene) labeled, which means that the product meets the safety and normative requirements of those European directives. The European regulations are valid and recognized under mutual recognition agreements with many countries, including Canada, LATAM, APAC and Japan. The lancing device also complies with laws such as the US Needlestick Safety and Prevention Act, the TRBA 250 (Germany) or the NR 32 (Brazil) and others.
Has anything changed with the test strips?
The new Accu‑Chek Instant test strip utilizes the FAD-GDH chemistry. This
system is the most accurate in the history of our organization. It meets the 10/10
standards for accuracy.
Does the meter provide information if the test strip has expired?
Yes, the meter will show “exp” inside the strip icon if the test strips is the use by date has elapsed. The use by date is printed on the label of the test strip container.
Will my data be lost when the batteries are removed?
Don’t worry—your information will be saved when you change the batteries.
1According to the ISO 15197:2013 standard, 95% of all bG results must be ±15 mg/dL of the laboratory reference when bG levels are below 100 mg/dL. At bG levels above 100 mg/dL, 95% of all bG results must be within ±15% of the laboratory reference.
What do the error signals mean?
The Accu-Chek Smart Pix device reader reports potential errors during data transfer and use by causing the center display section 8 to flash. Here's what you can do:
In the browser navigation, click the Read Device button. The center display section should flash slowly now, indicating that it is actively searching for devices and that it is ready for data transfer.
If the error signal continues, you can unplug the Accu-Chek Smart Pix device reader and plug it back in again. Disregard any Windows error messages about removing the data medium.
Try repeating the transfer again. If this error signal occurs again, check the following:
Has the meter been properly prepared for data transfer?
Is there anything obstructing the signal between the device IR port and the Accu-Chek Smart Pix device reader? Is the device too far away?
Is there any interference from bright lights or sunlight?
Often, in the case of error messages associated with data transfer, the issue is interference with data transfer, or a problem with the meter or insulin pump.
Can I delete stored results?
With the new Accu-Chek Performa blood glucose meters, it is not necessary to delete stored results. Once 500 blood sugar (glucose) results are in the memory, adding a new result causes the oldest one to be deleted.
What test strips are used with the Accu-Chek Guide meter?
The Accu-Chek Guide system uses Accu-Chek Guide test strips, which offer an easy-edge dosing area and accurate results with just a small drop of blood. In addition, they come in a spill-resistant SmartPack vial that makes it easy to remove just one strip at a time. The Accu-Chek Guide meter is not compatible with other Accu-Chek test strips.
1According to the ISO 15197:2013 standard, 95% of all bG results must be ±15 mg/dL of the laboratory reference when bG levels are below 100 mg/dL. At bG levels above 100 mg/dL, 95% of all bG results must be within ±15% of the laboratory reference.
How should my meter tests compare with lab results?
Because your monitor and lab tests don't measure the same thing, these numbers are likely to vary. Lab tests generally test plasma, but a meter uses whole blood. As a result, even if you take both tests at the exact same time, your meter is likely to show a lower number than the lab results. This is perfectly acceptable, and your healthcare professional will already be factoring this in.
Do I lose the memory or the time and date setting when changing the battery?
The stored values will be kept in the meter at all times: they cannot get lost when changing the battery. If the battery change is done according to the user instructions (empty battery stays in the meter until new battery is available to be inserted) the time and date settings remain stored in the meter as well.
Does the meter provide information if the test strip has expired?
No, the meter will no longer provide an automatic warning message telling you that your vial of test strips will soon expire or lock you out once they have expired.
Why must the visual color check be realized within 30 to 60 seconds after application?
The Accu-Chek Active meter detects the color change in the test pad area. If the test pad is checked too early, the glucose reaction may not yet be finished. If it is done too late, the color may have already changed due to drying.
How do I change the batteries?
To replace the batteries:
Open the battery door on the back of the meter by pushing the tab toward the door, and pull the door up and open.
Push the “hand” button to release the old batteries, then simply slide them out.
With both of the plus signs facing up, slide the new batteries under the black tabs and the hand button.
Replace the battery door and snap it closed.
1According to the ISO 15197:2013 standard, 95% of all bG results must be ±15 mg/dL of the laboratory reference when bG levels are below 100 mg/dL. At bG levels above 100 mg/dL, 95% of all bG results must be within ±15% of the laboratory reference.
What happens if expired lancets are used?
Expired lancets should not be used. The use of an expired lancet may cause an infection at the puncture site as the lancet may have lost its sterility
What type of batteries are used?
The Accu-Chek Guide system uses two readily available CR2032 lithium coin batteries.
1According to the ISO 15197:2013 standard, 95% of all bG results must be ±15 mg/dL of the laboratory reference when bG levels are below 100 mg/dL. At bG levels above 100 mg/dL, 95% of all bG results must be within ±15% of the laboratory reference.
What if I don't get an error, but the device reader isn't working?
If the Accu-Chek Smart Pix device reader fails to appear on the computer as a drive:
Check that the blue LED light on the front is lit.
Check whether your computer and operating system satisfy the system requirements for the Accu-Chek Smart Pix device reader system.
Check to make sure the USB connector is firmly plugged into the correct socket on the computer.
If the Accu-Chek Smart Pix device reader is still not recognized as a drive, plug the device into a different USB socket.
If the Accu-Chek Smart Pix device reader fails to emit any display signals and if the above tests don't solve the problem, try testing the device on a different computer, if available. If there is still no sign of operation, the device may be faulty. This also applies if there are error signals flashing in the center of the display that are not associated with data transfer. Please contact Roche Diabetes Care.
Is this the most accurate system in the market today?
The Accu‑Chek Instant meter is one of the most accurate systems our organization has ever manufactured and meets ISO 15197:2013/EN ISO 15197:2015 standards for accuracy. It has 10/10 analytical accuracy.
How do I run a blood sugar test on a non-fingertip site?
Your Accu-Chek lancing device has a special plastic cap designed for testing on other areas of the body. Talk with your healthcare professional before deciding if alternate site testing is right for you.
Note: Do not use the special plastic cap when testing at the fingertip. Follow the steps for fingertip testing, with a few differences:
Use the clear or gray cap.
You may need a deeper setting. Try 3 for palm testing or 5-1/2 for forearm or upper arm testing. (These are suggested settings; yours may differ.)
Press the opening of the clear or gray cap firmly against a fleshy area of the non-fingertip site. Press the lancing device up and down in a slow pumping motion to assist the flow of blood.
Keep steady pressure on the area, then press and release the plunger. Do not be afraid to apply pressure to the area with the lancing device to assist the flow of blood. Continue to press the cap against the site for a few seconds to allow blood to come to the surface.
Can I download information to the Accu-Chek Smart Pix device reader from more than 1 meter?
You can combine results from up to 3 blood glucose monitors at the same time, and have all the information appear on 1 easy to read graph.
How do I set the date and time without using the meter button?
Accu‑Chek Connect Online: For Accu-Chek Instant meter, the date and time will be set and displayed during the process of setting up an Accu‑Chek Connect Online account via USB cable. The date and time will match that of the connected device. On subsequent data transfers, the date and time will automatically sync to the connected device date and time if there is a difference of more than 10 minutes.
Why does the control solution bottle need to be wiped?
In the same way that fresh blood should always be used for testing, fresh control solution should be used to prevent a contaminated control drop. Control solution should always be wiped from the tip of the bottle so that only what is in the bottle itself is used for the test.
How accurate is the new system?
The Accu-Chek Guide system uses a new testing platform and benefits from the strict Roche manufacturing requirements to provide reliable, accurate test results. In fact, the Accu-Chek Guide system delivers accuracy beyond the minimum requirement of industry standards. 1
1According to the ISO 15197:2013 standard, 95% of all bG results must be ±15 mg/dL of the laboratory reference when bG levels are below 100 mg/dL. At bG levels above 100 mg/dL, 95% of all bG results must be within ±15% of the laboratory reference.
Where can I get an Accu-Chek Guide meter?
Ask your doctor/pharmacist/diabetes specialist for the Accu-Chek Guide meter.
1According to the ISO 15197:2013 standard, 95% of all bG results must be ±15 mg/dL of the laboratory reference when bG levels are below 100 mg/dL. At bG levels above 100 mg/dL, 95% of all bG results must be within ±15% of the laboratory reference.
Can I use a blood sample from other areas on my body?
Yes. In addition to the fingertip, you can collect blood samples from the palm, forearm or upper arm. Talk with your healthcare professional before deciding if alternate site testing is right for you.
Is the Accu-Chek Performa system approved for use in clinical settings such as hospitals?
The Accu-Chek Performa meter is not approved for use in clinical settings in the United States and Canada, although the Accu-Chek Performa meter is cleared to test capillary, venous, arterial, and neonatal blood samples.
What is the right way to clean the Accu-Chek Softclix lancing device and how often should I clean it?
To keep your lancing device in tip-top condition, clean it regularly and wipe off any blood from it immediately. Clean your lancing device from the outside only. Never dip the
Accu-Chek Softclix lancing device in water, isopropanol or any other liquid. This may damage internal parts, and impair operation of the lancing device. Follow a weekly cleaning regimen using a cloth moistened with 70% isopropanol or 70% ethanol (available from your pharmacy or chemist). In addition, thoroughly wipe the inside of the cap using a cotton bud moistened with 70% isopropanol. Other substances used for cleaning may attack the plastic and stop the lancing device from operating properly. Do not clean the Accu-Chek Softclix lancets. Allow your Accu-Chek Softclix lancing device enough time to dry thoroughly. Check your package insert for detailed instructions on how to clean the lancing device.
How long does the Accu-Chek Safe-T-Pro Uno lancing device remain functional?
If stored properly, the lancing device remains functional for 4 years after sterilization.
Do I need to load the Accu-Chek Smart Pix software onto my computer?
There's no need to load software. Everything you need is already within the Accu-Chek Smart Pix device reader. Just plug it into a USB port to get started.
How can I download the Accu-Chek Smart Pix device reader updates?
When upgrades are available, you can download them from the Accu-Chek Smart Pix page on our Web site. We will also include instructions for upgrading.
How many units are packed in a box?
200 units
What is the “10/10 standard” for the Accu‑Chek Instant test strip?
10/10 references an ISO-compliant internal testing protocol. For three different lots of test strips, 95% of BG results must fall within ±10 mg/dL of reference result at glucose concentrations < 100 mg/dL or within ± 10% at glucose concentrations ≥ 100 mg/dL.
Can the Accu-Chek Safe-T-Pro Uno lancing device be used for alternative site testing (AST)?
No. The lancing device is not designed and intended to be used for AST.
Can the Accu-Chek Smart Pix device reader store readings in my computer?
While you can view your results at your computer and e-mail a report, you can't store the readings or manipulate the data, as with other Accu-Chek applications.
What is the main differentiation of this meter in comparison to other Accu‑Chek meters?
The Accu-Chek Instant is connected meter with Bluetooth technology, synchronise effortlessly with mySugr app. The Accu‑Chek Instant meter makes testing effortless. The features which are not heavily used have been removed from the meter and placed on the Accu‑Chek Connect online. This makes handling and interactions with the system effortless. Additionally, the Accu‑Chek Instant meter has an intuitive target range indicator that instantly shows Person with diabetes how they are doing with their management.
Can the target ranges be changed?
Yes, the target ranges in the meter can be changed using the device settings on the Accu‑Chek Connect Online system.
Does the Accu-Chek Safe-T-Pro Uno lancing device contain latex?
No. (For a list of materials please contact Roche Diabetes Care, Mannheim, Germany.)
Can I touch the test strips?
Yes, a clear protective barrier runs along the entire length of the test strip to protect the strip and chemistry. Blood applied to the opening along the end of the strip can be quickly pulled into the test strip.
How much blood does a test strip require?
The Accu‑Chek Instant test strip requires only a small speck of blood (0.6 μL).
How are the lancets sterilized?
The lancets (needles surrounded by the sterility cap) of the device are sterilized in a process called gamma irradiation which meets the international standards.
Will my Accu-Chek Active, Accu‑Chek Aviva or Accu‑Chek Performa test strips work with Accu‑Chek Instant meters?
No, there is no compatibility between the Accu‑Chek Instant test strips with these and other Accu‑Chek systems.
Accu‑Chek Instant test strips are compatible with Accu‑Chek Instant S Meter.
How do I change the battery in my Accu-Chek Performa blood glucose meter?
Make sure you have a new 3-volt, lithium battery, number CR2032, to insert. Open the battery door on the back of the meter, remove the old battery for at least 20 seconds, and press any button on the meter. Insert the new battery with the “+” sign facing out. Snap the battery door back into place. Press the on/off button, and the meter will beep. Setup and hour are flashing on the display. If the date and time are correct, press and hold the on/off button for about 4 seconds. Release the button, and you’re done.
Which Accu-Chek products can be used with the Accu-Chek Smart Pix device reader?
The Accu-Chek Smart Pix device reader is compatible with Accu-Chek meters and pumps that use infrared (IR) data transfer.
How do I connect the Accu-Chek Smart Pix cable to my insulin pump or blood glucose meter?
The Accu-Chek Smart Pix device reader uses infrared technology to "beam" data from an Accu-Chek blood glucose meter or insulin pump when it is placed in front of the device reader. This simple connectivity means greater convenience and faster downloads for you.
How is the accuracy when compared with other Accu-Chek meters?
The Accu‑Chek Instant meters is our latest development in accuracy from a pioneer in blood glucose testing technologies. This is one of the most accurate meters in our portfolio.
Can I add a second drop of blood to the test strip after the test has started?
No. There is no ability to squeeze extra blood from the finger to dose a strip a second time. However, there is a slight pause in testing that allows for the patient to take full use of the available blood from their finger.