Roche Accu-Chek Advantage User manual

Owner’s Booklet

®

Dear Accu-Chek®System Owner,

Thank you for choosing the Accu-Chek Advantage System!
Congratulations on your decision to take control of your diabetes. We’ve designed your new

Accu-Chek Advantage System with comfort, convenience, and control in mind – to help make
living with diabetes a little easier.

This booklet will help you get the most from your Accu-Chek Advantage System. We also invite
you to visit www.accu-chek.com to find out about services, tools, and information that can help
you manage your diabetes.

To start testing quickly, you can also refer to the First Time Guide or the Quick Reference Guide.
If you have questions, we’re here to help. Just call Accu-Chek

SM

Customer Care toll-free at

1-800-858-8072. We offer assistance 24 hours a day, 365 days a year, in Spanish and many
other languages.

Thanks again for choosing an Accu-Chek system.

The Accu-Chek Advantage System

Your new Accu-Chek Advantage Meter and accessories work together to measure the amount of sugar
(glucose) in your blood to help you and your doctor control your diabetes. The system includes:

• Accu-Chek

®

Advantage Meter • Accu-Chek®Comfort Curve Glucose Control Solution

• Battery • Accu-Chek

®

Comfort Curve Test Strips

• Accu-Chek

®

Softclix Lancets • Accu-Chek®Softclix Lancet Device

• Code key

Why Regular Blood Sugar Testing Is Important

Checking your blood sugar can make a big difference in how well you can manage your diabetes on a daily
basis. We’ve made it as simple and comfortable as possible. Accu-Chek meters are easy to use, and you can
adjust the Accu-Chek Softclix Lancet Device to make testing more comfortable.

Need Help?

Just call Accu-Chek Customer Care, 24 hours a day, 365 days a year, at 1-800-858-8072. You can also visit
www.accu-chek.com for diabetes management tools and product demonstrations.

To make sure you receive the best customer service possible and news about product updates,
please complete and mail your warranty card.

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Accu-Chek Customer Care 1-800-858-8072

Important Information About Your New Meter

• Your blood glucose meter is designed and approved for testing fresh capillary whole blood samples (like

blood taken from fingertips) outside the body (in vitro diagnostic use). It should not be used to diagnose
diabetes.

• Be sure to use only Accu-Chek Comfort Curve Test Strips or Accu-Chek Advantage Test Strips with the meter.

Other test strips may produce inaccurate results.

• Do the control tests explained in this booklet to make sure your system is working properly.

• Carefully dispose of used test strips and lancets.

Health-Related Information

• Being severely dehydrated or losing a lot of water may give you false (low) test results. If you think you’re

suffering from dehydration, call your doctor right away.

• If you have followed all the instructions in this booklet and still have symptoms that don’t seem to match

your test results – or if you have questions – talk to your doctor.

3 Accu-Chek Customer Care 1-800-858-8072

4

Contents Accu-Chek Customer Care 1-800-858-8072

Contents

Chapter 1: Understanding Your New System ..............................................................6

Installing (or Changing) the Battery ..........................................................................8

Setting the Time and Date .......................................................................................9

Setting the Beeper..................................................................................................11

Setting the Hypoglycemic (Hypo) Indicator ..............................................................12

Coding the Meter ...................................................................................................13

Using Your Test Strips .............................................................................................14

Using Accu-Chek Comfort Curve Test Strips ..............................................15

Using Accu-Chek Advantage Test Strips ....................................................15

Chapter 2: Control Testing .........................................................................................16

Why Run Control Tests ............................................................................................16

About the Control Solution ......................................................................................16

Running a Control Test ...........................................................................................17

Understanding Control Test Results ........................................................................19

Chapter 3: Testing Your Blood Sugar ........................................................................21

Preparing the Accu-Chek Softclix Lancet Device ....................................................21

Running a Blood Sugar Test ...................................................................................23

Flagging Test Results .............................................................................................25

Recording Your Results ...........................................................................................25

Storing Your Supplies ..............................................................................................25

Proper Testing Conditions ......................................................................................26

Understanding Your Test Results ............................................................................26

Chapter 4: Using Your Meter’s Memory ....................................................................28

Storing Test Results ................................................................................................28

Viewing Test Results ..............................................................................................28

Downloading Your Meter to a Computer .................................................................29

Chapter 5: Maintenance and Troubleshooting ..........................................................30

Cleaning Your Meter ...............................................................................................30

Maintenance and Testing .......................................................................................31

Cleaning Your Lancet Device ..................................................................................31

Screen Messages and Troubleshooting ..................................................................32

Chapter 6: Technical Information ..............................................................................36

Product Limitations ................................................................................................36

Specifications ........................................................................................................36

Product Safety Information ....................................................................................37

Warranty ................................................................................................................38

Additional Supplies ................................................................................................42

Information for Professional Caregivers ..................................................................43

Index .....................................................................................................................44

5Contents Accu-Chek Customer Care 1-800-858-8072

Chapter 1: Understanding Your New System

Display –

Shows blood sugar
results, messages,
and results stored
in memory.

Left and Right
Arrow Buttons –

Press to enter
memory, adjust
settings and scroll
through results.

Code Key in Slot
– Insert code key

through this
opening.

6

On/Off Button –

Press this button to
turn the meter on or
off.

Test Strip Slot –

Insert test strip here.

Battery Cover –

Push tab in direction
of arrow to remove
cover and replace
battery.

Computer
Port

7

Ejector Plunger

Release Button

Cap with Comfort Dial

Depth Selection

Lancet Device

Test Strip Vial

Test Strip Lancet

Silver-colored bars

Yellow
Window

Protective

Cover

8

Chapter 1: Understanding Your New System Accu-Chek Customer Care 1-800-858-8072

Installing (or Changing) the Battery

1. Flip open the battery cover by

pushing tab toward arrow.

2. Insert the battery with the plus (+)

side up or facing you.

3. Replace the battery cover and snap

it closed.

Notes:

• The meter uses a 3-volt lithium battery. It is best to use a long­lasting lithium battery and to keep an extra on hand.

• Be sure the battery goes in plus-side up or facing you.

•Your meter will prompt you to verify the time and date immediately
after the battery is inserted. This occurs only if the time and date
has been set previously on your meter.

• If there is no strip in the meter, it turns off automatically after 90
seconds.

• The battery symbol means the
battery is low and should be
changed soon.

•A flashing battery symbol means
the battery is almost out of power
and must be changed to do a
blood test.

Setting the Time and Date

Setting the time and date is important if you use the meter’s memory or connect to a computer.

3. Press and release to see

the hour flash in the upper left
corner.

9Chapter 1: Understanding Your New System Accu-Chek Customer Care 1-800-858-8072

1. Press and release (On/Off

button) to turn on the meter.
Wait for the flashing test strip
or

“---”.

2. Press and hold until “set”

appears, and then release it.
The word “On” and the beeper
symbol appear.

10

4. Press and release either

or (left or right
arrow button) to change
the hour.

5. Repeat steps 3 and 4 to set

the minutes, month, day and
year. (The flashing number is
the one that can be changed.)

6. Press and hold down to

finish setup. The flashing test
strip appears.

Chapter 1: Understanding Your New System Accu-Chek Customer Care 1-800-858-8072

11

Chapter 1: Understanding Your New System Accu-Chek Customer Care 1-800-858-8072

Setting the Beeper

When you first get your meter, the beeper is set to “On” (but you can turn it off and not affect your test
results in any way). It beeps whenever:

• A strip is inserted.

• Blood or control solution is applied to a strip.

•A result is displayed.

• An error occurs while testing. The beeper
sounds when an error occurs, even if the
beeper is turned off.

• Buttons are pushed.

To turn the beeper off:

1. Press and release to turn on the meter. Wait for the flashing test strip

or

“---” to appear.

2. Press and hold down until “set” appears on the display, then release the

button. The word “On” and the beeper symbol appear.

3. Press and release either or to turn the beeper off.

4. Press and hold down until “set” disappears. The flashing test strip

appears or

“---”.

12

Setting the Hypoglycemic (Hypo) Indicator

You may set the meter to warn you when your results indicate hypoglycemia (low blood sugar) anywhere
between 60-80 mg/dL. Before you set the hypoglycemic indicator, ask your healthcare professional
to help you decide what level is best for you. New meters have the hypo indicator turned off by
default. To turn on and set the hypo indicator:

Chapter 1: Understanding Your New System Accu-Chek Customer Care 1-800-858-8072

1. Press and release to turn on the

meter. Wait for the flashing test strip
or “---”.

2. Press and hold until “set”

appears on the display, then release.
The word “On” and the beeper symbol
will appear.

3. Press repeatedly until “Hypo”

flashes and “OFF” and “set” appear.

4. Press and release either or to

turn on the hypo indicator.

5. Press and release .

6. Press and release or to

adjust the hypo indicator. “Hypo” will
flash for results at or below the number
you choose.

7. Press and hold down until “set”

disappears and the flashing test strip or
“---” appears.

13

Chapter 1: Understanding Your New System

Accu-Chek Customer Care 1-800-858-8072

Coding the Meter

1. With the meter off, slide the

code key into the code key slot.
It should easily snap into place.

2. Press and release to turn

the meter on.

3. Make sure the code on the

display matches the code on the
test strip vial.

4. Throw away the old code key.

▲

!

Change the code key every time you open a new box of test strips.

Notes:

• If “---” appears on the display, turn off
the meter, make sure the code key is all
the way in, then turn on the meter again.

• Don’t force the code key into the meter:
it only goes in one way - numbers out
and ridges up.

• If the code number on the display does
not match the code number on the test
strip vial, call Accu-Chek Customer Care
at 1-800-858-8072.

14

Chapter 1: Understanding Your New System Accu-Chek Customer Care 1-800-858-8072

Using Your Test Strips

You may use either Accu-Chek Comfort Curve or Accu-Chek Advantage Test Strips with this meter. Accu-Chek
Comfort Curve Test Strips are recommended because they’re faster and require less blood than Accu-Chek
Advantage Test Strips. This means easier and more convenient testing for you.

•For accurate results, use only approved test strips.

• Replace the code key and run a control test every
time you begin using a new box of test strips.

• Store test strips in their original vial.

•Close the bottle cap tightly immediately after
removing a test strip.

• After you take a test strip out of the vial, be sure
to use it within three minutes.

•Note the expiration “Use By” date on the test strip
vial. Throw test strips away after that date.

• Store your test strips and meter in a cool, dry
place between 32 to 90ºF (0 to 32ºC).

Do not store test strips in a refrigerator.

▲

!

Never store test strips in areas of high heat and moisture, such as the kitchen,
bathroom or laundry room – heat and moisture can damage them.

15

Chapter 1: Understanding Your New System Accu-Chek Customer Care 1-800-858-8072

▲

!

Using Accu-Chek Comfort Curve Test Strips

Fill the yellow window
completely.

Silver-colored bars

Yellow window

Touch and hold a drop to the edge –
not the top – of the yellow window.

Fill the yellow window
completely.

Using Accu-Chek Advantage Test Strips

Silver-colored bars

Yellow window

Touch and hold a drop to the top –
not the edge – of the yellow window

Be sure to carefully read all the information that comes with the test strips.

This owner’s booklet will help you learn to test with Accu-Chek Comfort Curve Test Strips.

Chapter 2: Control Testing

Why Run Control Tests

Control tests ensure that both the meter and the test strips are working properly and giving reliable results.
You should run a control test when:

• The meter is new

• You open a new box of test strips

• You leave the cap off of the test strip vial

• You want to check the performance of the meter

and test strips

• You drop the meter

• Your test results don’t agree with the way you feel

• You want to make sure you’re performing tests

correctly

About the Control Solution

• Make sure you use the control solution that

matches your test strips (for example, Accu-Chek
Comfort Curve Control Solution (blue liquid) with
Accu-Chek Comfort Curve Test Strips).

• When you first open the bottle, write the date on

the label – the control solution is good for three
months from that date or until the expiration date
on the bottle, whichever comes first.

• Never use control solution that has expired.

• Control solution can stain clothes. If you spill it,

wash your clothes with soap and water.

• Always close the control solution bottle tightly.

• Store at room temperature less than 90°F (32°C).

Do not freeze.

16

17Chapter 2: Control Testing Accu-Chek Customer Care 1-800-858-8072

Running a Control Test

For control testing, you’ll need your meter, a test strip, the
bottle of control solution, and a napkin or paper towel.

1. Insert a test strip with silver-colored bars into the meter, yellow

window facing up.

2. Make sure the code on the meter matches the code

on the test strip vial.

3.

When you see the flashing drop on the display, press

and release

once to select the L1 control. (Press it a second time if you

want to select the L2 control. See next page.)

Note: Control tests marked as L1 or L2 will not be stored in
memory.

4. Briefly roll the bottle of control solution, open it, squeeze one

drop onto a paper towel, and wipe the tip of the bottle clean.

5. Touch and hold one drop of control solution to the edge of the

yellow window. When the test is done, the meter displays the
test result.

If the result is not in the acceptable range, see Understanding Control Test Results on page 19.

Level 2 Testing

Level 1 testing is all you need to do most of the time. If you think your meter or strips may not be working
correctly, you may also want to do a Level 2 test. Simply repeat steps 3 through 6, using Level 2 control
solution.

If you do not have Level 2 control solution, you can purchase control solutions separately.

When the test is done, if the meter shows the test result then “OK”,
your results are within range. If the meter does not show “OK”, see
page 19.

6. Throw away the used test strip.

and

Chapter 2: Control Testing Accu-Chek Customer Care 1-800-858-8072

18

19Chapter 2: Control Testing Accu-Chek Customer Care 1-800-858-8072

Range (mg/dL)
Level 1 (LO) 42–72
Level 2 (HI) 290–328

Example

Understanding Control Test Results

When a control test result is within the acceptable range, your test
strips and meter are working properly.

The label on your test strip vial shows the acceptable ranges for
Level 1 and Level 2 test solutions. Your control test results should
be within the listed range. You can compare the result to the range
for the level of control solution you used (Level 1 or Level 2).

If the control result is within the acceptable range, the control test
result will alternate with “OK” on the display.

If the control result is NOT within the acceptable range, the control
test result will alternate with “Err” on the display. See the following
page to find out why your control result is out of range.

Example

and

and

Troubleshooting Checks

1. Check the expiration dates of the test strips
and control solutions.

2. Make sure the caps were tight on the test
strip vial and control solution bottles.

3. Check if the code on the meter matches the
code on the test strip vial.

4. Make sure you followed all the testing steps.

5. Make sure the temperature was between

57 to 104ºF (14 to 40ºC) when you did the test.

6. If none of the above apply. . .

Action

Replace solution or strips that have expired or
solution you opened more than three months ago.

If either has been open for a while, replace the
test strips or control solution.

If not, recode the meter (see page 13).

Reread pages 16-18 and test again or ask your
healthcare provider for help.

Repeat the test within the appropriate temperature
range.

Repeat the control test with a new test strip.
If the result still isn’t within the acceptable
range, contact Accu-Chek Customer Care at
1-800-858-8072.

Chapter 2: Control Testing Accu-Chek Customer Care 1-800-858-8072

20

1. Pull off the cap. 2. Insert a lancet until it clicks.

Note: You can refer to the First Time Guide or the Quick Reference Guide for a simple testing summary.

Chapter 3: Testing Your Blood Sugar

Preparing the Accu-Chek Softclix Lancet Device

3. Twist off the lancet’s

protective cover.

21

22 Accu-Chek Customer Care 1-800-858-8072

5. Twist the cap to set the lancet

depth. Start at 2 or 3. For
tougher skin dial to a higher
number.

6. Press the plunger (like a pen) until it

clicks. The release button turns
yellow when the device is ready.
Set aside until later in the test.

Notes:

• The best depth setting is the lowest number that lets you get enough
blood for a test. Try different settings to find the one that’s right for you.

• Always use a new lancet for every test.

•To reduce the risk of infection, never share your lancet device
with anyone.

Chapter 3: Testing Your Blood Sugar

4. Snap the cap back on after

lining up the notches. The
cap easily snaps into
place.

Release Button

23

Accu-Chek Customer Care 1-800-858-8072

Running a Blood Sugar Test

Chapter 3: Testing Your Blood Sugar

Before running your first test, make sure you set up your meter properly and run a control test.
See Chapters 1 and 2 for details.

1. Wash and dry your hands.

2. Take one test strip from the test strip vial. Close the test

strip vial cap tightly.

3. Insert the end of the test strip with the silver-colored

bars into the meter, with the yellow window facing up.
The meter turns on automatically.

4. Make sure the code on the meter matches the code on the

test strip vial.

5. When you see the flashing blood drop, hold the lancet

device against the side of your fingertip and press the
release button.

24

Chapter 3: Testing Your Blood Sugar Accu-Chek Customer Care 1-800-858-8072

6. Gently squeeze your fingertip until you get a drop of blood.

7. Touch and hold the blood drop to the edge – not the top –

of the yellow window. Make sure the yellow window fills
completely.

If you still see yellow, apply another drop of blood
within 15 seconds or start over with a new test strip.

8. An hourglass flashes on the screen, and the test result

appears.

9. To remove the lancet, take off the lancet device cap and

point the lancet end away from yourself.

10. Slide out the ejector to discharge the lancet into a

puncture-proof container.

For more information about your test results,
see page 25.

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Accu-Chek Customer Care 1-800-858-8072

Flagging Test Results

To help you remember specific events that might have influenced your results, you can add a flag– an asterisk– to
mark those results.

1. Perform a blood test.

2. While a test result is displayed and the test strip is still in the meter, press and release either

or . An asterisk appears on the display in the lower-right corner.

Recording Your Results

Always record your blood sugar results after testing. This helps you and your healthcare professional find
patterns in your blood sugar results. This information helps you better manage your diabetes, reducing your
chances for complications. Record your results in the self-test diary included in your kit or on your computer.

Storing Your Supplies

Make sure you close the test strip vial and control solution bottles tightly after each use.
You can keep all your testing supplies in the carrying case. Store the carrying case (and everything in it)

where it won’t be exposed to heat or moisture. Your bedroom may be a good place.

▲

!

Never store test strips in areas of high heat and moisture, such as the kitchen,
bathroom or laundry room – heat and moisture can damage them.

Chapter 3: Testing Your Blood Sugar

26 Accu-Chek Customer Care 1-800-858-8072Chapter 3: Testing Your Blood Sugar

Proper Testing Conditions

• The temperature range must be between 57 to 104ºF (14 to 40ºC). At temperatures outside this range,
the results are displayed with a thermometer symbol.

• Humidity must be below 85% so that moisture doesn’t condense on or inside the meter.

• Let the meter return to room temperature and thoroughly dry before turning it on.

Understanding Your Test Results

Normal Blood Sugar Ranges

The fasting adult blood glucose range for a non-diabetic is between 70 mg/dL and less than 110 mg/dL.

1

Two hours after meals, the blood glucose range for a non-diabetic is less than 140 mg/dL.2Your doctor will
determine the range that is best for you.

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Accu-Chek Customer Care 1-800-858-8072

Accu-Chek Customer Care 1-800-858-8072

Chapter 3: Testing Your Blood Sugar

Symptoms of High or Low Blood Sugar

Being aware of the symptoms of high or low blood sugar can help you understand your test results and
decide what to do if they seem unusual. Here are the most common symptoms:

High blood sugar (hyperglycemia): fatigue, increased appetite or thirst, frequent urination, blurred vision,
headache, or general aching.

Low blood sugar (hypoglycemia): sweating, trembling, blurred vision, rapid heartbeat, tingling, or numbness
around mouth or fingertips.

If you are experiencing any of these symptoms, test your blood sugar. If your result is displayed as LO
or HI, contact your doctor immediately.

Unusual Test Results

If your blood sugar result doesn’t match the way you feel, follow these steps:

1. Run a control test (see page 16).

2. Repeat a blood sugar test, (see page 21).

3. If your blood sugar results still don’t reflect the way you feel, call your doctor immediately.

28

Chapter 4: Using Your Meter’s Memory

Storing Test Results

Your meter automatically stores up to 480 test
results, and you can review them at any time.
If you’ve set the time and date on the meter
(see page 9), this information is stored and
displayed with your test results. If you
haven’t, test results are simply stored
in order, from the newest to the oldest.
The meter can also display 7, 14, and
30-day averages.

Viewing Test Results

1. Press either or

(left or
right arrow button) to enter memory.
The most recent test result appears.

2. Press to view previous

individual results, or

3. Press

to view in order 7, 14,

and 30-day averages respectively.

30-Day Average14-Day Average7-Day Average

Second Most

Recent Result

Third Most

Recent Result

And so on…

Third Most

Recent Result

Most Recent Result

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Accu-Chek Customer Care 1-800-858-8072

Notes

Do not change your therapy based on an individual result recorded in memory.

• Results stored in memory will not be lost when you replace the battery, but you will
be prompted to verify time and date if previously set.

• Once 480 results are in memory, adding a new test result causes the oldest one
to be deleted.

Chapter 4: Using Your Meter’s Memory Accu-Chek Customer Care 1-800-858-8072

Downloading Your Meter to a Computer

You can transfer your stored results to a computer to track, help identify patterns and print them out.
We offer a variety of software and cables to help you download the results from your meter to your personal
computer or PDA. For a list of software and cables that are compatible with your meter call Accu-Chek
Customer Care at 1-800-858-8072. You can also access our website at www.accu-chek.com for more
information.

30

Chapter 5: Maintenance and Troubleshooting

Cleaning Your Meter

Caring for your Accu-Chek Advantage Meter is easy – just keep it free of dust. But if you need to clean it,
following these guidelines carefully will help you get the best performance possible:

Do

• Make sure the meter is turned off.

• Gently wipe the meter’s surface with a soft cloth
slightly dampened with one of these cleaning
solutions:

• 70% alcohol

• Mild dishwashing liquid mixed with water

• 10% household bleach solution (1 part
bleach in 9 parts water) made the same day

Do Not

• Get any moisture in the code key slot or test
strip slot.

• Spray any cleaning solution directly onto the
meter.

• Put the meter under water (or any liquid).

•Pour liquid into the meter.

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Accu-Chek Customer Care 1-800-858-8072

Chapter 5: Maintenance and Troubleshooting Accu-Chek Customer Care 1-800-858-8072

Maintenance and Testing

Your meter needs little or no maintenance with normal use. It automatically
tests its own systems every time you turn it on and lets you know if
something is wrong. (See page 32 for error messages and what to do
about them.)

If you drop the meter or think it’s not giving accurate readings, make
sure that your test strips and control solution haven’t expired, then run
a control test (see page 16).

To make sure the display is working properly, turn off the meter, then
press and hold to see the complete display. All the sections should be
clear and look exactly like the picture to the left. If not, call Accu-Chek
Customer Care at 1-800-858-8072.

Cleaning Your Lancet Device

To clean the Accu-Chek Softclix Lancet Device, use a mild dishwashing liquid and a soft cloth. DO NOT
place the entire device under water. At least once a week, disinfect the cap after cleaning by placing it
in 70% alcohol (isopropyl) for 10 minutes. Allow the cap to air-dry after disinfecting.

32 Accu-Chek Customer Care 1-800-858-8072

▲

!

Chapter 5: Maintenance and Troubleshooting

Screen Messages and Troubleshooting

Never make treatment decisions based on an error message. If you have any concerns,
please call Accu-Chek Customer Care at 1-800-858-8072, 24 hours a day, 365 days a year.

The meter isn’t coded or the
code key isn’t all the way in.
Turn off the meter and recode it.
See page 13.

The meter is in “set” mode,
waiting for you to change
settings. See pages 9-11.

The meter is ready for you to
put in a test strip.

The meter is ready for a drop of
blood to be put on the strip.

The meter is ready for a Level 1
control test. See page 16.

The meter is ready for a Level 2
control test. See page 16.

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Accu-Chek Customer Care 1-800-858-8072

Chapter 5: Maintenance and Troubleshooting

Battery power is low. Change the
battery soon.

Battery is almost out of power.
Change the battery now.

Blood sugar is higher than the
measuring range of the system.
See pages 26–27.

Blood sugar is lower than the
measuring range of the system.
See pages 26–27.

Your blood sugar result is below your
defined hypo (low blood sugar) level.

The meter is being operated outside of the
appropriate temperature range. Move to an
area where the temperature is appropriate
for running a test, wait five minutes and
repeat the test. Do not artificially heat or
cool the meter. Refer to the test strip
package insert for temperature ranges
appropriate for the operation of your system.

This test result may not be accurate
because the test was performed outside
the operating temperature range of the
system.

34 Accu-Chek Customer Care 1-800-858-8072Chapter 5: Maintenance and Troubleshooting Accu-Chek Customer Care 1-800-858-8072

This test result was flagged.
See page 25.

The code key is faulty or was
removed while the meter was on.
Turn off the meter and reinsert the
code key. If this doesn’t fix the
problem, call Accu-Chek Customer
Care at 1-800-858-8072.

Your blood sugar may be extremely
low, an incorrect amount of blood
was applied, or the test strip is
damaged or inserted improperly. If
you see this error message after you
put blood on the test strip, see page

27. If you see this error message
before you put blood on the strip,
remove test strip and reinsert, or
insert a new test strip. If the
message reappears, call Accu-Chek
Customer Care at 1-800-858-8072.

examples

}

These are display examples for
average readings for 7, 14, or 30
days.

35

Accu-Chek Customer Care 1-800-858-8072

Your blood sugar may be
extremely

high or a meter or strip

error has occurred.

See page 27.

The meter has lost all test
results in memory. Turn the
meter off, then on again.
If you still see this display, call
Accu-Chek Customer Care at

1-800-858-8072.

Chapter 5: Maintenance and Troubleshooting Accu-Chek Customer Care 1-800-858-8072

The meter has failed its internal
electronic checks. Turn the meter
off, then on again. If you still see
this display, call Accu-Chek
Customer Care at 1-800-858-8072.

This is a display check. If any parts
or number segments are missing
or unclear, call Accu-Chek

Customer

Care at 1-800-858-8072.

Average can not be calculated.
No results obtained on meter for
last 7 days.

36

Chapter 6: Technical Information

Product Limitations

Please read the literature packaged with your test strips to find the latest information on product
specifications and limitations.

Specifications

Display LCD

Automatic power off 90 seconds (5 seconds after removing strip after test)

Power supply One 3-volt lithium battery type 2032 (CR 2032, DL 2032 or

equivalent)

Data port Multiplexed TTL UART

Protection class III

Meter type Accu-Chek Advantage Meter

Blood volume Refer to the test strip package insert

Measuring range Refer to the test strip package insert

Measuring time Refer to the test strip package insert

System operating conditions Refer to the test strip package insert

Meter storage conditions -13° to 158°F (-25° to 70°C)

Test strip storage conditions Refer to the test strip package insert

37

Accu-Chek Customer Care 1-800-858-8072

Relative humidity operating range Less than 85%

Atmospheric pressure >

53.3 kPa

Memory capacity 480 blood glucose results with time and date

Dimensions 3.3 x 2.2 x 0.8 inches (84 x 56 x 20 mm)

Weight 1.8 oz. (57 g) without battery

Construction Hand-held

Lancet device depths 0.80, 0.95, 1.10, 1.25, 1.40, 1.55, 1.70, 1.85,

2.00, 2.15, 2.30 mm

Product Safety Information

Explanation of Symbols

CAUTION

Please refer to safety-related

notes in the manual

accompanying this instrument.

3-volt battery

(CR 2032)

The Accu-Chek Advantage Meter

has been listed by Underwriter’s

Laboratories, Inc.‚ in accordance

with UL 3101-1 and CAN/CSA

C22.2 No. 1010-1.

This product fulfills the

requirements of Directive

98/79/EC on in vitro

diagnostic medical

devices.

Chapter 6: Technical Information Accu-Chek Customer Care 1-800-858-8072

38 Accu-Chek Customer Care 1-800-858-8072

Accu-Chek Advantage Limited 3-Year Warranty

Roche Diagnostics warrants to the original purchaser of the meter, that your Accu-Chek Advantage Meter will be
free from defects in materials and workmanship for 3 years from the date of purchase. If, during this 3-year
period, the meter does not work properly because of a defect in materials or workmanship, Roche Diagnostics
will replace it with a new Accu-Chek Advantage Meter or equivalent product free of charge. The warranty of the
replacement meter will expire on the date of the original warranty expiration or 90 days after the shipment of a
replacement system, whichever period is longer. The purchaser’s exclusive remedy with respect to the Accu­Chek Advantage Meter shall be replacement.

This warranty does not apply to the performance of an Accu-Chek Advantage Meter that has been
damaged by accident or has been altered, misused, tampered with, or abused in any way. Roche
Diagnostics will handle meters that show damage or abuse according to its Non-Warranty Service Policy
described below.

THE ABOVE WARRANTY IS EXCLUSIVE OF ALL OTHER WARRANTIES, AND ROCHE DIAGNOSTICS MAKES NO
OTHER WARRANTIES, EXPRESS OR IMPLIED, INCLUDING WITHOUT LIMITATION, THE IMPLIED WARRANTY
OF MERCHANTABILITY OR FITNESS FOR A PARTICULAR PURPOSE. IN NO EVENT SHALL ROCHE
DIAGNOSTICS BE LIABLE TO THE PURCHASER OR ANY OTHER PERSON FOR ANY INCIDENTAL,
CONSEQUENTIAL, INDIRECT, SPECIAL, OR PUNITIVE DAMAGES ARISING FROM OR IN ANY WAY CONNECTED
WITH THE PURCHASE OR OPERATION OF THE METER OR ITS PARTS. NO WARRANTY OF MERCHANTABILITY
OR FITNESS FOR A PARTICULAR PURPOSE, IF ANY IS IMPLIED FROM THE SALE OF THE METER, SHALL
EXTEND FOR A LONGER DURATION THAN THREE YEARS FROM THE DATE OF PURCHASE.

Chapter 6: Technical Information Accu-Chek Customer Care 1-800-858-8072

39

Accu-Chek Customer Care 1-800-858-8072

Chapter 6: Technical Information Accu-Chek Customer Care 1-800-858-8072

Some states do not allow limitations on how long an implied warranty will last or the exclusion of incidental or
consequential damages, so the above elimination and exclusion may not apply to you. This warranty gives you
specific legal rights, which vary from state to state.

Non-Warranty Service Policy

Roche Diagnostics’ Non-Warranty Service Policy applies to meters where the above warranty has not become
effective, has become inapplicable, or has expired. Roche Diagnostics will replace at its option meters
returned to it for a service charge (not to exceed $35). Replacement will be with the same or similar product.
Replacement meters will be warranted for a period of 90 days from shipment under a limited warranty
providing for replacement of parts and labor at no charge.

Warranty and Service Instructions

All requests for return of Accu-Chek Advantage Meters under the above warranty or service policy must be
made to Accu-Chek Customer Care by calling 1-800-858-8072. You will be mailed a return authorization label,
which must be affixed to your carton for shipping the system to Roche Diagnostics. Cartons received without
this label will be returned to you at your expense.

Customers experiencing difficulties should review the troubleshooting information beginning on page 31 of this
booklet. Further inquiries should be directed to Accu-Chek Customer Care at 1-800-858-8072.

Be sure to fill out and mail the warranty card that comes with the Accu-Chek Advantage System.

40 Accu-Chek Customer Care 1-800-858-8072

▲

!

CAUTION: A RESTRICTED LICENSE LIMITS USE OF THE ACCU-CHEK ADVANTAGE SYSTEM –
READ CAREFULLY THE LIMITATIONS RECITED BELOW.

The Accu-Chek Softclix Lancet Device and its use are protected by U.S. Patent Nos. 4,924,879 and Re.
35,803. A license to use the Accu-Chek Softclix Lancet Device is only granted when Accu-Chek Softclix
Lancets are used as a part of the Accu-Chek Softclix Lancet Device.

The Accu-Chek Advantage System (meter, including the code key, and test strips) and its use are protected by
US Patent Nos. 5,508,171; 5,053,199; 5,288,636; 5,405,511; 5,366,609; 5,762,770 (applies only to Accu-Chek
Advantage Test Strips); Re. 36,268 (applies to the Accu-Chek Advantage System when used with Accu-Chek
Comfort Curve Test Strips); and 5,352,351. A license to use the Accu-Chek Advantage System is only granted
when the Accu-Chek Advantage Meter is used with the Accu-Chek Advantage or Accu-Chek Comfort Curve
Test Strips and Accu-Chek Advantage or Accu-Chek Comfort Curve Code Keys. Accu-Chek Advantage and
Accu-Chek Comfort Curve Test Strips are provided with a specifically matched Accu-Chek Advantage or
Comfort Curve Code Key. These test strips and code keys are specifically manufactured for operation with the
Accu-Chek Advantage Meter. Use of other test strips with an unmatched code key or even with the matched
code key supplied by another manufacturer may prevent or impair the proper function of the Accu-Chek
Advantage System.

Using the Accu-Chek Advantage System indicates your acceptance of the restricted license to use the
Accu-Chek Advantage System only with Accu-Chek Advantage or Accu-Chek Comfort Curve Test Strips and the
Accu-Chek Advantage or Accu-Chek Comfort Curve Code Key. Further, if you have purchased an Accu-Chek
Advantage monitoring kit or an Accu-Chek Advantage Meter that includes this restricted license, then this

Chapter 6: Technical Information Accu-Chek Customer Care 1-800-858-8072

41Chapter 6: Technical Information Accu-Chek Customer Care 1-800-858-8072

restricted license applies regardless of any additional offers found in Accu-Chek Advantage or Accu-Chek
Comfort Curve Test Strip packages. If you do not agree to the terms and conditions of the restricted license,
you may return, at the place of purchase, the unused Accu-Chek Advantage System for a full refund. If you
have any questions, please call Accu-Chek Customer Care at 1-800-858-8072.

Except where prohibited by statute, all warranties covering the Accu-Chek Advantage System are voided by
use of the Accu-Chek Advantage System with any test strip or code keys other than Accu-Chek Advantage or
Accu-Chek Comfort Curve Test Strips or Code Keys.

Patent Information

This product is covered by one or more of the following U.S. Patent Nos. 4,999,632; 4,999,582; 4,963,814;
5,508,171; 5,352,351; 5,405,511; 5,438,271; 5,997,817; 6,254,736; 6,270,637 (the latter three patents
covering Accu-Chek Comfort Curve Test Strips); 5,288,636; 5,627,075; 4,891,319; 5,762,770 (when used
with Accu-Chek Advantage Test Strips); 5,053,199; Re. 36,268 (when used with Accu-Chek Comfort Curve
Test Strips); and 5,366,609. U.S. Patent No. 4,891,319 is licensed from Quadrant Holdings Cambridge
Limited. The Accu-Chek Softclix Lancet Device is covered by U.S. Patent Nos. 4,924,879 and Re. 35,803.

42

Chapter 6: Technical Information Accu-Chek Customer Care 1-800-858-8072

Additional Supplies

The following supplies and accessories are available from your authorized Roche Diagnostics Diabetes
Healthcare Center, pharmacies or your medical/surgical supply dealer:

Test Strips

Accu-Chek Comfort Curve Test Strips Cat. Nos. 2030365, 2030373, 2030381, 3000141
Accu-Chek Advantage Test Strips Cat. Nos. 336, 553, 787, 966

Control Solutions

Accu-Chek Comfort Curve
Glucose Control Solutions Cat. Nos. 2030390, 2030403, 2030411

Accu-Chek Advantage
Glucose Control Solutions Cat. Nos. 552, 986, 989

Lancets

Accu-Chek Softclix Lancet Device Cat. No. 957
Accu-Chek Softclix Lancets Cat. No. 971 (100/box)
Accu-Chek Softclix Lancets Cat. No. 988 (200/box)

43

▲

!

Chapter 6: Technical Information Accu-Chek Customer Care 1-800-858-8072

Information for Professional Caregivers

Healthcare Professionals: Follow the infection control procedures appropriate for your
facility.

References

1. Stedman, Thomas Lathrop. Stedman’s Medical Dictionary, 27th Edition, 1999, pg. 755.

2. American Diabetes Association, “Clinical Practice Recommendations 2003.” Diabetes Care,Vol.26,
Supplement 1, pg. S22.

44

Index Accu-Chek Customer Care 1-800-858-8072

Index

Accu-Chek Softclix Lancet

Device, 21- 22, 31
appetite, increased, 27
battery, changing, 8
battery, installing, 8
battery, type, 8
beeper settings, 11, 32
blood sugar, high, 27
blood sugar, low, 27
blood sugar, testing, 23 – 24
blurred vision, 27
button, on/off, 6
button, arrow, 6
code key, 13
computer, connecting your

meter to, 29

control solution, 16, 42
control test results,

understanding, 19 – 20

control test, acceptable

range, 19
control test, results, 19 – 20
control test, running 17 – 18
control test, unacceptable

range, 19 – 20
dehydration, 3
depth, lancet, 22, 37
diary, 25
display check, 31
error messages, 32 – 35
expiration date, 14, 20
fatigue, 27
flag, 25
frequent urination, 27

heartbeat, rapid, 27
high blood sugar, 27
hourglass, 24
hyperglycemia, 27
hypoglycemia, 27
lancet device, 21 – 22, 42
lancet, 21, 42
limitations, product, 36
logging results, 25
low blood sugar, 27
maintenance, meter, 30 – 31
memory, meter, 28 – 29
messages, error, 32 – 35
meter memory, 28 – 29
meter, coding, 13
numbness, 27

45

Index Accu-Chek Customer Care 1-800-858-8072

product limitations, 36
product specifications, 36
professional caregivers, 43
rapid heartbeat, 27
results, control test,

understanding, 19 – 20
results, logging, 25
results, test,

understanding, 26
settings, meter, 9 – 12
Softclix Lancet Device,

21 – 22, 31
specifications, meter, 36
supplies, 42
sweating, 27
symbols, 37

technical information, 36 – 37
test results,

understanding, 26
test results, unusual, 27
test strips,

Accu-Chek Advantage, 15
test strips,

Accu-Chek Comfort Curve, 15
test, blood sugar, 23 – 24
thirst, increased, 27
time and date, setting, 9 –10
tingling, 27
trembling, 27
troubleshooting, 30 – 35
unusual test results, 27
urination, frequent, 27

vision, blurred, 27
warranty, 38 – 41
water loss, 3
www.accu-chek.com, 1, 2, 29

46Notes Accu-Chek Customer Care 1-800-858-8072

Notes

47

Notes Accu-Chek Customer Care 1-800-858-8072

Notes

48

Notes

Notes Accu-Chek Customer Care 1-800-858-8072

Accu-Chek®Advantage

Accu-Chek

SM

Customer Care 1-800-858-8072

www.accu-chek.com

©2004 Roche Diagnostics. All rights reserved.
Roche Diagnostics

9115 Hague Road
Indianapolis, IN 46256

ACCU-CHEK, ADVANTAGE, COMFORT CURVE, and SOFTCLIX
are trademarks of a Member of the Roche Group.

03508501002-0104