Patent ID: 8123920
Filing Date: 2012-02-28
Classification: A61B,C12Q,G01N

Abstract:
1. An apparatus comprising: (a) a housing having a space for receiving an electrochemical cell comprising two electrodes; (b) means for applying a potential or a current between the two electrodes of the electrochemical cell when it is received within the housing; (c) means for measuring oxidation or reduction of an analyte or a mediator in an analyte-detection system occurring within the electrochemical cell when the potential or current is being applied; (d) means for switching the potential or current off after a period of time during which a chemical potential gradient is established between the two electrodes; (e) means for monitoring the decay of the chemical potential gradient after the potential or current is switched off; (f) programmed data processing means for combining the measured oxidation or reduction with the monitored decay to produce an indication of the presence of the analyte in the sample; and (g) output means for conveying the indication of the presence of the analyte in the sample to a user.