Patent ID: 7723113

Claim:
A method for loading a test sensor disposed within a sensor package into a testing device, the method comprising the acts of: providing the sensor package including a protective covering and the test sensor, a first end of the test sensor having at least one pointed portion; inserting a portion of the sensor package into an inlet region of the testing device such that the sensor package engages the testing device to load the test sensor but remains at least generally external to the testing device, the inlet region including a guide member that is adapted to assist in the proper alignment of the inserted portion of the sensor package within the testing device, the sensor package being inserted such that (i) a first end portion of the protective covering and the first end portion of the test sensor resides in the inlet region of the testing device and (ii) a second end portion of the protective covering and a second end portion of the test sensor remains outside of the testing device; lowering a package-puncturing member of the testing device into the inlet region, the package-puncturing member adapted to puncture the inserted portion of the sensor package; puncturing the inserted portion of the sensor package with the package-puncturing member; removing the protective covering by pulling a section of the sensor package in a direction away from the testing device, the at least one pointed portion of the test sensor assisting in removal of the sensor package such that the at least one pointed portion punctures the protective covering thereby allowing the removal of the protective covering; and maintaining the first end portion of the test sensor in the inlet region of the testing device in a testing position.