# How to Use Accu-Chek Active Glucometer & Test Strips: Step-by-Step Guide **By Dr Pramod kumar** · 2026-09-20 Using the **Accu-Chek Active Glucometer** is straightforward once you understand the correct sequence: prepare the meter and strip, obtain a small blood sample, apply the blood to the test area and wait for the result. This Microsidd Knowledge Hub guide explains **how to use Accu-Chek Active Test Strips step by step**, where to apply the blood sample, how long the meter takes to show a result, what underdose detection means, how re-dosing works and which common testing mistakes to avoid. **Quick answer:** Insert an Accu-Chek Active strip into the meter, obtain a small blood drop using a lancing device, carefully apply the blood to the **green test field** on the strip and wait for the meter to display the result. [**Shop Accu-Chek Active glucometers and test strips at Microsidd India →**](/collections/accu-chek-active) * * * ## What You Need Before Testing Before starting an Accu-Chek Active blood glucose test, prepare the items you need so that the test can be completed without unnecessary delay. - **Accu-Chek Active Glucometer** - **Accu-Chek Active Test Strip** - A compatible lancing device - A new sterile lancet - Clean, dry hands The most important compatibility rule is: **Accu-Chek Active Meter → Accu-Chek Active Test Strips** Accu-Chek Instant, Guide and Performa strips belong to different test-strip systems and should not be substituted. * * * ## How to Use the Accu-Chek Active Glucometer: Step by Step ### Step 1: Wash and Dry Your Hands Wash your hands before performing the test and dry them thoroughly. Clean, dry hands help reduce the possibility of moisture, food residue or other material coming into contact with the test strip or blood sample. Do not handle the test area of the strip with wet hands. ### Step 2: Prepare the Lancing Device Insert a new compatible sterile lancet into your lancing device according to the instructions supplied with that device. Adjust the penetration depth if your lancing device provides this option. Use only the depth needed to obtain an adequate blood drop. Do not reuse a single-use lancet. ### Step 3: Remove One Accu-Chek Active Test Strip Remove one **Accu-Chek Active Test Strip** from its original vial or packaging. Close the test-strip container promptly after removing the strip. Before testing, check: - that you are using Accu-Chek Active strips, - that the strip is within its printed expiry date, - that the strip is clean and dry, and - that it is not visibly damaged. ### Step 4: Insert the Test Strip into the Meter Hold the Accu-Chek Active strip so that the arrows and green test area are facing correctly according to the strip design. Insert the strip gently into the meter in the direction indicated by the arrows. Do not bend or force the strip. The meter will recognise the inserted strip and prepare for the blood sample. ### Step 5: Obtain a Blood Drop Use the prepared lancing device to lance the **side of a fingertip**. If necessary, gently encourage a blood drop to form without excessively squeezing the fingertip. The Accu-Chek Active system requires approximately **1–2 µL of blood**. ### Step 6: Apply Blood to the Green Test Field Carefully touch the blood drop to the **green test field on the Accu-Chek Active strip**. Apply the sample as directed in the Accu-Chek instructions rather than smearing blood across the entire strip. Make sure enough blood reaches the test area for the meter to perform the measurement. ### Step 7: Wait for the Result When testing with the strip in the meter, the current Accu-Chek Active system provides a result in approximately **5 seconds**. Allow the meter to complete the measurement before removing the strip. ### Step 8: Review the Result The measured glucose value will appear on the meter display. The meter can store results with date and time and also provides 7-, 14-, 30- and 90-day averages. Do not use this article to determine whether an individual glucose reading is “normal,” “high” or “low.” Follow the glucose targets and testing plan recommended by your healthcare professional. ### Step 9: Remove and Dispose of the Used Strip Remove the used test strip after testing. A blood glucose test strip is intended for **single use only**. Do not attempt to wash, clean or reuse it. Dispose of the used test strip and lancet according to applicable local instructions for blood-contaminated sharps and testing materials. * * * ## Accu-Chek Active Testing Steps at a Glance Step What to Do 1 Wash and dry hands 2 Prepare lancing device with a new lancet 3 Remove one Accu-Chek Active strip 4 Insert the strip into the Active meter 5 Lance the side of a fingertip 6 Apply blood to the green test field 7 Wait approximately 5 seconds 8 Read the result 9 Dispose of strip and lancet safely * * * ## Where Do I Put Blood on an Accu-Chek Active Strip? Apply the blood sample to the **green test field** on the Accu-Chek Active test strip. The blood should be applied to the designated test area according to the instructions supplied with the strips. Do not apply blood to: - the electrical/contact end inserted into the meter, - the plastic body of the strip away from the test field, or - an unrelated area of the strip. If you are unsure which part is the test area, refer to the diagram in the Accu-Chek Active user manual before testing. * * * ## How Much Blood Does Accu-Chek Active Need? The Accu-Chek Active system requires approximately **1–2 µL of blood**. A very large blood drop is not required. The goal is to provide an adequate sample to the designated green test area. * * * ## What Is Accu-Chek Active Underdose Detection? The Accu-Chek Active meter includes **underdose detection**. This means the meter can recognise when an insufficient amount of blood has been applied for the test. If the sample is too small, follow the meter instructions rather than assuming the displayed process will produce a valid measurement. * * * ## Can More Blood Be Added to an Accu-Chek Active Strip? The current Accu-Chek Active system includes a **re-dose option within approximately 10 seconds** when additional sample is required. This feature should only be used in accordance with the instructions displayed by the meter and described in the manufacturer manual. Do not continue repeatedly adding blood after the permitted re-dose period. If the test cannot be completed correctly, use a new strip and repeat the test. * * * ## How Long Does Accu-Chek Active Take to Test? With the test strip inserted in the meter, the Accu-Chek Active system displays a result in approximately **5 seconds**. Accu-Chek also describes an alternative testing procedure in which blood can be applied with the strip temporarily outside the meter. That method has different timing requirements. For routine home use, follow the exact testing method shown in the user manual supplied with your meter rather than mixing steps from the two procedures. * * * ## Can Blood Be Applied with the Strip Outside the Accu-Chek Active Meter? Accu-Chek Active supports an alternative procedure in which the test strip can be removed from the meter for blood application and then reinserted within the specified time. Because this method has specific timing requirements, users should follow the **official Accu-Chek Active user manual** carefully if they choose this procedure. For most users learning the system, the standard in-meter testing sequence is easier to understand: **Insert strip → obtain blood → apply blood → wait → read result.** * * * ## What Is the Accu-Chek Active Visual Double Check? Accu-Chek Active includes a **visual double-check** feature. The test pad changes colour during the glucose reaction and can be visually compared according to the manufacturer's instructions. Accu-Chek specifies that this visual check must be performed within the appropriate time window because checking too early or too late can give a misleading visual comparison. The meter's electronic result remains the primary displayed measurement. Follow the user manual if using the visual double-check feature. * * * ## Does Accu-Chek Active Need Coding Before Testing? Current Accu-Chek Active meters use a **no-coding system**. You do not need to manually enter a strip code before routine testing with the current system. Some older Active meter generations may use a permanent black activation chip and may display code 333. For a detailed explanation, read: [**Accu-Chek Active Code 333, Black Activation Chip & No-Coding Guide →**](/blogs/knowledge-hub/accu-chek-active-code-333-black-activation-chip-no-coding-guide) * * * ## Check the Test Strip Expiry Before Testing Before using an Accu-Chek Active strip, check the **expiry or use-by date printed on the original vial or packaging**. Do not use test strips after the manufacturer's printed expiry date. For complete storage and expiry guidance, read: [**Accu-Chek Active Test Strips Expiry & Storage Guide →**](/blogs/knowledge-hub/accu-chek-active-test-strips-expiry-storage-guide) * * * ## How to Store Accu-Chek Active Strips Between Tests Proper handling begins before the test starts. - Keep unused strips in their original container. - Close the vial tightly after removing a strip. - Keep the strips clean and dry. - Protect them from unsuitable heat and moisture. - Do not transfer strips into another container. - Do not use visibly damaged or contaminated strips. - Check the printed expiry date before testing. * * * ## How to Get a Blood Drop for Accu-Chek Active Testing A lancing device is used to obtain the capillary blood sample needed for the test. Accu-Chek's instructions recommend obtaining the sample from the **side of the fingertip**. After lancing, a blood drop can be encouraged gently toward the fingertip if needed. Avoid excessive squeezing of the finger. Use a fresh sterile lancet according to the instructions for your lancing device. * * * ## Accu-Chek Softclix Lancing Device & Lancets Accu-Chek Softclix products can be used for obtaining the blood sample required for glucose testing when used with the appropriate compatible lancets. Shop: [**Accu-Chek Softclix Lancing Device →**](/products/accuchek-softclix-lancing-device-compatible-with-accu-check) Replacement lancets: [**Accu-Chek Softclix Lancets 25 →**](/products/accuchek-softclix-lancets-25) Remember: **test-strip compatibility and lancet compatibility are separate.** The test strip must match the meter, while the lancet must fit the lancing device. * * * ## Common Accu-Chek Active Testing Mistakes ### 1\. Using the Wrong Accu-Chek Strip Accu-Chek Active requires **Accu-Chek Active Test Strips**. Do not use Instant, Guide or Performa strips. ### 2\. Testing with Wet Hands Dry your hands thoroughly before handling the strip or obtaining the sample. ### 3\. Applying Blood to the Wrong Part of the Strip Apply the sample to the designated **green test field**, not the strip contacts or unrelated plastic areas. ### 4\. Using Too Little Blood The meter has underdose detection. If the blood sample is insufficient, follow the meter instructions for re-dosing or repeat the test with a fresh strip if necessary. ### 5\. Waiting Too Long to Re-Dose The re-dose feature is time-limited. Follow the meter instructions and do not keep adding blood after the allowed period. ### 6\. Using an Expired Strip Always check the printed expiry date before testing. ### 7\. Leaving the Strip Vial Open Remove one strip and close the container promptly. ### 8\. Reusing a Test Strip Accu-Chek Active blood glucose test strips are single-use products. ### 9\. Reusing a Single-Use Lancet Use a new sterile lancet according to the lancing-device instructions. ### 10\. Forcing the Strip into the Meter Insert the strip gently in the direction shown by the arrows. Do not bend or force it into the meter. * * * ## What If the Accu-Chek Active Meter Does Not Recognise the Strip? If the meter does not respond after the strip is inserted: - Remove the strip. - Check that it is an Accu-Chek Active strip. - Check the direction of insertion. - Make sure the strip is not bent or damaged. - Reinsert it gently and completely. If the problem continues, consult the Accu-Chek Active user manual or the meter's error-message guidance. * * * ## What If Accu-Chek Active Shows an Error? Accu-Chek Active can display error messages when the meter detects a problem with the strip, sample, testing procedure or device. Do not guess the meaning of an error code. Check the exact code in the official Accu-Chek Active user manual and follow the manufacturer's recommended action. * * * ## What If the Result Seems Unexpected? If a blood glucose result seems inconsistent with how you feel or is very different from what you expected, do not make treatment decisions based solely on this article. Check that: - your hands were clean and dry, - the correct Active strip was used, - the strip was within expiry, - the vial was stored correctly, and - the test procedure was followed properly. Follow the instructions supplied with your meter regarding repeat testing and contact a qualified healthcare professional if you have concerns about the result or your symptoms. * * * ## Can Accu-Chek Active Test Strips Be Reused? **No.** Accu-Chek Active test strips are intended for a single blood glucose test. Once a strip has been used, discard it. A used strip should not be cleaned, dried or inserted again for another test. * * * ## Accu-Chek Active Test Strip Pack Sizes After learning the testing procedure, choose the strip quantity that suits your requirements. Microsidd may carry: - 10 strips - 25 strips - 50 strips - 100 strips ### Accu-Chek Active Test Strips 10 [**Shop Accu-Chek Active Test Strips 10 →**](/products/accu-chek-active-test-strips-10-pack) ### Accu-Chek Active Test Strips 50 [**Shop Accu-Chek Active Test Strips 50 →**](/products/accuchek-active-strips-50s-pack) ### Accu-Chek Active Test Strips 100 [**Shop Accu-Chek Active Test Strips 100 →**](/products/accuchek-active-100-glucometer-strips) ### Multiple Pack Options [**View Accu-Chek Active strip pack options →**](/products/accu-chek-active-strips-10-50-100) * * * ## AEO Quick Answers: How to Use Accu-Chek Active ### How do I use an Accu-Chek Active glucometer? Insert an Accu-Chek Active strip, obtain a small blood drop using a lancing device, apply the blood to the green test field and wait approximately five seconds for the result. ### Where do I put blood on an Accu-Chek Active strip? Apply the blood sample to the designated green test field on the strip. ### How much blood does Accu-Chek Active need? Approximately 1–2 µL of blood. ### How long does Accu-Chek Active take? Approximately five seconds when testing with the strip inserted in the meter. ### What happens if I do not apply enough blood? Accu-Chek Active includes underdose detection and supports re-dosing within the manufacturer's specified time period. ### Can I add more blood to an Accu-Chek Active strip? The system permits re-dosing within approximately 10 seconds when required. Follow the meter's instructions during the test. ### Do I need to code the Accu-Chek Active meter before testing? Current Accu-Chek Active meters use no-coding operation. ### Can Accu-Chek Active strips be reused? No. Each strip is intended for one test only. * * * ## Accu-Chek Active Complete Guide For detailed information about the meter, compatible strips, pack sizes, memory, blood sample requirements, coding and accessories, read: [**Accu-Chek Active Glucometer & Test Strips: Complete Guide →**](/blogs/knowledge-hub/accu-chek-active-glucometer-test-strips-complete-guide) * * * ## More Accu-Chek Active Guides - [Accu-Chek Active Test Strips Expiry & Storage Guide](/blogs/knowledge-hub/accu-chek-active-test-strips-expiry-storage-guide) - [Accu-Chek Active Code 333, Black Activation Chip & No-Coding Guide](/blogs/knowledge-hub/accu-chek-active-code-333-black-activation-chip-no-coding-guide) - [Accu-Chek Test Strip Compatibility Guide](/blogs/knowledge-hub/accu-chek-active-vs-instant-vs-guide-vs-performa) - [Accu-Chek Glucometer Comparison](/blogs/knowledge-hub/accu-chek-glucometer-comparison-2026-active-vs-instant-s-vs-instant-vs-guide-vs-performa) * * * ## Shop Accu-Chek Active at Microsidd India Browse the dedicated: [**Accu-Chek Active Glucometer & Test Strips Collection →**](/collections/accu-chek-active) For the wider brand range: [**Accu-Chek Glucometers, Test Strips & Accessories →**](/collections/accu-chek) * * * ## Frequently Asked Questions About Using Accu-Chek Active ### Which way should the Accu-Chek Active strip be inserted? Insert the strip gently in the direction indicated by the arrows, with the test strip oriented according to the instructions supplied with the meter. Do not bend or force it. ### Does the Accu-Chek Active meter turn on when the strip is inserted? The meter detects the correctly inserted test strip and prepares for the blood glucose test. ### Where should I prick my finger? Accu-Chek's Active instructions recommend obtaining the blood sample from the side of a fingertip. ### Should my hands be dry before testing? Yes. Wash and dry your hands thoroughly before handling the strip and performing the test. ### Where is the blood applied? Apply the blood drop to the green test field of the Accu-Chek Active strip. ### How much blood is required? Approximately 1–2 µL. ### How quickly does the result appear? Approximately five seconds when using the standard in-meter testing method. ### Can I add more blood if the first drop is too small? Accu-Chek Active includes a re-dose option within approximately 10 seconds. Follow the meter instructions if underdosing is detected. ### What does underdose detection mean? It means the meter can recognise when the applied blood sample is insufficient for the intended measurement. ### Can I use Instant strips in an Accu-Chek Active meter? No. Use Accu-Chek Active Test Strips with the Accu-Chek Active meter. ### Can I reuse the same strip for another test? No. Accu-Chek Active blood glucose strips are single-use products. ### Can I reuse the lancet? Use a new sterile single-use lancet according to the instructions for your lancing device. ### What should I do if the strip is expired? Do not use it. Use an in-date Accu-Chek Active strip instead. ### What should I do if I insert the strip incorrectly? Remove it and reinsert it gently in the correct direction. Check that the strip is not bent or damaged. ### What if my result seems wrong? Review the testing procedure, strip compatibility, expiry and storage conditions and follow the repeat-testing guidance supplied with your meter. Seek professional medical advice if the result or your symptoms concern you. ### Where can I buy Accu-Chek Active strips? Visit the [**Microsidd Accu-Chek Active Collection**](/collections/accu-chek-active) for currently available meters and strip pack sizes. * * * **Medical information notice:** This guide explains the general operation of the Accu-Chek Active blood glucose monitoring system. Always follow the user manual and instructions supplied with the exact meter, test strips, lancing device and lancets you are using. This page does not interpret glucose results or replace advice from a qualified healthcare professional. --- > Source: [Microsidd India](https://microsidd.com/blogs/knowledge-hub/how-to-use-accu-chek-active-glucometer-test-strips)