TrueHb Hemometer & Test Strips Complete Guide: Usage, Compatibility, Accuracy & Specifications
Dr Pramod kumar
The TrueHb Hemometer is a portable digital hemoglobin testing system designed for quantitative measurement of hemoglobin (Hb) using a small whole-blood sample.
The system combines the reusable TrueHb Hemometer with compatible TrueHb Hemoglobin Test Strips to provide a hemoglobin result in less than approximately 60 seconds.
TrueHb can be useful for individuals, healthcare professionals, clinics, laboratories, screening programmes and other settings where a rapid Hb measurement is required without waiting for a conventional laboratory hematology workflow.
This complete guide explains how the TrueHb system works, which test strips are compatible, specimen requirements, measurement range, storage, accuracy considerations, testing precautions and the different TrueHb products available from Microsidd.
Important: TrueHb Hemometer vs Newer TrueHb Nord
TrueHb has been available in different product generations.
This guide specifically covers the standard TrueHb Hemometer sold on Microsidd.com, which is documented with specifications including:
- Hb measurement range approximately 0–24 g/dL
- Testing time within approximately 60 seconds
- Operating temperature approximately 5°C–55°C
- Memory for up to approximately 1,000 results
The newer TrueHb Nord is a different-generation product and has different specifications.
Do not automatically apply specifications, strip requirements or operating instructions from TrueHb Nord to the standard TrueHb Hemometer.
What Is the TrueHb Hemometer?
The TrueHb Hemometer is an in-vitro diagnostic hemoglobin measuring device designed to estimate total hemoglobin concentration from whole blood.
The meter works together with dedicated TrueHb test strips.
A small blood sample is applied to the test strip, where the blood reacts with reagents present in the strip. The meter then measures the optical response and calculates the hemoglobin concentration.
The system is compact and portable, making rapid Hb testing possible outside a conventional hematology laboratory.
How Does the TrueHb Hemometer Work?
The TrueHb system uses the principle of:
Reflectance Photometry
When blood is applied to the TrueHb test strip:
- The blood spreads through the test region.
- Hemoglobin is released from the red blood cells.
- Hemoglobin reacts with reagents contained in the strip.
- A coloured reaction complex develops.
- The meter measures optical reflectance.
- The optical signal is converted into a hemoglobin concentration.
The amount of reflected light changes according to the concentration of hemoglobin present in the blood specimen.
TrueHb Hemometer Technical Specifications
| Specification | TrueHb Hemometer |
|---|---|
| Parameter | Hemoglobin (Hb) |
| Method | Reflectance photometry |
| Sample | Capillary or venous whole blood |
| Approximate blood volume | Approximately 10–12 µL |
| Testing time | Within approximately 60 seconds |
| Measurement range | Approximately 0–24 g/dL |
| Result unit | g/dL |
| Memory | Up to approximately 1,000 results |
| Operating temperature | Approximately 5°C–55°C |
| Strip storage | Approximately 2°C–30°C |
| Power | Rechargeable battery on the documented standard system |
Note: Always verify the specifications printed on the meter, test-strip pack and current user manual supplied with your particular TrueHb system because product revisions can occur.
What Does TrueHb Measure?
TrueHb is designed primarily for measuring:
Total Hemoglobin (Hb)
Hemoglobin is the oxygen-carrying protein found inside red blood cells.
Hemoglobin testing may form part of the assessment of conditions associated with unusually low or high Hb levels, but a hemoglobin value alone does not determine the underlying cause.
Abnormal or unexpected results should be interpreted in the appropriate clinical context and may require a laboratory complete blood count (CBC) or other investigations.
Does TrueHb Perform a Complete Blood Count?
No.
The TrueHb Hemometer is a dedicated hemoglobin measuring system.
A complete blood count performed on a laboratory hematology analyser can provide additional parameters including:
- Red blood cell count
- White blood cell count
- Platelet count
- Hematocrit
- MCV
- MCH
- MCHC
- RDW
- Other hematology parameters depending on the analyser
Therefore:
TrueHb = rapid quantitative Hb measurement
whereas:
Laboratory CBC = broader hematology assessment
What Blood Sample Does TrueHb Use?
The documented TrueHb system can use appropriate:
- Capillary whole blood
- Venous whole blood
Capillary blood is commonly obtained from a finger prick for convenient point-of-care testing.
The TrueHb user documentation also describes use with venous whole-blood specimens when collected and handled according to the manufacturer's requirements.
How Much Blood Does TrueHb Require?
The standard TrueHb system requires only a small sample of approximately:
10–12 µL of whole blood
An adequate sample is important because insufficient blood may prevent the reaction area from filling properly and can lead to an error or unreliable measurement.
How Quickly Does TrueHb Give a Result?
The standard TrueHb Hemometer provides the hemoglobin result within approximately:
60 seconds
This makes it useful when an Hb result is required more rapidly than waiting for a conventional laboratory workflow.
What Is the TrueHb Measurement Range?
The standard TrueHb Hemometer represented in the current Microsidd product range has an Hb measurement range of approximately:
0–24 g/dL
This specification should not be confused with newer TrueHb product generations that may have a different measuring range.
What Are TrueHb Test Strips?
TrueHb Test Strips are single-use reagent strips specifically designed to work with the compatible TrueHb Hemometer.
Each strip contains the reaction area required for quantitative Hb measurement.
The strips should be considered an integral part of the TrueHb measuring system rather than a generic hemoglobin strip.
Which Strips Are Compatible with the TrueHb Hemometer?
The TrueHb Hemometer should be used with:
Genuine compatible TrueHb Hemoglobin Test Strips.
Do not substitute test strips intended for:
- Mission Hb meters
- Quikchek Plus Hb meters
- Other hemoglobin meters
- Other point-of-care diagnostic systems
Physical similarity between two test strips does not establish compatibility.
Meter-and-strip systems may differ in:
- Reagent chemistry
- Optical measurement
- Calibration
- Blood-volume requirements
- Strip recognition
- Reaction timing
For this reason, always match the strip to the exact TrueHb meter.
TrueHb Test Strip Pack Sizes
TrueHb strips have been supplied in different pack quantities, including:
- 10 strips
- 25 strips
- 50 strips
The current Microsidd refill listing is for:
True Hb Test Strips – Pack of 50
View True Hb Test Strips at Microsidd.com
How Long Can TrueHb Test Strips Be Stored?
Manufacturer product information describes TrueHb strips as having a shelf life of up to approximately:
2 years
when stored according to the manufacturer's instructions and within the printed expiry date.
Storage conditions for the standard TrueHb strip system are generally approximately:
2°C–30°C
Always rely on the expiry date and storage instructions printed on the actual strip packaging supplied to you.
Protect TrueHb Strips from Heat and Moisture
Test-strip performance can potentially be affected by inappropriate storage.
Avoid prolonged exposure to:
- Direct sunlight
- Excessive heat
- High humidity
- Water
- Condensation
- Vehicle interiors in hot weather
- Uncontrolled storage areas
Do not use a strip if it appears damaged, contaminated or has been stored under clearly unsuitable conditions.
Are TrueHb Test Strips Reusable?
No.
TrueHb test strips are intended for single use only.
Once blood has been applied and the test completed:
- Do not wash the strip.
- Do not wipe it and reuse it.
- Do not apply blood from another person.
- Do not attempt a second measurement using the same strip.
Use a fresh strip for every hemoglobin test.
TrueHb Meter, Strips and Combo: What Is the Difference?
| Product | Best For | Main Contents |
|---|---|---|
| TrueHb Hemometer | Users needing the meter system | TrueHb meter and supplied kit accessories; verify current listing contents |
| TrueHb Test Strips 50 | Existing TrueHb meter users needing refill strips | 50 compatible TrueHb test strips |
| TrueHb Meter + 50 Strips | Users wanting a meter plus a larger initial strip supply | TrueHb system with 50 strips and supplied kit accessories |
TrueHb Hemometer Kit Contents
Depending on the product configuration and manufacturing revision, a TrueHb kit may include items such as:
- TrueHb Hemometer
- Lancing device
- Control material
- Carrying pouch
- Charging or connectivity accessories where supplied
- User manual
- Warranty documentation
Combo packs may additionally contain TrueHb test strips and lancets.
Always verify the exact contents described on the current Microsidd product listing before ordering.
TrueHb Control Strip and Control Solution
Different TrueHb kit revisions and product configurations may include quality-control material such as a control strip or control solution.
These materials are designed to help verify that the testing system is functioning according to the applicable manufacturer procedure.
They should not be confused with ordinary patient test strips.
Always follow the QC instructions supplied with the particular TrueHb meter revision you own.
Basic TrueHb Testing Workflow
The complete testing procedure should always follow the current TrueHb user manual, but the general workflow is:
- Prepare the TrueHb Hemometer.
- Verify that the correct TrueHb test strip is being used.
- Check strip expiry and condition.
- Insert or position the strip according to the meter instructions.
- Prepare the blood-sampling site.
- Obtain an adequate whole-blood sample.
- Apply approximately 10–12 µL of blood to the required strip test area.
- Allow the meter to perform the optical measurement.
- Read the Hb result displayed within approximately 60 seconds.
- Dispose of the used strip and lancet safely.
Our dedicated step-by-step TrueHb usage guide will cover this procedure in greater detail.
Why Correct Blood Sampling Matters
The quality of a point-of-care Hb result depends partly on the specimen.
For finger-prick testing:
- Use an appropriate sterile lancet.
- Keep the puncture site clean and dry.
- Allow alcohol to dry completely if it has been used.
- Avoid excessive squeezing or milking of the finger.
- Obtain enough blood to fill the required test area properly.
Inadequate or poorly collected samples can contribute to inconsistent measurements.
Can Venous Blood Be Used with TrueHb?
Yes. Documentation for the standard TrueHb system describes use with appropriate venous as well as capillary whole blood.
When venous specimens are used, follow the manufacturer's instructions regarding specimen handling and suitable anticoagulants.
Do not assume that any stored blood sample remains suitable for testing regardless of its age, storage or condition.
TrueHb Accuracy and Performance
TrueHb product materials describe the meter as a point-of-care hemoglobin measurement system that has undergone performance evaluation and validation.
Current Microsidd and manufacturer product information also refers to validation at All India Institute of Medical Sciences (AIIMS), New Delhi.
However, point-of-care Hb results and laboratory hematology-analyser results should not automatically be expected to match digit-for-digit.
Differences can arise because of:
- Capillary versus venous blood
- Blood-sampling technique
- Sample volume
- Strip condition
- Analytical methodology
- Specimen handling
- Testing environment
- Instrument-to-instrument variation
An unexpected or clinically important result may require confirmation with an appropriate laboratory method.
TrueHb Memory and Result Storage
The standard TrueHb Hemometer can store up to approximately:
1,000 readings
This can help users review previous measurements and maintain a testing history.
Professional facilities should still maintain formal patient records when required rather than relying exclusively on meter memory.
TrueHb Operating Temperature
The standard TrueHb system is documented for operation at approximately:
5°C–55°C
The meter should nevertheless be protected from extreme environmental conditions and used according to the current user manual.
Operating temperature should not be confused with test-strip storage temperature, which is generally specified separately.
Who Can Use the TrueHb Hemometer?
The TrueHb system has been designed for point-of-care and self-testing applications according to the applicable device instructions.
Potential settings include:
- Homes
- Clinics
- Healthcare centres
- Diagnostic facilities
- Health screening programmes
- Field testing
- Other point-of-care environments
Users should still follow the current manufacturer instructions and obtain professional medical interpretation when required.
Can TrueHb Diagnose Anemia?
TrueHb measures hemoglobin concentration.
A low Hb result can be relevant when evaluating anemia, but the meter alone does not identify why hemoglobin is low.
Possible causes of abnormal Hb values may require additional clinical assessment and laboratory investigations.
Do not start, stop or change treatment solely on the basis of an unexpected point-of-care result without appropriate professional guidance.
Common TrueHb Testing Mistakes to Avoid
1. Using the Wrong Hb Strip
Use genuine compatible TrueHb strips only.
2. Using an Expired Strip
Check the expiry printed on the package before testing.
3. Using Too Little Blood
TrueHb requires approximately 10–12 µL of blood. Make sure the test region receives an adequate specimen.
4. Excessively Squeezing the Finger
Aggressive squeezing can affect capillary specimen quality.
5. Testing with Wet Fingers
Water or residual alcohol may contaminate the specimen.
6. Reusing a Test Strip
TrueHb strips are single-use only.
7. Improper Strip Storage
Heat, moisture or inappropriate storage conditions may affect strip performance.
8. Ignoring an Unexpected Result
Review testing technique and consider repeat testing with a fresh strip or laboratory confirmation when clinically appropriate.
TrueHb vs Mission Hb vs Quikchek Plus
TrueHb is one of several portable hemoglobin testing systems available from Microsidd.
Other systems include:
- Mission Hb / ACON
- Quikchek Plus Hb / ACON
These systems differ in areas such as:
- Test-strip compatibility
- Blood-volume requirements
- Testing time
- Measurement range
- Hb/Hct reporting
- Calibration
- Memory
- Professional versus self-testing workflow
Compare Quikchek Plus vs Mission vs TrueHb Hemoglobin Meters
How to Choose the Correct Hemoglobin Meter
Before choosing a hemoglobin meter, consider:
- Intended testing environment
- Expected number of tests
- Test-strip availability
- Blood sample volume
- Testing time
- Measurement range
- Meter memory
- Quality-control requirements
- Replacement-strip cost
- Whether calculated Hct is required
For the broader category, visit:
Hemoglobin Meters & Test Strips
TrueHb Products Available from Microsidd
TrueHb Hemometer
The reusable TrueHb Hemometer for rapid quantitative hemoglobin measurement.
True Hb Test Strips – Pack of 50
Compatible single-use replacement test strips for the standard TrueHb Hemometer.
View True Hb Test Strips – 50 Pack
TrueHb Hemoglobin Meter with 50 Strips
A combo option for users who require both the TrueHb Hemometer and a larger initial quantity of compatible strips.
View TrueHb Hemoglobin Meter with 50 Strips
Why Buy TrueHb Products from Microsidd.com?
When purchasing a hemoglobin testing system, compatibility and product identification are particularly important because Hb test strips are not interchangeable between meter systems.
Microsidd.com provides:
- Clearly identified TrueHb meter and strip listings
- Compatible TrueHb replacement strips
- Meter-and-strip combo options
- GST invoice availability where applicable
- Online ordering across India
- Access to a wider range of hemoglobin meters and diagnostic products
Always verify the exact brand, meter model, strip compatibility and pack size before ordering.
Frequently Asked Questions About TrueHb
What is the TrueHb Hemometer used for?
The TrueHb Hemometer is designed for quantitative measurement of hemoglobin using a small whole-blood specimen.
How long does a TrueHb test take?
The standard TrueHb Hemometer provides a result within approximately 60 seconds.
How much blood does TrueHb require?
The standard system requires approximately 10–12 µL of whole blood.
What is the measuring range of TrueHb?
The standard TrueHb Hemometer represented on Microsidd has a documented measurement range of approximately 0–24 g/dL.
Can finger-prick blood be used?
Yes. Capillary whole blood can be used according to the manufacturer's testing procedure.
Can venous blood be used?
Yes. The standard TrueHb documentation also supports appropriate venous whole-blood specimens.
Which strips work with the TrueHb Hemometer?
Use genuine compatible TrueHb Hemoglobin Test Strips. Do not substitute Mission Hb, Quikchek Plus or another meter's strips.
Are TrueHb test strips reusable?
No. TrueHb strips are designed for single use only.
How should TrueHb strips be stored?
The standard TrueHb strip system is generally specified for storage at approximately 2°C–30°C. Always follow the storage instructions printed on the actual pack.
What is the shelf life of TrueHb strips?
Manufacturer product information describes a shelf life of up to approximately two years when the strips are stored correctly and remain within the printed expiry date.
How many readings can TrueHb store?
The standard meter can store up to approximately 1,000 test results.
Does TrueHb measure hematocrit?
The standard TrueHb system covered in this guide is primarily a quantitative hemoglobin meter. Do not assume it provides the calculated Hct function available on some other Hb meter systems unless your specific TrueHb model documentation states otherwise.
Is TrueHb the same as TrueHb Nord?
No. TrueHb Nord is a newer-generation system with different specifications. This guide covers the standard TrueHb Hemometer represented in the current Microsidd product range.
Can TrueHb replace a laboratory CBC?
No. TrueHb provides rapid hemoglobin measurement, whereas a complete blood count provides multiple hematological parameters. Unexpected or clinically important results may require laboratory confirmation.
Related Hemoglobin Testing Guides
Hemoglobin Meters & Test Strips Complete Guide
Learn about portable Hb meters, test strips and hemoglobin testing
Quikchek Plus vs Mission vs TrueHb Comparison
Compare the three hemoglobin meter systems
Hemoglobin Meters & Test Strips Collection
Explore hemoglobin meters and compatible test strips
Important Note
This guide covers the standard TrueHb Hemometer represented in the Microsidd product range. TrueHb has introduced newer device generations, including TrueHb Nord, whose specifications may differ.
Always use the test strips, operating instructions, sample requirements, storage conditions and quality-control procedures supplied for your exact TrueHb model.
Hemoglobin results should be interpreted in the appropriate clinical context. An unexpected, abnormal or clinically important result may require repeat testing, professional medical assessment and/or confirmation using an appropriate laboratory method.
Explore TrueHb and Hemoglobin Testing Products at Microsidd.com
Microsidd supplies TrueHb hemometers, compatible TrueHb test strips and other point-of-care hemoglobin testing systems for individual users, laboratories, clinics and healthcare professionals.
Before purchasing, confirm the exact meter model, compatible strip type, pack quantity and product specifications.