Accu-Chek Compass Software Review

Accu-Chek Compass software is one part of Roche Diagnostics blood glucose management system. The other parts include an Accu-Chek meter, a cable and your desktop or laptop computer.

Measuring your blood sugar and writing it manually into a log book is better than doing nothing at all but what's really needed is visual feedback that creates meaningful information out of the jumble of readings that pile up in your  meter. That's where glucose management software comes in.

With blood glucose management software like Accu-Chek Compass, you can display graphs and reports such as blood sugar trend, daily and weekly average readings, hypoglycemic reports, and target range reports.

You can also display and print a one page summary report  with all this information and then share it with your endocrinologist or other diabetes care-givers.

What's more, you can automatically download all your readings to Accu-Chek Compass instead of entering them manually. Of course, to do this you need Accu-Chek's infrared or serial cable for your particular meter.

Continued...

Accu-Chek Compass supports meter downloads for the following Accu-Chek meters:

• Accu-Check Active
• Accu-Check Advantage
• Accu-Check Advantage Complete
• Accu-Check Aviva
• Accu-Check Comfort
• Accu-Check Compact
• Accu-Check Compact Plus
• Accu-Check Complete
• Accu-Check Go
• Accu-Check Integra
• Accu-Check Performa
• Accu-Check Pocket Compass
• Accu-Check Sensor
• Accu-Check Sensor Complete
• AccuSoft Advantage
• AccuSoft Advantage Complete
• Accutrend Sensor
• Accutrend Sensor Complete
• Glucotrend Premium

Naturally, you can always enter readings manually for those times when it makes more sense, but the true value in the program (in my opinion) is that it allows you to free up some time by automating this task much of the time.

For example, when you're away from home and one go, all you need to do is take your readings which are then stored in your meter. When you get back home, you simply connect to the desktop and download your results. Quick and no need for any typing.

And if you have the infrared option on your meter, you can simply set it up and point your meter at the Accu-Chek infrared cable interface and download it wirelessly. Very handy if you have the Accu-Chek Compact or Aviva meters like I do.

I've used this software for a little more than a year now and find it very good.

I like the way it's organized and I particularly like the meter download for my Accu-Chek Compact Plus via wireless infrared. People who own Accu-Chek meters will like the fact that it handles multiple meters. This allows you to have a "Home" meter and a "Work" meter for example. All the readings are merged and seamless this way making it vary convenient.

Of particular use are the printed reports. The trend graph report  will quickly tell you if your treatment is working or not. This is vital if you expect to make any progress with your diabetes treatment and get better.

The one-page summary report includes the trend graph, the average day graph and target range pie chart. This should be printed and shared with your diabetes professionals. It will help them to better see what is what is happening with your diabetes and adjust your medications as required. Dietary habits such as meal times can be adjusted as well.

For all of it's good points there are a few things that could be done better. For example:

1. There's no Windows Vista support. Why? I'm not sure but I hope that Roche has plans to add it soon. With millions of Vista users, it only makes sense to have it.
2. There is no way to track insulin doses which help Type 1 diabetics like me to calculate insulin sensitivity. This is crucial for Type 1s because it helps them to calculate how much insulin to inject based on their carb ratio and other factors.
3. There is no dietary information such as carbohydrate values for different foods. This would be handy and is especially useful for all diabetes patients.

Of course, I could go on and criticize other aspects of the Accu-Check Compass software but the fact is that this software does work very well for what it was intended to do. It's just a way to easily download readings and produce essential reports.

In a way, this is good because Compass will be easier to use for beginners who need a simple way to get into managing their blood sugar.

The price for Accu-Chek Compass is $29.95 at the time of this writing and you'll also need a meter cable or infrared cable in order to download meter readings.

For a complete overview and virtual tour of what's inside the software visit the:

 Accu-Chek Compass Demo (*Requires Flash)

Bottom Line:

Rating: 6/10

Accu-Chek Compass glucose management software is a pretty good program for Accu-Chek users to get into the habit of tracking and managing their own blood sugar.

It effectively organizes the essential information the diabetic and health care professionals need in order to better understand the patient's blood sugar situation and adjust therapies as needed.

It's not without it's short-comings though, and in my opinion should only be considered for the novice diabetic. More advanced users will want more I'm sure.

Read more!

Accu-Chek Meter Infrared Cable

The Accu-Chek Meter Infrared Cable gives users a way for Accu-Chek Compact Plus and Aviva meters to connect wirelessly to desktop and laptop computers equipped with suitable glucose management software such as Accu-Chek Compass software. This accessory cable, makes the job possible.

It has a 9-pin serial connector which only works on older laptops and most desktops. If you have a newer USB-only laptop or desktop computer, you'll also need a USB to serial adapter to make the connection.

I have a USB-only laptop and when I received the unit from Roche, there were no drivers that came with it for Windows XP and USB, so installing the infrared cable required some hunting for a USB to Serial Driver driver. Not sure about Windows Vista users require but Windows 98 users will need to download drivers for the Tekram iRMate 210 available on the Tekram website.

...

Users with serial cables should be able to use the infrared cable with the Accu-Check compass software right out of the box. I wish Roche would make it easier for users by including a simple setup program that would detect what the type of setup the user has and do an automatic installation.

Once the unit is connected and drivers are installed, using it is a breeze from within the Accu-Chek Compass software. Just press 2 buttons on your meter and select the correct meter from the list within the software.

Compatible Meters:

• Accu-Check Aviva
• Accu-Check Compact
• Accu-Chek Compact Plus
• Accu-Check Go
• Accu-Chek Active
• Accu-Chek Pocket Compass Diabetes Care Software for Palm Devices
• Other Accu-Chek Meters equipped with IR Key (separate purchase)

I highly recommend this accessory because it allows you to use diabetes management software which should (in my opinion) come standard for computer users. Good diabetes software will produce graphs and charts that will really enable you to get a better handle on the state of your health and should help you and your physician work out better treatment. Over the long run, this will reduce the affects of low blood sugar and could delay or prevent the onset of complications such as neuropathy, blindness, kidney failure, heart disease and amputations related to diabetes.

Over the last 3 months alone, I have taken my own HbA1C average from 6.8 to 6.2 by properly adjusting my carbs, insulin and exercise based on charts and graphs. That's well below the minimum of 7.0 and I'm currently working on a target A1C of 5.9.  That's what it's all about as far as I'm concerned.

The cable will cost you around $29.95 if you order it online from Roche. I received mine free from Roche customer care by explaining that I purchased my Compact Plus meter ONLY because I was told by the retailer that I could download my readings directly to my laptop computer. The rep asked me for the serial number of my glucometer and shipped the cable AND the Accu-Chek Compass diabetes management software by express post. I received it within 3 days. Roche customer service is second to none in this respect and you may have a similar experience if you call them.

(*1-800-858-8072 US and 1 800 363-7949 Can.)

Technorati Tags: Infrared,Cable,Accu-Chek,Meter,Accessories,Software

Read more!

Accu-Chek Aviva Glucose Meter

The Accu-Check Aviva glucose meter is a popular measuring device made by Roche Diagnostics.

I've used this meter for over 2 years, so I'm very familiar with its pros and cons.

It features a compact profile that fits easily into the palm of any sized hand and sure grip that's important, especially for people with less nimble hands like the elderly.

Flash Product Tour (opens in a new window)

Aviva User Manual (*requires Adobe Acrobat)

Features:

Pros:

1. Small blood sample needed

Over many tests, measuring blood sugar can become painful if you need to test frequently. Anything that will reduce the amount of finger poking necessary to get an accurate reading will help to reduce wear and tear on your finger-tips and eliminate pain.

The Accu-Check Aviva monitor requires much less blood than many other glucose meters and the wide, user-friendly test strip only needs a tiny 0.6 micro-litre drop of blood which helps make testing quick and nearly pain free.

...

2. Speedy results

The advanced, accurate system technology takes only 5 seconds for the results to appear and also detects if insufficient blood has been applied . This saves unnecessary delays.

3. Excellent Lancet Device

The lancet that comes with the Aviva is a high-quality, innovative Multiclix finger pricker that allows for almost pain-free test samples. I like it so much I use it with all the other meters I own instead of the ones that come with other meters.

There's no lancet handling, and it's easily disposed of in household waste.

4. Ample Data Storage

The large 500-test memory stores more than 3 months readings (based on 5 tests per day) along with date and time. Because of this, it can be used as a reliable data backup when used in conjunction with diabetes management software.

5. Wireless Infrared Data Connectivity

Data management via infra-red (compatible with Accu-Chek software) which is a separate purchase of $39.95 plus you'll need the $19.95 Infrared cable.

6. Roche Customer Service

In my experience, Roche customer service is very attentive and and co-operative. They really strive to solve your problems in a speedy and effective way. They've been good both times that I had to use them.

Cons:

1. High Cost of Test Strips

Cost for me is $85 to $90 Canadian for 100 strips. U.S. prices are comparable. This is a big negative because the cost of the strips is really the true cost of doing blood sugar tests. This is why they can afford "Free" meter promotions and have great customer service.

Expect to pay easily over $100/month when doing 5 or more tests per day.

2. Individual Strips Are a Pain

When I first got this meter, I spilled the strips all over the floor and had to pick them up. They're a little clumsy in my opinion. Not really ideal for someone that might be impaired.

Excess strip handling can also affect your results due to fingertip residue if you accidentally touch the test end of the strip.

If you have any concerns about this, try a meter like the Accu-Chek Compact which uses strips that come in drums of 17 strips each. It makes strip handling a breeze and avoids any possibility of contamination of the strips due to handling. 

3. Dim LCD Display

Actually, the display is fairly large and easy to read in a well lit room. However, some meters are now coming with brighter LED displays that make reading much easier in a variety of lighting conditions. I'd like to see some improvement in this area.

Bottom Line:

Rating: 7/10

I like the Accu-Chek Aviva because of it's small size and fast, accurate testing.

The Multiclix finger pricker is top of the line and I wish other companies would come out with similar units of their own.

The price of the test strips is high at around $85 per 100 (at the time of writing) and I wouldn't recommend this glucose meter for anyone having financial problems.

If Roche lowered the cost of the strips to a more reasonable price I would give it an 8/10.

 

Technorati Tags: Aviva,Accu-Chek,Roche,glucose,meter,diabetes,test,strips

Read more!

Accu-Chek Compact Plus Updated

 

Roche recently updated the Accu-Chek Compact Plus with some additional features that really make it a much better meter.

It maintains the best features of its predecessor, while adding some much needed enhancements such as a brighter LED display, larger memory storage and a sleeker, more ergonomic design that just feels better in your hand.

Flash Product Tour (opens in a new window)

 

Compact Plus User Manual (*requires Adobe Acrobat)

 

 

 

Functionally, it's the same as the older Compact Plus so I won't repeat everything I said about the original meter.

It uses the same 17 strip drum so supplies will not cost you more.

The test memory has been expanded from 300 to 500 readings which means that you can easily store 3 months worth of data right on the meter itself.

...

  One of the little niggles I found about this meter is that the lid for the test drum can be difficult to open. However, there's a simple solution. Instead of trying to lift from the case, just use your thumbnail and insert it into the crack near the testing area. Press in and gently lift up. The case should now open easily.

The biggest enhancements though, are the case re-design.

The hour-glass shape has no-slip, rubberized grips that give the meter a better likelihood of staying in your hand.

The meter buttons are now raised instead of being flush on the old meter. Vision impaired people should find this a welcome enhancement and the buttons now have a more positive click.

The large, bright LED display is easier to read and adds to the overall usability of the tester.

For such a nice meter, it's a pity that Roche downgraded the handy cold pack, insulin carry case that comes with the older meter to a plain carry bag. I suppose cost was a consideration but this new carry case just leaves you wanting something better.

There's also a lack of a clip on, cell phone style case that was an option with its older counterpart. I hope they decide to make one because I like the way I can just tote my older Compact Plus on my belt.

Bottom Line:

Rating:  9/10

I like this new meter. It's a super upgrade that should make testing easier and less of a chore. More test storage means that you can backup and display readings for around 3 months which more closely matches standard HbA1C testing intervals.

The lack of carry case options and high cost of testing supplies means I can't give it a better score and it shows that Roche still has room to make this a better meter.

Still, combined with a proper glucose management software program and frequent testing, this meter should help you stay in better health.

Technorati Tags: Compact Plus,Accu-Chek,Roche,glucose,meter,test strips

Read more!

Accu-Check Compact Plus Glucose Meter

 

 

Accu-Check Compact Plus glucose meter is another diabetic testing device manufactured by Roche Diagnostics.

Due to its convenient, all-in-one design, I favour this meter for my daily testing.

The two main features that appeal to me most are the no-nonsense strip handling and ease of blood sugar testing.

Flash Product Tour (opens in a new window)

 

Compact Plus User Manual (*requires Adobe Acrobat)

Features:

Pros:

1. Convenient, Safe Strip Handling

Excessive strip handling can cause errors due to contamination of test strips and individual strips can be somewhat tedious to handle. This is particularly true if you are elderly or handicapped which is the case for many diabetics.

The Compact Plus eliminates the fuss and makes readings less error prone by using preloaded, factory-sealed drums of 17 test strips. This means you don't have to handle the strips every single time you use the meter.

Changing drums is as simple as flipping the lid, pressing the release button, dumping the old drum and inserting a new one. Fast and simple.

The only thing I don't like about the arrangement is that the motor that operates the drum is a little noisy. But I'm guessing that it shouldn't be a problem for most people and the automated aspect of the strips more than offsets the minor annoyance.

The meter also keeps track of the strips and indicates how many are left at any given moment and the display tells you when it's time to reload a new drum.

Kudos to Roche for creating a meter that makes life a little easier for people living with diabetes.

...

2. Integrated Lancet Device

This is another innovative feature of this meter. The "Softclix Plus" lancet device clips to the side of the meter so it's always there.

To test you simply press the top of the lancet, press the "M" button on the meter to produce a strip, prick your finger by depressing the top of the lancet again and then applying your blood drop to the strip. 5 seconds later, your reading is displayed.

The Softclix lancet device is one of the most gentle units I've ever used and I've never experienced any pain during testing.

 

3. Small blood sample needed

The strips will test with only 1.5 micro-litres of blood. That's about 1 micro-litre more than the Aviva, also by Roche, but I have never had an error due to an insufficient blood sample so it shouldn't be a problem for most people.

4. Speedy results

The meter requires only 5 seconds for the results to appear and also detects if insufficient blood has been applied . This can save unnecessary delays and reduce frustration.

5. Uses Standard Batteries

I'm not a fan of button cells because they can sometimes be hard to find and their life is not that great if you test a lot.

The Compact Plus uses standard "AAA" batteries that power many TV remote controls making them easy to replace and giving you good battery life.

They're cheap too, which is always good.

It's a small point, but really a nice added convenience.

5. Roche Customer Service

Roche customer care has been very attentive and and co-operative during times I've had to use them.

Cons:

1. High Cost of Test Strips

Cost for me is $87 to $97 Canadian for 102 test strips. American prices are comparable. This is a huge negative because the cost of the strips is the "hidden" cost of blood sugar testing. This is why Roche can afford so-called "Free" meter promotions and provide unpaid customer service. You've already paid for it by paying many times what it costs Roche to make test strips.

Expect to pay easily over $120/month when doing 5 or more tests per day with this meter. That's a pretty stiff fee if you don't have medical insurance.

2. Dim LCD Display

Actually, the display is fairly large and easy to read in a well lit room. However, the new Compact Plus now comes with a brighter LED display that makes reading much easier under adverse lighting conditions. If vision is a problem for you, you probably need the updated meter.

3. Skimpy Data Storage

The 300-test memory stores only around 2 months readings (based on 5 tests per day) along with date and time. A minimum amount of readings should be 3 months which is usually the same time period as an HbA1c test. This has been solved in the updated meter.

4. Data Connectivity  and Software Costs Extra 

Data management via infra-red (compatible with Accu-Chek software) which is a separate purchase of $39.95 plus you'll need the $19.95 Infrared cable.

Considering the importance of charts and graphs for a proper diabetic care program, this should be provided either free or at very low cost in my opinion

Bottom Line:

Rating:  8/10

The Accu-Chek Compact Plus is my second favourite meter design at the moment only being outdone by its newer counterpart, the Compact Plus II. I'm constantly looking for products that will work better for me and this meter really delivers on simplified design and operation.

The integrated, removable Softclix finger pricker is convenient to use and helps keep everything in one place.

The display is big and easy to read but has been upgraded to an LED version in the newer meter. The newer meter also has an expanded memory of 500 readings which is a great enhancement.

Accessory-wise, I like the nice leatherette case that comes with it and a free cellular style leather case is currently available on the Roche website.

The price of the test strips is high at around $87 per 100 (at the time of writing) and I feel bad that I can't recommend this great glucose meter for anyone on a tight budget.

If Roche lowered the cost of the strips to a more reasonable price I would give it an 9/10.

Technorati Tags: Compact Plus,Accu-Chek,Roche,glucose,meter,diabetes,test,strips

Read more!