Glucometer "Satellite Express": reviews, instructions, technical specifications

When you have diabetes, controlling blood glucose is a vital action. Portable glucometers allow diabetics to lead a normal lifestyle, engage in daily activities, work and at the same time avoid the consequences of the disease. Timely monitoring of the indicators can provide the "Satellite Express" glucometer, reviews of which indicate the availability of the device in comparison with acceptable accuracy.

What is a glucometer and what are they?

A glucometer is a device that determines the concentration of glucose in the blood. The received indicators allow to prevent a life-threatening condition. That's why it's so important that the device is accurate enough. After all, self-monitoring indicators is an integral part of the life of a diabetic.

Portable glucometers of different manufacturers can be calibrated for plasma or whole blood. Therefore, one can not compare the readings of one device with another to check their accuracy. The accuracy of the device can be determined only by comparing the results with laboratory tests.

To obtain the material, glucometers use test strips, which are manufactured individually for each model of the device. This means that the "Satellite Express" meter will work only with the strips that are issued for this device. For blood sampling it is convenient to use a special piercing pen, into which disposable lancets are inserted.

Briefly about the manufacturer

The Russian company Elta has been producing portable glucometers since 1993 under the trademark Satellite.

Glucometer "Satellite Express", reviews of which it represents as an affordable and reliable device, is one of the modern devices for measuring blood glucose levels. The developers of the company Elta took into account the shortcomings of past models - "Satellite" and Satellite Plus "- and excluded them from the new device. This allowed the company to become a leader in the Russian market of self-monitoring devices, to bring its products to the shelves of foreign pharmacies and stores. During this time, she developed and released several models of express meters of glucose in the blood.

Complete the device

Glucometer "Satellite Express PGG 03" includes everything you need for measurements. The standard equipment from the manufacturer includes:

• Device glucometer «Satellite Express PKG 03;
• Instruction for use;
• Batteries;
• Piercer and 25 disposable lancets;
• Test strips in the amount of 25 pieces and one control;
• Case for the device;
• Guarantee ticket.

A convenient case allows you to always take everything you need for an express measurement with you. The proposed number of lancets and test strips is sufficient to assess the performance of the device. A convenient piercing device makes it virtually painless to obtain the amount of blood necessary for measurement. Included batteries are enough for 5000 measurements.

Specifications

Glucometer "Satellite Express PKG 03", the instruction to which is attached in the box with the device, performs measurements on the electrochemical principle. To carry out the measurement, a drop of blood with a volume of 1 μg is sufficient.

The measurement range is in the range of 0,6-35 mmol / liter, which allows to take into account both the lowered values, and significantly increased. The device is calibrated for whole blood. The memory of the device is capable of storing up to sixty last measurements.

The measurement time is 7 seconds. This refers to the time that elapses from the time of blood collection to the delivery of the result. The device operates normally at temperatures from +15 to +35 ° C. Keep it at a temperature of -10 to +30 ° C. When stored in a temperature mode that is outside the permitted range, it is necessary to allow the apparatus to lie down for 30 minutes at specified operating temperatures before operation.

Advantages over other glucometers

The main advantage of this model of the meter in front of the devices of other companies is its availability and relatively low cost of accessories. That is, disposable lancets and test strips have a significantly lower price compared to components for imported devices. Also positive is the long-term guarantee, which Elta company provides for the "Satellite Express" glucometer. Customer feedback confirms that accessibility and guarantee are the main criterion of choice.

Simplicity in use is also a positive moment in the characteristics of the device. Due to the simple measurement process, this device is suitable for a wide stratum of the population, including the elderly, who are more likely to have diabetes mellitus.

How to use the meter?

Before operating any device, please read the instructions. There is no exception and the meter "Satellite Express". The instruction for use, which is attached to it by the manufacturer, contains a clear scheme of actions, the observance of which will help to successfully carry out the measurement on the first attempt. After a close look at it, you can start working with the device.

After turning on the device, you need to insert a code strip. The screen should display a three-digit code. This code must necessarily match the code on the test strip packaging. Otherwise, you should contact the service center, as the results of the operation of such a device may be erroneous.

Next, you need to remove a part of the package from the prepared test strip, which is covered by the contacts. Insert the strip with the contacts into the socket of the meter and then remove the remainder of the package. The code will appear on the screen again, which is the same as indicated on the package from the strips. Also, an icon with a flashing drop should appear, indicating that the device is ready for use.

A disposable lancet is inserted into the piercer and a drop of blood is squeezed out. It needs to touch the open part of the test strip, which will absorb the amount needed for the analysis. After the droplet hits the device, the device will sound a beep and the drop icon will stop flashing. After seven seconds, the display will show the result. After finishing the work with the device, you need to remove the used strip and turn off the "Satellite Express" meter. The technical characteristics of the device indicate that in its memory the result remains and it will be possible to view it later.

Recommendations for the user

If the results given by the device cause doubt, it is necessary to visit the doctor and take the laboratory tests, and the glucometer should be handed over for examination to the service center. All lancets for the piercer are disposable and re-use of them may result in data corruption.

Before carrying out the analysis and piercing your finger, you should thoroughly wash it, preferably with soap, and wipe it dry. Before removing the test strip, you should pay attention to the integrity of its packaging. If dust or other microparticles get on the strip, the readings may be inaccurate.

The data obtained as a result of the measurement are not grounds for changing the treatment program. The given results serve only for self-control and timely detection of abnormalities. The received indications should be confirmed by laboratory researches. That is, after receiving the results that require confirmation, you need to see a doctor and undergo a laboratory test.

Who is this model for?

Glucometer "Satellite Express" is suitable for individual home use. It can also be used in clinical settings when it is not possible to conduct laboratory tests. For example, employees of the rescue service during the operations.

Due to the ease of use this device is ideal for older people. Also, such a meter can be included in the first aid kit, intended for office staff, along with a thermometer and a tonometer. Care for the health of employees is often a priority in the company's policy.

Are there any shortcomings?

Like many other devices, the meter "Satellite Express PKG 03" also has its drawbacks. For example, many note that the instrument often has a large error in the reading than it is stated in the technical specifications. This defect is eliminated by conducting an examination of the device at the service center, where you need to contact if you have questionable results.

Also noted is the fact that in the test strips to the device a large percentage of rejects. The manufacturer is recommended to purchase accessories for the meter only in specialized stores and pharmacies that work directly with the supplier. It is also necessary to provide such conditions for storage of strips, so that their packaging remains intact. Otherwise, the results can indeed be distorted.

Cost of the device

Glucometer "Satellite Express PKG 03", which reviews first of all its availability, has a low cost in comparison with imported devices. Its price for today is about 1300 rubles.

It is also worth noting that the test strips for this model of the meter are much cheaper than similar strips for instruments of other firms. Low cost combined with acceptable quality makes this model a glucometer one of the most popular among people suffering from diabetes mellitus.

Restrictions on use

When can I not use the Satellite Express? The instructions to the device contain several items that indicate when the use of this meter is unacceptable or impractical.

Since the device is calibrated for whole blood, it is impossible to determine the level of glucose in venous blood or blood serum. Preliminary storage of blood for analysis is also unacceptable. For the study is suitable only freshly collected blood drop, obtained immediately before the test with a piercer with a disposable lancet.

It is impossible to conduct an analysis in such pathologies as blood thickening, as well as in the presence of infections, extensive edema and tumors of a malignant nature. Also, do not perform an analysis after taking ascorbic acid in an amount exceeding 1 gram, which leads to the appearance of overestimated indicators.

Feedback on the device

Glucometer "Satellite Express", reviews about which are very diverse, is very popular among diabetics due to its simplicity and accessibility. Many note that the device quite successfully copes with the task in hand, while following all the steps specified in the instruction manual and recommendations for the user.

This device is used both at home and in the field. For example, on fishing or hunting, you can also use the "Satellite Express PKG 03" glucometer. Reviews of hunters, fishermen and other active people say that the device is suitable for rapid analysis, not distracting from your favorite occupation. It is these criteria that are decisive when choosing a glucometer model.

With proper storage, observance of all rules of use not only of the device, but also accessories to it, this glucometer is quite suitable for daily individual monitoring of blood sugar concentration.