Systems and methods of sample processing and fluid control in a fluidic system

A system for detecting the presence or absence of an analyte in a bodily fluid sample obtained from a subject, comprising:

• a cartridge, comprising:
• a sample collection unit, comprising:
• a sample collection well configured to receive a portion of the sample;
• a metering channel in fluid communication with the sample collection well and configured such that the sample flows from the sample collection well into the metering channel;
• and
• a metering element comprising a mechanically movable portion configured to be movable from an open position that permits fluid communication between the sample collection well and the metering channel to a closed position that does not provide fluid communication between the sample collection well, thereby isolating a specific volume of the sample in the metering channel;
• a lysing assembly configured to lyse cells present in the sample;
• and
• an assay assembly comprising a reaction site containing a reactant able to react with the analyte to yield a detectable signal indicative of the presence or absence of the analyte;
• and
• a reader assembly comprising:
• a detection assembly configured to detect the signal;
• and
• a communication assembly configured to receive an assay protocol in response to receiving an identity of the cartridge from an external device, the external device being separate from the reader assembly, the communication assembly further configured to transmit the signal to the external device.