Detection meter and mode of operation

A device for performing an assay to determine the presence or concentration of an analyte contained in a sample of body fluid, the device comprising:

• at least one analyte quantification member;
• at least one passageway in fluid communication with the at least one analyte quantification member;
• a sensor constructed and arranged to interrogate the least one analyte quantification member and to detect the presence or absence of an adequate sample volume applied to the at least one analyte quantification member;
• and
• a controller in signal communication with the sensor, wherein the controller is configured and arranged such that upon detection of the absence of an adequate sample volume, the controller initiates a finite timed period and signals the user to introduce an additional sample of body fluid into the at least one passageway, wherein upon detection of an adequate sample volume during the finite time period, the controller determines the presence or concentration of the analyte.