Distinguishing test types through spectral analysis

A meter system for performing one of a plurality of test types on a test element, where the test element is inserted into the meter system and belongs to one of a plurality of test element types, said meter system comprising:

• a first light emitting diode selectively discharging light at a first wavelength;
• a second light emitting diode selectively discharging light at a second wavelength;
• at least one light detector for measuring light emitted from the first and second light emitting diodes and reflected from a reaction site on a test element, said reaction site having an optically detectable condition formed by a reaction between a reagent and an analyte of a sample;
• and
• a processor for distinguishing said test element by identifying a predetermined relationship between said first and second optical properties, and further for selecting a test type based at least in part upon the results of said distinguishing.

A method for distinguishing a control element from an analytical element in a meter system, comprising:

• programming said meter with control element reflectance characteristics;
• inserting a test element into said meter, said test element being either a control element or an analytical element, said test element including a reaction site, said reaction site having an optically detectable condition formed by a reaction between a reagent and an analyte of a sample;
• measuring at two predetermined wavelengths a set of reflectance values reflected from said reaction site on said test element;
• and
• distinguishing whether said test element is a control element or an analytical element based on the conformity of said reflectance values obtained by said measuring step with said control element reflectance characteristics programmed in said meter.