Small volume in vitro analyte sensor

A method of using an analyte meter, comprising:

• contacting a sample fluid comprising an analyte with a sensor positioned in an analyte meter, wherein the sensor comprises:
• a first electrode, a second electrode, and a third electrode;
• a sample chamber for holding the sample fluid, the sample chamber comprising the first electrode, the second electrode, and the third electrode;
• and
• an analyte-responsive enzyme and a redox mediator disposed in the sample chamber;
• applying a first potential between the first and second electrodes using the analyte meter and detecting a change in an electrical signal between the first and second electrodes to determine when the sample fluid contacts the first and second electrodes;
• applying a second potential between the first and third electrodes using the analyte meter and determining whether a change in an electrical signal occurs between the first and third electrodes to determine whether the sample fluid contacts the first and third electrodes;
• and
• determining partial filling of the sample chamber by the sample fluid when a change in an electrical signal occurs between the first and second electrodes and when a change in an electrical signal does not occur between the first and third electrodes.