E-1
Accu-Chek Blood Glucose Meter
Severity: ModerateWhat Does This Error Mean?
E-1 means the meter detected a problem with the test strip — it was not inserted correctly, was inserted upside down, is damaged, or is from an expired or incorrect batch. Remove the strip, discard it, and insert a new strip from the correct batch for your meter.
Affected Models
- Accu-Chek Guide
- Accu-Chek Instant
- Accu-Chek Aviva
- Accu-Chek Active
- Accu-Chek Performa
How to Fix It
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Eject the strip and inspect it
Press the eject button to remove the test strip. Check whether the strip is bent, damp, or visibly damaged. Even a small crease or moisture on the strip can trigger E-1. Discard the strip.
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Check the strip batch code matches the meter
Open a fresh strip. Compare the code number printed on the strip vial to the code set in the meter. On meters that require manual code entry, a mismatch between the strip batch and the meter code will always cause E-1. Re-enter the code from the vial if needed.
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Insert a new strip firmly and correctly
Hold the new strip by its edges and insert it into the meter port with the contact bars facing up. Push it in firmly until the meter beeps or the display shows the blood drop symbol. Do not touch the contact area of the strip.
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Check the strip expiry date
Expired test strips give unreliable readings and often trigger E-1 before a test even begins. Check the expiry date printed on the vial. Do not use strips past their expiry date or from a vial that has been open for more than 3 months.
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Clean the meter strip port
If E-1 persists with new, correctly coded strips, the metal contacts inside the strip port may be dirty. Use a dry cotton bud to gently clean the inside of the port. Do not use water, alcohol, or compressed air directly inside the port.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use strips from a different Accu-Chek model in my meter?
No. Each Accu-Chek meter model requires its own specific test strips. Using strips from a different Accu-Chek model — for example, Guide strips in an Aviva — will always cause E-1 and will not give a valid reading.
My strips are new and in-date but E-1 keeps appearing — what should I do?
If a full vial of new strips consistently causes E-1, the meter's strip port contacts may be worn or dirty. Clean the port with a dry cotton bud. If E-1 persists, the meter may be faulty — contact Accu-Chek customer support for a free replacement meter.