Why the ACCU-CHEK Nano is not for me.

Earlier today I explained why I could no longer use Sanofi’s iBGStar glucose meter. I wrote that I would be taking a look at the new ACCU-CHEK Nano. I’ve been watching the ads on television and I took a quick look at the device when I picked up my last bottle of BGStar test strips. The Nano has a sleek modern design and more accurate test strips. I thought it would be a great replacement for the iBGStar. Nope!

One of the reasons I was excited about the iBGStar is that I could download data from the device directly into my an iPhone app, add details about my meals and insulin dosage and spot trends. Most meters on the market allow the user to download data — with the right cable — to a Windows application. Mac user? Forget about it. As far as the device manufacturers are concerned, you don not exist. That seems to be ACCU-CHEK’s position as well. ACCU-CHEK offers diabetes management software — you’ll need a special cable — but … it’s Windows only.

To run the ACCU-CHEK® 360° diabetes management system, your computer system must have at least:
Windows® 2000, XP, XP Professional, Vista®, or Windows® 7

You know what. Meter manufacturers suck.

Sigh! That ends the idea of using that meter. I’m a Mac. That won’t change in my lifetime unless Apple goes out of business. I just checked Bayer’s Contour USB out online. The technical FAQ says that the device is supported on Mac OS X 10.6 (Snow Leopard). I’m hoping it works on Lion (OS X 10.7) and Mountain Lion (OS X 10.8). The insurance company covers both the meter and the test strips. Time to place an order.

Author: Khürt Williams

A human who works in information security and enjoys photography, Formula 1 and craft ale. #nobridge

3 thoughts on “Why the ACCU-CHEK Nano is not for me.”

  1. I have mountain lion too, did it work?
    I want to place an order. Have you looked at the telecare meter?

    1.  @Mistress Blondiediva I won't use the Telecare.  My endo won't use the service and it's too bulky to carry around.  The iBGStar would be the best solution for me given that I already have an iPhone.  However, the strips aren't covered by insurance and it would cost me about $200/month out of pocket.  The ACCU-Chek Nano does not work at ALL with a Mac.  I'm now using a OneTouch mini with the Glooko cable.

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