A data collection system is formed from an analyte detection meter and a base station. The meter and the base station are operatively connected to one another to transfer data from the meter. The base station is able to communicate transferred data to a data receiving server, and the transfer of data occurs in response to a defined stimulus such as the proximity of the meter and base station or an alarm set at a predetermined time of day. The data collection system can be used in combination with a system interface that provides a data management system (DMS) resident on a device such as a personal computer. The DMS can recognize a particular meter and may incorporate into the displayed information not only the data resident on the meter but also information previously transferred from the meter. The DMS may be launched on the computer as soon as connection with a meter is detected. The DMS may also reproduce the display of the particular meter on the display of the computer such that the user need only learn one set of controls. Changes to the setting of the meters may be accomplished through the computer and an update transferred and stored on the connected meter.