A method of determining auto-calibrating information of a test sensor includes providing an optical read head that includes a light source, a light guide and a detector. The read head forms an opening that is sized to receive a test sensor. The detector includes a linear-detector array or single detector. A test sensor is provided having apertures formed therein. The test sensor is placed in the opening of the optical read head. Light is transmitted from the light source through the apertures. The light transmitted through the apertures using the detector or detecting the absence of light being transmitted through the test sensor using the detector is detected. The detected light or the absence of detected light information from the detector is used to determine the auto-calibration information of the test sensor.