Methods and systems for verifying the volume of a reagent dispensed into an
affinity assay vessel are described. In one embodiment, a method is for
verifying the volume of a reagent dispensed into an affinity assay vessel
described in which a fluid sample is deposited into a vessel that includes
a reaction chamber and a volume determination reference point. The
reaction chamber further includes a test strip. According to one
embodiment, the dispensed fluid is agitated to promote contact between the
fluid and a test strip disposed within the reaction chamber. The relative
positions of the volume determination reference point and an edge of the
meniscus of the dispensed fluid are then determined such that the meniscus
of the dispensed fluid is not penetrated. The volume of the dispensed
fluid is determined from these relative positions.