Analyte sensor

Abstract

The present invention relates generally to systems and methods for measuring an analyte in a host. More particularly, the present invention relates to systems and methods for transcutaneous measurement of glucose in a host.

What is claimed is: 
     
         1 . A method for limiting use of an analyte sensor to a predetermined time period, the method comprising:
 providing a key associated with an analyte sensor, wherein the key is configured to control an amount of time over which information is obtained from the analyte sensor.   
     
     
         2 . The method of  claim 1 , wherein the analyte sensor is a transcutaneous glucose sensor. 
     
     
         3 . The method of  claim 1 , wherein the sensor is operatively connected to a receiver, wherein the receiver is configured to display sensor data. 
     
     
         4 . The method of  claim 3 , wherein the receiver is configured to receive the key. 
     
     
         5 . The method of  claim 4 , wherein the receiver is configured to control an amount of time over which information is displayed on the receiver from the sensor in response to the key. 
     
     
         6 . The method of  claim 1 , wherein the key is a software key. 
     
     
         7 . The method of  claim 1 , wherein the key is a unique code. 
     
     
         8 . The method of  claim 1 , wherein the key is selected from the group consisting of a unique number, a receiver ID, a sensor duration, a number of sensor systems, and combinations thereof. 
     
     
         9 . The method of  claim 1 , wherein the key is configured for use with a plurality of sensors. 
     
     
         10 . The method of  claim 1 , wherein the key is provided by an information tag. 
     
     
         11 . A method for distributing and controlling use of implantable sensor systems comprising reusable and disposable parts, the method comprising:
 providing a single-use device associated with the sensor system, wherein the single-use device is configured to be inserted into a host's tissue;   providing a key associated with the single-use device; and   providing a reusable device associated with a sensor system, wherein the reusable device is configured to provide sensor information responsive to receipt of the key.   
     
     
         12 . The method of  claim 11 , wherein the reusable device comprises a receiver configured to receive sensor information. 
     
     
         13 . The method of  claim 12 , wherein the reusable device further comprises an electronics unit configured to releasably mate with the single-use device. 
     
     
         14 . The method of  claim 11 , further comprising:
 obtaining a package containing a plurality of single-use devices.   
     
     
         15 . The method of  claim 11 , wherein the single-use device is a transcutaneous analyte sensor configured for insertion into a subcutaneous tissue of a host. 
     
     
         16 . The method of  claim 11 , wherein the key comprises a written license code packaged with the single-use device. 
     
     
         17 . The method of  claim 11 , wherein the step of providing the key comprises:
 providing a license code via at least one communication selected from the group consisting of written communication, voice communication, and electronic communication.   
     
     
         18 . The method of  claim 11 , wherein the reusable device is configured to receive the key via manual entry. 
     
     
         19 . The method of  claim 11 , wherein the reusable device is configured to wirelessly receive the key. 
     
     
         20 . The method of  claim 11 , wherein the key comprises sensor duration information configured to enable the sensor system to control an amount of time over which information is obtained from the single-use device or is displayed by the reusable device.