SYSTEMS AND METHODS FOR EXTENDING THE USEFUL LIFE OF OPTICALSENSORS

摘要

The present invention provides a method for increasing the lifetime of an optical sensor. In one aspect, the method includes the step of configuring t he optical sensor so that the duty cycle of sensor's radiant source is less tha n 100% over a continuous period amount of time when the sensor is periodically obtaining data regarding an analyte. By operating the sensor according to th e above inventive method, the indicator molecules of the optical sensor are no t excited during the entire continuous period of time during which the sensor is needed to provide data regarding the presence or concentration of a substanc e. Thus, the method increases the life of the indicator molecules.