Patent Publication Number: US-11638587-B2

Title: RFID identification systems for surgical instruments

Description:
CROSS-REFERENCE TO RELATED APPLICATIONS 
     This application is a non-provisional application claiming priority under 35 U.S.C. § 119(e) to U.S. Provisional Patent Application Ser. No. 62/868,457, entitled SURGICAL SYSTEMS WITH MULTIPLE RFID TAGS, filed on Jun. 28, 2019, the entire disclosure of which is hereby incorporated by reference herein. 
    
    
     BACKGROUND 
     The present invention relates to surgical instruments and, in various embodiments, to surgical cutting and stapling instruments and staple cartridges therefor that are designed to cut and staple tissue. In various embodiments, RFID technology can be used to identify the components of a surgical instrument, such as staple cartridges, for example. Examples of surgical systems which use RFID technology can be found in the disclosures of U.S. Pat. No. 7,959,050, entitled ELECTRICALLY SELF-POWERED SURGICAL INSTRUMENT WITH MANUAL RELEASE, which issued on Jun. 14, 2011, and U.S. Patent Application No. 2015/0053743, entitled ERROR DETECTION ARRANGEMENTS FOR SURGICAL INSTRUMENT ASSEMBLIES, which published on Feb. 26, 2015, and both of which are incorporated by reference herein in their entireties. 
     SUMMARY 
     In various embodiments, a surgical suturing system is disclosed including an elongate shaft, a firing drive, an end effector extending distally from the elongate shaft, an RFID scanner, and a controller in communication with the RFID scanner. The end effector includes a needle track and a replaceable needle guided by the needle track and actuated by the firing drive through a firing stroke. The replaceable needle includes suturing material attached thereto and an RFID tag including stored data. The RFID scanner receives a signal from the RFID tag including the stored data. The signal is indicative of the stored data. The controller is configured to determine compatibility between the replaceable needle and the surgical suturing system based on the stored data received by the RFID scanner and prevent the surgical suturing system from performing the firing stroke when the replaceable needle is incompatible with the surgical suturing system. 
     In various embodiments, a surgical device for applying clips is disclosed. The surgical device includes an elongate shaft extending from a housing, an end effector extending from the elongate shaft, a cartridge, a crimping drive, an RFID tag including a first set of information, an RFID scanner configured to receive a first signal from the RFID tag, a controller in communication with the RFID scanner. The end effector includes a first jaw and a second jaw. The first jaw and the second jaw are movable relative to each other between an open position and a closed position. The cartridge includes a storage chamber and a plurality of clips removably positioned within the storage chamber. The crimping drive is configured to move the first jaw and the second jaw to the closed position during a crimping stroke. One of the plurality of clips is crimped around tissue of a patient during the crimping stroke. The first set of information corresponds to the cartridge. The first signal includes the first set of information. The controller is configured to determine if the cartridge is compatible with the surgical device by comparing the first set of information received by the RFID scanner to a set of compatibility data stored in a memory of the controller, permit the surgical device to perform the crimping stroke when the controller determines the cartridge is compatible for use with the surgical device, prevent the surgical device from performing the crimping stroke when the controller is unable to recognize the cartridge as compatible for use with the surgical device, and prevent the surgical device from performing the crimping stroke when the RFID scanner does not receive the first signal. 
     In various embodiments, a surgical stapling system is disclosed including a surgical instrument, a replaceable component assembly, an RFID scanner including a communication range, and a controller in communication with the RFID scanner. The surgical instrument includes an elongate shaft, an end effector extending from the elongate shaft, and a staple cartridge. The end effector includes a first jaw and a second jaw. The staple cartridge is replaceably seated in the second jaw. The staple cartridge includes a cartridge body including a cartridge deck and staples removably positioned in the cartridge body. The replaceable component assembly includes a mounting member, a replaceable component configured to be positioned on the cartridge deck of the staple cartridge, and an RFID tag including a first set of data. The replaceable component is supported on the mounting member as the replaceable component is being attached to the cartridge deck. The RFID scanner is configured to transmit a first signal to the RFID tag and receive a second signal from the RFID tag as the replaceable component is brought within the communication range. The second signal includes the first set of data. The controller includes a memory including a second set of data. The controller is configured to determine if the replaceable component is compatible with the surgical instrument by comparing the first set of data received by the RFID scanner to the second set of data stored in the memory of the controller, permit the surgical instrument to perform a function when the controller determines the replaceable component is compatible for use with the surgical instrument, prevent the surgical instrument from performing the function when the controller is unable to recognize the replaceable component as compatible for use with the surgical instrument, and prevent the surgical instrument from performing the function when the RFID scanner does not receive the second signal in response to the first signal. 
    
    
     
       BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS 
       Various features of the embodiments described herein, together with advantages thereof, may be understood in accordance with the following description taken in conjunction with the accompanying drawings as follows: 
         FIG.  1    is a schematic of various surgical instruments and supplemental components for use with the surgical instruments; 
         FIG.  2    is a perspective view of a packaging, wherein the packaging comprises an identifying characteristic of the supplemental component contained therein; 
         FIG.  3    is a partial cross-sectional view of a surgical stapling instrument system comprising a mounting member and a supplemental component, wherein the mounting member comprises an RFID tag; 
         FIG.  4    is a representation of an RFID system for use with the surgical instruments disclosed herein; 
         FIG.  5    is a flowchart representative of a process of a controller for modifying at least one operational parameter based on an identified supplemental component; 
         FIG.  6    is a partial perspective view of a surgical clip applier comprising an RFID system; 
         FIG.  7    is a flowchart representative of a process of a controller for controlling the performance of a crimping stroke based on the detection of an RFID tag; 
         FIG.  8    is a flowchart representative of a process of a controller for controlling the performance of a crimping stroke based on the monitoring of multiple RFID tags; 
         FIG.  9    is a flowchart representative of a process of a controller for detecting the compatibility of an attached clip; 
         FIG.  10    is a flowchart representative of a process of a controller for monitoring the number of clips remaining in a clip cartridge; 
         FIG.  11    is a partial perspective view of a surgical suturing device comprising an RFID system; 
         FIG.  12    is a perspective view of a surgical instrument comprising a handle, a shaft, and an articulatable end effector; 
         FIG.  13    is a side view of the surgical instrument of  FIG.  12   ; 
         FIG.  14    is a perspective view of a firing member and a pinion gear positioned within the handle of  FIG.  12   ; 
         FIG.  15    is a perspective view of the firing member and the pinion gear of  FIG.  14    and a gear reducer assembly operably engaged with the pinion gear; 
         FIG.  16    is a perspective view of the handle of  FIG.  12    with portions thereof removed to illustrate the firing member and the pinion gear of  FIG.  14   , the gear reducer assembly of  FIG.  15   , and an electric motor configured to drive the firing member distally and/or proximally depending on the direction in which the electric motor is turned; 
         FIG.  17    is a partial perspective view of a clip applier; 
         FIG.  18    is a cross-sectional view of an end effector of the clip applier of  FIG.  17    comprising a removable clip cartridge, a reciprocating firing drive for sequentially advancing the clips, a receiver for receiving the clips, and a crimping drive for deforming the clips; 
         FIG.  19    is a partial cross-sectional view of the clip applier of  FIG.  17    in an open configuration; 
         FIG.  20    is a partial cross-sectional view of the clip applier of  FIG.  17    in a closed configuration; 
         FIG.  21    is a cross-sectional view of the end effector of  FIG.  18    in an unfired condition; 
         FIG.  22    is a cross-sectional view of the end effector of  FIG.  18    illustrating the firing drive in a partially fired condition in which a firing member of the firing drive has advanced a clip into the receiver; 
         FIG.  23    is a cross-sectional view of the end effector of  FIG.  18    illustrating the firing drive coming into engagement with the crimping drive; 
         FIG.  24    is a cross-sectional view of the end effector of  FIG.  18    illustrating the crimping drive in an at least partially fired condition; 
         FIG.  25    is a perspective view of a clip illustrated in  FIG.  18   ; 
         FIG.  26    is a front view of a cartridge illustrated in  FIG.  18    comprising a plurality of clips with portions of the cartridge removed to illustrate the clips stored in the cartridge; 
         FIG.  27    is a side view of the cartridge of  FIG.  26    illustrated with portions removed to illustrate the clips stored in the cartridge; 
         FIG.  28    is a cross-sectional plan view of the cartridge of  FIG.  26    taken along line  28 - 28  in  FIG.  27   ; 
         FIG.  29    is a perspective view of a surgical suturing instrument comprising a handle, a shaft, and an end effector; 
         FIG.  30    is a partial plan view of the surgical suturing instrument of  FIG.  29   ; 
         FIG.  31    is a partial plan view of the surgical suturing instrument of  FIG.  29   , wherein the end effector is in an articulated state; 
         FIG.  32    is a partial perspective view of the surgical suturing instrument of  FIG.  29   ; 
         FIG.  33    is a partial perspective view of the surgical suturing instrument of  FIG.  29   , wherein the end effector is in an articulated and rotated state; 
         FIG.  34    is a perspective view of a surgical suturing instrument handle comprising a motor; and 
         FIG.  35    is an exploded view of a suturing cartridge for use with a surgical suturing system. 
     
    
    
     DESCRIPTION 
     Applicant of the present application owns the following U.S. patent applications that were filed on Jun. 30, 2019, and which are each herein incorporated by reference in their respective entireties:
         U.S. patent application Ser. No. 16/458,104, entitled METHOD FOR AUTHENTICATING THE COMPATIBILITY OF A STAPLE CARTRIDGE WITH A SURGICAL INSTRUMENT, now U.S. Pat. No. 11,229,437;   U.S. patent application Ser. No. 16/458,108, entitled SURGICAL INSTRUMENT SYSTEM COMPRISING AN RFID SYSTEM, now U.S. Pat. No. 11,376,098;   U.S. patent application Ser. No. 16/458,111, entitled SURGICAL INSTRUMENT COMPRISING AN RFID SYSTEM FOR TRACKING A MOVABLE COMPONENT, now U.S. Pat. No. 11,464,601;   U.S. patent application Ser. No. 16/458,114, entitled SURGICAL INSTRUMENT COMPRISING AN ALIGNED RFID SENSOR, now U.S. Pat. No. 11,350,938;   U.S. patent application Ser. No. 16/458,105, entitled SURGICAL STAPLING SYSTEM HAVING AN INFORMATION DECRYPTION PROTOCOL, now U.S. Patent Application Publication No. 2020/0405302;   U.S. patent application Ser. No. 16/458,110, entitled SURGICAL STAPLING SYSTEM HAVING AN INFORMATION ENCRYPTION PROTOCOL, now U.S. Pat. No. 11,259,803;   U.S. patent application Ser. No. 16/458,120, entitled SURGICAL STAPLING SYSTEM HAVING A LOCKOUT MECHANISM FOR AN INCOMPATIBLE CARTRIDGE, now U.S. Pat. No. 11,298,127;   U.S. patent application Ser. No. 16/458,125, entitled SURGICAL STAPLING SYSTEM HAVING A FRANGIBLE RFID TAG, now U.S. Pat. No. 11,246,678; and   U.S. patent application Ser. No. 16/458,103, entitled PACKAGING FOR A REPLACEABLE COMPONENT OF A SURGICAL STAPLING SYSTEM, U.S. Patent Application Publication No. 2020/0405296.       

     Applicant of the present application owns the following U.S. patent applications that were filed on Jun. 30, 2019, and which are each herein incorporated by reference in their respective entireties:
         U.S. patent application Ser. No. 16/458,107, entitled METHOD OF USING MULTIPLE RFID CHIPS WITH A SURGICAL ASSEMBLY, now U.S. Pat. No. 11,241,235;   U.S. patent application Ser. No. 16/458,109, entitled MECHANISMS FOR PROPER ANVIL ATTACHMENT SURGICAL STAPLING HEAD ASSEMBLY, now U.S. Pat. No. 11,426,167;   U.S. patent application Ser. No. 16/458,119, entitled MECHANISMS FOR MOTOR CONTROL ADJUSTMENTS OF A MOTORIZED SURGICAL INSTRUMENT, now U.S. Pat. No. 11,399,837;   U.S. patent application Ser. No. 16/458,115, entitled SURGICAL INSTRUMENT WITH BATTERY COMPATIBILITY VERIFICATION FUNCTIONALITY, now U.S. Pat. No. 11,291,451;   U.S. patent application Ser. No. 16/458,117, entitled SURGICAL SYSTEM WITH RFID TAGS FOR UPDATING MOTOR ASSEMBLY PARAMETERS, now U.S. Patent Application Publication No. 2020/0405439;   U.S. patent application Ser. No. 16/458,121, entitled SURGICAL SYSTEMS WITH MULTIPLE RFID TAGS, now U.S. Pat. No. 11,224,497;   U.S. patent application Ser. No. 16/458,122, entitled RFID IDENTIFICATION SYSTEMS FOR SURGICAL INSTRUMENTS, now U.S. Patent Application Publication No. 2020/0410177;   U.S. patent application Ser. No. 16/458,112, entitled SURGICAL RFID ASSEMBLIES FOR DISPLAY AND COMMUNICATION, now U.S. Pat. No. 11,553,971;   U.S. patent application Ser. No. 16/458,116, entitled SURGICAL RFID ASSEMBLIES FOR COMPATIBILITY DETECTION, now U.S. Pat. No. 11,361,176; and   U.S. patent application Ser. No. 16/458,118, entitled SURGICAL RFID ASSEMBLIES FOR INSTRUMENT OPERATIONAL SETTING CONTROL, now U.S. Patent Application Publication No. 2020/0405410.       

     Applicant of the present application owns the following U.S. patent applications that were filed on May 1, 2018 and which are each herein incorporated by reference in their respective entireties:
         U.S. Provisional Patent Application Ser. No. 62/665,129, entitled SURGICAL SUTURING SYSTEMS;   U.S. Provisional Patent Application Ser. No. 62/665,139, entitled SURGICAL INSTRUMENTS COMPRISING CONTROL SYSTEMS;   U.S. Provisional Patent Application Ser. No. 62/665,177, entitled SURGICAL INSTRUMENTS COMPRISING HANDLE ARRANGEMENTS;   U.S. Provisional Patent Application Ser. No. 62/665,128, entitled MODULAR SURGICAL INSTRUMENTS;   U.S. Provisional Patent Application Ser. No. 62/665,192, entitled SURGICAL DISSECTORS; AND   U.S. Provisional Patent Application Ser. No. 62/665,134, entitled SURGICAL CLIP APPLIER.       

     Applicant of the present application owns the following U.S. patent applications that were filed on Aug. 24, 2018 which are each herein incorporated by reference in their respective entireties:
         U.S. patent application Ser. No. 16/112,129, entitled SURGICAL SUTURING INSTRUMENT CONFIGURED TO MANIPULATE TISSUE USING MECHANICAL AND ELECTRICAL POWER;   U.S. patent application Ser. No. 16/112,155, entitled SURGICAL SUTURING INSTRUMENT COMPRISING A CAPTURE WIDTH WHICH IS LARGER THAN TROCAR DIAMETER;   U.S. patent application Ser. No. 16/112,168, entitled SURGICAL SUTURING INSTRUMENT COMPRISING A NON-CIRCULAR NEEDLE;   U.S. patent application Ser. No. 16/112,180, entitled ELECTRICAL POWER OUTPUT CONTROL BASED ON MECHANICAL FORCES;   U.S. patent application Ser. No. 16/112,193, entitled REACTIVE ALGORITHM FOR SURGICAL SYSTEM;   U.S. patent application Ser. No. 16/112,099, entitled SURGICAL INSTRUMENT COMPRISING AN ADAPTIVE ELECTRICAL SYSTEM;   U.S. patent application Ser. No. 16/112,112, entitled CONTROL SYSTEM ARRANGEMENTS FOR A MODULAR SURGICAL INSTRUMENT;   U.S. patent application Ser. No. 16/112,119, entitled ADAPTIVE CONTROL PROGRAMS FOR A SURGICAL SYSTEM COMPRISING MORE THAN ONE TYPE OF CARTRIDGE;   U.S. patent application Ser. No. 16/112,097, entitled SURGICAL INSTRUMENT SYSTEMS COMPRISING BATTERY ARRANGEMENTS;   U.S. patent application Ser. No. 16/112,109, entitled SURGICAL INSTRUMENT SYSTEMS COMPRISING HANDLE ARRANGEMENTS;   U.S. patent application Ser. No. 16/112,114, entitled SURGICAL INSTRUMENT SYSTEMS COMPRISING FEEDBACK MECHANISMS;   U.S. patent application Ser. No. 16/112,117, entitled SURGICAL INSTRUMENT SYSTEMS COMPRISING LOCKOUT MECHANISMS;   U.S. patent application Ser. No. 16/112,095, entitled SURGICAL INSTRUMENTS COMPRISING A LOCKABLE END EFFECTOR SOCKET;   U.S. patent application Ser. No. 16/112,121, entitled SURGICAL INSTRUMENTS COMPRISING A SHIFTING MECHANISM;   U.S. patent application Ser. No. 16/112,151, entitled SURGICAL INSTRUMENTS COMPRISING A SYSTEM FOR ARTICULATION AND ROTATION COMPENSATION;   U.S. patent application Ser. No. 16/112,154, entitled SURGICAL INSTRUMENTS COMPRISING A BIASED SHIFTING MECHANISM;   U.S. patent application Ser. No. 16/112,226, entitled SURGICAL INSTRUMENTS COMPRISING AN ARTICULATION DRIVE THAT PROVIDES FOR HIGH ARTICULATION ANGLES;   U.S. patent application Ser. No. 16/112,062, entitled SURGICAL DISSECTORS AND MANUFACTURING TECHNIQUES;   U.S. patent application Ser. No. 16/112,098, entitled SURGICAL DISSECTORS CONFIGURED TO APPLY MECHANICAL AND ELECTRICAL ENERGY;   U.S. patent application Ser. No. 16/112,237, entitled SURGICAL CLIP APPLIER CONFIGURED TO STORE CLIPS IN A STORED STATE;   U.S. patent application Ser. No. 16/112,245, entitled SURGICAL CLIP APPLIER COMPRISING AN EMPTY CLIP CARTRIDGE LOCKOUT;   U.S. patent application Ser. No. 16/112,249, entitled SURGICAL CLIP APPLIER COMPRISING AN AUTOMATIC CLIP FEEDING SYSTEM;   U.S. patent application Ser. No. 16/112,253, entitled SURGICAL CLIP APPLIER COMPRISING ADAPTIVE FIRING CONTROL; and   U.S. patent application Ser. No. 16/112,257, entitled SURGICAL CLIP APPLIER COMPRISING ADAPTIVE CONTROL IN RESPONSE TO A STRAIN GAUGE CIRCUIT.       

     Applicant of the present application owns the following U.S. patent applications that were filed on Oct. 26, 2018 which are each herein incorporated by reference in their respective entireties:
         U.S. patent application Ser. No. 16/172,130, entitled CLIP APPLIER COMPRISING INTERCHANGEABLE CLIP RELOADS;   U.S. patent application Ser. No. 16/172,066, entitled CLIP APPLIER COMPRISING A MOVABLE CLIP MAGAZINE;   U.S. patent application Ser. No. 16/172,078, entitled CLIP APPLIER COMPRISING A ROTATABLE CLIP MAGAZINE;   U.S. patent application Ser. No. 16/172,087, entitled CLIP APPLIER COMPRISING CLIP ADVANCING SYSTEMS;   U.S. patent application Ser. No. 16/172,094, entitled CLIP APPLIER COMPRISING A CLIP CRIMPING SYSTEM;   U.S. patent application Ser. No. 16/172,128, entitled CLIP APPLIER COMPRISING A RECIPROCATING CLIP ADVANCING MEMBER;   U.S. patent application Ser. No. 16/172,168, entitled CLIP APPLIER COMPRISING A MOTOR CONTROLLER;   U.S. patent application Ser. No. 16/172,164, entitled SURGICAL SYSTEM COMPRISING A SURGICAL TOOL AND A SURGICAL HUB; and   U.S. patent application Ser. No. 16/172,303, entitled METHOD FOR OPERATING A POWERED ARTICULATING MULTI-CLIP APPLIER.       

     Applicant of the present application owns the following U.S. patent applications, filed on Dec. 4, 2018, the disclosure of each of which is herein incorporated by reference in its entirety:
         U.S. patent application Ser. No. 16/209,385, titled METHOD OF HUB COMMUNICATION, PROCESSING, STORAGE AND DISPLAY;   U.S. patent application Ser. No. 16/209,395, titled METHOD OF HUB COMMUNICATION;   U.S. patent application Ser. No. 16/209,403, titled METHOD OF CLOUD BASED DATA ANALYTICS FOR USE WITH THE HUB;   U.S. patent application Ser. No. 16/209,407, titled METHOD OF ROBOTIC HUB COMMUNICATION, DETECTION, AND CONTROL;   U.S. patent application Ser. No. 16/209,416, titled METHOD OF HUB COMMUNICATION, PROCESSING, DISPLAY, AND CLOUD ANALYTICS;   U.S. patent application Ser. No. 16/209,423, titled METHOD OF COMPRESSING TISSUE WITHIN A STAPLING DEVICE AND SIMULTANEOUSLY DISPLAYING THE LOCATION OF THE TISSUE WITHIN THE JAWS;   U.S. patent application Ser. No. 16/209,427, titled METHOD OF USING REINFORCED FLEXIBLE CIRCUITS WITH MULTIPLE SENSORS TO OPTIMIZE PERFORMANCE OF RADIO FREQUENCY DEVICES;   U.S. patent application Ser. No. 16/209,433, titled METHOD OF SENSING PARTICULATE FROM SMOKE EVACUATED FROM A PATIENT, ADJUSTING THE PUMP SPEED BASED ON THE SENSED INFORMATION, AND COMMUNICATING THE FUNCTIONAL PARAMETERS OF THE SYSTEM TO THE HUB;   U.S. patent application Ser. No. 16/209,447, titled METHOD FOR SMOKE EVACUATION FOR SURGICAL HUB;   U.S. patent application Ser. No. 16/209,453, titled METHOD FOR CONTROLLING SMART ENERGY DEVICES;   U.S. patent application Ser. No. 16/209,458, titled METHOD FOR SMART ENERGY DEVICE INFRASTRUCTURE;   U.S. patent application Ser. No. 16/209,465, titled METHOD FOR ADAPTIVE CONTROL SCHEMES FOR SURGICAL NETWORK CONTROL AND INTERACTION;   U.S. patent application Ser. No. 16/209,478, titled METHOD FOR SITUATIONAL AWARENESS FOR SURGICAL NETWORK OR SURGICAL NETWORK CONNECTED DEVICE CAPABLE OF ADJUSTING FUNCTION BASED ON A SENSED SITUATION OR USAGE;   U.S. patent application Ser. No. 16/209,490, titled METHOD FOR FACILITY DATA COLLECTION AND INTERPRETATION; and   U.S. patent application Ser. No. 16/209,491, titled METHOD FOR CIRCULAR STAPLER CONTROL ALGORITHM ADJUSTMENT BASED ON SITUATIONAL AWARENESS.       

     Before explaining various aspects of surgical devices and systems in detail, it should be noted that the illustrative examples are not limited in application or use to the details of construction and arrangement of parts illustrated in the accompanying drawings and description. The illustrative examples may be implemented or incorporated in other aspects, variations, and modifications and may be practiced or carried out in various ways. Further, unless otherwise indicated, the terms and expressions employed herein have been chosen for the purpose of describing the illustrative examples for the convenience of the reader and are not for the purpose of limitation thereof. Also, it will be appreciated that one or more of the following-described aspects, expressions of aspects, and/or examples, can be combined with any one or more of the other following-described aspects, expressions of aspects and/or examples. 
     Various surgical systems and instruments (e.g. surgical stapling instrument, surgical clip applier, surgical suturing instrument) are described in connection with the present disclosure. The surgical systems and/or instruments comprise a radio-frequency identification (RFID) system that includes one or more RFID scanners and one or more RFID tags, as will be discussed in greater detail below. Examples of surgical systems which use RFID technology are disclosed in U.S. Pat. No. 7,959,050 and U.S. Patent Application No. 2015/0053743, both of which are incorporated by reference herein in their entireties. 
     Radio-frequency identification (RFID) is used in a variety of industries to track and identify objects. RFID relies on radio waves to transfer digitally-stored information from a RFID tag to a RFID reader or receiver configured to receive the information. RFID technology uses RFID tags, sometimes referred to as chips, which contain electronically-stored information, and RFID readers, which serve to identify and communicate with the RFID tags. There are two different types of RFID systems—active RFID systems and passive RFID systems. Active RFID systems include RFID tags that comprise an on-board power source to broadcast their signals. Active RFID tags can include a battery within the RFID tag which allows the active RFID tag to function independently from the RFID reader. As such, RFID tags in an active RFID system do not need to wait to receive a signal from a RFID reader before sending out information. Instead, the active RFID tags are free to continuously send out a signal, or beacon. Many commercially available active RFID systems often operate at one of two main frequency ranges—433 MHz and 915 MHz, but any suitable frequency range can be used. Typically, a RFID tag must be within a specific distance or frequency range in order to be identified by its corresponding RFID reader. 
     Passive RFID systems include RFID tags which do not comprise an on-board power source but instead receive the energy needed to operate from an RFID reader. Contrary to active RFID tags, RFID tags in a passive RFID system do not actively send out a signal before receiving a prompt. Instead, passive RFID tags wait to receive information from a RFID reader before sending out a signal. Many commercially-available passive RFID systems often operate within three frequency ranges—Low Frequency (“LF”), High Frequency (“HF”) &amp; Near-Field Communication (“NFC”), and Ultra High Frequency (“UHF”). The LF bandwidth is 125-134 KHz and includes a longer wavelength with a short read range of approximately one to ten centimeters. The HF and NFC bandwidth is 13.56 MHz and includes a medium wavelength with a typical read range of one centimeter to one meter. The UHF bandwidth is 865-960 MHz and includes a short, high-energy wavelength of one meter which translates into a long read range. The above being said, any suitable frequency can be used. 
     A variety of RFID systems comprising differently-sized RFID tags exist. However, some are better suited for use in technology areas that require the tracking of very small objects. For example, Hitachi Chemical Co. Ltd. is a leading manufacturer in the RFID technology field. The Ultra Small size UHF RFID tag manufactured by Hitachi Chemical Co. Ltd. is typically no larger than 1.0 to 13 mm and enables communication between a RFID tag and a RFID reader at distances of several centimeters or more. Due to its compact nature, the Hitachi RFID tag is suitable for very small products which need to be identified. Each Hitachi RFID tag comprises an antenna, an IC chip connected to the antenna, and a sealing material that seals the IC chip and the antenna. Because the Hitachi RFID tag incorporates an antenna and an IC chip in a single unit, the Hitachi RFID tag is convenient enough to easily affix to any small object using an adhesive or tape, for example. 
     The Hitachi RFID tag comprises a square stainless steel plate and a metal antenna. The antenna comprises a LC resonant circuit or any other suitable circuit and is electrically connected to the plate. After the plate and the antenna are connected to one another, the antenna and plate are sealed together in a single unit with a sealing material. The sealing material is primarily composed of epoxy, carbon, and silica to enhance the heat resistance capabilities of the Hitachi RFID tag. That is, the heat resistance of the RFID tag substantially depends on the heat resistance capabilities of the sealing material. The sealing material has a high heat resistance withstanding temperatures of up to 250 to 300° C. for shorter time periods, such as a few seconds, and is resistant to heat for longer periods of time up to 150° C. Accordingly, the Hitachi RFID tag has a higher heat resistance than conventional RFID tags and can still operate normally even at high temperatures. Additional information regarding the Hitachi RFID tag can be found in U.S. Pat. No. 9,171,244, which is incorporated by reference herein in its entirety. 
     During various surgical procedures, a surgical instrument comprising at least one replaceable component are used. It is important that such replaceable components be replaced with functional and/or compatible components. Various identification systems described in greater detail herein verify, among other things, a component&#39;s compatibility with the surgical instrument and/or verify an operating status of the component. For instance, a controller and/or an identification system can serve to, for example, ensure that the packaging containing the replaceable component has not been destroyed and/or tampered with, alert a clinician if a component is compatible or incompatible with the surgical instrument, alert the clinician if the replaceable component is expired, and/or alert the clinician if a recall exists for a particular manufacturing batch and/or type of the replaceable component. 
     The identification systems described herein can either be active systems or passive systems. In various embodiments, a combination of active and passive identification systems are used. Passive systems can include, for example, a barcode, a quick response (QR) code, and/or a radio frequency identification (RFID) tag. Passive systems do not comprise an internal power source, and the passive systems described herein require a reader and/or scanner to send a first signal, such as an interrogation signal, for example. 
     Passive radio frequency identification (RFID) systems communicate information by using radio frequencies. Such passive RFID systems comprise an RFID scanner and an RFID tag with no internal power source. The RFID tag is powered by electromagnetic energy transmitted from the RFID scanner. Each RFID tag comprises a chip, such as a microchip, for example, that stores information about the replaceable component and/or a surgical instrument with which the replaceable component is compatible. While the chip may only contain an identification number, in various instances, the chip can store additional information such as, for example, the manufacturing data, shipping data, and/or maintenance history. Each RFID tag comprises a radio antenna that allows the RFID tag to communicate with the RFID scanner. The radio antenna extends the range in which the RFID tag can receive signals from the RFID scanner and transmit response signals back to the RFID scanner. In a passive RFID system, the RFID scanner, which also comprises its own antenna, transmits radio signals that activate RFID tags that are positioned within a pre-determined range. The RFID scanner is configured to receive the response signals that are “bounced back” from RFID tags, allowing the RFID scanner is to capture the identification information representative of the replaceable component. In various instances, the one or more response signals comprise the same signal as the interrogation signal. In various instances, the one or more response signals comprise a modified signal from the interrogation signal. In various instances, the RFID scanner is also able to write, or encode, information directly onto the RFID tag. In any event, the RFID scanner is able to pass information about the replaceable component to a controller, such as the control system of a surgical instrument and/or a remote surgical system. The RFID scanner is configured to read multiple RFID tags at once, as the RFID tags are activated by radio signals. Additionally, in certain instances, the RFID scanner is able to update, or rewrite, information stored on an RFID tag in signal range with the RFID scanner. The updates can, for example, be transmitted to the RFID scanner from a surgical hub, or any suitable server. Various surgical hubs are described in described in U.S. patent application Ser. No. 16/209,395, titled METHOD OF HUB COMMUNICATION, and filed Dec. 4, 2018, which is hereby incorporated by reference in its entirety. 
     Active radio frequency identification (RFID) systems also comprise an RFID tag and an RFID scanner. However, the RFID tag in an active RFID system comprises an internal power source. Active RFID systems utilize battery-powered RFID tags that are configured to continuously broadcast their own signal. One type of active RFID tag is commonly referred to as a “beacon.” Such beacon RFID tags do not wait to receive a first signal from an RFID scanner. Instead, the beacon RFID tag continuously transmits its stored information. For example, the beacon can send out its information at an interval of every 3-5 seconds. Another type of active RFID tag comprises a transponder. In such systems, the RFID scanner transmits a signal first. The RFID transponder tag then sends a signal back to the RFID scanner with the relevant information. Such RFID transponder tag systems are efficient, as they conserve battery life when, for example, the RFID tag is out of range of the RFID scanner. In various instances, the active RFID tag comprises an on-board sensor to track an environmental parameter. For example, the on-board sensor can track moisture levels, temperature, and/or other data that might be relevant. 
       FIG.  1    illustrates various surgical instruments that are configured to receive various supplemental components that can be replaced during a surgical procedure. Such surgical instruments can benefit from the inclusion of at least one of the identification systems described herein, such as an RFID system. For example, a surgical stapling instrument  6100  comprises a handle  6110 , an elongate shaft  6120  extending from the handle  6110 , and an end effector  6130  extending from the elongate shaft  6120 . The end effector  6130  comprises a first jaw  6132  and a second jaw  6134 , wherein the second jaw  6134  is configured to receive a replaceable staple cartridge  6140 . During a particular surgical procedure, a clinician may want to attach various supplemental components to the end effector  6130 . Such supplemental components, or adjunct materials, are used to reinforce the staples and/or supplement the function of the staples. For example, a buttress, or tissue thickness compensator,  6165  may be attached to the first jaw  6132  and/or the second jaw  6134  to accommodate for varying tissue thicknesses. The addition of the buttress  6165  to the end effector  6130  can assist in forming a uniform staple line on the patient tissue, for example. In an effort to facilitate attachment of the buttress  6165  to the end effector  6130  and/or for storage, the buttress  6165  can be supported on a mounting member  6160 . In various instances, the clinician can attach a layer of hemostatic agent  6175  to the first jaw  6132  and/or the second jaw  6134  of the end effector  6130  to promote rapid blood coagulation, among other things. The layer of hemostatic agent  6175  can improve the seal created by the staples, for example. In an effort to facilitate attachment of the layer of hemostatic agent  6175  to the end effector  6130  and/or for storage, the layer of hemostatic agent  6175  can be supported on a mounting member  6170 . In various instances, the clinician can attach a layer of adhesive  6185  to the first jaw  6132  and/or the second jaw  6134  of the end effector  6130  to promote healing of the treated tissue and/or enhance the connection between two layers of tissue, among other things. The layer of adhesive  6185  can improve the seal created by the staples, for example. In an effort to facilitate attachment of the layer of adhesive can be supported on a mounting member  6180 . 
     As described in greater detail herein, a first RFID tag  6162  is positioned on the mounting member  6160 . The first RFID tag  6162  comprises stored information, wherein the stored information comprises data that identifies a characteristic of the buttress  6165  supported on the mounting member  6160 . A second RFID tag  6172  is positioned on the mounting member  6170 . The second RFID tag  6172  comprises stored information, wherein the stored information comprises data that identifies a characteristic of the layer of hemostatic agent  6175  supported on the mounting member  6170 . A third RFID tag  6182  is positioned on the mounting member  6180 . The third RFID tag  6182  comprises stored information, wherein the stored information comprises data that identifies a characteristic of the layer of adhesive  6185  supported on the mounting member  6180 . The surgical stapling instrument  6100  further comprises an RFID scanner  6150 . As discussed in greater detail herein, the RFID scanner  6150  can be positioned in any suitable location on the surgical instrument  6100  that allows the RFID scanner  6150  to communicate with the first RFID tag  6162 , the second RFID tag  6172 , and/or the third RFID tag  6182  as the supplemental component is being attached and/or after the supplemental component is attached to the end effector  6130 . 
     A surgical clip applier  6200  comprises a handle  6210 , an elongate shaft  6220  extending from the handle  6210 , and an end effector  6230  extending from the elongate shaft  6220 . The end effector  6230  comprises a first jaw  6232  and a second jaw  6234 , wherein at least one of the first jaw  6232  and the second jaw  6234  is movable relative to one another during a clip crimping stroke. During a particular surgical procedure, a clinician may want to attach various supplemental components to the end effector  6230 . For example, a clip  6260  comprising a first thickness may be loaded into the surgical clip applier  6200 . The clip  6260  may be loaded individually into the surgical clip applier  6200  and/or the clip  6260  may be loaded into the surgical clip applier  6200  as a part of a clip cartridge. The attachment of the clip  6260  to the surgical clip applier  6200  can be beneficial when the patient tissue is thick and/or dense, for example. In various instances, the clinician can attach a clip  6290  comprising a second thickness to the surgical clip applier  6200 . In various instances, the second thickness of the clip  6290  is smaller than the first thickness of the clip  6260 . The attachment of the clip  6290  to the surgical clip applier  6200  can be beneficial when the patient tissue is thin and/or delicate, for example. In various instances, the clinician can attach a clip  6270  comprising a plurality of projections  6275  to the surgical clip applier  6200 . The projections  6275  of the clip  6270  can serve to enhance the grip between the clip  6270  and the patient tissue and/or maintain the position of a crimped clip  6270  on the patient tissue, among other things. As shown on clip  6270 , the projections  6275  may be attached to a thin clip. Utilization of the projections  6275  on the thin clip is beneficial when the patient tissue is thin and/or delicate, for example. In various instances, the clinician can attach a clip  6280  comprising a plurality of projections  6285  to the surgical clip applier  6200 . The projections  6285  of the clip  6280  can serve to enhance the grip between the clip  6280  and the patient tissue and/or maintain the position of a crimped clip  6280  on the patient tissue, among other things. As shown on clip  6280 , the projections  6285  may be attached to a thick clip. Utilization of the projections  6285  on the thick clip is beneficial when the patient tissue is thick and/or dense, for example. 
     As described in greater detail herein, a first RFID tag  6262  is positioned on the first clip  6260 . The first RFID tag  6162  comprises stored information, wherein the stored information comprises data that identifies a characteristic of the clip  6260 . A second RFID tag  6272  is positioned on the second clip  6270 . The second RFID tag  6272  comprises stored information, wherein the stored information comprises data that identifies a characteristic of the second clip  6270 . A third RFID tag  6282  is positioned on the third clip  6280 . The third RFID tag  6282  comprises stored information, wherein the stored information comprises data that identifies a characteristic of the third clip  6280 . A fourth RFID tag  6292  is positioned on the fourth clip  6290 . The fourth RFID tag  6292  comprises stored information, wherein the stored information comprises data that identifies a characteristic of the fourth clip  6290 . The surgical clip applier  6200  further comprises an RFID scanner  6250 . As discussed in greater detail herein, the RFID scanner  6250  can be positioned in any suitable location on the surgical instrument  6200  that allows the RFID scanner  6250  to communicate with the first RFID tag  6262 , the second RFID tag  6272 , the third RFID tag  6282 , and/or the fourth RFID tag  6292  as the supplemental component is being and/or after the supplemental component is attached to the suturing device  6200 . 
     A surgical suturing device  6300  comprises a handle  6310 , an elongate shaft  6320  extending from the handle  6310 , and an end effector  6330  extending from the elongate shaft  6320 . The end effector  6330  comprises a needle track configured to receive a portion of a replaceable needle. During a particular surgical procedure, a clinician may want to attach various supplemental components to the end effector  6330 . Different knot tying mechanisms and/or different suture termination elements can be used to finish a line of sutures instead of tying a knot laparoscopically. For example, a needle  6360  comprising a first thickness may be loaded into the end effector  6330 . The needle  6360  comprises a first end  6364  and a second end  6366 . The first end  6364  comprises a pointed tip that comprises a first degree of sharpness. The second end  6366  comprises a suturing material  6365  attached thereto. The attachment of the shaft needle  6360  to the end effector  6330  can be beneficial when the patient tissue is thick and/or dense, for example. In various instances, the clinician can attach a needle  6370  comprising a second thickness to the end effector  6330 . In various instances, the second thickness of the clip  6370  is smaller than the first thickness of the clip  6360 . The clip  6370  further comprises a first end  6374  comprising a pointed tip that comprises a second degree of sharpness. In various instances, the second degree of sharpness of the clip  6370  is less than the first degree of sharpness of the clip  6360 . The second end  6376  comprises a suturing material  6375  attached thereto. The attachment of the needle  6370  to the end effector  6330  can be beneficial when the patient tissue is thin and/or delicate, for example. In various instances, the clinician can select a particular suturing material to be attached to the replaceable needle. For example, a first suturing material  6385  can be made of a first material, comprise a first length, and/or comprise a first thickness. The first suturing material  6385  can be stored in a first packaging  6380  prior to attachment to a replaceable needle. A second suturing material  6395  can be made of a second material, comprise a second length, and/or comprise a second thickness. The second suturing material  6395  can be stored in a second packaging  6390  prior to attachment to a replaceable needle. 
     As described in greater detail herein, a first RFID tag  6362  is positioned on the first replaceable needle  6360 . The first RFID tag  6362  comprises stored information, wherein the stored information comprises data that identifies a characteristic of the replaceable needle  6360  and/or the suturing material  6365  attached thereto. A second RFID tag  6372  is positioned on the second replaceable needle  6370 . The second RFID tag  6372  comprises stored information, wherein the stored information comprises data that identifies a characteristic of the second replaceable needle  6370  and/or the suturing material  6375  attached thereto. A third RFID tag  6382  is positioned on the packaging  6380  of the third suturing material  6385 . The third RFID tag  6382  comprises stored information, wherein the stored information comprises data that identifies a characteristic of the third suturing material  6385 . A fourth RFID tag  6392  is positioned on the packaging  6390  of the fourth suturing material  6395 . The fourth RFID tag  6392  comprises stored information, wherein the stored information comprises data that identifies a characteristic of the fourth suturing material  6390 . The surgical suturing device  6300  further comprises an RFID scanner  6350 . As discussed in greater detail herein, the RFID scanner  6350  can be positioned in any suitable location on the surgical instrument  6300  that allows the RFID scanner  6350  to communicate with the first RFID tag  6362  and/or the second RFID tag  6372  as one of the replaceable needles  6360 ,  6370  is being positioned and/or after the replaceable needle is positioned within the needle track of the end effector  6330  and/or to communicate with the third RFID tag  6382  and/or the fourth RFID tag  6392  when the packaging  6380 ,  6390  is brought within a pre-defined distance from the RFID scanner  6300 . 
     Supplemental components, such as, for example, the buttress  6165 , the hemostatic agent  6175 , and/or the adhesive  6185 , are contained within a sealed packaging after being manufactured until the packaging in opened in the operating room. In various instances, the supplemental component is supported on a mounting member within the packaging, for example, to facilitate storage and/or facilitate attachment of the supplemental component to the surgical instrument. Various forms of packaging include, for example, peel-pouches, woven and/or non-woven material wrappers, and rigid containers. 
       FIG.  2    depicts an example of a sealed packaging  7000 . The depicted packaging  7000  is a peel-pouch. The packaging  7000  comprises a first layer  7010  and a second layer  7020 . The first layer  7010  and the second layer  7020  form a protective barrier around a layer of hemostatic agent  7175 , which is configured to be attached to a surgical staple cartridge. The layer of hemostatic agent  7175  is supported on a mounting member  7170  prior to the attachment of the layer of hemostatic agent  7175  to a surgical instrument. The mounting member  7170  comprises retention members  7171  configured to receive a portion of the layer of hemostatic agent  7175  and to, for example, facilitate alignment of the layer of hemostatic agent  7175 . An adhesive bonds the first layer  7010  and the second layer  7020  together to form an airtight and/or fluid-tight seal and/or pouch around the layer of hemostatic agent  7175 . The adhesive forms a seal without creases, wrinkles, and/or gaps. The seal created by the adhesive prevents contaminants from coming into contact with the layer of hemostatic agent  7175  and/or prevents components of the layer of hemostatic agent  7175  from being misplaced, for example. In various instances, the hemostatic agent  7175  is hermetically sealed within the packaging  7000 . In various instances, the packaging  7000  provides a completely fluid-tight and airtight seal. 
     The first layer  7010  and the second layer  7020  are comprised of a material such as, for example, paper with a laminated inner surface. The laminated inner surface provides a barrier to prevent contaminants from entering the sealed portion of the packaging  7000 . In various instances, the first layer  7010  and the second layer  7020  are comprised of plastic. The first layer  7010  and the second layer  7020  can be comprised of a material with a particular degree of transparency to allow a clinician, for example, to observe the contents of the packaging  7000  prior to breaking the seal. The above being said, any suitable material and/or combinations of materials can be used for the first layer  7010  and/or the second layer  7020 . The first layer  7010  comprises a first portion positioned outside of the seal, and the second layer  7020  comprises a second portion positioned outside of the seal. The clinician can expose the sealed layer of hemostatic agent  7175  by holding the first portion and the second portion in separate hands and pulling the first portion in a direction away from the second layer  7020 , although any suitable opening method can be used. 
       FIG.  2    depicts an RFID system  7500  integrated with the packaging  7000 . The RFID system  7500  comprises an RFID tag  7172  and an insulator  7050 . The RFID tag  7172  comprises a chip, such as a microchip, for example, that stores information about the packaging  7000  and/or the contents of the packaging  7000 . In various instances, the chip comprises an identification number. Such an identification number can be assigned to the chip that can communicate the chip&#39;s existence to an RFID scanner. In various instances, the chip comprises additional information such as, for example, manufacturing data, shipping data, and/or compatibility data. The RFID tag  7172  further comprises a radio antenna  7173  configured to facilitate communication between the RFID tag  7172  and the RFID scanner. 
     The insulator  7050  is attached to the first layer  7010  of the packaging  7000 , while the RFID tag  7172  is attached to a mounting member  7170  supporting the layer of hemostatic agent  7175 . When the packaging  7000  is in a sealed configuration, the insulator  7050  is affixed to, or otherwise connected to an integrated battery  7176  of the RFID tag  7172 . The integrated battery  7176  is activated when the packaging  7000  is opened. Prior to the packaging  7000  being opened, the interface between the insulator  7050  and the integrated battery  7176  prevents the integrated battery  7176  from providing power to the RFID tag  7172 . In such instances, the RFID tag  7172  is unable to emit a signal. When a clinician breaks the seal of the packaging  7000  by peeling the first layer  7010  away from the second layer  7020 , the insulator  7050  is disconnected, or otherwise disassociated, from the integrated battery  7176  of the RFID tag  7172 . Upon disassociation of the insulator  7050  from the integrated battery  7176 , the circuit between the integrated battery  7176  and the RFID tag  7172  is closed, and the RFID tag  7172  is energized. As shown in  FIG.  2   , the RFID tag  7172  begins emitting a signal  7174  upon being energized. The RFID tag  7172  is configured to emit the signal  7174  at any appropriate frequency and/or for any appropriate duration. For example, the RFID tag  7172  can continuously emit the signal  7174  or the RFID tag  7172  can emit the signal  7174  every 3-5 seconds. The signal  7174  comprises some, or all, of the information stored on the chip of the RFID tag  7172 . In various instances, the signal  7174  may serve to alert a surgical instrument that the packaging  7000  has been tampered with during shipping and/or storage or simply that the packaging  7000  has been unsealed, for example. 
       FIG.  4    illustrates a block diagram of an RFID system and/or control system  7400  of the surgical stapling instrument and/or tool  7100 ; however the control system  7400  can be adapted for use with alternative surgical instruments and/or tools, such as the surgical clip applier  7200  and/or the surgical suturing device  7300  described in greater detail herein. The control system  7400  includes a control circuit  1210  that can be integrated with the RFID scanner, such as RFID scanner  7408   a  or can be coupled to, but positioned separately from, the RFID scanner  7408   a . The control circuit  1210  can be configured to receive input from the RFID scanner  7408   a  indicative of the information stored in the RFID tag  7406   a  about the supplemental component  7175  and/or information about the packaging  7000  of the supplemental component  7175 . In various instances, the RFID system  7400  comprises more than one RFID scanner  7408   b - h  and/or more than one RFID tag  7406   b - h . The RFID scanners  7408   a - h  are communicably coupled to that the control circuit  1210  can receive data from the RFID scanners  7408   a - h  and then take various actions based upon the read data, as are described below. 
     In at least one example, the control circuit  1210  includes a microcontroller  1213  that has a processor  1214  and a storage medium such as, for example, a memory  1212 . The memory  1212  stores program instructions for performing various processes such as, for example, identity verification. The program instructions, when executed by the processor  1214 , cause the processor  1214  to verify the identity of the packaging  7000  and/or the supplemental component  7175  by comparing the identification information received from the RFID tag(s)  7406   a - h  to identification information stored in the memory  1212  in the form of an identity database or look-up table, for example. In various examples, the memory  1212  comprises a local memory of the instrument  7100 . In other examples, identity databases or tables and/or compatibility databases or tables can be downloaded from a remote server. In various aspects, the instrument  7100  may transmit the information received from RFID tag(s)  7406   a - 7406   h  to a remote server that stores the databases or tables for performing the identity and/or compatibility checks remotely. 
     The RFID tag  7172  is configured to communicate with an RFID scanner. Once the insulator  7050  has been removed, the integrated battery  7176  of the RFID tag  7172  allows the RFID tag  7172  to emit the signal  7174  prior to receiving a first signal, such as an interrogation signal, from the RFID scanner. The RFID scanner comprises a scanner antenna configured to transmit and/or receive radio signals  7174  from the RFID tag  7172 . In various instances, the RFID scanner comprises reading and writing capabilities. The RFID scanner is configured to pass the collected information from the RFID tag  7172  to a controller of the surgical instrument for further interpretation. In various instances, the controller is configured to determine if the supplemental component is compatible with the particular surgical instrument. In various instances, the controller is configured to activate a lockout assembly  7179  to prevent the surgical instrument from performing a function with the firing drive assembly  1163  such as, for example, a staple firing stroke, a suture firing stroke, and/or a clip crimping stroke if the controller determines that the supplemental component is not compatible with the particular surgical instrument and/or for use during the particular surgical procedure. Various lockout assemblies are described in greater detail in U.S. Pat. No. 7,143,923, entitled SURGICAL STAPLING INSTRUMENT HAVING A FIRING LOCKOUT FOR AN UNCLOSED ANVIL, which issued on Dec. 5, 2006; U.S. Pat. No. 7,044,352, SURGICAL STAPLING INSTRUMENT HAVING A SINGLE LOCKOUT MECHANISM FOR PREVENTION OF FIRING, which issued on May 16, 2006; U.S. Pat. No. 7,000,818, SURGICAL STAPLING INSTRUMENT HAVING SEPARATE DISTINCT CLOSING AND FIRING SYSTEMS, which issued on Feb. 21, 2006; U.S. Pat. No. 6,988,649, SURGICAL STAPLING INSTRUMENT HAVING A SPENT CARTRIDGE LOCKOUT, which issued on Jan. 24, 2006; and U.S. Pat. No. 6,978,921, SURGICAL STAPLING INSTRUMENT INCORPORATING AN E-BEAM FIRING MECHANISM, which issued on Dec. 27, 2005, the disclosures of which are incorporated by reference herein in their entireties. The RFID scanner is positioned within a pre-determined range of the RFID tag  7172  that allows for the RFID scanner to be able to receive the emitted signal  7174  transmitted by the RFID tag  7172 . Depending on the application, the RFID scanner can be positioned on a surgical instrument, on the contents of the packaging, and/or remotely located on a console, such as a remote surgical system in communication with the surgical instrument. Additionally, the controller can be located in any suitable location, such as, for example, the surgical instrument or on a remote console. 
     In various instances, the tag antenna of the RFID tag  7172  is destroyed and/or is otherwise rendered inoperable as the packaging  7000  is opened and/or after the packaging  7000  is opened. The RFID tag  7172  is unable to transmit and/or receive communication and/or signals from an RFID scanner when the tag antenna is inoperable. In such instances, the RFID scanner is configured to receive a first signal from the RFID tag  7172  before the packaging is opened. Once the RFID scanner receives the first signal, the controller of the surgical instrument is configured to authenticate the packaging  7000  and the contents of the packaging  7000 . If the RFID scanner does not receive the first signal from the RFID tag  7172 , the controller is configured to prevent the surgical instrument from performing a function with the firing drive assembly  1163 . The failure of the RFID scanner to receive the first signal is indicative of a tampered packaging and/or an inauthentic packaging, among other things. In various instances, the tag antenna is still operable after the packaging  7000  is opened; however, the communication range of the tag antenna is diminished. In such instances, the diminished communication range prevents the RFID tag  7172  from receiving and/or transmitting communication to the RFID scanner. 
     In various instances, a switch is positioned between the RFID tag  7172  and the power source. The insulator  7050  biases the switch open when the packaging  7000  is in a sealed configuration, and the power source is unable to supply power to the RFID tag  7172 . In such circumstances, the RFID tag  7172  is unable to communicate with the RFID scanner. When the packaging  7000  in an unsealed configuration, the insulator  7050  is disassociated from the RFID tag  7172 , and the switch is closed. In such circumstances, the power source is able to supply power to the RFID tag  7172 , and the RFID tag  7172  is able to communicate with the RFID scanner. 
     In various instances, an RFID system comprising an RFID tag mounted to the second layer  7020  of the packaging  7000  can be used. Further to the above, the RFID tag comprises an internal power source positioned on the second layer  7020  of the packaging  7000 . An insulator, similar to the insulator  7050 , is attached to the packaging  7000  and, when the packaging  7000  is opened, the RFID tag on the second layer  7020  is activated. The insulator is attached to, or otherwise associated with, the first layer  7010  of the packaging  7000 . When the packaging  7000  is in a sealed configuration, the insulator  7050  is attached to, or otherwise connected to, the RFID tag on the second layer  7020  of the packaging  7000  and holds open the circuit between the integrated power source and the RFID tag. The interface between the insulator  7050  and the RFID tag prevents the power source from activating the RFID tag, and the RFID tag is unable to emit a signal. When a clinician breaks the seal of the packaging  7000  by peeling away the first layer  7010 , for example, the insulator  7050  is disconnected, or otherwise disassociated, from the RFID tag and the circuit between the power source and the RFID tag is closed. At such point, the RFID tag is energized and begins to emit a signal. 
     In various instances, the RFID system  7500  further comprises a transponder. The transponder receives a first communication from an RFID scanner. In various instances, the first communication from the RFID scanner energizes the transponder to a degree sufficient for the transponder to communicate with the RFID tag. In various instances, the transponder is energized prior to receiving the first communication from the RFID scanner. In any event, the transponder is configured to automatically transmit a signal to the RFID tag upon hearing, or otherwise receiving, the first communication from the RFID scanner. The power source of the RFID tag energizes the RFID tag upon receiving the signal from the transponder, and the RFID tag is able to respond to the communication transmitted by the RFID scanner. The transponder serves to, among other things, preserve the battery life of the RFID tag until, for example, the RFID tag is within range of the RFID scanner. 
     As described in greater detail herein, it is valuable for a clinician to be able to verify the compatibility of a supplemental component for use with a particular surgical instrument and/or for use during a particular surgical procedure. For various reasons, it can be also be meaningful for a clinician to be able to ensure that the supplemental component has not been previously used and/or tampered with. The clinician may also want to confirm, for example, that the supplemental component is not contaminated, that the supplemental component is intact, and/or that the supplemental component comprises an acceptable composition and/or dimension. 
       FIG.  3    illustrates a portion of a surgical stapling instrument  7100 . As discussed in greater detail elsewhere herein, the surgical stapling instrument  7100  comprises an end effector  7130  extending from an elongate shaft  7120  of the surgical stapling instrument  7100 . The end effector  7130  comprises a first jaw  7132 , wherein the first jaw  7132  is an anvil. The first jaw  7132  comprises a plurality of staple forming pockets. The end effector  7130  further comprises a second jaw  7134  comprising a channel configured to receive a replaceable staple cartridge  7140 . The replaceable staple cartridge  7140  comprises a cartridge body and a plurality of staples removably stored within the cartridge body. The plurality of staples are driven out of the cartridge body during a staple firing stroke  1163 . In an effort to, for example, promote rapid blood coagulation, of patient tissue affected during the staple firing and tissue cutting stroke  1163 , the clinician can attach a layer of hemostatic agent  7175  to the end effector  7130  prior to performing the staple firing stroke  1163 . In various instances, the layer of hemostatic agent  7175  is attached to a deck surface of the cartridge body. In various instances, the layer of hemostatic agent  7175  is attached to a tissue-supporting surface of the anvil. In any event, the layer of hemostatic agent  7175  is in contact with the patient tissue during and/or after the staple firing stroke  1163 . 
     As discussed above, the layer of hemostatic agent  7175  is sealed within a packaging prior to attachment to the surgical instrument. Within the packaging, the layer of hemostatic agent  7175  is part of a mounting assembly configured to facilitate storage and attachment of the layer of hemostatic agent  7175 . The mounting assembly comprises a mounting member  7170 . In various instances, the mounting member  7170  provides a physical barrier between the layers of the packaging and the hemostatic agent  7175  and prevents the layers of the packaging from coming into contact with the hemostatic agent  7175 . For example, the mounting member  7170  prevents the layer of hemostatic agent  7175  from sticking and/or otherwise adhering to one or both of the layers of the packaging. The layer of hemostatic agent  7175  is positioned between an opening within the mounting member  7170  defined by sidewalls  7177 ,  7188  of the mounting member  7170 . The mounting member  7170  comprises retention members  7171  that receive a portion of the layer of hemostatic agent  7175 . The retention members  7171  maintain the alignment of the layer of hemostatic agent  7175  and secure the layer of hemostatic agent  7175  to the mounting member  7170 . The mounting member  7170  also provides a surface for the clinician to hold when aligning the layer of hemostatic agent  7175  for attachment to the end effector  7130  of the surgical instrument. The surface provided by the mounting member  7170  allows a clinician to attach the layer of hemostatic agent  7175  to the end effector  7130  without having to touch or otherwise contact the layer of hemostatic agent  7175 . 
     The mounting member  7170  further comprises an RFID tag  7172 . The RFID tag  7172  comprises a chip, such as a microchip, for example, that stores information about the mounting member  7170  and/or the layer of hemostatic agent  7175 . In various instances, the set of stored information stored on the RFID chip comprises data that identifies the type of supplemental component the mounting member  7170  is supporting. In the depicted embodiment, the mounting member  7170  is supporting a layer of hemostatic agent  7175 . However, the mounting member  7170  can support any suitable form of supplemental component such as, for example, a tissue thickness compensator and/or an adhesive. As shown in  FIG.  3   , the RFID tag  7172  is mounted to a sidewall  7178  of the mounting member  7170 . However, the RFID tag  7172  can be embedded within and/or attached to the mounting member  7170  by any suitable method. In various instances, the RFID tag  7172  can be positioned on the layer of hemostatic agent  7175 . 
     The RFID tag  7172  in the mounting member  7170  provides a lockout  7179  for the surgical instrument. The surgical instrument will not perform a function with the firing drive assembly  1163 , such as a staple firing stroke and/or a jaw closure stroke, for example, if the information stored on the RFID tag  7172  is not received by a controller of the surgical instrument. In various instances, the surgical instrument will not perform the function with the firing drive assembly  1163  when the RFID tag  7172  is still in communication with an RFID scanner  7150  after the layer of hemostatic agent  7175  has been attached to the end effector  7130 . Such a lockout  7179  prevents the surgical instrument from performing the function with the firing drive assembly  1163  when the mounting member  7170  is still attached to the layer of hemostatic agent  7175  and/or the layer of hemostatic agent  7175  has been inappropriately attached to the end effector  7130 . 
     As mentioned in greater detail herein, the surgical stapling instrument  7100  comprises an RFID scanner  7150  configured to communicate with nearby RFID tags. The RFID scanner  7150  comprises a scanner antenna configured to transmit radio signals. The radio signals activate RFID tags that are positioned within a pre-determined range of the RFID scanner  7150 . The RFID scanner  7150  then receives one or more response signals that are “bounced back” from the RFID tag(s). In various instances, the one or more response signals comprise the same signal as the interrogation signal. In various instances, the one or more response signals comprise a modified signal from the interrogation signal. In various instances, the RFID scanner  7150  comprises reading and writing capabilities. The RFID scanner  7150  is then able to pass the collected information from the RFID tag to a controller for further interpretation. The controller can be positioned in the surgical instrument, the remote console, or in any suitable location. The RFID scanner  7150  and/or the controller can comprise a stored set of information that corresponds to surgical stapling assemblies that are compatible with a particular surgical instrument and/or for use during a particular surgical procedure. 
     More specifically, the surgical system comprises an RFID scanner  7150  configured to interact with the RFID tag  7172  attached to the mounting member  7170 . The RFID scanner  7150  can be present in various locations. For example, the RFID scanner  7150  can be retained by the staple cartridge  7140 . In various instances, the RFID scanner is powered by the battery and/or power source of the surgical instrument. In the depicted embodiment, the RFID scanner  7150  is positioned on the second jaw  7134  of the end effector  7130 ; however, the RFID scanner  7150  can be located in an alternative location within the surgical system and/or any other suitable location that would allow for communication between the RFID tag  7172  and the RFID scanner  7150  when the mounting member  7170  is within a pre-determined range of the end effector  7130 . The RFID scanner  7150  and/or the RFID tag  7172  are powered such that the signal(s) they emit can only be detected within a limited radius. That said, as the mounting member  7170  is removed from the layer of hemostatic agent  7175  after attaching the layer of hemostatic agent  7175  to the end effector  7130 , the RFID tag  7172  is unable to communicate with the RFID scanner  7150 . 
     In various instances, the end effector  7130  comprises an RFID scanner positioned on a distal end of the end effector  7130 . An RFID tag is retained by a back wall  7177  of the mounting member  7170 . During proper attachment of the supplemental component  7175  to the end effector  7130 , the distal end of the end effector  7130  is brought close to, aligned with, and/or brought into contact with the back wall  7177  of the mounting member  7170 . In various instances, the communication range of the RFID scanner spans a distance that only encompasses the RFID tag of the back wall  7177  of the mounting member  7170  when the end effector  7130  is brought close to and/or brought into contact with the back wall  7177 . Such a communication range allows the RFID tag to communicate with the RFID scanner only when the supplemental component  7175  is fully aligned with the end effector  7130 . The communication between the RFID tag and the RFID scanner can alert a clinician that the supplemental component  7175  is fully aligned with the end effector  7130  and a function with the firing drive assembly  1163  of the surgical instrument can be performed. If the RFID scanner does not receive a communication from the RFID tag, the supplemental component  7175  may be misaligned and/or not fully attached to the end effector  7130 , for example, which can lead to the formation of a non-uniform staple line, for example. In various instances, the controller of the surgical instrument prevents the surgical instrument from performing a function with the firing drive assembly  1163 , such as a staple firing stroke, for example. In various instances, if the RFID scanner continues to receive communication from the RFID tag when the clinician believes the supplemental component  7175  is attached to the end effector, the controller is configured to prevent the function with the firing drive assembly  1163  of the surgical instrument. The continued communication indicates that the mounting member  7170  is still attached to the supplemental component  7175 . In such circumstances, the loss of communication indicates that the mounting member  7170  has been removed and/or moved out of communication distance from the end effector  7130  and/or the supplemental component  7175 . 
     If the mounting member  7170  does not comprise an RFID tag and/or the RFID tag  7172  comprises information that is not compatible with the surgical instrument, the supplemental component verification system of the surgical instrument will be unable to permit the surgical instrument to perform a function with the firing drive assembly  1163 , such as the staple firing stroke or the jaw closure stroke. If the RFID scanner  7150  receives a response to an interrogation signal that is not found within a stored set of compatible supplemental components, the controller of the surgical instrument is programmed to communicate an error to the clinician. Likewise, if the RFID scanner  7150  does not receive a response to the interrogation signal, the controller of the surgical instrument is programmed to communicate an error to the clinician. In various instances, the detection of an error by the controller can render the surgical instrument inoperable for use with that particular supplemental component. In various instances, a detected error can prevent the surgical instrument from performing a staple firing stroke, jaw closure stroke, and/or tissue cutting stroke. In various instances, the surgical instrument further comprises a manual override that can be activated to allow a clinician to override any system lockout  7179  and utilize operational functions of the surgical instrument in an emergency. As discussed above, the controller is configured to alert the clinician that an error has been detected by way of an indicator  1209 . Such an alert can be communicated through various forms of feedback, including, for example, haptic, acoustic, and/or visual feedback. In at least one instance, the feedback comprises audio feedback, and the surgical instrument can comprise a speaker which emits a sound, such as a beep, for example, when an error is detected. In certain instances, the feedback comprises visual feedback and the surgical instrument can comprise a light emitting diode (LED), for example, which flashes when an error is detected. In various instances, the feedback comprises haptic feedback and the surgical instrument can comprise an electric motor  1160  comprising an eccentric element which vibrates when an error is detected. The alert can be specific or generic. For example, the alert can specifically state that the RFID tag  7172  on the mounting member  7170  is unable to be detected, or the alert can specifically state that the RFID tag  7172  comprises information representative of an incompatible and/or defective supplemental component  7175 . 
     In various instances, the controller can be configured to select and/or modify various operational parameters based on the identification of the layer of hemostatic agent  7175  using the information stored on the RFID tag  7172 . Such an identification can include the material the layer of hemostatic agent  7175  is comprised of and/or the thickness of the layer of hemostatic agent  7175 , among other things. After identification of the layer of hemostatic agent  7175 , the controller is configured to permit the surgical instrument to perform the desired function with the firing drive assembly  1163  using the modified operational parameters. 
     For example,  FIG.  5    depicts an exemplary process  6400  of the control circuit  1210 . As discussed above, the control circuit  1210  is configured to receive  6410  the information stored on the RFID tag  7172  corresponding to the supplemental component, such as the layer of hemostatic agent  7175 . Using the received information, the control circuit  1210  is configured to identify  6420  a characteristic of the supplemental component  7175  using the received information. The control circuit  1210  is configured to select  6430  one or more appropriate operating parameters that correspond to the identified characteristic of the supplemental component  7175 . The control circuit  1210  is configured to direct  6440  the firing assembly to perform a function, such as a staple firing stroke, with the selected operating parameter(s). 
     In various instances, and as discussed above, the RFID tag  7172  can comprise an integrated power source and become activated upon the opening of the packaging  7000 . In such instances, the RFID tag  7172  can continuously transmit the stored set of information, and the RFID tag  7172  does not need to wait for an interrogation signal from the RFID scanner  7300  to transmit the stored set of information. 
       FIG.  6    illustrates a portion of a surgical clip applier  7200 . As discussed in greater detail herein, the surgical clip applier  7200  comprises an end effector  7230 . The end effector  7230  comprises a first jaw  7232  and a second jaw  7234 . At least one of the first jaw and the second jaw are movable toward one another during a crimping stroke. The surgical clip applier  7200  further comprises at least one clip. In various instances, the surgical clip applier  7200  is configured to receive a cartridge comprising a plurality of clips. In other instances, the surgical slip applier  7200  is configured to receive one clip at a time. Each clip is configured to be crimped around patient tissue T one at a time during the crimping strokes. 
     The surgical clip applier  7200  is configured to receive a clip cartridge comprising a first clip  7260  and a second clip  7260 ′. The first clip  7260  comprises a first RFID tag  7262 . The first RFID tag  7262  comprises a chip, such as a microchip, for example, that stores information about the surgical clip applier  7200 , the first clip  7260 , and/or the cartridge attached to the surgical clip applier  7200 . In various instances, the set of information stored on the RFID chip comprises data that identifies the type of clip  7260  and/or clip cartridge attached to the surgical instrument  7200 . As shown in  FIG.  6   , the first RFID tag  7262  is mounted to an outer surface of the first clip  7260 . The first RFID tag  7262  is positioned on the outer surface of the first clip  7260  so that the first RFID tag  7262  is not in contact with patient tissue T when the first clip  7260  is crimped. Such placement can minimize damage and/or trauma to the patient tissue T, for example. The first RFID tag  7262  is positioned on a portion of the first clip  7260  that is not bent during the crimping stroke. Such placement avoids damaging the first RFID tag  7262  during the crimping stroke, for example. That said, the first RFID tag  7262  can be embedded within and/or attached to the first clip  7260  by any suitable method and/or at any suitable location. 
     The first RFID tag  7262  on the first clip  7260  provides a lockout for the surgical instrument, such as lockout  7179 , for example. The clip applier will not perform a function with the firing drive assembly  1163 , such as the crimping stroke on the first clip  7260 , for example, if the information stored on the first RFID tag  7262  is not received by a controller of the surgical instrument. In various instances, the surgical instrument will not perform the function with the firing drive assembly  1163  when the first RFID tag  7262  is still in communication with an RFID scanner  7250  after the crimping stroke has been performed on the first clip  7260 . As described in greater detail herein, the continued communication between the first RFID tag  7262  and the RFID scanner  7250  after the crimping stroke has been performed on the first clip  7260  indicates, among other things, that the clip applier is positioned too close to the formed first clip  7260 . In various instances, the clip applier can alert a clinician of the detected location of the clip applier with respect to the formed first clip  7260  to prevent the clip applier from applying clips too close together, for example. 
     For example, a process  6700  of the control circuit  1210  is depicted in  FIG.  7   . The control circuit  1210  is configured to detect  6710  the presence of a first clip after a crimping stroke is performed on the first clip. If the controller, through an RFID scanner, receives  6720  a communication and/or signal from the first RFID tag supported by the first clip, the controller is configured to prevent  6730  the surgical instrument  7200  from performing a crimping stroke on a second clip. If the controller, through the RFID scanner, fails to receive  6740  a communication and/or signal from the first RFID tag supported by the first clip, the controller is configured to permit  6750  the surgical instrument  7200  to perform the crimping stroke on the second clip. 
     An additional process  6600  of the control circuit  1210  is depicted in  FIG.  8   . The control circuit  1210  is configured to detect the presence of a first RFID tag supported by a first clip  6610 . If the control circuit  1210  fails to receive a communication from the first RFID tag  6620 , through an RFID scanner, the controller is configured to prevent the surgical instrument  7200  from performing a function  6630 , such as a crimping stroke, on the first clip. The control circuit  1210  continues to detect the presence of the first RFID tag  6610  until the controller receives a communication from the first RFID tag  6640 . Upon receiving the communication from the first RFID tag  6640 , through the RFID scanner, the control circuit  1210  is configured to permit the surgical instrument  7200  to perform a crimping stroke on the first clip. After the crimping stroke is performed on the first clip, if the controller continues to receive communication from the first RFID tag  6660 , the controller is configured to prevent the surgical instrument  7200  from performing a crimping stroke on a second clip  6670 . After the crimping stroke is performed on the first clip, if the controller no longer receives communication from the first RFID tag  6680 , the controller is configured to permit the surgical instrument  7200  to perform the crimping stroke on the second clip  6690 . 
     As mentioned in greater detail herein, the surgical clip applier  7200  comprises an RFID scanner  7250  configured to communicate with nearby RFID tags. The RFID scanner  7250  comprises a scanner antenna configured to transmit radio signals. The radio signals activate RFID tags that are positioned within a pre-determined range of the RFID scanner  7250 . The RFID scanner  7250  then receives one or more response signals that are “bounced back” from the RFID tag(s). In various instances, the one or more response signals comprise the same signal as the interrogation signal. In various instances, the one or more response signals comprise a modified signal from the interrogation signal. In various instances, the RFID scanner  7250  comprises reading and writing capabilities. The RFID scanner  7250  is then able to pass the collected information from the RFID tag to a controller for further interpretation. The controller can be positioned in the surgical instrument  7200 , the remote console, or in any suitable location. The RFID scanner  7250  and/or the controller can comprise a stored set of compatibility information that corresponds to clip cartridges and/or clips that are compatible with a particular surgical instrument and/or for use during a particular surgical procedure. 
     More specifically, the surgical system  7200  comprises an RFID scanner  7250  configured to interact with the RFID tag  7262  attached to the first clip  7262 . The RFID scanner  7250  can be present in various locations. In the depicted embodiment, the RFID scanner  7250  is positioned on the second jaw  7234  of the end effector  7230 ; however, the RFID scanner  7250  can be located in an alternative location within the surgical system  7200  and/or any other suitable location that would allow for communication between the first RFID tag  7262  and the RFID scanner  7250 . The RFID scanner  7250  and/or the first RFID tag  7262  are powered such that the signal(s) they emit can only be detected within a communication range  7252  defined by a limited radius. That said, as the surgical clip applier  7200  is moved away from the patient tissue T where the first clip  7260  was applied, the first RFID tag  7262  is unable to communicate with the RFID scanner  7250 . In such circumstances, the RFID tag  7262  moves outside of the communication range  7252  of the RFID scanner  7250 . The RFID tag  7262  is unable to transmit and/or receive signals from the RFID scanner  7250  when the RFID tag  7262  is positioned outside of the communication range  7252 . 
     If the first clip  7260  does not comprise an RFID tag and/or the first RFID tag  7262  comprises information that is not compatible with the surgical instrument  7200 , the supplemental component verification system of the surgical instrument  7200  will be unable to permit the surgical instrument to perform a function with the firing drive assembly  1163 , such as the crimping stroke. If the RFID scanner  7250  receives a response to an interrogation signal that is not found within a stored set of compatible supplemental components, the controller of the surgical instrument is programmed to communicate an error to the clinician. Likewise, if the RFID scanner  7250  does not receive a response to the interrogation signal, the controller of the surgical instrument is programmed to communicate an error to the clinician. In various instances, the detection of an error by the controller can render the surgical instrument inoperable for use with that particular clip cartridge and/or clip  7260 . In various instances, a detected error can prevent the surgical instrument from performing a clip applying and/or crimping stroke. In various instances, the surgical instrument further comprises a manual override that can be activated to allow a clinician to override any system lockout  7179  and utilize operational functions of the surgical instrument in an emergency. As discussed above, the controller is configured to alert the clinician that an error has been detected through an indicator  1209 . Such an alert can be communicated through various forms of feedback, including, for example, haptic, acoustic, and/or visual feedback. The alert can be specific or generic. For example, the alert can specifically state that the first RFID tag  7262  on the first clip  7260  is unable to be detected, or the alert can specifically state that the first RFID tag  7262  comprises information representative of an incompatible and/or defective clip cartridge and/or clip  7260 . 
     For example, a process  6500  of the control circuit  1210  to determine authenticity and/or compatibility of the clips and/or the clip cartridge attached to the surgical instrument  7200  is depicted in  FIG.  9   . In instances where each clip comprises an RFID tag, the control circuit  1210  is configured to detect the presence of the first RFID tag supported by the first clip  6510  through an RFID scanner. If the RFID scanner fails to receive a communication from the first RFID tag, the RFID scanner is unable to pass along the communication to the control circuit  1210 . In such instances, the control circuit  1210  fails to receive the information stored on the first RFID tag  6520 , and the control circuit  1210  prevents the surgical instrument  7200  from performing a crimping stroke on the first clip  6530 . The failure for the RFID scanner to detect the first RFID tag can arise from various scenarios such as an inauthentic clip, a defective clip, and/or an improperly aligned clip, among other things. If the RFID scanner receives a communication from the first RFID tag, the RFID scanner is configured to communicate the received information to the control circuit  1210 . The control circuit  1210  determines if the first clip is compatible  6550  for use with the surgical instrument  7200  and/or during the surgical procedure. If the control circuit  1210  determines that the first clip is compatible for use, the control circuit  1210  permits the surgical instrument  7200  to perform a function  6560 , such as a crimping stroke, on the first clip. If the control circuit  1210  determines that the first clip is incompatible for use, the control circuit  1210  prevents the surgical instrument  7200  from performing the function  6570 . 
     In various instances, the controller can modify various operational parameters based on the identification of the clip cartridge and/or clip  7260  using the information stored on the first RFID tag  7262 . Such an identification can include the material the first clip  7260  is comprised of, the number of clips  7260  remaining in the clip cartridge, the size of the clips  7260 , and/or the thickness of the first clip  7260 , among other things. After identification of the first clip  7260 , the controller is configured to permit the surgical instrument to perform the desired function with the firing drive assembly  1163  using the modified operational parameters. 
     As discussed above, the RFID scanner  7250  comprises a communication range  7252  that spans a distance D from the RFID scanner  7250 . When the first RFID tag  7262  on the first clip  7260  is located a distance away from the RFID scanner  7250  that is less than the distance D, the RFID scanner  7250  is able to transmit signals to and receive signals  7265  from the first RFID tag  7262 . As discussed above, the surgical clip applier  7200  depicted in  FIG.  6    further comprises the second clip  7260 ′ comprising a second RFID tag  7260 ′. The second RFID tag  7260 ′ comprises an RFID chip and a tag antenna, and the second RFID tag  7260 ′ is similar in function and structure to the first RFID tag  7260 . When the RFID scanner  7250  receives signals from both the first RFID tag  7260  and the second RFID tag  7260 ′, the controller of the surgical clip applier  7200  is configured to alert the clinician. Such an alert can notify the clinician that the surgical clip applier  7200  is about to crimp the second clip  7260 ′ in a location that is too close to the first formed clip  7260 , for example. The controller can then prevent the clip applier  7200  from performing a crimping stroke on the second clip  7260 ′ until the RFID scanner  7250  is unable to send and/or receive communications and/or signals from the first RFID tag  7262  on the first clip  7260 . 
     In various instances, the information stored on the first RFID tag  7262  is a first serial number that is specific to the first clip  7260  and the information stored on the second RFID tag  7262 ′ is a second serial number that is specific to the second clip  7260 ′. Based on the information received by the RFID scanner  7250 , the controller is able to monitor each individual clip  7260 ,  7260 ′ for compatibility with the surgical clip applier  7200  and/or authenticity, for example. In various instances, the controller is further able to maintain a count of the number of clips remaining in the loaded clip cartridge. In such instances, the controller is configured to alert the clinician of the number of clips remaining in the clip cartridge so that the clinician can prepare a new clip cartridge for attachment to the clip applier  7200 . 
     For example, a process  6800  of the control circuit  1210  is depicted in  FIG.  10   . The control circuit  1210  is configured to identify a characteristic of a clip cartridge  6810  attached to the surgical instrument  7200 . Using the identified characteristic, the control circuit  1210  is configured to determine a number  6820  of clips stored and/or remaining in the clip cartridge. The control circuit  1210  is configured to update the count of the number of clips  6830  stored and/or remaining in the clip cartridge after each crimping stroke. The control circuit  1210  is further configured to alert a clinician  6840  when a pre-determined number of clips remain in the clip cartridge. For example, the clinician can be alerted when only one clip remains in the clip cartridge. In various instances, the clinician can be continuously alerted of the clip count. 
     In various instances, individual surgical clip appliers, such as the clip appliers  6200  and  7200 , are configured to be interchangeably used with various configurations of clips and/or clip cartridges. For example, clips can comprise different dimensions, different strengths, different harnesses, and/or different material compositions. Furthermore, the end effector  6230  can be removably attached to the elongate shaft  6220  to allow different end effector configurations to be attached to the clip applier  6200 . Such modularity requires the controller of the clip applier to implement different operational parameters for each type of attached clip, attached clip cartridge, and/or attached end effector. 
     The surgical clip applier  7200  further comprises an electric motor  1160  and a driver  1161  configured to control the operation of the motor  1160  including the flow of electrical energy from a power source. The controller varies and/or modifies parameters of the electric motor  1160  through a motor control program. The motor control program is configured to determine the appropriate operational parameters based on the information received by the RFID scanner. The motor control program can compare the information received from the RFID tag to a look-up table and/or database stored within a memory, such as the memory  1212 . Such a look-up table and/or database can comprise recommended operational parameters for the motor control program to implement based on the detected attached components. Operational parameters that can be adjusted based on the identification of the identified replaceable components comprise the overall motor rate, the loading force applied to a clip by the jaws of the end effector during a crimping stroke, the duration of the crimping stroke, the rate of crimping, and/or the duration the jaws of the end effector are held in a closed configuration upon completion of the crimping stroke, for example. Such operational parameters should be changed based on the attached clip to ensure proper clip closing without severing patient tissue, for example. 
     In various instances, the motor control program is configured to set a maximum load threshold based on the information received from the RFID tag positioned on the attached clip and/or clip cartridge. In such instances, the motor control program prevents the clip applier  7200  from performing a crimping stroke by blocking the power source&#39;s ability to supply power to the electric motor  1160  when the maximum load threshold is exceeded. In various instances, the motor control program is configured to prevent the clip applier  7200  from performing functions  1163  when other thresholds are exceeded, such as handling loads and/or elongate shaft twist loads, among others. The motor control program can implement prevent the power source from providing power to the electric motor  1160  after the crimping stroke is completed but before the jaws of the end effector are opened. Such a pause in supplying power to the motor  1160  allows the jaws to hold the crimped clip in place for a predetermined amount of time. In various instances, the clip applier  7200  comprises a locking member that holds the jaw in the closed configuration when power is no longer being supplied to the motor  1160 . Such a locking member prevents the jaws from returning to the open configuration when power is no longer being supplied to the motor  1160 . In various instances, the motor control program is configured to cause the power source to supply a minimum amount of power to the motor  1160  after the crimping stroke is completed, wherein the minimum amount of power is sufficient to keep the jaws in the closed configuration. 
     The ability for the end effector  7230  to be interchangeably attached to the elongate shaft of the clip applier  7200  requires the instrument controller to vary and/or otherwise adjust the length an advancing member must be translated to separate an individual clip from the clips stored within a clip cartridge to a crimping position, for example. The controller is configured to account for the differences in distance between the first jaw and the second jaw of the modular end effector  7330  to appropriately crimp the clips. The operational parameters should also be modified based on the attached clip to compensate for the spring back and/or other responses of the clip based on the material composition of the clip and the patient tissue, for example. The ability for the controller of the clip applier  7200  to determine the identification of the clip material and/or size, the clip cartridge side and configuration, and/or the end effector configuration and/or capabilities allows the control system to appropriately adapt by setting maximum threshold limits and/or the rates and/or speeds of performing a crimping stroke, among other things. 
       FIG.  11    illustrates a portion of a surgical suturing device  7300 . As discussed in greater detail herein, the surgical suturing device  7300  comprises an end effector  7330 . The end effector  7330  comprises a needle track  7335  configured to guide a replaceable needle  7360 . The replaceable needle  7360  comprises a first end  7364  comprising a pointed tip configured to pierce through patient tissue. The replaceable needle  7360  comprises a second end  7366 , wherein the second end  7366  comprises suturing material  7365  attached thereto. The replaceable needle  7360  is guided by the needle track  7335  and actuated by a firing drive through a firing stroke. 
     As discussed above, the needle track  7335  of the end effector  7330  is configured to receive a replaceable needle  7360 . The replaceable needle  7360  comprises an RFID tag  7362 . The RFID tag  7362  comprises a chip, such as a microchip, for example, that stores information about the surgical suturing device  7300 , the replaceable needle  7360 , and/or the suturing material  7365  attached to the replaceable needle  7360 . In various instances, the set of information stored on the RFID chip comprises data that identifies the size of the needle  7360  positioned in the needle track  7335 , the material the needle  7360  is comprised of, and/or the material the suturing material  7365  is comprised of. As shown in  FIG.  11   , the RFID tag  7362  is molded within the replaceable needle  7362 . The RFID tag  7362  is molded within the replaceable needle  7362  to allow the needle  7362  to travel through the needle track  7335  uninterrupted, for example. Furthermore, the RFID tag  7362  is molded within the replaceable needle  7362  to allow the needle  7362  to travel through the patient tissue T in a smooth path. In other words, the RFID tag  7362  does not get stuck during the firing stroke and/or require an additional force to fire the replaceable needle through the patient tissue and/or the needle track  7335  during the firing stroke. That said, the RFID tag  7362  can be embedded within and/or attached to the replaceable needle  7360  by any suitable method and/or at any suitable location. 
     The RFID tag  7362  on the replaceable needle  7360  provides a lockout  7179  for the surgical instrument  7300 . The suturing device  7300  will not perform a function with the firing drive assembly  1163 , such as the needle firing stroke, for example, if the information stored on the RFID tag  7362  is not received by a controller of the surgical instrument. As mentioned in greater detail herein, the surgical suturing device  7300  comprises an RFID scanner  7350  configured to communicate with nearby RFID tags. The RFID scanner  7350  comprises a scanner antenna configured to transmit radio signals. The radio signals activate RFID tags that are positioned within a pre-determined range of the RFID scanner  7350 . The RFID scanner  7350  then receives one or more response signals that are “bounced back” from the RFID tag(s). In various instances, the one or more response signals comprise the same signal as the interrogation signal. In various instances, the one or more response signals comprise a modified signal from the interrogation signal. In various instances, the RFID scanner  7350  comprises reading and writing capabilities. The RFID scanner  7350  is then able to pass the collected information from the RFID tag to a controller for further interpretation. The controller can be positioned in the surgical instrument  7300 , the remote console, or in any suitable location. The RFID scanner  7350  and/or the controller can comprise a stored set of compatibility information that corresponds to replaceable needles and/or suturing materials that are compatible with a particular surgical instrument and/or for use during a particular surgical procedure. 
     More specifically, the surgical system  7300  comprises an RFID scanner  7350  configured to interact with the RFID tag  7362  attached to the replaceable needle  7360 . The RFID scanner  7350  can be present in various locations. In the depicted embodiment, the RFID scanner  7350  is positioned on a distal end of the of the end effector  7330 . More specifically, the RFID scanner  7350  is positioned at a first end of the needle track  7335  adjacent the second end  7366  of the replaceable needle  7360  when the replaceable needle  7360  is appropriately positioned in the needle track  7335 ; however, the RFID scanner  7350  can be located in an alternative location within the surgical system  7300  and/or any other suitable location that would allow for communication between the RFID tag  7362  and the RFID scanner  7350 . The RFID scanner  7350  and/or the RFID tag  7362  are powered such that the signal(s) they emit can only be detected within a limited radius. 
     If the replaceable needle  7360  does not comprise an RFID tag and/or the RFID tag  7362  comprises information that is not compatible with the surgical instrument  7300 , the supplemental component verification system and/or the controller of the surgical instrument  7300  will be prevent the surgical instrument from performing a function with the firing drive assembly  1163 , such as the firing stroke. If the RFID scanner  7350  receives a response to an interrogation signal that is not found within a stored set of compatible supplemental components, the controller of the surgical instrument is programmed to communicate an error to the clinician. Likewise, if the RFID scanner  7350  does not receive a response to the interrogation signal, the controller of the surgical instrument is programmed to communicate an error to the clinician. In various instances, the detection of an error by the controller can render the surgical instrument inoperable for use with that particular replaceable needle  7360 . In various instances, a detected error can prevent the surgical instrument from performing a firing stroke. In various instances, the surgical instrument further comprises a manual override that can be activated to allow a clinician to override any system lockout  7179  and utilize operational functions of the surgical instrument in an emergency. As discussed above, the controller is configured to alert the clinician that an error has been detected through an indicator  1209 . Such an alert can be communicated through various forms of feedback, including, for example, haptic, acoustic, and/or visual feedback. The alert can be specific or generic. For example, the alert can specifically state that the RFID tag  7362  on the replaceable needle  7360  is unable to be detected, or the alert can specifically state that the RFID tag  7362  comprises information representative of an incompatible and/or defective needle  7360  and/or suturing material  7365 . 
     In various instances, the controller can modify various operational parameters based on the identification of the replaceable needle  7360  and/or the suturing material  7365  using the information stored on the RFID tag  7362 . Such an identification can include the material the needle  7360  and/or the suturing material  7365  is comprised of, the length of the suturing material  7365 , and/or the thickness of the replaceable needle  7360  and/or the suturing material  7365 , among other things. After identification of a characteristic of the replaceable needle  7360 , the controller is configured to permit the surgical instrument to perform the desired function with the firing drive assembly  1163  using the modified operational parameters. 
     The embodiments disclosed herein are configured for use with surgical clip appliers and systems such as those disclosed in U.S. patent application Ser. No. 14/200,111, now U.S. Pat. No. 9,629,629, entitled CONTROL SYSTEMS FOR SURGICAL INSTRUMENTS, which is incorporated in its entirety herein.  FIGS.  12  and  13    depict a motor-driven surgical cutting and fastening instrument  12310 . This illustrated embodiment depicts an endoscopic instrument and, in general, the instrument  12310  is described herein as an endoscopic surgical cutting and fastening instrument; however, it should be noted that the invention is not so limited and that, according to other embodiments, any instrument disclosed herein may comprise a non-endoscopic surgical cutting and fastening instrument. The surgical instrument  12310  depicted in  FIGS.  12  and  13    comprises a handle  12306 , a shaft  12308 , and an end effector  12312  connected to the shaft  12308 . In various embodiments, the end effector  12312  can be articulated relative to the shaft  12308  about an articulation joint  12314 . Various means for articulating the end effector  12312  and/or means for permitting the end effector  12312  to articulate relative to the shaft  12308  are disclosed in U.S. Pat. No. 7,753,245, entitled SURGICAL STAPLING INSTRUMENTS, which issued on Jul. 13, 2010, and U.S. Pat. No. 7,670,334, entitled SURGICAL INSTRUMENT HAVING AN ARTICULATING END EFFECTOR, which issued on Mar. 2, 2010, the entire disclosures of which are incorporated by reference herein. Various other means for articulating the end effector  12312  are discussed in greater detail below. Similar to the above, the end effector  12312  is configured to act as a surgical stapler for clamping, severing, and/or stapling tissue, although, in other embodiments, different types of end effectors may be used, such as end effectors for other types of surgical devices, graspers, cutters, staplers, clip appliers, access devices, drug/gene therapy devices, ultrasound, RF and/or laser devices, etc. Several RF devices may be found in U.S. Pat. No. 5,403,312, entitled ELECTROSURGICAL HEMOSTATIC DEVICE, which issued on Apr. 4, 1995, and U.S. patent application Ser. No. 12/031,573, entitled SURGICAL CUTTING AND FASTENING INSTRUMENT HAVING RF ELECTRODES, filed Feb. 14, 2008, the entire disclosures of which are incorporated by reference in their entireties. 
     The end effector  12312  can include, among other things, a staple channel  12322  and a pivotally translatable clamping member, such as an anvil  12324 , for example. The handle  12306  of the instrument  12310  may include a closure trigger  12318  and a firing trigger  12320  for actuating the end effector  12312 . It will be appreciated that instruments having end effectors directed to different surgical tasks may have different numbers or types of triggers or other suitable controls for operating the end effector  12312 . The handle  12306  can include a downwardly extending pistol grip  12326  toward which the closure trigger  12318  is pivotally drawn by the clinician to cause clamping or closing of the anvil  12324  toward the staple channel  12322  of the end effector  12312  to thereby clamp tissue positioned between the anvil  12324  and channel  12322 . In other embodiments, different types of clamping members in addition to or lieu of the anvil  12324  could be used. The handle  12306  can further include a lock which can be configured to releasably hold the closure trigger  12318  in its closed position. More details regarding embodiments of an exemplary closure system for closing (or clamping) the anvil  12324  of the end effector  12312  by retracting the closure trigger  12318  are provided in U.S. Pat. No. 7,000,818, entitled SURGICAL STAPLING INSTRUMENT HAVING SEPARATE DISTINCT CLOSING AND FIRING SYSTEMS, which issued on Feb. 21, 2006, U.S. Pat. No. 7,422,139, entitled MOTOR-DRIVEN SURGICAL CUTTING AND FASTENING INSTRUMENT WITH TACTILE POSITION FEEDBACK, which issued on Sep. 9, 2008, and U.S. Pat. No. 7,464,849, entitled ELECTRO-MECHANICAL SURGICAL INSTRUMENT WITH CLOSURE SYSTEM AND ANVIL ALIGNMENT COMPONENTS, which issued on Dec. 16, 2008, the entire disclosures of which are incorporated by reference herein. 
     Once the clinician is satisfied with the positioning of the end effector  12312 , the clinician may draw back the closure trigger  12318  to its fully closed, locked position proximate to the pistol grip  12326 . The firing trigger  12320  may then be actuated, or fired. In at least one such embodiment, the firing trigger  12320  can be farther outboard of the closure trigger  12318  wherein the closure of the closure trigger  12318  can move, or rotate, the firing trigger  12320  toward the pistol grip  12326  so that the firing trigger  12320  can be reached by the operator using one hand. Thereafter, the operator may pivotally draw the firing trigger  12320  toward the pistol grip  12312  to cause the stapling and severing of clamped tissue in the end effector  12312 . Thereafter, the firing trigger  12320  can be returned to its unactuated, or unfired, position after the clinician relaxes or releases the force being applied to the firing trigger  12320 . A release button on the handle  12306 , when depressed, may release the locked closure trigger  12318 . The release button may be implemented in various forms such as, for example, those disclosed in published U.S. Patent Application Publication No. 2007/0175955, entitled SURGICAL CUTTING AND FASTENING INSTRUMENT WITH CLOSURE TRIGGER LOCKING MECHANISM, which was filed on Jan. 31, 2006, the entire disclosure of which is incorporated herein by reference in its entirety. 
     Further to the above, the end effector  12312  may include a cutting instrument, such as knife, for example, for cutting tissue clamped in the end effector  12312  when the firing trigger  12320  is retracted by a user. Also further to the above, the end effector  12312  may also comprise means for fastening the tissue severed by the cutting instrument, such as staples, RF electrodes, and/or adhesives, for example. A longitudinally movable drive shaft located within the shaft  12308  of the instrument  12310  may drive/actuate the cutting instrument and the fastening means in the end effector  12312 . An electric motor, located in the handle  12306  of the instrument  12310  may be used to drive the drive shaft, as described further herein. In various embodiments, the motor may be a DC brushed driving motor having a maximum rotation of, approximately, 25,000 RPM, for example. In other embodiments, the motor may include a brushless motor, a cordless motor, a synchronous motor, a stepper motor, or any other suitable electric motor. A battery (or “power source” or “power pack”), such as a Li ion battery, for example, may be provided in the pistol grip portion  12326  of the handle  12306  adjacent to the motor wherein the battery can supply electric power to the motor via a motor control circuit. According to various embodiments, a number of battery cells connected in series may be used as the power source to power the motor. In addition, the power source may be replaceable and/or rechargeable. 
     As outlined above, the electric motor in the handle  12306  of the instrument  12310  can be operably engaged with the longitudinally-movable drive member positioned within the shaft  12308 . Referring now to  FIGS.  14 - 16   , an electric motor  12342  can be mounted to and positioned within the pistol grip portion  12326  of the handle  12306 . The electric motor  12342  can include a rotatable shaft operably coupled with a gear reducer assembly  12370  wherein the gear reducer assembly  12370  can include, among other things, a housing  12374  and an output pinion gear  12372 . In certain embodiments, the output pinion gear  12372  can be directly operably engaged with a longitudinally-movable drive member  12382  or, alternatively, operably engaged with the drive member  12382  via one or more intermediate gears  12386 . The intermediate gear  12386 , in at least one such embodiment, can be meshingly engaged with a set, or rack, of drive teeth  12384  defined in the drive member  12382 . In use, the electric motor  12342  can be drive the drive member distally, indicated by an arrow D ( FIG.  9   ), and/or proximally, indicated by an arrow D ( FIG.  10   ), depending on the direction in which the electric motor  12342  rotates the intermediate gear  12386 . In use, a voltage polarity provided by the battery can operate the electric motor  12342  in a clockwise direction wherein the voltage polarity applied to the electric motor by the battery can be reversed in order to operate the electric motor  12342  in a counter-clockwise direction. The handle  12306  can include a switch which can be configured to reverse the polarity applied to the electric motor  12342  by the battery. The handle  12306  can also include a sensor  12330  configured to detect the position of the drive member  12382  and/or the direction in which the drive member  12382  is being moved. 
     The embodiments disclosed herein are configured for use with surgical clip appliers and systems such as those disclosed in U.S. patent application Ser. No. 16/112,237, filed on Aug. 24, 2018, now U.S. Patent Application Publication No. 2019/0125347, entitled SURGICAL CLIP APPLIER CONFIGURED TO STORE CLIPS IN A STORED STATE, which is incorporated in its entirety herein. Referring to  FIG.  17   , a surgical instrument, such as a clip applier  13100 , for example, can be configured to apply one or more clips to tissue located within a surgical site in the patient. Generally, referring now to  FIG.  25   , the clip applier  13100  can be structured and arranged to position a clip  13140  relative to the tissue in order to compress the tissue within the clip  13140 . The clip applier  13100  can be configured to deform the clip  13140  as illustrated in  FIGS.  19  and  20   , for example, and as described in greater detail further below. Each clip  13140  can comprise a base  13142  and opposing legs  13144  extending from the base  13142 . The base  13142  and the legs  13144  can comprise any suitable shape and can define a substantially U-shaped configuration and/or a substantially V-shaped configuration, for example. The base  13142  can comprise angled portions  13141  which are connected together by a joint  13143 . In use, the legs  13144  of the clip  13140  can be positioned on opposite sides of the tissue wherein the legs  13144  can be pushed toward one another to compress the tissue positioned between the legs  13144 . The joint  13143  can be configured to permit the angled portions  13141  of the base  13142 , and the legs  13144  extending therefrom, to deform inwardly. In various circumstances, the clip  13140  can be configured to yield, or deform plastically, when the clip  13140  is sufficiently compressed, although some amount of elastic deformation, or spring-back, may occur within the deformed clip  13140 . 
     Referring now to  FIGS.  17  and  18   , the clip applier  13100  can include a shaft  13110 , an end effector  13120 , and a replaceable clip cartridge, or magazine,  13130 . Referring to  FIGS.  26 - 28   , the clip cartridge  13130  can comprise a housing  13132  and a plurality of clips  13140  positioned within the housing  13132 . The housing  13132  can define a storage chamber  13134  in which the clips  13140  can be stacked. The storage chamber  13134  can comprise sidewalls which extend around, or at least substantially around, the perimeter of the clips  13140 . Referring again to  FIG.  25   , each clip  13140  can comprise opposing faces, such as a top face  13145  and a bottom face  13146  on opposite sides of the clip  13140  wherein, when the clips  13140  are stacked in the housing  13132 , the top face  13145  of a clip  13140  can be positioned against the bottom face  13146  of an adjacent clip  13140  and wherein the bottom face  13146  of the clip  13140  can be positioned against the top face  13145  of another adjacent clip  13140 . In various circumstances, the bottom faces  13146  of the clips  13140  can face downwardly toward one or more support shelves, or platforms,  13135  defined in the housing  13132  while the top faces  13145  of the clips  13140  can face upwardly away from the support shelves  13135 . The top faces  13145  and the bottom faces  13146  of the clips  13140  may be identical, or at least substantially identical, in some cases, while, in other cases, the top faces  13145  and the bottom faces  13146  may be different. The stack of clips  13140  depicted in  FIGS.  26 - 28    comprises five clips  13140 , for example; however, other embodiments are envisioned in which the stack of clips  13140  can include more than five clips  13140  or less than five clips  13140 . In any event, the clip cartridge  13130  can further comprise at least one biasing member, such as biasing member  13136 , for example, positioned intermediate the housing  13132  and the top clip  13140  in the stack of clips  13140 . As described in greater detail below, the biasing member  13136  can be configured to bias the bottom clip  13140  in the stack of clips  13140  or, more particularly, the bottom face  13146  of the bottom clip  13140 , against the support shelves  13135  defined in the housing  13132 . The biasing member  13136  can comprise a spring, and/or any suitable compressed elastic element, for example, which can be configured to apply a biasing force to the clips  13140 , or at least apply a biasing force to the top clip  13140  which is transmitted downwardly through the stack of clips  13140 . 
     When a clip  13140  is positioned against the support shelves  13135  as described above, the clip  13140  can be supported in a firing position in which the clip  13140  can be advanced and ejected from the cartridge  13130 . In various circumstances, the support shelves  13135  can define at least a portion of a firing chamber  13149  in which the clips  13140  can be sequentially positioned in the firing position. In some cases, the firing chamber  13149  can be entirely defined within the cartridge  13130  or, in other cases, the firing chamber  13149  can be defined within and/or between the shaft  13110  and the cartridge  13130 . In any event, as described in greater detail further below, the clip applier  13100  can comprise a firing drive which can advance a firing member into the cartridge  13130  and push the clip  13140  from its firing position positioned against the support shelves  13135  to a fired position in which it is received within the end effector  13120  of the clip applier  13100 . Referring primarily to  FIGS.  26 - 28   , the housing  13132  of the cartridge  13130  can comprise a proximal opening, or window,  13133  which can be aligned, or at least substantially aligned, with the support shelves  13135  such that the firing member can enter into the cartridge  13130  through the proximal opening  13133  and advance a clip  13140  distally out of the cartridge  13130 . In at least one such embodiment, the housing  13132  can further comprise a distal, or discharge, opening, or window,  13137  which is also aligned with the support shelves  13135  such that the clip  13140  can be advanced, or fired, distally along a firing axis  13139  extending through the proximal opening  13133 , the firing chamber  13149 , and the distal opening  13137 , for example. 
     In order to advance a clip  13140  out of the cartridge  13130 , further to the above, the firing member of the firing drive can be advanced into to the cartridge housing  13132  and, in various circumstances, into the firing chamber  13149 . As disclosed in greater detail further below, the firing member can pass entirely through the cartridge  13130  in order to advance the clip  13140  into its fired position within the end effector  13120 . After the clip  13140  positioned in the firing chamber  13149  has been advanced distally by the firing member, as outlined above, the firing member can be retracted sufficiently such that the biasing member  13136  can position another clip  13140  against the support shelves  13135 . In various circumstances, the biasing member  13136  can bias a clip  13140  against the firing member while the firing member is positioned within the housing  13132 . Such a clip  13140  can be referred to as a queued clip. After the firing member has been sufficiently retracted and slid out from underneath the queued clip  13140 , the biasing member  13136  can then bias the clip  13140  against the support shelves  13135  where it is staged for the next stroke of the reciprocating firing member. Referring primarily to  FIGS.  18  and  26 - 28   , the cartridge  13130  can be configured to supply the clips  13140  to the firing chamber  13149  along a predetermined path, such as supply axis  13138 , for example. The supply axis  13138  can be transverse to the firing axis  13139  such that the clips  13140  are fed into the firing chamber  13149  in a direction which is different than the direction in which the firing member passes through the firing chamber  13149 . In at least one such embodiment, the supply axis  13138  can be perpendicular, or at least substantially perpendicular, to the firing axis  13139 , for example. 
     Referring again to  FIG.  18   , the shaft  13110  can comprise a cartridge, or magazine, aperture  13131  which can be sized and configured to receive a clip cartridge  13130 , for example, therein. The cartridge aperture  13131  can be sized and configured such that the housing  13132  of the cartridge  13130  is closely received within the cartridge aperture  13131 . The sidewalls which define the cartridge aperture  13131  can limit, or at least substantially limit, the lateral movement of the cartridge  13130  relative to the shaft  13110 . The shaft  13110  and/or the cartridge  13130  can further comprise one or more locks which can be configured to releasably hold the cartridge  13130  in the cartridge aperture  13131 . As illustrated in  FIG.  18   , the cartridge  13130  can be loaded into the cartridge aperture  13131  along an axis which is, in at least one embodiment, parallel to or collinear with the supply axis  13138 . As also illustrated in  FIG.  18   , the shaft  13110  can further comprise a pad or seat  13118  extending from the sidewall  13111  of the shaft  13110  wherein the pad  13118  can be configured to be received within and/or engaged with the housing  13132  of the cartridge  13130 . The pad  13118  can be sized and configured to be closely received within a recess  13148  defined in the cartridge housing such that the pad  13118  can limit, or at least substantially limit, the lateral movement of the cartridge  13130  relative to the shaft  13110 . The pad  13118  can be sized and configured to align the cartridge  13130  within the shaft  13110  and/or support the cartridge housing  13132 . 
     Once the clip cartridge  13130  has been positioned and seated within the shaft aperture  13131 , referring now to  FIGS.  21  and  22   , a firing drive  13160  of the clip applier  13100  can be actuated to advance the clips  13140  from the clip cartridge  13130  as described above. The firing drive  13160  can comprise a rotary drive input such as a drive screw  13161 , for example, and a displaceable firing nut  13163  operably engaged with the drive screw  13161 . The drive screw  13161  can comprise at least one drive thread  13162  which can be threadably engaged with a threaded aperture extending through the firing nut  13163 . In various embodiments, the clip applier  13100  can further include an electric motor, for example, operably coupled with the drive screw  13161 . In various instances, the drive screw  13161  can be operably coupled with the motor of a surgical instrument system comprising a hand-held instrument or a robotic arm, for example. In any event, the movement of the firing nut  13163  within the shaft  13110  can be constrained such that the firing nut  13163  moves along a longitudinal axis  13164  when the drive screw  13161  is rotated about the longitudinal axis  13164  by the motor. For instance, when the drive screw  13161  is rotated in a first direction by the motor, the drive screw  13161  can advance the firing nut  13163  distally toward the end effector  13120 , as illustrated in  FIG.  22   . When the drive screw  13161  is rotated in a direction opposite the first direction by the motor, the drive screw  13161  can retract the firing nut  13163  proximally away from the end effector  13120 . The shaft  13110  can comprise one or more bearings which can be configured to rotatably support the drive screw  13161 . For instance, a bearing  13159  can be configured to rotatably support the distal end of the drive screw  13161 , for example, as illustrated in  FIGS.  21  and  22   . 
     The firing drive  13160  can further comprise a firing member  13165  extending from the firing nut  13163  which can be advanced distally and retracted proximally with the firing nut  13163 , as described in greater detail further below. Upon comparing  FIGS.  21  and  22   , the reader will note that the firing nut  13163  and the firing member  13165  have been advanced from a proximal, unfired position, illustrated in  FIG.  21   , to a distal, fired position, illustrated in  FIG.  22   , in which the firing member  13165  has advanced a clip  13140  from the clip cartridge  13130  into the end effector  13120 . Referring primarily to  FIG.  21   , the clip cartridge  13130  is illustrated as comprising a plurality of clips  13140  stored therein wherein one of the clips  13140  is positioned in a firing position, as described above. As illustrated in  FIGS.  21  and  22   , the firing member  13165  can include a distal portion  13166  which can be advanced into the staple cartridge  13130  along a firing axis  13167  and engage the clip  13140  positioned in the firing position when the firing member  13165  and the firing nut  13163  are advanced distally. In some cases, the firing member  13165  can comprise a linear member while, in other cases, the distal end  13166  of the firing member  13165  can extend upwardly from the firing member  13165 , for example. Further to the above, the firing member  13165  can advance the clip  13140  distally out of the clip cartridge  13130  along the firing axis  13167  and into a receiving cavity  13122  defined in the end effector  13120 . 
     In various cases, the firing member  13165  can be attached to and extend distally from the firing nut  13163  while, in other cases, the firing member  13165  and the firing nut  13163  can be operably connected to one another by a firing actuator  13168 . The firing actuator  13168  can be pivotably mounted to the firing member  13165  at a pivot  13169  and can include a distal arm  13170   a  and a proximal arm  13170   b  which can be engaged with a longitudinal slot  13113  defined in the housing  13112  of the shaft  13110 . In at least one such embodiment, each of the arms  13170   a ,  13170   b  can include a projection, such as projections  13171   a  and  13171   b , respectively, extending therefrom which can be configured to slide within the longitudinal slot  13113 . Further to the above, the firing nut  13163  can further include a firing pin  13172  extending therefrom which can be configured to engage the distal arm  13170   a  in order to advance the actuator  13168  and the firing member  13165  distally, as described above. In use, referring again to the progression illustrated in  FIGS.  21  and  22   , the firing nut  13163  can be advanced distally by the drive screw  13161  wherein the firing pin  13172 , which is positioned intermediate the distal arm  13170   a  and the proximal arm  13170   b , can contact the distal arm  13170   a  and drive the actuator  13168  and the firing member  13165  distally. As the actuator  13168  is advanced distally, the actuator  13168  may be prevented from rotating about the pivot pin  13169  as one or both of the projections  13171   a  and  13171   b  sliding in the shaft slot  13113  can be prevented from being moved laterally relative to the longitudinal shaft slot  13113  until the actuator  13168  reaches the position illustrated in  FIG.  22   . 
     Once a clip  13140  has been positioned within the receiving cavity  13122 , further to the above, the clip  13140  can be deformed by a crimping drive  13180 , for example. Referring now to  FIGS.  19  and  20   , the end effector  13120  of the clip applier  13100  can further comprise a first jaw  13123   a  and a second jaw  13123   b  wherein the first jaw  13123   a  and the second jaw  13123   b  can at least partially define the receiving chamber  13122 . As illustrated in  FIGS.  19  and  20   , the first jaw  13123   a  can comprise a first channel  13124   a  and the second jaw  13123   b  can comprise a second channel  13124   b  which can each be configured to receive and support at least a portion of a clip  13140  therein. The first jaw  13123   a  can be pivotably coupled to a frame  13111  of the shaft  13110  by a pin  13125   a  and the second jaw  13123   b  can be pivotably coupled to the frame  13111  by a pin  13125   b . In use, the crimping drive  13180  can be configured to rotate the first jaw  13123   a  toward the second jaw  13123   b  and/or rotate the second jaw  13123   b  toward the first jaw  13123   a  in order to compress the clip  13140  positioned therebetween. In at least one such embodiment, the crimping drive  13180  can comprise a cam actuator  13181  which can be configured to engage a first cam surface  13126   a  defined on the first jaw  13123   a  and a second cam surface  13126   b  on the second jaw  13123   b  in order to pivot the first jaw  13123   a  and the second jaw  13123   b  toward one another. The cam actuator  13181  can comprise a collar which at least partially surrounds the first jaw  13123   a  and the second jaw  13123   b . In at least one such embodiment, the collar can comprise an inner cam surface  13182  which can be contoured to contact the cam surfaces  13126   a ,  13126   b  of the jaws  13123   a ,  13123   b  and drive them inwardly toward one another. In various circumstances, the clip  13140  positioned within the receiving chamber  13122  defined in the end effector  13120  can be positioned relative to tissue before the crimping drive  13180  is actuated. In some circumstances, the crimping drive  13180  can be at least partially actuated prior to positioning the clip  13140  relative to the tissue in order to at least partially compress the clip  13140 . In certain instances, the clip  13140  and the receiving chamber  13122  can be sized and configured such that the clip  13140  can be biased or flexed inwardly when the end effector  13120  is in its unactuated state, as illustrated in  FIG.  19   . In various instances, the crimping first jaw  13123   a  and the second jaw  13123   b  can be actuated to elastically crimp and/or permanently crimp the clip  13140  positioned therebetween. 
     Further to the above, the firing nut  13163  can be configured to actuate the crimping drive  13180 . More particularly, referring now to  FIG.  23   , the crimping drive  13180  can comprise a crimping actuator  13188  operably coupled with the cam actuator  13181  wherein the crimping actuator  13188  can be selectively engaged by the firing nut  13163  as the firing nut  13163  is advanced distally as described above. In at least one such embodiment, the firing nut  13163  can further comprise a second firing pin, such as firing pin  13184 , for example, extending therefrom which can be configured to engage the crimping actuator  13188  as the firing nut  13163  is advancing the firing actuator  13168 . Referring again to  FIG.  23   , the crimping actuator  13188  is positioned in an unactuated position and, when the firing nut  13163  is advanced sufficiently to engage a distal arm  13190   a  of the crimping actuator  13188 , the firing nut  13163  can rotate the crimping actuator  13188  upwardly into an actuated position as illustrated in  FIG.  24   . As also illustrated in  FIG.  24   , the distal arm  13190   a  and a proximal arm  13190   b  can each comprise a projection, such as projections  13191   a  and  13191   b , respectively, extending therefrom which can be positioned within a second longitudinal slot defined in shaft  13110 , such as slot  13115 , for example. As the crimping actuator  13188  is rotated upwardly from its unactuated position about a pivot  13189 , the projections  13191   a  and  13191   b  can move from the proximal curved end  13116  of the longitudinal slot  13115  into a portion of the longitudinal slot  13115  which is substantially linear. Similar to the above, the sidewalls of the longitudinal slot  13115  can be configured to confine the movement of the crimping actuator  13188  along a longitudinal path and can be configured to limit or prevent the rotation of the crimping actuator  13188  once the crimping actuator  13188  has been rotated upwardly into an at least partially actuated position, as discussed above. As the reader will understand, the firing pin  13172  of the firing drive  13160  and the firing pin  13184  of the crimping drive  13180  both extend from the firing nut  13163 . For the sake of expediency and demonstration, the firing pins  13172  and  13184  are illustrated as extending from the same side of the firing nut  13163 ; however, it is envisioned that the firing pin  13172  can extend from a first lateral side of the firing nut  13163  while the firing pin  13184  can extend from the other lateral side of the firing nut  13163 . In such circumstances, the firing actuator  13168  can be positioned alongside the first lateral side of the drive screw  13161  and the crimping actuator  13188  can be positioned alongside the opposite lateral side of the drive screw  13161 . Correspondingly, the longitudinal slot  13113  can be defined in a first lateral side of the shaft housing  13112  while the longitudinal slot  13115  can be defined in the opposite lateral side of the shaft housing  13112 . 
     Further to the above, the cam actuator  13181  can be operably coupled with crimping actuator  13188  such that, when the crimping actuator  13188  is advanced distally by the firing nut  13163 , the cam actuator  13181  can be advanced distally, as illustrated in  FIG.  24   , until the distal projection  13191   a  extending from the distal arm  13190   a  reaches the distal end  13117  of the longitudinal slot  13115 . In such a distal position, the cam actuator  13181  may be in a fully advanced position and the clip  13140  positioned within the receiving chamber  13122  can be in a fully deformed or crimped configuration. Thereafter, the cam actuator  13181  can be retracted and the end effector  13120  can be reopened. More particularly, the drive screw  13161  can be rotated in an opposite direction in order to move the firing nut  13163  proximally and retract the cam actuator  13181  wherein, in certain instances, the end effector  13120  can further include a biasing member which can be configured to bias the first jaw  13123  and the second jaw  13123   b  from the closed, or fired, position illustrated in  FIG.  20    into the open, or unfired, position illustrated in  FIG.  19   . 
     The embodiments disclosed herein are configured for use with surgical suturing instruments and systems such as those disclosed in U.S. patent application Ser. No. 16/112,168, filed on Aug. 24, 2018, now U.S. Patent Application Publication No. 2019/0125336, entitled SURGICAL SUTURING INSTRUMENT COMPRISING A NON-CIRCULAR NEEDLE, U.S. patent application Ser. No. 13/832,786, now U.S. Pat. No. 9,398,905, entitled CIRCULAR NEEDLE APPLIER WITH OFFSET NEEDLE AND CARRIER TRACKS; U.S. patent application Ser. No. 14/721,244, now U.S. Patent Application Publication No. 2016/0345958, entitled SURGICAL NEEDLE WITH RECESSED FEATURES; and U.S. patent application Ser. No. 14/740,724, now U.S. Patent Application Publication No. 2016/0367243, entitled SUTURING INSTRUMENT WITH MOTORIZED NEEDLE DRIVE, which are incorporated by reference in their entireties herein. The embodiments discussed herein are also usable with the instruments, systems, and methods disclosed in U.S. patent application Ser. No. 15/908,021, entitled SURGICAL INSTRUMENT WITH REMOTE RELEASE, filed on Feb. 28, 2018, U.S. patent application Ser. No. 15/908,012, entitled SURGICAL INSTRUMENT HAVING DUAL ROTATABLE MEMBERS TO EFFECT DIFFERENT TYPES OF END EFFECTOR MOVEMENT, filed on Feb. 28, 2018, U.S. patent application Ser. No. 15/908,040, entitled SURGICAL INSTRUMENT WITH ROTARY DRIVE SELECTIVELY ACTUATING MULTIPLE END EFFECTOR FUNCTIONS, filed on Feb. 28, 2018, U.S. patent application Ser. No. 15/908,057, entitled SURGICAL INSTRUMENT WITH ROTARY DRIVE SELECTIVELY ACTUATING MULTIPLE END EFFECTOR FUNCTIONS, filed on Feb. 28, 2018, U.S. patent application Ser. No. 15/908,058, entitled SURGICAL INSTRUMENT WITH MODULAR POWER SOURCES, filed on Feb. 28, 2018, and U.S. patent application Ser. No. 15/908,143, entitled SURGICAL INSTRUMENT WITH SENSOR AND/OR CONTROL SYSTEMS, filed on Feb. 28, 2018, which are incorporated in their entireties herein. Generally, these surgical suturing instruments comprise, among other things, a shaft, an end effector attached to the shaft, and drive systems positioned within the shaft to transfer motion from a source motion to the end effector. The motion source can comprise a manually driven actuator, an electric motor, and/or a robotic surgical system. The end effector comprises a body portion, a needle track defined within the body portion, and a needle driver configured to drive a needle through a rotational firing stroke. The needle is configured to be guided through its rotational firing stroke within the body portion by the needle track. In various instances, the needle driver is similar to that of a ratchet system. In at least one instance, the needle driver is configured to drive the needle through a first half of the rotational firing stroke which places the needle in a hand-off position—a position where a tissue-puncturing end of the needle has passed through the target tissue and reentered the body portion of the end effector. At such point, the needle driver can be returned to its original position to pick up the tissue-puncturing end of the needle and drive the needle through a second half of its rotational firing stroke. Once the needle driver pulls the needle through the second half of its rotational firing stroke, the needle driver is then returned to its original unfired position to grab the needle for another rotational firing stroke. The drive systems can be driven by one or more motors and/or manual drive actuation systems. The needle comprises suturing material, such as thread, for example, attached thereto. The suturing material is configured to be pulled through tissue as the needle is advanced through its rotational firing stroke to seal the tissue and/or attached the tissue to another structure, for example. 
       FIGS.  29 - 33    depict a surgical suturing instrument  94000  configured to suture the tissue of a patient. The surgical suturing instrument  94000  comprises a handle  94100 , a shaft  94200  extending distally from the handle  94100 , and an end effector  94300  attached to the shaft  94200  by way of an articulation joint  94210 . The handle  94100  comprises a firing trigger  94110  configured to actuate a firing drive of the surgical suturing instrument  94000 , a first rotational actuator  94120  configured to articulate the end effector  94300  about an articulation axis AA defined by the articulation joint  94210 , and a second rotational actuator  94130  configured to rotate the end effector  94300  about a longitudinal axis LA defined by the end effector  94300 . The surgical suturing instrument  94000  further comprises a flush port  94140 . Examples of surgical suturing devices, systems, and methods are disclosed in U.S. patent application Ser. No. 13/832,786, now U.S. Pat. No. 9,398,905, entitled CIRCULAR NEEDLE APPLIER WITH OFFSET NEEDLE AND CARRIER TRACKS; U.S. patent application Ser. No. 14/721,244, now U.S. Patent Application Publication No. 2016/0345958, entitled SURGICAL NEEDLE WITH RECESSED FEATURES; and U.S. patent application Ser. No. 14/740,724, now U.S. Patent Application Publication No. 2016/0367243, entitled SUTURING INSTRUMENT WITH MOTORIZED NEEDLE DRIVE, which are incorporated by reference in their entireties herein. 
       FIG.  34    depicts a handle assembly  95200  that is operable for use a surgical suturing instrument. The handle assembly  95200  is connected to a proximal end of a shaft. The handle assembly  95200  includes a motor  95202  and a transmission assembly  95210 . The motor  95202  is configured to actuate a needle of a surgical suturing end effector by way of a needle driver, articulate the end effector, and rotate the end effector by way of the transmission assembly  95210 . The transmission assembly  95210  is shifted between three states by a double acting solenoid, for example, so as to allow the motor  95202  to be used to actuate a needle of a surgical suturing end effector, articulate the end effector, and/or rotate the end effector. In at least one embodiment, the handle assembly  95200  could take the form of a robotic interface or a housing comprising gears, pulleys, and/or servomechanisms, for example. Such an arrangement could be used with a robotic surgical system. 
       FIG.  35    depicts a suturing cartridge  93590  comprising a lower body  93581 , an upper body  93582 , and a needle cover  93583 . The cartridge  93590  further comprises a drive system comprising a needle driver  93586 , a rotary input  93594 , and a link  93585  connecting the needle driver  93586  and the rotary input  93594 . The needle driver  93586 , rotary input  93594 , and link  93585  are captured between the lower body  93581  and the upper body  93582 . The needle driver  93586 , the link  93585 , and the rotary input  93594  are configured to be actuated to drive a needle  93570  through a needle firing stroke by way of a motor-driven system, a manually-driven handheld system, and/or a robotic system, for example. The lower and upper bodies  93581 ,  93582  are attached to one another using any suitable technique, such as, for example, welds, pins, adhesives, and/or the like to form the cartridge body. The needle  93570  comprises a leading end  93571  configured to puncture tissue, a trailing end  93572 , and a length of suture  93573  extending from and attached to the trailing end  93572 . The needle  93570  is configured to rotate in a circular path defined by a needle track  93584 . The needle track  93584  is defined in the cartridge body. The needle  93570  is configured to exit one of a first arm  95393 A and a second arm  95393 B of the cartridge body and enter the other of the first arm  95393 A and the second arm  95393 B during a needle firing stroke. Recessed features  93574  are provided to so that the needle driver  93586  can engage and drive the needle  93570  through the needle firing stroke in a ratchet-like motion. The needle  93570  is positioned between the needle track  93584  and the needle cover  93583 . The suturing cartridge  93590  further comprises a cage  93587  that is configured to slide over the cartridge body to attach the needle cover  93583  to the lower body  93581 . 
     Various aspects of the subject matter described herein are set out in the following examples. 
     EXAMPLE SET 1 
     Example 1. A surgical device for applying clips, wherein the surgical device comprises an elongate shaft extending from a housing, an end effector extending from the elongate shaft, a cartridge, a crimping drive, an RFID tag comprising stored data, an RFID scanner configured to send an interrogation signal to the RFID tag and receive a first signal from the RFID tag in response to the interrogation signal, and a controller in communication with the RFID scanner. The end effector comprises a first jaw and a second jaw, wherein the first jaw and the second jaw are movable relative to each other between an open position and a closed position. The cartridge comprises a storage chamber and a plurality of clips removably positioned within the storage chamber. The crimping drive is configured to move the first jaw and the second jaw to the closed position during a crimping stroke, wherein one of the plurality of clips is crimped around tissue of a patient during the crimping stroke. The stored data on the RFID tag relates to an identifying characteristic of at least one of the plurality of clips within the cartridge. The first signal comprises the stored data on the RFID tag. The controller is configured to compare the stored data received by the RFID scanner to a set of compatibility data stored in a memory of the controller and vary an operational parameter of the surgical device based on the stored data received by the RFID scanner. 
     Example 2. The surgical device of Example 1, wherein the controller is further configured to permit the surgical device to perform the crimping stroke using the varied operational parameter when the controller determines the cartridge is compatible for use with the surgical device. 
     Example 3. The surgical device of Example 1 or 2, wherein the controller is further configured to prevent the surgical device from performing the crimping stroke when the controller is unable to recognize the cartridge as compatible for use with the surgical device. 
     Example 4. The surgical device of any one of Examples 1-3, wherein the controller is configured to vary the operational parameter of the surgical device based on the stored data received by the RFID scanner and the set of compatibility data stored in the memory. 
     Example 5. The surgical device of any one of Examples 1-4, wherein the stored data on the RFID tag comprises a number of clips contained within the cartridge. 
     Example 6. The surgical device of any one of Examples 1-5, wherein the stored data on the RFID tag comprises a type of material of which the plurality of clips within the cartridge are comprised. 
     Example 7. The surgical device of any one of Examples 1-6, wherein the stored data on the RFID tag comprises a size of the plurality of clips positioned within the cartridge. 
     Example 8. The surgical device of any one of Examples 1-7, wherein the operating parameter is a maximum load threshold. 
     Example 9. The surgical device of any one of Examples 1-7, wherein the operating parameter is a lockout load threshold, wherein the controller prevents the surgical device from performing the crimping stroke if the lockout load threshold is exceeded. 
     Example 10. The surgical device of any one of Examples 1-9, further comprising an electric motor and a power source, wherein the power source supplies power to the electric motor, and wherein the controller is configured to vary the power supplied to the electric motor based on the stored data received by the RFID scanner. 
     Example 11. The surgical device of any one of Examples 1-10, wherein the RFID tag is positioned on the cartridge. 
     Example 12. The surgical device of any one of Examples 1-10, wherein the RFID tag is positioned on one of the plurality of clips. 
     Example 13. The surgical device of Example 12, wherein the RFID tag is positioned on a portion of the clip that does not bend during the crimping stroke. 
     Example 14. A surgical device for applying clips, wherein the surgical device comprises an elongate shaft extending from a housing, an end effector extending from the elongate shaft, a clip comprising an RFID tag, a crimping drive, an RFID scanner, and a controller in communication with the RFID scanner. The end effector comprises a first jaw and a second jaw, wherein the first jaw is movable relative to the second jaw between an open position and a closed position. The RFID tag comprises stored data, wherein the stored data on the RFID tag is representative of the clip. The crimping drive is configured to move the first jaw and the second jaw to the closed position during a crimping stroke, wherein the clip is crimped around tissue of a patient during the crimping stroke. The RFID scanner is configured to receive the stored data on the RFID tag. The controller is configured to determine if the clip is compatible for use with the surgical device by comparing the stored data received by the RFID scanner to a set of compatibility data, permit the surgical device to perform a function when the controller determines the clip is compatible for use with the surgical device, and prevent the surgical device from performing the function when the controller determines the clip is incompatible for use with the surgical device. 
     Example 15. The surgical device of Example 14, wherein the controller determines the clip is incompatible for use with the surgical device when the stored data received by the RFID scanner is not found within the set of compatibility data. 
     Example 16. The surgical device of Examples 14 or 15, wherein the controller determines the clip is incompatible for use with the surgical device when the RFID scanner fails to receive the stored data the RFID tag. 
     Example 17. The surgical device of any one of Examples 14-16, further comprising an electric motor and a power source, wherein the power source is configured to supply power to the electric motor, and wherein the controller is configured to vary an operating condition of the electric motor based on the stored data received from the RFID tag. 
     Example 18. The surgical device of any one of Examples 14-17, wherein the RFID tag is positioned on a portion of the clip that is not bent during the crimping stroke. 
     Example 19. The surgical device of any one of Examples 14-17, wherein the clip comprises an inner surface and an outer surface, wherein the inner surface is in contact with the tissue of the patient after the crimping stroke, and wherein the RFID tag is positioned on the outer surface of the clip. 
     Example 20. A surgical device for applying clips, wherein the surgical device comprises an elongate shaft extending from a housing, an end effector extending from the elongate shaft, a cartridge, a crimping drive, an RFID tag comprising stored data, an RFID scanner configured to communicate with the RFID tag, and a controller in communication with the RFID scanner. The end effector comprises a first jaw and a second jaw, wherein the first jaw and the second jaw are movable relative to each other between an open position and a closed position. The cartridge comprises a storage chamber and a plurality of clips removably positioned within the storage chamber. The crimping drive is configured to move the first jaw and the second jaw to the closed position during a crimping stroke, wherein one of the plurality of clips is crimped around tissue of a patient during the crimping stroke. The stored data on the RFID tag relates to an identifying characteristic of the plurality of clips within the cartridge. The RFID scanner is configured to receive the stored data from the RFID tag. The controller is configured to compare the stored data received by the RFID scanner to a set of authenticity data, permit the surgical device to perform the crimping stroke when the controller determines that the plurality of clips are authentic, and prevent the surgical device from performing the crimping stroke when the controller determines that the plurality of clips are inauthentic. 
     EXAMPLE SET 2 
     Example 1. A surgical suturing system comprising an elongate shaft, a firing drive, an end effector extending distally from the elongate shaft, wherein the end effector comprises a needle track and a replaceable needle guided by the needle track and actuated by the firing drive through a firing stroke, wherein the replaceable needle comprises suturing material attached thereto and an RFID tag comprising stored data. The surgical suturing system further comprises an RFID scanner, wherein the RFID scanner receives a signal from the RFID tag comprising the stored data, and wherein the signal is indicative of the stored data. The surgical suturing system further comprises a controller in communication with the RFID scanner, wherein the controller is configured to determine compatibility between the replaceable needle and the surgical suturing system based on the stored data received by the RFID scanner and prevent the surgical suturing system from performing the firing stroke when the replaceable needle is incompatible with the surgical suturing system. 
     Example 2. The surgical suturing system of Example 1, wherein the controller is further configured to prevent the surgical suturing system from performing the firing stroke when the RFID scanner fails to receive the signal from the RFID tag. 
     Example 3. The surgical suturing system of Examples 1 or 2, wherein the RFID scanner comprises reading capabilities and writing capabilities. 
     Example 4. The surgical suturing system of any one of Examples 1-3, wherein the RFID tag is positioned on the replaceable needle. 
     Example 5. The surgical suturing system of any one of Examples 1-3, wherein the RFID tag is positioned on the suturing material. 
     Example 6. The surgical suturing system of any one of Examples 1-5, wherein the RFID tag comprises an integrated battery. 
     Example 7. The surgical suturing system of Example 6, wherein the replaceable needle is stored in a packaging prior to being attached to the surgical suturing system, wherein the packaging comprises a first layer and a second layer, wherein the first layer and the second layer form a seal around the replaceable needle, and wherein the RFID tag is positioned on the packaging. 
     Example 8. The surgical suturing system of Example 7, further comprising an insulator attached to the second layer which electrically decouples the integrated battery from the RFID tag, wherein the RFID tag is attached to the first layer of the packaging, wherein the insulator detaches from the integrated battery when the first layer is removed from the second layer, and wherein the RFID tag becomes active and transmits the stored data when the insulator is detached from the integrated battery. 
     Example 9. A surgical device for applying clips, wherein the surgical device comprises an elongate shaft extending from a housing, an end effector extending from the elongate shaft, a cartridge, a crimping drive, an RFID tag comprising a first set of information, an RFID scanner configured to receive a first signal from the RFID tag, and a controller in communication with the RFID scanner. The end effector comprises a first jaw and a second jaw, wherein the first jaw and the second jaw are movable relative to each other between an open position and a closed position. The cartridge comprises a storage chamber and a plurality of clips removably positioned within the storage chamber. The crimping drive is configured to move the first jaw and the second jaw to the closed position during a crimping stroke, wherein one of the plurality of clips is crimped around tissue of a patient during the crimping stroke. The first set of information corresponds to the cartridge. The first signal comprises the first set of information. The controller is configured to determine if the cartridge is compatible with the surgical device by comparing the first set of information received by the RFID scanner to a set of compatibility data stored in a memory of the controller, permit the surgical device to perform the crimping stroke when the controller determines the cartridge is compatible for use with the surgical device, prevent the surgical device from performing the crimping stroke when the controller is unable to recognize the cartridge as compatible for use with the surgical device, and prevent the surgical device from performing the crimping stroke when the RFID scanner does not receive the first signal. 
     Example 10. The surgical device of Example 9, wherein the RFID tag is positioned on the cartridge. 
     Example 11. The surgical device of Example 9, wherein the RFID tag is positioned on a first clip from the plurality of clips and a second RFID tag is positioned on a second clip from the plurality of clips, and wherein the second RFID tag comprises a second set of information. 
     Example 12. The surgical device of Example 11, wherein the controller is configured to prevent the crimping stroke when the RFID scanner receives the first signal from the RFID tag and a second signal from the second RFID tag. 
     Example 13. The surgical device of Example 11, wherein the RFID scanner comprises a communication range, wherein the RFID scanner can only communicate with RFID tags positioned within the communication range, and wherein the controller is configured to prevent the crimping stroke if the RFID scanner receives signals from more than one RFID tag. 
     Example 14. The surgical device of any one of Examples 9-13, further comprising an electric motor and a power source, wherein the power source is configured to supply power to the electric motor, and wherein the controller is configured to vary an operating parameter of the electric motor based on the first set of information received by the RFID scanner. 
     Example 15. A surgical stapling system comprising a surgical instrument, a replaceable component assembly, an RFID scanner comprising a communication range, and a controller in communication with the RFID scanner. The surgical instrument comprises an elongate shaft, an end effector extending from the elongate shaft, wherein the end effector comprises a first jaw and a second jaw, and a staple cartridge replaceably seated in the second jaw, wherein the staple cartridge comprises a cartridge body comprising a cartridge deck and staples removably positioned in the cartridge body. The replaceable component assembly comprises a mounting member, a replaceable component configured to be positioned on the cartridge deck of the staple cartridge, wherein the replaceable component is supported on the mounting member as the replaceable component is being attached to the cartridge deck, and an RFID tag comprising a first set of data. The RFID scanner is configured to transmit a first signal to the RFID tag and receive a second signal from the RFID tag as the replaceable component is brought within the communication range, wherein the second signal comprises the first set of data. The controller comprises a memory comprising a second set of data, wherein the controller is configured to determine if the replaceable component is compatible with the surgical instrument by comparing the first set of data received by the RFID scanner to the second set of data stored in the memory of the controller, permit the surgical instrument to perform a function when the controller determines the replaceable component is compatible for use with the surgical instrument, prevent the surgical instrument from performing the function when the controller is unable to recognize the replaceable component as compatible for use with the surgical instrument, and prevent the surgical instrument from performing the function when the RFID scanner does not receive the second signal in response to the first signal. 
     Example 16. The surgical stapling system of Example 15, wherein the mounting member comprises a back wall, wherein the RFID tag is positioned on the back wall, and wherein the RFID scanner is positioned on a distal end of the end effector. 
     Example 17. The surgical stapling system of Example 16, wherein the RFID tag is in the communication range of the RFID scanner when the end effector and the replaceable component are aligned. 
     Example 18. The surgical stapling system of any one of Examples 15-17, wherein the function comprises a staple firing stroke. 
     Example 19. The surgical stapling system of any one of Examples 15-18, wherein the replaceable component comprises a tissue thickness compensator. 
     Example 20. The surgical stapling system of any one of Examples 15-19, further comprising an electric motor and a power source configured to supply power to the electric motor, wherein the controller is configured to vary an operating parameter of the electric motor based on the first set of data received by the RFID scanner. 
     While several forms have been illustrated and described, it is not the intention of the applicant to restrict or limit the scope of the appended claims to such detail. Numerous modifications, variations, changes, substitutions, combinations, and equivalents to those forms may be implemented and will occur to those skilled in the art without departing from the scope of the present disclosure. Moreover, the structure of each element associated with the described forms can be alternatively described as a means for providing the function performed by the element. Also, where materials are disclosed for certain components, other materials may be used. It is therefore to be understood that the foregoing description and the appended claims are intended to cover all such modifications, combinations, and variations as falling within the scope of the disclosed forms. The appended claims are intended to cover all such modifications, variations, changes, substitutions, modifications, and equivalents. 
     The foregoing detailed description has set forth various forms of the devices and/or processes via the use of block diagrams, flowcharts, and/or examples. Insofar as such block diagrams, flowcharts, and/or examples contain one or more functions and/or operations, it will be understood by those within the art that each function and/or operation within such block diagrams, flowcharts, and/or examples can be implemented, individually and/or collectively, by a wide range of hardware, software, firmware, or virtually any combination thereof. Those skilled in the art will recognize that some aspects of the forms disclosed herein, in whole or in part, can be equivalently implemented in integrated circuits, as one or more computer programs running on one or more computers (e.g., as one or more programs running on one or more computer systems), as one or more programs running on one or more processors (e.g., as one or more programs running on one or more microprocessors), as firmware, or as virtually any combination thereof, and that designing the circuitry and/or writing the code for the software and or firmware would be well within the skill of one of skill in the art in light of this disclosure. In addition, those skilled in the art will appreciate that the mechanisms of the subject matter described herein are capable of being distributed as one or more program products in a variety of forms, and that an illustrative form of the subject matter described herein applies regardless of the particular type of signal bearing medium used to actually carry out the distribution. 
     Instructions used to program logic to perform various disclosed aspects can be stored within a memory in the system, such as dynamic random access memory (DRAM), cache, flash memory, or other storage. Furthermore, the instructions can be distributed via a network or by way of other computer readable media. Thus a machine-readable medium may include any mechanism for storing or transmitting information in a form readable by a machine (e.g., a computer), but is not limited to, floppy diskettes, optical disks, compact disc, read-only memory (CD-ROMs), and magneto-optical disks, read-only memory (ROMs), random access memory (RAM), erasable programmable read-only memory (EPROM), electrically erasable programmable read-only memory (EEPROM), magnetic or optical cards, flash memory, or a tangible, machine-readable storage used in the transmission of information over the Internet via electrical, optical, acoustical or other forms of propagated signals (e.g., carrier waves, infrared signals, digital signals, etc.). Accordingly, the non-transitory computer-readable medium includes any type of tangible machine-readable medium suitable for storing or transmitting electronic instructions or information in a form readable by a machine (e.g., a computer). 
     As used in any aspect herein, the term “control circuit” may refer to, for example, hardwired circuitry, programmable circuitry (e.g., a computer processor comprising one or more individual instruction processing cores, processing unit, processor, microcontroller, microcontroller unit, controller, digital signal processor (DSP), programmable logic device (PLD), programmable logic array (PLA), or field programmable gate array (FPGA)), state machine circuitry, firmware that stores instructions executed by programmable circuitry, and any combination thereof. The control circuit may, collectively or individually, be embodied as circuitry that forms part of a larger system, for example, an integrated circuit (IC), an application-specific integrated circuit (ASIC), a system on-chip (SoC), desktop computers, laptop computers, tablet computers, servers, smart phones, etc. Accordingly, as used herein “control circuit” includes, but is not limited to, electrical circuitry having at least one discrete electrical circuit, electrical circuitry having at least one integrated circuit, electrical circuitry having at least one application specific integrated circuit, electrical circuitry forming a general purpose computing device configured by a computer program (e.g., a general purpose computer configured by a computer program which at least partially carries out processes and/or devices described herein, or a microprocessor configured by a computer program which at least partially carries out processes and/or devices described herein), electrical circuitry forming a memory device (e.g., forms of random access memory), and/or electrical circuitry forming a communications device (e.g., a modem, communications switch, or optical-electrical equipment). Those having skill in the art will recognize that the subject matter described herein may be implemented in an analog or digital fashion or some combination thereof. 
     As used in any aspect herein, the term “logic” may refer to an app, software, firmware and/or circuitry configured to perform any of the aforementioned operations. Software may be embodied as a software package, code, instructions, instruction sets and/or data recorded on non-transitory computer readable storage medium. Firmware may be embodied as code, instructions or instruction sets and/or data that are hard-coded (e.g., nonvolatile) in memory devices. 
     As used in any aspect herein, the terms “component,” “system,” “module” and the like can refer to a computer-related entity, either hardware, a combination of hardware and software, software, or software in execution. 
     As used in any aspect herein, an “algorithm” refers to a self-consistent sequence of steps leading to a desired result, where a “step” refers to a manipulation of physical quantities and/or logic states which may, though need not necessarily, take the form of electrical or magnetic signals capable of being stored, transferred, combined, compared, and otherwise manipulated. It is common usage to refer to these signals as bits, values, elements, symbols, characters, terms, numbers, or the like. These and similar terms may be associated with the appropriate physical quantities and are merely convenient labels applied to these quantities and/or states. 
     A network may include a packet switched network. The communication devices may be capable of communicating with each other using a selected packet switched network communications protocol. One example communications protocol may include an Ethernet communications protocol which may be capable permitting communication using a Transmission Control Protocol/Internet Protocol (TCP/IP). The Ethernet protocol may comply or be compatible with the Ethernet standard published by the Institute of Electrical and Electronics Engineers (IEEE) titled “IEEE 802.3 Standard”, published in December, 2008 and/or later versions of this standard. Alternatively or additionally, the communication devices may be capable of communicating with each other using an X.25 communications protocol. The X.25 communications protocol may comply or be compatible with a standard promulgated by the International Telecommunication Union-Telecommunication Standardization Sector (ITU-T). Alternatively or additionally, the communication devices may be capable of communicating with each other using a frame relay communications protocol. The frame relay communications protocol may comply or be compatible with a standard promulgated by Consultative Committee for International Telegraph and Telephone (CCITT) and/or the American National Standards Institute (ANSI). Alternatively or additionally, the transceivers may be capable of communicating with each other using an Asynchronous Transfer Mode (ATM) communications protocol. The ATM communications protocol may comply or be compatible with an ATM standard published by the ATM Forum titled “ATM-MPLS Network Interworking 2.0” published August 2001, and/or later versions of this standard. Of course, different and/or after-developed connection-oriented network communication protocols are equally contemplated herein. 
     In various aspects, a microcontroller of control circuit in accordance with the present disclosure may be any single-core or multicore processor such as those known under the trade name ARM Cortex by Texas Instruments. In one aspect, the main microcontroller  461  may be an LM4F230H5QR ARM Cortex-M4F Processor Core, available from Texas Instruments, for example, comprising an on-chip memory of 256 KB single-cycle flash memory, or other nonvolatile memory, up to 40 MHz, a prefetch buffer to improve performance above 40 MHz, a 32 KB single-cycle SRAM, and internal ROM loaded with StellarisWare® software, a 2 KB EEPROM, one or more PWM modules, one or more QEI analogs, and/or one or more 12-bit ADCs with 12 analog input channels, details of which are available for the product datasheet. 
     Unless specifically stated otherwise as apparent from the foregoing disclosure, it is appreciated that, throughout the foregoing disclosure, discussions using terms such as “processing,” “computing,” “calculating,” “determining,” “displaying,” or the like, refer to the action and processes of a computer system, or similar electronic computing device, that manipulates and transforms data represented as physical (electronic) quantities within the computer system&#39;s registers and memories into other data similarly represented as physical quantities within the computer system memories or registers or other such information storage, transmission or display devices. 
     One or more components may be referred to herein as “configured to,” “configurable to,” “operable/operative to,” “adapted/adaptable,” “able to,” “conformable/conformed to,” etc. Those skilled in the art will recognize that “configured to” can generally encompass active-state components and/or inactive-state components and/or standby-state components, unless context requires otherwise. 
     The terms “proximal” and “distal” are used herein with reference to a clinician manipulating the housing portion of the surgical instrument. The term “proximal” refers to the portion closest to the clinician and the term “distal” refers to the portion located away from the clinician. It will be further appreciated that, for convenience and clarity, spatial terms such as “vertical”, “horizontal”, “up”, and “down” may be used herein with respect to the drawings. However, surgical instruments are used in many orientations and positions, and these terms are not intended to be limiting and/or absolute. 
     Those skilled in the art will recognize that, in general, terms used herein, and especially in the appended claims (e.g., bodies of the appended claims) are generally intended as “open” terms (e.g., the term “including” should be interpreted as “including but not limited to,” the term “having” should be interpreted as “having at least,” the term “includes” should be interpreted as “includes but is not limited to,” etc.). It will be further understood by those within the art that if a specific number of an introduced claim recitation is intended, such an intent will be explicitly recited in the claim, and in the absence of such recitation no such intent is present. For example, as an aid to understanding, the following appended claims may contain usage of the introductory phrases “at least one” and “one or more” to introduce claim recitations. However, the use of such phrases should not be construed to imply that the introduction of a claim recitation by the indefinite articles “a” or “an” limits any particular claim containing such introduced claim recitation to claims containing only one such recitation, even when the same claim includes the introductory phrases “one or more” or “at least one” and indefinite articles such as “a” or “an” (e.g., “a” and/or “an” should typically be interpreted to mean “at least one” or “one or more”); the same holds true for the use of definite articles used to introduce claim recitations. 
     In addition, even if a specific number of an introduced claim recitation is explicitly recited, those skilled in the art will recognize that such recitation should typically be interpreted to mean at least the recited number (e.g., the bare recitation of “two recitations,” without other modifiers, typically means at least two recitations, or two or more recitations). Furthermore, in those instances where a convention analogous to “at least one of A, B, and C, etc.” is used, in general such a construction is intended in the sense one having skill in the art would understand the convention (e.g., “a system having at least one of A, B, and C” would include but not be limited to systems that have A alone, B alone, C alone, A and B together, A and C together, B and C together, and/or A, B, and C together, etc.). In those instances where a convention analogous to “at least one of A, B, or C, etc.” is used, in general such a construction is intended in the sense one having skill in the art would understand the convention (e.g., “a system having at least one of A, B, or C” would include but not be limited to systems that have A alone, B alone, C alone, A and B together, A and C together, B and C together, and/or A, B, and C together, etc.). It will be further understood by those within the art that typically a disjunctive word and/or phrase presenting two or more alternative terms, whether in the description, claims, or drawings, should be understood to contemplate the possibilities of including one of the terms, either of the terms, or both terms unless context dictates otherwise. For example, the phrase “A or B” will be typically understood to include the possibilities of “A” or “B” or “A and B.” 
     With respect to the appended claims, those skilled in the art will appreciate that recited operations therein may generally be performed in any order. Also, although various operational flow diagrams are presented in a sequence(s), it should be understood that the various operations may be performed in other orders than those which are illustrated, or may be performed concurrently. Examples of such alternate orderings may include overlapping, interleaved, interrupted, reordered, incremental, preparatory, supplemental, simultaneous, reverse, or other variant orderings, unless context dictates otherwise. Furthermore, terms like “responsive to,” “related to,” or other past-tense adjectives are generally not intended to exclude such variants, unless context dictates otherwise. 
     It is worthy to note that any reference to “one aspect,” “an aspect,” “an exemplification,” “one exemplification,” and the like means that a particular feature, structure, or characteristic described in connection with the aspect is included in at least one aspect. Thus, appearances of the phrases “in one aspect,” “in an aspect,” “in an exemplification,” and “in one exemplification” in various places throughout the specification are not necessarily all referring to the same aspect. Furthermore, the particular features, structures or characteristics may be combined in any suitable manner in one or more aspects. 
     Any patent application, patent, non-patent publication, or other disclosure material referred to in this specification and/or listed in any Application Data Sheet is incorporated by reference herein, to the extent that the incorporated materials is not inconsistent herewith. As such, and to the extent necessary, the disclosure as explicitly set forth herein supersedes any conflicting material incorporated herein by reference. Any material, or portion thereof, that is said to be incorporated by reference herein, but which conflicts with existing definitions, statements, or other disclosure material set forth herein will only be incorporated to the extent that no conflict arises between that incorporated material and the existing disclosure material. 
     In summary, numerous benefits have been described which result from employing the concepts described herein. The foregoing description of the one or more forms has been presented for purposes of illustration and description. It is not intended to be exhaustive or limiting to the precise form disclosed. Modifications or variations are possible in light of the above teachings. The one or more forms were chosen and described in order to illustrate principles and practical application to thereby enable one of ordinary skill in the art to utilize the various forms and with various modifications as are suited to the particular use contemplated. It is intended that the claims submitted herewith define the overall scope.