abstract in various embodiments, a staple cartridge for use in a surgical stapler is disclosed. the staple cartridge comprises a staple body comprising a proximal end and a distal end. A tissue thickness sensing module is positioned adjacent to the distal end of the staple body. the tissue thickness sensing module comprises a controller and a sensor. a power key is located removably adjacent to the staple body. the controller is configured to detect the power key and to maintain the tissue thickness sensing module in a low-power state while the power key is present. when the power key is removed, the controller transitions the tissue thickness sensing module to an active state. Abstract of the Patent Summary "Staple cartridge tissue thickness sensing system" In various embodiments, a staple cartridge for use in a surgical stapler is disclosed. the staple cartridge comprises a staple body comprising a proximal end and a distal end. a tissue thickness sensing module is positioned adjacent the distal end of the staple body. The tissue thickness detection module comprises a controller and a sensor. a power switch is removably located adjacent the staple body. The controller is configured to detect the power switch and to keep the tissue thickness sensing module in a low power state while the power switch is present. When the power switch is removed, the controller changes the tissue thickness detection module to an active state. 2/2abstract in various embodiments, a staple cartridge for use in a surgical stapler is disclosed. the staple cartridge comprises a staple body comprising a proximal end and a distal end. a tissue thickness sensing module is positioned adjacent to the distal end of the staple body. the tissue thickness sensing module comprises a controller and a sensor. a power key is located removably adjacent to the staple body. the controller is configured to detect the power key and to maintain the tissue thickness sensing module in a low-power state while t