Tips for caring for your CGM MiniLink transmitter

transmitter

If you're planning to not use your transmitter for a little while, it's important to remember to properly store your transmitter during that time in order to retain optimal battery life. This is a topic that not a lot of Medtronic customers have really thought about, so I touched base with my co-workers Kristin, a CGM Product Specialist, and Rob, a Customer Experience Driver from the 24-Hour HelpLine, to get their tips on some things to consider when storing your transmitter:

  • Always store the CGM MiniLink transmitter in the charger when you aren't using it.
  • Store the transmitter, charger and tester in a CLEAN, DRY location at room temperature.
  • Make sure you have a fully charged battery in your charger.
  • The charger uses AAA batteries.
  • The light on the charger will flash RED once every 2 seconds if the battery needs replacement.
  • A new AAA battery contains enough power to recharge the MiniLink more than 40 times.

Note: During infrequent usage, remove the transmitter from its charger for at least 1 minute every 1-2 months. So you don't forget, mark it somewhere on your calendar or set a reminder on your phone. 

Not sure where to store the transmitter and charger so it doesn't get lost? We've heard of folks storing their transmitters near their regularly used diabetes supplies (serters, strips, meter, etc.) in a drawer at home or at work, even in their backpack or purse in a side pocket. But the key is to store it in a place that is easy to find. I personally keep mine in my "diabetes drawer" in my bedroom along with all of my supplies. 

Tell us your tips for how to store their transmitter! Post in the comment section below or on our Facebook page. 

Ready to start using your CGM transmitter again? Depending on how long it's been, there are a few steps we recommend you take before connecting your transmitter to a new glucose sensor. 

First, make sure your transmitter is fully charged. This is important if you want your transmitter to last for the full 3 days of the sensor. If you're storing your transmitter on your charger this may not be an issue, but it can take up to 8 hours to charge a new or fully depleted transmitter. 

In fact, in between sensor changes (every 3 days), you should try and charge your transmitter 20 minutes or less before connecting to a new sensor. 

Now you're ready to go! 

For more information about how to care for your transmitter, including cleaning your device, visit the Customer Support section of our website

IMPORTANT SAFETY INFORMATION

- Medtronic Diabetes insulin infusion pumps, continuous glucose monitoring systems and associated components are limited to sale by or on the order of a physician and should only be used under the direction of a healthcare professional familiar with the risks associated with the use of these systems. - Successful operation of the insulin infusion pumps and/or continuous glucose monitoring systems requires adequate vision and hearing to recognize alerts and alarms.

Medtronic Diabetes Insulin Infusion Pumps

- Insulin pump therapy is not recommended for individuals who are unable or unwilling to perform a minimum of four blood glucose tests per day. - Insulin pumps use rapid-acting insulin. If your insulin delivery is interrupted for any reason, you must be prepared to replace the missed insulin immediately.

Medtronic Diabetes Continuous Glucose Monitoring (CGM) Systems

- The information provided by CGM systems is intended to supplement, not replace, blood glucose information obtained using a home glucose meter. A confirmatory fingerstick is required prior to treatment. - Insertion of a glucose sensor may cause bleeding or irritation at the insertion site. Consult a physician immediately if you experience significant pain or if you suspect that the site is infected.

 

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Submitted by Hildaivette Irizarry (not verified) on

In reply to by Commenter (not verified)

I nedd Diabetes for 16 years please information fpr Gluscose Monotirin and Pums I

Submitted by naomi.kingery@… on

In reply to by Hildaivette Irizarry (not verified)

Hi Hildaivette, thanks for reaching out. We have a team of people here who would love to help you explore your options. I’ll have someone reach out to you shortly. In the meantime, you can visit our website at http://www.medtronicdiabetes.com/treatment-and-products to learn more.

Submitted by Roger Wofford (not verified) on

In reply to by Commenter (not verified)

I once started having problems with the CGM MiniLink Transmitter. If you look at the end where it connects to the battery charger (you may need a light and magnifier to see) you will see 3 little pins sticking you. One of the pins was lower that the other. I took a small piece of wood (sliver from a tongue suppress) and use it the push the pin back up. The Transmitter started working again.

Submitted by Monica Short (not verified) on

In reply to by Commenter (not verified)

The information provided was interesting, but I've never actually "not use(d) my transmitter for a little while" since I've gotten it. I've never "stored" it. I charge it completely when I change it out, but that's not enough time to forget where I put it. Simply put, I can't live without the CGM so it's always with me!

Submitted by eric (not verified) on

In reply to by Commenter (not verified)

Hi there,
We use the transmitter intermittently. Now when we try to charge it all we get is a green a flashing green light for a few minutes, so far so and still have only the red blinking light.
Will the transmitter eventually if left alone for 8 -12 hours?
How can I test the battery to assess whether the battery cn be charged at all.
How do we tell if the transmitter is ble to be recovered and how do we tell wg=hen we qare successfull.
Thaanks....eric

Submitted by LOOP Blog Editorial on

In reply to by eric (not verified)

Hi Eric. We recommend recharging the transmitter after each sensor use. The charging time needed will depend on the usage. For example, after a 3 day use, charging time needed is less than 20 minutes. More than 14-day usage, charging time needed is less than 8 hours.

If a green light on the transmitter is lit or flashing, do not connect it to the charger. The transmitter will not charge with its green light on. Wait for the green light to turn off (approximately 30 seconds), then connect the transmitter to the charger by lining it up, flat side down, with the charger. Push the two components together fully. Within 10 seconds after the transmitter is connected, a green light on the charger will flash for 1-2 seconds as the charger powers on. For the rest of the charging time, the charger's green light will continue to flash in a pattern of 4 flashes with a pause between the 4 flashes. When charging is complete, the green light on the charger will stay on, without flashing, for 15-20 seconds and then turn off. After the green charger light turns off, disconnect the transmitter from the charger. The green light on the transmitter will flash for about 5 seconds and then turn off.

Please let me know if you still have questions, and I’d be more than happy to connect you with someone from my team who can help you further.

Submitted by Amy Lohrmann (not verified) on

In reply to by Commenter (not verified)

I was under the impression that the sensor is to be used for 6 days, not the 3 days mentioned in the article. It has always worked 6 days for me. Can you clarify this??

Submitted by naomi.kingery@… on

In reply to by Amy Lohrmann (not verified)

Amy, that’s a great question. The Sof-sensor is approved for 3 day use, and the Enlite sensor is approved for 6 day use. Hope that helps!

Submitted by Tracey (not verified) on

In reply to by Commenter (not verified)

Have a question. When I go to charge my minilink real time tranmitter on charger why does the exclamation mark blink red.

Submitted by naomi.kingery@… on

In reply to by Tracey (not verified)

Tracey, the light on your MiniLink charger will flash red once every 2 seconds if the AAA battery in the charger needs replacement. The light on the charger will quickly and repeatedly flash red over 2 second intervals if the MiniLink transmitter battery is depleted. If you’re still having issues after changing out the charger batteries and charging your MiniLink transmitter, please let me know and I’ll connect you with someone from my team who can further help you.

Submitted by Patricia Manion (not verified) on

In reply to by naomi.kingery@…

I am having the same problem. I had a new sensor shipped to me in 2015 and it remained in the box till a few days ago when a nurse told me I was wrong for using an old sensor. I put the transmitter on the charger and it blinked for a short time then went to 8 red blinks every two seconds. I think it's because the transmitter is depleted of any energy at all. I am going to keep it on charge for at least 8 hours or overnight and see what happens. Hopefully this is the right thing to do. I am so very upset with this. Mostly the fact that I did not know the transmitter expires after a short time and you need to have a new one. Please let me know if there is anything else I should be doing.
Thanks, Patti

Submitted by Karrie Hawbaker (not verified) on

In reply to by Patricia Manion (not verified)

Patricia, I'm sorry to hear this. I've asked for my team to reach out to you but it might take a bit of time. If you would like to talk to someone immediately please call our 24 HelpLine at 800-646-4633, option 1.

Submitted by Billy D. (not verified) on

In reply to by naomi.kingery@…

My MiniLink transmitter is charged yet wont light green when connected. I've wasted several sensors as a result-and don't know what to do.

Submitted by Karrie Hawbaker (not verified) on

In reply to by Billy D. (not verified)

We can certainly help with this, Billy. Our 24-Hour HelpLine is available to troubleshoot these types of issues. Give them a call at 800.646.4633 option #1. They will be able to go over the charging for your transmitter and possibly replace your sensors.

I have two transmitters and both are fully charged according to the charging base but neither will flash green on the actual transmitter itself when removed from the base. Therefore, I can't transmit any data. Can these be replaced/upgraded?

Courtney, I'm sure this is frustrating. Please reach out to our 24-Hour HelpLine to troubleshoot these concerns and discuss your options. You can reach our team at 800.646.4633, option 1.

Submitted by Robert Murphy (not verified) on

In reply to by Commenter (not verified)

I would like to know what you people are using to clean the shell of the transmitter. I use 3m micropore tape to help secure this device but it leaves an extremely sticky mess.

Submitted by naomi.kingery@… on

In reply to by Robert Murphy (not verified)

Hi Robert. Here are the steps to clean your transmitter. You can also find these in your transmitter user guide.
Please note that the transmitter charger and tester are not watertight, so do not immerse in water or any other cleaning agent. If liquid gets inside the black connector of the tester, shake the liquid out and allow to air dry.

1. Wash your hands thoroughly.
2. Attach the tester to the transmitter.
3. Dampen a clean cloth with mild liquid soap and warm water. Wipe the outside of the transmitter.
4. Rinse the transmitter under warm tap water.
5. Using an antibacterial hand-sanitizer (available at a local drugstore) on a clean, dry cloth, wipe the transmitter’s surface. Do not get any hand-sanitizer inside the tester opening or transmitter connector. Repeated exposure to hand-sanitizer could damage the connectors and affect the transmitter’s performance as a result. If you get hand-sanitizer inside the tester or connector, allow them to air dry.
6. Disconnect the tester from the transmitter.
7. Place the transmitter on a clean, dry cloth and air dry for 2–3 minutes

Please let me know if you have any other questions.

Submitted by Amy (not verified) on

In reply to by naomi.kingery@…

What tester?

Submitted by LOOP Blog Editorial on

In reply to by Amy (not verified)

Amy, there is a test plug that is shipped with CGM kits when a new transmitter is purchased. If you can't find yours, the 24-Hour HelpLine can offer assistance if needed.

Submitted by Janel A Lopez (not verified) on

In reply to by Commenter (not verified)

I inserted a brand new AAA battery into my transmitter charger but the exclamation light blinks after I insert the transmitter to charge. For the first couple of minutes the green light flashes, then the red light starts..what does this mean?

Submitted by naomi.kingery@… on

In reply to by Janel A Lopez (not verified)

Hi Janel. The red flashing light means the transmitter battery is very low. Leave the transmitter on the charger for 8 hours to completely recharge. If the red light is still flashing after 8 hours, leave your transmitter on the charger for 24 hours. Please let me know if you’re still having issues, or would like me to connect you with someone from my team to help.

Submitted by Brianna (not verified) on

In reply to by Commenter (not verified)

What if you replace the battery on enlite charger and it still keeps flashing red?

Submitted by naomi.kingery@… on

In reply to by Brianna (not verified)

Brianna, the flashing red lights could indicate your MiniLink battery is low. Leave it on the charger for 8 hours to recharge. If the red light is still flashing after 8 hours, please let me know and I will connect you with someone from my team. It may be time to replace your MiniLink.

Submitted by krystal (not verified) on

In reply to by Commenter (not verified)

Was wondering if i can shower with my transmitter on or do i have to diconnect it like a pump

Submitted by naomi.kingery@… on

In reply to by krystal (not verified)

Hi Krystal. Yes, you can shower (or swim) without removing your transmitter. When the transmitter and sensor are connected, they form a water tight seal to a depth of 8 feet for up to 30 minutes. Just a reminder, your MiniMed insulin pump is rated water resistant, but not waterproof, so be sure to disconnect from your pump before showering or swimming.

Submitted by Rachel (not verified) on

In reply to by Commenter (not verified)

Hi there,
I haven't used my transmitter in several years and I am trying to get back into the habit. According to the charger, the transmitter is fully charged (solid green light that turns off after 15-20 seconds), but when I unplug the transmitter from the charger, no light turns on. Similarly, it doesn't light up when I connect it to my sensor. Is the transmitter broken? I am unsure how to proceed.
Thanks.

Submitted by naomi.kingery@… on

In reply to by Rachel (not verified)

Hi Rachel. You can test the transmitter with the tester to make sure it’s still working. If the green light doesn’t flash after connecting to the tester, check the connection, and make sure your transmitter battery is fully recharged. If you still don’t see a green light flash, it may be time to replace your transmitter. I’ll have someone from my team connect with you to try and help.

Submitted by Holly Hearson (not verified) on

In reply to by naomi.kingery@…

My continuous monitors charging port keeps flashing red I have seen no green lights anywhere?

Submitted by LOOP Blog Editorial on

In reply to by Holly Hearson (not verified)

Holly, I’d like to connect you with a member of my team to talk this through with you. I’m going to share your information and someone will reach out soon. Please let me know if there is anything else I can do.

Submitted by Kels (not verified) on

In reply to by LOOP Blog Editorial

My transmitter will not connect to my insulin pump. It flashes 6 times when I connect to the port in my skin, but my pump will not connect. It just keeps telling me that it is searching and it will not pick it up. I use mine religiously and don't understand what is going on?

Submitted by Nicole (not verified) on

In reply to by Kels (not verified)

I'm sorry to hear this, Kels. If you're in the US, please give our 24-Hour Technical Support team a call at 800.646.4633 option #1. If you're outside the US, your local team can help and be found here: http://bit.ly/1ce3pEc

Submitted by Amy (not verified) on

In reply to by Commenter (not verified)

Hello, I have just started using the Mini Link Real Time Transmitter and I find it to be very uncomfortable. I have it inserted on my stomach and it seems to rub against my jeans and cause the area to be very sore. Is there a more comfortable spot? Are there several spots that can be used like the insulin pump?

Help please.

Amy

Submitted by LOOP Blog Editorial on

In reply to by Amy (not verified)

I’m sorry to hear you’re having discomfort with your sensor site. I’ll have a member of my team reach out to you to try to help. In the meantime, please visit our website for information on selecting the best sensor site here: http://www.medtronicdiabetes.com/customer-support/insertion-site-manage…

Submitted by Terry (not verified) on

In reply to by Commenter (not verified)

Is there a way of knowing the battery of the transmitter while in use? Does the pump show battery life of transmitter?

Submitted by LOOP Blog Editorial on

In reply to by Terry (not verified)

Terry, I'm looking into this and will get back to you as soon as I can. Thanks for your patience!

Submitted by LOOP Blog Editorial on

In reply to by LOOP Blog Editorial

Terry, while you're on the home screen of your insulin pump, you can press ESC twice. This will get you to the sensor status screen where you were see "Transmtr Batt." While it won't give specific details on the battery life, it will tell you if it's at a good level of battery life or not. We recommend charging the transmitter after each time it is worn.

Submitted by Harry (not verified) on

In reply to by Commenter (not verified)

How do you know when it's time to replace your transmitter? I started my transmitter on Nov.of 2014. I having a problem connecting to the pump.

Submitted by LOOP Blog Editorial on

In reply to by Harry (not verified)

Harry, transmitters have a one-year warranty. I will have someone follow up with you to discuss the issues you're having and potential next steps.

Submitted by Sophia Lucas (not verified) on

In reply to by Commenter (not verified)

I was having issues with my transmitter staying connected to my pump, so I was told to send it back and get a new one since my old was out of warranty! That has been over a month ago and I can't get anyone to talk to me regarding where's my replacement! I've left several messages! Ive been without my sensor for over a month! Please help!

Submitted by Karrie Hawbaker (not verified) on

In reply to by Sophia Lucas (not verified)

Hi Sophia - I do apologize if someone hasn't gotten in touch with you. We'd like to look into this for you. If you could please email us at dhelp@medtronic.com we will have someone follow-up.

Submitted by Robin (not verified) on

In reply to by Commenter (not verified)

What's the average charge time for a transmitter after 6 days of use?

Submitted by Robin (not verified) on

In reply to by Robin (not verified)

I have the 530G

Submitted by Stephen Heller (not verified) on

In reply to by Commenter (not verified)

Hello, I have not used my sensor in a little while. I am having problems with the charger and transmitter. I have placed two new AAA batteries in the charger and when I attempt to charge my transmitter, it blinks green for a few minutes and then switches to flashing red. anyone help me with this issue? Please. Again, each time I hook up the transmitter to charge it flashes or blinks green, then after a few minutes it switches to flashing red. Please help!

Submitted by Naomi Ruperto (not verified) on

In reply to by Stephen Heller (not verified)

I’m sorry to hear about your transmitter, Stephen. I understand that you were able to speak with a member of our 24-Hour HelpLine and we are now processing a new transmitter order for you. Your device specialist will be in touch with an update.

Submitted by Sandy (not verified) on

In reply to by Commenter (not verified)

I am having the same issues as everyone else here, I had a new transmitter kit that was never even opened put has been sitting, I went to use it fot the first time and put new battery in the charger and it flashes green for about 1 minute and then quick red blinking. I left on over night and then again all day and eventually the red light turns off but there in no green flashing of the transmitter and it does not work! I recently lost my old transmitter and was counting on this "brand new" one to work.

Submitted by Karrie Hawbaker (not verified) on

In reply to by Sandy (not verified)

I'm sorry to hear this, Sandy. I'd like to see if we can help, either by troubleshooting your transmitter or getting a replacement for you. If you haven't already, please give us a call at 800.646.4633, option 1 and a teammate will be happy to help.

Submitted by Sandy (not verified) on

In reply to by Karrie Hawbaker (not verified)

Hello Karrie,
Is there a way I can email you instead of calling, I have a problem speaking and am very hard to understand. If I can email you direct and communicate with you that way it would be helpful. Thank you!

Submitted by Karrie Hawbaker (not verified) on

In reply to by Sandy (not verified)

Sandy, troubleshooting needs to be done over the phone to ensure we are staying within FDA guidelines. Please know our teammates are extremely patient and can take as much time as needed. When you're ready, please send us an email and we'll get you connected.


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