A surgical device employs a longevity circuit for preventing operation after a specified time based on safe use expectations. The surgical device delivers a therapy signal via a handpiece having electrodes in proximity to the surgical site. The therapy signal is a high frequency electrical signal delivered from a generator coupled to the handpiece, and activated by a control signal. A therapy circuit established by coupling the handpiece and generator delivers the therapy signal, and is monitored for activation based on a time since a first activation, a number of activations, or an aggregate time of activated intervals. A usage limit defines the activation lifespan, and is employed for monitoring either the therapy circuit or the control circuit, to determine a usage history. Following expiration of a safe usage limit, a longevity circuit in the handpiece disables the handpiece for successive uses, and is independent of a connection to a particular generator.