Wireless, RF & Smart Dust

Research that includes:

  • Tuneable RF components: capacitors, inductors, transformers
  • RF microrelays
  • High frequency MEMS resonators: devices, structures, and processes

RTH41: Nanoresonator Interface Electronics

Peter (Jeng-Wen) Chen
2003

The output of nanoresonators is often in the form of small currents, in the range of nanoamperes. We will investigate methods to improve the extraction and amplification of these small signals, in the presence of feedthrough and other parasitic effects. With optimized sensing circuits, one can also investigate a variety of ideas utilizing nanoresonator structures. Currently on our list are: 1. Novel methods to minimize feedthrough in nanoresonator structures. 2. HF filters from mechanically-coupled nanoresonators 3. Demonstration of an associative memory from variable coupling of...

KSJP21: Algorithms for Position and Data Recovery in Wireless Sensor Networks

Lance Doherty
2004

The goal of this project is to guide the development of sensor network theory. In this growing field, it is important to intelligently design experiments that explore the capabilities and discover the limitations of data collection from sensor networks. We seek to design quantifiable measures of algorithmic performance, apposite terminology, and paradigmatic perspectives to aid in the development of an information theory.

Project end date: 08/18/04

KSJP25: Ultra-Low Power Radio for Sensor Networks

Alyosha Molnar
2004

Wireless sensor networks require cheap, very low power radios. We are exploring simple circuits in standard analog CMOS to provide this functionality. Although performance requirements are relatively easy, the transceiver should only consume on the order of 1mW. The challenge therefore is to provide relatively high transmitter efficiency even when radiating relatively little power, and to maintain a relatively selective, sensitive receiver while consuming as little current as possible. At a 1% duty cycle from a standard lithium-ion coin cell, this implies several years of operation...

APP61: Integrated Nano Mechanically-Regulated Atomic Clock: 3.4 GHz Resonator

James M. Porter Jr.
2004

Nano-scale piezoelectric resonators will be designed, fabricated and incorporated into an Integrated Nano Mechanically-Regulated Atomic Clock in order to reduce mass, size, and power consumption. This project focuses on the design and modeling of these resonators.

Project end date: 08/26/04

KSJP24: Ivy - A Sensor Network Infrastructure for the College of Engineering

Jaein Jeong
2004

IVY is a research infrastructure of networked sensors for the College of Engineering at UC Berkeley.

Project end date: 08/30/04

KSJP23: Steered Agile Laser Transmitter (SALT)

Matthew Last
2004

To develop steered narrow-beam optical communication devices capable of communicating wirelessly between cubic-millimeter autonomous sensing platforms.

Project end date: 01/20/05

APP36: GHz Nano-Mechanical Resonators

Brian Bircumshaw
2004

The objective of this project is to design, fabricate, and demonstrate Nano-Mechanical Resonators (NMRs) with GHz natural frequencies. The Radial Bulk Annular Resonator (RBAR), our newest concept, represents a breakthrough in NMR design. Unlike its contemporaries, the RBAR can be arbitrarily sized for any given frequency. This provides design flexibility and increases the mechanical Q of the RBAR. Most importantly, the arbitrary sizing of the RBAR means tremendous reductions in the device’s equivalent resistance, Req. This leads to drastically reduced insertion loss, lower power...

KSJP20: CMOS Imaging Receiver for Free-Space Optical Communication

Chinwuba D. Ezekwe
2004

A 256 element CMOS imaging receiver has been designed to receive low-power, free-space optical transmissions between unmanned aircraft, or other small, low power platforms, at a distance of several kilometers.

Project end date: 02/03/05

BEB16: Resonant Drive: Sense and High Voltage Electrostatic Drive Using Single MEMS Electrode

Baris Cagdaser
2004

A new technique for electrostatic drive and sense is developed. The main goal is to simplify the complexity of drive and sense circuitry. The new approach will alleviate the need for high voltage circuitry even in voltage demanding MEMS applications. Since only a single drive capacitor is needed for both drive and sense, resonant drive will also simplify the design of the physical device.

Project end date: 02/03/05

RTH44: Self-Healing RF MEMS Switch

Rishi Kant
2005

The objective of this project is to create an RF MEMS switch with the capability of self-healing in order to perform hot switching of large currents. Traditional electrostatic actuation is used for closing the switch. Liquid Gallium is used for making contact thus alleviating the problem of thermal and mechanical deformation due to hot switching. The liquid droplets are confined to a distinctive pattern by exploiting the different wetting affinities that gallium has to different materials. Thermally vaporized gallium is reclaimed during the closing of the switch. The benefits derived...