KSJP25: Ultra-Low Power Radio for Sensor Networks

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 without replacing the battery.

Project end date: 08/23/04