A Wide-PCE-Dynamic-Range CMOS Cross-Coupled Differential-Drive Rectifier for Ambient RF Energy Harvesting

This Brief reports a cross-coupled differential-drive (CCDD) rectifier with a wide dynamic range (DR) in its power conversion efficiency (PCE). Specifically, it features a self-body-biasing technique to reduce the forward Vth, along with the diode-connected MOSFETs to stem the reverse-leakage current while improving the forward current. The merits of our CCDD rectifier are exemplified via two input-capacitor-coupling configurations: shared-capacitor coupling (SCC) and individual-capacitor coupling (ICC). Fabricated in 0.13-mu m CMOS, the SCC-CCDD and ICC-CCDD measure a DR of 13 and 14.5 dB, respectively, for a PCE >40%. Alternatively, the SCC-CCDD exhibits a peak PCE of 83.7% with a sensitivity of -19.2 dBm at 1 V, whereas the ICC-CCDD shows a peak PCE of 80.3% with a sensitivity of -18.7 dBm.

Automated summary

This study presents a cross-coupled differential-drive rectifier with a wide dynamic range and power conversion efficiency, achieved through self-body-biasing technique and diode-connected MOSFETs. The rectifier shows promising results with shared-capacitor coupling and individual-capacitor coupling configurations in CMOS fabrication, demonstrating high PCE and DR.