Dual-Band Resistance Compression Networks for Improved Rectifier Performance

In this work, the concept of dual-band resistance compression networks is introduced and applied to the design of rectifier circuits with improved performance. The use of resistance compression networks (RCNs) minimizes the sensitivity of rectifier circuits to variations in the surrounding environment, such as input power level and changes in the rectifier load. The proposed dual-band RCN can be used as the matching network located between the antenna and the rectifying element of a dual-band rectifier for energy harvesting applications. A dual-band (915 MHz/2.45 GHz) rectifier based on RCN is designed and characterized showing improved performance in comparison with a conventional dual-band envelope detector by exhibiting improved RF-dc conversion efficiency and reduced sensitivity versus output load and input power variations.