A batteryless wireless system uses ambient heat with a reversible-power-source compatible CMOS/SOI DC-DC converter

Abstract

A 1mW, self-powered wireless system that utilizes ambient heat is described. A switched-capacitor DC-DC converter composed of fully-depleted SOI MOSFETs and a microthermoelectric module makes use of such heat possible. An experimental 300MHz band short-range wireless transmitter transmits from a distance of 5m using only heat from a hand or from water. The chip is fabricated in a 0.8/spl mu/m fully-depleted SOI process.