Ultra low-power techniques for sensor-enhanced RFID tags

Abstract

This paper gives an overview on current design techniques for ultra low-power applications in passive UHF RFID tags. Specialized sensor data acquisition methods are discussed as well as generic sensor interfaces and their building blocks. Analog to digital converters working in ranges of less than 100 fJ/conversion-step are presented which can be applied as data converters for generic interfaces. Example calculations and simulations on single circuits are made to prove operability at UHF RFID conditions of only several µA available at 1 V supply voltage.