A Lightweight Analog RFID Front-End for Interfacing Sensors

Radio Frequency Identification (RFID) is a technology that enables an item to be identified through the use of wireless communication. Here, we propose using it to enhance the capabilities of conventional sensors, allowing them to be easily identified and read without contact. In addition, the RFID system may be used to power the sensor, eliminating the need for a battery or power supply. The proposed front-end is fully analog and includes as key elements a rectifier, a regulator, a VCO, and a modulator. The designed front-end has been manufactured with a 65 nm commercial technology, it occupies $0.0157 {~mm}^{2}$ and consumes only 22.4 nW.