High-Efficiency RF-to-DC Rectifier for Low Power Levels Using Coplanar Waveguide Technology

This study presents a novel RF-to-DC rectifier design that leverages coplanar waveguide (CPW) technology to enhance efficiency, particularly at lower power levels. CPW technology is employed for its superior low-loss characteristics compared to traditional microstrip rectifiers, which often exhibit reduced efficiency at low power levels. The rectifier design features a low-loss Rogers RT5880 substrate for the CPW and microstrip sections. The rectification process utilizes the commercially available Schottky diode SMS7630-006LF from Skyworks Inc., known for its low series resistance. The CPW rectifier demonstrates an efficiency of approximately 46% at -15 dBm and 80.5% at 3 dBm, with an output voltage of 132 mV at -15 dBm. In addition, a comparative analysis is conducted between the CPW and microstrip rectifier sections, with the matching network implemented using microstrip technology. The results highlight the substantial efficiency improvement achieved with CPW technology, underscoring its potential for low-power applications.