Characteristic Performance Comparison of Schottky Diodes for RF Energy Harvesting

Abstract

Radio frequency energy harvesting is the process of capturing and converting ambient radio frequency (RF) waves into usable electrical energy. The basic principle behind RF energy harvesting involves the use of antenna for capturing the wave while the rectifier used to convert AC to DC. The diode is an important component of the rectifier circuit that influence the conversion efficiency of the rectifier circuit. HSMS2860 Schottky diode is chosen in analysing the diode performance based on power conversion efficiency (PCE). To verify diode performance, the diode I-V curve has been modelled using Advanced Design Systems (ADS) with a simple impedance matching network for the sub- 6GHz frequency band for 5G communication. The diode characterization is done in a mathematical model and a simulation model for a single series diode to test the PCE based on the output voltage. HSMS2860 showed the highest results of all diodes tested for both simulation and mathematical model except for low input power. The performance was tested further by a single-stage voltage doubler which shows a full-wave rectification and a PCE of 87%.