- This technology will be useful for applications that do not require constant data transmission
- The chip targets a higher frequency radio signal than other wake-up receivers
Researchers at the University of California, San Diego have developed a power-saving chip called wake-up receiver that could that could reduce or eliminate the need to replace batteries in IoT devices and wearables. The chip is designed in such a way that it wakes up a device only when it needs to communicate and perform its function. During the rest of the time, the device stays dormant to reduce power needs.
The chips, for example, can be used in IoT devices to allow consumers to instantly order household items they are about to run out of. It can also be also be useful in wearable health monitors that only need to take a few readings each day says the research.
The wake-up receiver comes with an ultra-low-power chip that continuously searches for a specific radio signal called wake-up signature. The signal tells when to wake up the main device. It needs small amount of power to stay on and perform its task at 22.3 nanowatts. The research says this technology will be useful for applications that do not require constant data transmission.
Higher frequency radio signal
The design of the chip it targets a higher frequency radio signal than other wake-up receivers. The signals are in the frequency of nine gigahertz. By targeting the higher frequency, the antenna, transformer, and other off-chip components can shrink down says the research.
