Linear-in-dB Logarithmic Signal Strength Sensor Circuit for Wireless Power Transfer Receivers

Tracking systems for wireless power transfer are becoming a necessity. The received target signals are sometimes weak, which is why it is critical to have a dedicated received-signal-strength indicator (RSSI) for signal detection. It can also be used for transmitter localization and automatic gain control (AGC) to ensure continuous coverage. In this paper, a logarithmic detector coupled with a high-speed full-wave rectifier is designed for an RSSI system. The aim is to place the RSSI on the receiver side of unmanned aerial vehicles used, for example, as agricultural drones. This system is intended to operate in a scenario where multiple drones in a smart farm are charged wirelessly whilst airborne. An RSSI is placed in the receiver to detect and track wireless signals and to ensure the drone is charged while in motion. The RSSI system operates at 5.8 GHz, reported for the first time, and is capable of detecting signal strengths from -60 dBm to 0 dBm with a sensitivity level of 17 mV/dBm. A logarithmic error of 0.4 dB with a dynamic range of 34 dB was achieved. The proposed RSSI system was designed using 65 nm TSMC CMOS technology, and it exhibits high sensitivity, better efficiency, and lower power consumption than those in other reported works.