Rectifier array based on efficient power recycling with extended ranges of input power and frequency

Abstract

This article presents a rectifier array for wide ranges of input power and frequency. The rectifier array was configured using two sub-rectifiers and a 3-dB branch-line coupler to recycle the reflected input power through impedance mismatch, thereby extending the input power range. The two-section branch-line coupler is merged with matching networks to improve the power conversion efficiency (PCE) and operating bandwidth while maintaining a wide input power range. For demonstration, the proposed rectifier array was designed and fabricated. It achieved a PCE higher than 50% within the input power range of 14-33 dBm. The measured peak PCE remained above 50% within a wide frequency range of 1.5-2.7 GHz.