Power estimation of RF energy harvesters

Abstract Radiofrequency (RF) energy harvesters are an emerging and much promising technology that offers a new way to power low consumption devices. The investigation of the power capabilities of an energy harvester is essential, and for this reason, a simulation tool of an energy harvester is introduced. Harvested power estimation is achieved through two models: A Wi-Fi router is used as RF signal source and its transmission power is measured on various distances with an Android smartphone and the results are inserted into the simulation model along considering two low consumption sensors with LCD screen as load. In the second model power estimation is performed for a high-power TV broadcasting antenna.