Alternative Power Generator Design for Active RFID Tag

Radio Frequency Identification (RFID) is used for identification of object since World War II, when English airplanes are distinguished with Germans’ by using the technology. Presently, RFID application is used widely in control inventory, pharmaceutical, medical field and manufacturing lines. The capability of RFID has evolved from passive to active tags. Active RFID tag is powered by a rechargeable battery which is not efficient since the battery need to be frequently charge and replace. This report proposed an alternative power generator charger for the tag to increase the battery efficiency. Photovoltaic cell is used as energy harvester to absorb ambient light energy and convert it to electrical energy. The power generated is directly use to charge a battery continuously under ambient light. LTC3105 DC/DC and LT1073 Step up converter is experimented to boost the voltage and current from battery cell in order to produce an output of 3.3V 40mA as minimum requirement to power RFID Tag. The charging battery is capable to power RFID tag without being charge frequently. This project comprises the theory of power and energy, communication system and microelectronics. Mono-crystalline type of PV cell are used as the cell have high efficiency. Risk and contingency while doing this project is discussed and recommendation is made to counter the problem