A low-power CMOS integrated circuit for field-powered radio frequency identification tags

Cheap, compact radio frequency identification (RFID) tags will make a wide range of new applications cost-effective. Minimum cost can be achieved only in a passive tag (that acquires operating power from the interrogating RF field). A compact tag form factor demands a small tag antenna, that in turn demands either external components or a high-frequency RF carrier for effective tag power delivery. While cost must be minimized, tag operating range for a fixed broadcast power may be maximized by the tag integrated circuit using as little current as possible.