Quantifying the Performance Variability of a Voltage Quadrupler Circuit in Urban Malawi

• Published in: 2024 International Conference on Electrical, Computer and Energy Technologies (ICECET pp. 1 - 6
• Main Authors: Twabi, Ahmed, Nammelo, Charles, Mikeka, Chomora, Khudze, Harry
• Format: Conference Proceeding
• Language: English
• Published: IEEE 25-07-2024
• Subjects: ambient; circuit; conditions; Digital TV; DTV band; frequency; Internet of Things; Performance evaluation; Resonant frequency; RF energy harvesting; RLC circuits; Shape; Thermometers; Urban areas; Voltage; Voltage multipliers
• DOI: 10.1109/ICECET61485.2024.10698689

This study systematically investigates the feasibility of implementing sustainable voltage harvesting systems within urban environments through the construction and analysis of a voltage multiplier circuit resonant in the Digital Television (DTV) band (462 MHz to 600 MHz). The research elucidates the circuit's adaptability to varying ambient conditions in urban Malawi, presenting nuanced insights into its performance. Noteworthy findings include the circuit's capacity to harvest a peak result of up to 5V and 0.6mA in diverse favourable conditions, with practical demonstrations showcasing its efficacy in powering devices such as calculators and thermometers. The scientific rigor employed in assessing the circuit's responsiveness to urban dynamics contributes valuable insights, affirming its potential deployment for low-power and Internet of Things (IoT) devices. This research thus establishes a foundation for advancing sustainable power solutions within urban landscapes, bridging the gap between theoretical understanding and practical implementation.