Importance

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Abstract

A stand-alone device includes an integrated circuit (IC) die (optionally free of conventional IC packaging and bond pads) that responds to a signal by (1) storing energy retrieved from the signal, and (2) using the stored energy to generate another signal that is encoded with information provided by a data source (such as a memory or a sensor depending on the implementation) that is included in the device. The IC die includes a power supply, a signal transmitter, and optionally includes an antenna. During operation of one embodiment, the power supply receives from the antenna electrical energy extracted from a portion of a radio frequency signal incident on the IC die. The power supply stores the energy in an energy store over a period of time, and thereafter supplies at least a portion of the stored energy to the signal transmitter. The signal transmitter uses the energy to generate an electrical signal carrying the information from the data source, and on receipt of the electrical signal the antenna transmits another radio frequency signal containing the information. All parts of the IC die are coupled to each other by electrical conductors formed within the IC die. The device is used as a stand-alone component, i.e. free of connections to other electronic components. In one such case the IC die includes the antenna, and all interactions with the device are performed by wireless signals.

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First Claim