Wireless Temperature Sensor Chip (Photo : TU/e)
A brand new wireless sensor chip can measure temperatures anywhere, and is powered by its router's radio waves rather than a battery. The mini sensor is just 2 millimeters square and functions by sending recorded temperatures to a close dedicated router. It has many Internet of Things (IoT) applications in smart buildings.
The minute sensor weighs only 1.6 milligrams (5.6 ounces). Its very small antenna collects energy transmitted by its own router's signals.
The new gadget was developed by researchers at Eindhoven University of Technology, according to PC Mag. It is located in the Netherlands.
After the sensor is charged, it turns on, measures the air's temperature, and then transmits a tiny signal that its router can pick up. The signal is linked to the temperature the wireless sensor measured.
One of the key benefits of the sensors is that they can work under a layer of plaint or plaster. This would allow them to be installed in buildings where they could track various conditions, which could also include light, humidity, and movement, according to Gizmodo.
The mini chip's inventors shared that their invention would be practical for smart buildings in the future. It could help to control lights and heating, and would be sustainable.
Peter Baltus is a professor of wireless technology at Eindhoven University. He explained that the new tech could be used for wireless identification and payment systems.
One big problem researchers will have to work out is the maximum transmission distance of the chip. It is now just 2.5 centimeters (.4 inches), while they hope to eventually increase it to 5 meters (16.4 feet).
The price tag of mass-produced wireless temperature sensor chips would be about 20 cents. That would help to increase demand.
