Ultra-low-power wireless transmitter for neural prostheses with modified pulse position modulation

Area of Science:

• Electrical Engineering
• Biomedical Engineering
• Wireless Communication

Background:

• Embedded bionic systems require efficient wireless communication.
• Existing transmitters often face limitations in power consumption and size.

Purpose of the Study:

• To develop an ultra-low-power wireless transmitter for embedded bionic systems.
• To improve energy efficiency and data transmission capabilities for implantable devices.

Main Methods:

• Design and implementation of a wireless transmitter using a 130 nm technology.
• Utilized a modified pulse position modulation technique (saturated amplified signal).
• Operated within the medical implant communication service frequency band (402-405 MHz).

Main Results:

• Achieved 40 pJ/b energy efficiency.
• Delivered 500 kb/s data rate.
• Measured peak power consumption of 200 µW from a 1.2 V supply.
• Occupied an active area of 0.0016 mm².

Conclusions:

• The proposed transmitter offers significant power reduction and improved efficiency for bionic systems.
• The saturated amplified signal technique simplifies architecture and reduces transmitter size.
• Enables single-chip integration for surgically implanted bionic systems, wearables, and neural embedded systems.