A Novel Ultra-Low Input Voltage and Frequency Self Starting AC–DC Boost Converter for Micro Energy Harvesting

In this Letter, a novel low-voltage JFET oscillator with self-starting capability to implement an AC-DC boost converter is introduced. The circuit is transformer free, and can operate with very low–voltage and low–frequency signals. In order to operate with positive and negative input signals, a coupled topology of JFETs has been used. The circuit has been built using off the shelf components, and can be used with electromagnetic harvesters, thermoelectric modules, and/or wearable devices. Experimental results with a practical harvester are provided in order to demonstrate the proposed AC-DC boots converter.