In Washington, University of Washington researchers have demonstrated for the first time that devices that run on almost zero power can transmit data across distances of up to 2.8 kilometers — breaking a long-held barrier and potentially enabling a vast array of interconnected devices. The long-range backscatter system will be commercialized by Jeeva Wireless, a spin-out company founded by the UW team of computer scientists and electrical engineers. The company expects to begin selling it within six months.
The system uses reflected radio signals to transmit data at extremely low power and provides reliable long-range communication with sensors that consume 1,000 times less power than existing technologies capable of transmitting data over similar distances.
The sensors are expected to cost 10 to 20 cents each in bulk allowing farmers looking to measure soil temperature or moisture to affordably blanket an entire field to determine how to efficiently plant seeds or water.