Solar Dice: a sensor node in the Internet of Things (IoT) reference design

The Solar Dice are a battery-less, wirelessly-transmitting device for the Internet of Things.  An onboard accelerometer detects the orientation of the Dice and wirelessly transmits this to a host, such as a USB dongle or smartphone.  The reference design demonstrates an ultra-low power sensor node, which is enabled by ultra-low power optimized code for the CC430 and ultra-low power management through the TPS62740.  The entire system draws a mere 2.36µA when in standby mode.  The Solar Dice are just an example of an unlimited number of different sensor types (temperature, humidity, pressure, etc.) that are enabled by the TPS62740 and CC430.

Features

• Battery-less operation from 6 solar panels
• Orientation wirelessly transmitted to host
• 2.36 µA current draw (standby mode)
• Ultra-low power optimized power supply
• Ultra-low power optimized code

Parts Include:
CC430F5147  CC430F614x, CC430F514x, CC430F512x SoC With RF Core 
TPS62740       360-nA Iq Step-Down Converter with integrated load switch and 4-pin Voltage Select

Learn more by downloading the reference design below