Application Note: The Zero Bias Schottky Diode Detector At Temperature Extremes -- Problems And Solutions

The zero bias Schottky diode detector is widely used in RF/ID and other applications where no primary (DC) power is available in the standby or "listen" mode. When combined with a simple antenna to form a receiver, it lacks the sensitivity of the superheterodyne receiver, but offers the advantages of very low cost and zero power consumption.

The zero bias Schottky diode detector is ideal for RF/ID tag applications where it can be used to fabricate a receiver which consumes no primary power. However, its performance is heavily dependent upon its saturation current, which is a strong function of temperature. At both low and high temperature extremes, this dependence can lead to degradation in performance. The behavior of zero bias Schottky diodes is analyzed, experimental data is given, and a solution to the loss of performance at cold temperatures is presented.