Communication by means of Modulated Johnson Noise

TL;DR

This paper introduces a passive wireless communication system that uses modulated Johnson noise from a resistor to transmit data, achieving low power consumption and effective range without relying on external RF sources.

Contribution

It presents a novel passive communication method leveraging thermal noise modulation, enabling wireless data transfer without active transmitters or external RF sources.

Findings

Data rates up to 26bps achieved

Communication distance up to 7.3 meters

Significantly lower power consumption than traditional methods

Abstract

We present the design of a new passive wireless communication system that does not rely on ambient or generated RF sources. Instead, we exploit the Johnson (thermal) noise generated by a resistor to transmit information bits wirelessly. By switching the load connected to an antenna between a resistor and open circuit, we can achieve data rates of up to 26bps and distances of up to 7.3 meters. This communication method is orders of magnitude less power consuming than conventional communication schemes and presents the opportunity to enable wireless communication in areas with a complete lack of connectivity.