Rectenna is a word that is a combination of the terms rectifying and antenna. It is used to refer to a type of electronic device that is capable of converting electromagnetic waves into usable electrical energy. The spelling of rectenna can be phonetically transcribed as /rekˈtɛnə/. The stress falls on the second syllable and the ending "-enna" is pronounced as /ɛnə/. Overall, the spelling of rectenna is consistent with standard English spelling rules and follows the pronunciation of its constituent terms.
A rectenna is a portmanteau term combining "rectifier" and "antenna." It refers to a specialized device that functions as both a wireless power receiver and an antenna. Rectennas are primarily utilized in the field of energy harvesting, transforming electromagnetic radiation, typically in the form of radio waves, into usable electrical energy.
The working principle behind a rectenna involves two key components. First, the antenna portion captures and collects radiofrequency or microwave energy. This energy is then converted into electrical current using a rectifier, which rectifies the alternating current (AC) signal into a direct current (DC) signal. The process of rectification essentially involves converting the oscillating current into a steady unidirectional flow.
Rectennas are commonly employed in applications such as wireless power transmission and energy harvesting from radiofrequency sources. They play a crucial role in converting electromagnetic energy into electric power, enabling the wireless delivery of electricity over short distances. Notably, rectennas have gained significance in emerging technologies like internet of things (IoT) devices and wireless sensor networks, where they are employed to harness ambient electromagnetic radiation to power low-energy electronic devices.
In summary, a rectenna is an innovative device that serves the dual purpose of collecting electromagnetic waves and converting them into usable electrical energy. Its unique combination of a rectifier and an antenna makes it an invaluable component in wireless power transmission and energy harvesting systems.