Micropelt launched a new commercial energy harvester, which can
outperform primary batteries as an energy source for wireless applications. The
TE-Power PROBE can replace or extend the life of batteries of modern
WirelessHART, ISA100, and similar transmitters. Mounting the device to a
hot side of 20°C above ambient results in a milliwatt net output, equal to
about 3 AA cells per year. Between 25°C and 90°C 10 mW net are generated,
equivalent to as much as 30 AA cells worth of energy as an annual budget for a
3 Volt application.

The TE-Power PROBE collects thermal energy at the most optimal
hot spot in proximity to its instrument to be powered. The thermoelectrically
harvested power is maximized in favor of more energy and better flexibility for
the connected application. The Thermoharvester with its cylindrical 2″ (52
mm) diameter by 4.2″ (80 mm) long aluminum body easily connects to the
heat source via a threaded copper thermal input pin.

The
TE-Power PROBE is offered with different levels of power conditioning,
including Thermogenerator DC output, externally configurable 1.6V to
5V, and fully regulated discrete voltages including 2.4V, 3.6V and 4.5V. The
TE-Power PROBE is priced at 730 Euros for single units and will be sold through
Mouser as a worldwide distributor, starting with the 4.5V version.
Micropelt, www.micropelt.com