Optically powered sensors: are they really fiber optic sensors?

Optical power provides a novel and often superior way of delivering power to electronic sensors and transducers. Total immunity to lightning and other electromagnetic interference comes from the use of fiber optics to provide power and data communication. The key element in any optically powered sensor or transducer is a photovoltaic power converter developed by Photonic. This device converts light into electrical energy for powering of the sensor and associated circuitry. Pertinent design issues include, choice of light source, minimization of power consumption, single vs. dual fiber, data protocol and level of integration. In addition to a discussion of these issues, a brief outlook on the future of optically powered systems is presented.