Laser Power Converters for optical power supply

Laser Power Converters are dedicated semiconductor devices that convert optical energy into electrical energy. Opposed to solar cells they are optimised for high energy density and conversion efficiency mostly under laser illumination. These cells are applied as power supply in electromagnetically sensitive areas or for galvanic decoupling of transmitter and receiver. Depending on the application in remote sensor or actuator networks, different power needs have to be satisfied. In this paper a couple of single cells were connected in series to increase the voltage, the power and the efficiency. The measurement set-up developed for the characterisation of the cells is presented.