Future Trends in Miniaturization for Wireless Applications

he future of miniaturization of wireless networks is described from the viewpoint of today’s trends in miniaturization, such as microelectromechanical systems and nanotechnology, along with the move away from computer processing–centric systems to distributed networks. The complexity, convergence of technologies, and connectivity of the remote wireless sensor known as the “mote” are discussed in relation to distributed networks. The growth of this technology is compared with growth predicted by Moore’s law, which charts a linear progression of technology such as size of a resistor, as well as by the technology S-curve, which charts a logarithmic growth such as that seen by the Internet. We show that growth in the number of applications for motes is likely to more closely follow the predictions of the S-curve. The capabilities of this technology, in terms of functionality, have the potential for the log-linear growth experienced in the modern microcircuit world.