DS3231 Datasheet

If you want to better understand the DS3231 datasheet, then you have come to the right place. The DS3231 is a real-time clock (RTC) that can be used for many applications (datasheet lists servers, telematics, utility power meters, and GPS as some examples). Here I go over the main highlights of the DS3231 in terms of functionality and electrical specs, provide link to full datasheet, and provide a link to a post to quickly see more examples on the DS3231 Real Time Clock.

Main specifications from the DS3231 datasheet

  • RTC counts seconds, minutes, hours, date of month, month, day of week, and year (with leap-year compensation).
  • Fast (400kHz) I2C interface.
  • Battery backup for continuous timekeeping (onboard coin cell battery keeps the RTC running).
  • The RTC has an accuracy of ∓2ppm, meaning a drift of 2 seconds for every 1 million seconds, equivalent to a drift of 1 minute per year (not bad at all!).
    • This is when operating between 0 degrees Celsius and 40 degrees Celsius (or 32 degrees Fahrenheit and 104 degrees Fahrenheit).
  • Supply voltage: 2.3V – 5.5V (typical: 3.3V).
  • Active supply current: 200 – 300 μA
  • Standby supply current: 110 – 170 μA
  • Active Battery Current: 70 – 150 μA
  • Timekeeping Battery Current: 0.84 – 3.5 μA
DS3231 input pins

Full details on DS3231 datasheet

When I look for specifications for the DS3231 RTC, I look at the DS3231 datasheet from the manufacturer Maxim Integrated. Full details can be found on their website: https://datasheets.maximintegrated.com/en/ds/DS3231.pdf

Example project based on use of the DS3231 RTC

Please go to the following link for some examples on projects I have done with the DS3231 RTC: https://www.diyengineers.com/2020/12/24/ds3231-with-arduino/

Examples include:

  • Programming the current day of week, date, and time on the RTC
  • Showing the current day of week, date, and time in the Arduino IDE serial monitor
  • Displaying the date and time on a 1602 LCD
  • Having an alarm go off at a specific time for 30 seconds
DS3231 being used with 1602 LCD and Arduino

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