Real Time Clock - DS3234

Sparkfun's Real Time Clock - DS3234 is a highly accurate, affordable RTC that operates via a SPI bus. It comes with an integrated temperature-compensated crystal oscillator (TCXO) and crystal, ensuring precise timekeeping. The DS3234 is designed to be low-power, making it perfect for projects where energy efficiency is key.

One of the key features of the DS3234 is its battery backup input, which allows for continuous timekeeping even in the event of a power outage. This RTC is also incredibly precise, with an accuracy of ±2ppm. It operates within a temperature range of 0°C to +70°C, ensuring reliable performance under various conditions.

The DS3234 is capable of counting seconds, minutes, hours, days, dates, months, and years, with leap year compensation valid up to 2099. It also includes two time-of-day alarms and a programmable square-wave output. The 4MHz SPI Bus supports modes 1 and 3, providing flexibility for various applications.

Additional features include a digital temperature sensor output with ±3°C accuracy, a register for aging trim, and an active-low RST input/output. The DS3234 comes in a 300-mil, 20-pin SO package, making it compact and easy to integrate into your projects.

For those who don't wish to design their own breakout board, Sparkfun offers the DeadOn RTC Breakout, a ready-to-use solution that works perfectly with the DS3234.

For more detailed information, please refer to the DS3234 datasheet provided by Sparkfun.