Real Time Clock (RTC) Memory Module DS3231
Real Time Clock (RTC) Memory Module DS3231
Real Time Clock (RTC) Memory Module DS3231
Real Time Clock (RTC) Memory Module DS3231

Real Time Clock (RTC) Memory Module DS3231

Modules
DET535
Part.No: DS3231
€4.25
Out of Stock
DS3231 Real Time Clock (RTC) Memory Module — ultra-accurate I2C RTC with integrated temperature-compensated crystal oscillator (TCXO), battery backup, and full date/time tracking. Ideal for Arduino, ESP32, and Raspberry Pi projects.

 

The DS3231 Real Time Clock (RTC) Memory Module (MPN: DS3231) is a low-cost, extremely accurate I2C RTC designed for applications where reliable timekeeping is critical. At its core, the DS3231 integrates a temperature-compensated crystal oscillator (TCXO) directly on-chip — eliminating the need for an external crystal and dramatically improving long-term timing accuracy compared to simpler RTC ICs. A dedicated battery input ensures the clock continues running accurately even when the main power supply is disconnected.

Key Features

  • Integrated TCXO: Temperature-compensated crystal oscillator built directly on the chip → eliminates external crystal, reduces component count, and maintains accuracy across temperature variations
  • I2C Interface: Simple two-wire communication (SDA + SCL) → easy integration with virtually any microcontroller
  • Battery Backup Input: Maintains timekeeping when main power is lost → no time/date reset on power cycling
  • Full Date & Time Tracking: Seconds, minutes, hours, day, date, month, and year → complete calendar functionality including automatic end-of-month adjustment for months with fewer than 31 days
  • Commercial & Industrial Temperature Ranges: Available in both ranges → suitable for use in demanding environments
  • 16-pin 300mil SO Package: Compact IC form factor → module format makes it breadboard and PCB friendly

Pinout & Wiring

PINSymbolDescription
1VCCPower supply input
2GNDGround
3SDAI2C Data line
4SCLI2C Clock line
5SQWSquare wave / interrupt output
632K32kHz output

Wiring note: Connect VCC to your board's 3.3V or 5V pin, GND to GND, SDA to the I2C data pin, and SCL to the I2C clock pin of your microcontroller. Most module boards include pull-up resistors on SDA/SCL.

Compatibility

  • Arduino UNO / Nano (5V): Fully compatible — the module operates at both 3.3V and 5V logic levels
  • ESP32 / ESP8266 (3.3V): Compatible — use 3.3V supply and ensure I2C pull-ups are appropriate for 3.3V logic
  • Raspberry Pi (3.3V): Compatible via I2C interface — enable I2C in raspi-config and use the appropriate Python library

Typical Applications

  • Data loggers: Timestamp sensor readings (temperature, humidity, GPS) with accurate real-world time — a common question when building Arduino data loggers
  • Smart home automation: Schedule relay switching, lighting, or HVAC events based on time of day
  • Alarm clocks & timers: Build precise wake-up alarms or countdown timers with microcontrollers
  • Embedded systems: Provide accurate timekeeping for industrial or commercial devices that may lose power intermittently
  • IoT projects: Offline time reference when NTP server access is unavailable

Technical Specifications

SpecificationValue
InterfaceI2C
ICDS3231
Oscillator TypeTemperature-Compensated Crystal Oscillator (TCXO)
Timekeeping DataSeconds, Minutes, Hours, Day, Date, Month, Year
Battery BackupYes (battery input on module)
Temperature RangeCommercial and Industrial
IC Package16-pin 300mil SO
MPNDS3231

FAQ

Q: Will the DS3231 keep the correct time if my Arduino loses power?
A: Yes — as long as a backup battery (typically a CR2032 coin cell) is installed in the module's battery holder, the DS3231 continues tracking time independently of the main power supply.

Q: Do I need an external crystal with the DS3231?
A: No. The DS3231 integrates the crystal and TCXO directly on-chip, which is the key advantage over older RTC ICs like the DS1307 that require an external 32.768kHz crystal.

Package Contents: 1 × DS3231 RTC Memory Module

⚠ Note: Backup battery (CR2032) may not be included. Verify battery presence before deployment in time-critical applications.
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