The DS3231 is a high-precision real-time clock (RTC) IC from Maxim Integrated (now Analog Devices). It keeps accurate time in hours, minutes, seconds, day, date, month, and year, including leap year compensation. The DS3231 uses an integrated temperature-compensated crystal oscillator (TCXO) and crystal, which significantly improves timekeeping accuracy over a wide temperature range.
Unlike standard RTC modules, the DS3231 provides high accuracy (±2 ppm) and features I²C interface, onboard battery backup input, and alarm functions. This makes it ideal for use in data logging, embedded systems, wearables, clocks, industrial time-stamping, and IoT devices where precise timekeeping is essential.
Key Features
Integrated crystal oscillator and temperature sensor
I²C serial interface, compatible with 3.3V and 5V logic
Extremely high accuracy: ±2 ppm from 0°C to +40°C
Timekeeping accuracy: ±1 minute/year
Provides time in seconds, minutes, hours, day, date, month, and year
Automatic leap year correction up to 2100
2 programmable alarms and 1Hz square-wave output
Low power consumption, supports battery backup operation
Operating voltage: 2.3V to 5.5V
Available in SOIC and TSSOP packages for SMT designs
