DS3231 RTC Module – MakerBotics

TheDS3231 RTC Module is a highly accurate real-time clock (RTC) module that is used to track and maintain time. It’s designed to keep accurate records of time components like seconds, minutes, hours, day, date, month, and year, making it ideal for systems that need reliable, long-term timekeeping. The DS3231 is ideal for applications like data loggers, alarms, clocks, and other embedded systems that require precise time tracking. Additionally, it integrates a crystal directly into the module, which eliminates the need for an external crystal and simplifies the design.

The DS3231 RTC module is extremely easy to interface with, thanks to its I²C communication protocol. Using just two wires, SDA (Serial Data) and SCL (Serial Clock), it connects seamlessly to popular microcontrollers like Arduino, Raspberry Pi, and other I²C-compatible devices. This makes it straightforward to retrieve time data. The I²C interface also allows for fast and efficient data transfer.

Additionally, the DS3231 comes with a 3V lithium battery receptacle (for a CR2032 battery). This allows the RTC to maintain accurate time even during power failures. When the main power is cut off, the module automatically switches to the backup battery, ensuring continuous timekeeping without the need for manual resetting. The backup functionality is crucial for systems that require long-term, precise time tracking.

Pair this RTC module with our MakerBotics line of Datalogging modules to complete your datalogging solution.

Technical Specifications:

• Operating Voltage: 3.3 – 5 .5 V
• Clock chip: high-precision clock chip DS3231
• Communication interface: I2C
• Chip temperature sensor comes with an accuracy of ± 3
• Memory chips: AT24C32 (storage capacity 32K)
• Size: 38mm (length) * 22mm (W) * 14mm (height)

Connectivity:

Power is provided by the main  power input pins, however, backup power can be added by means of adding a CR2032 battery. The DS3231 module does not require a logic-level filter because it features built-in level-shifting circuitry. This circuitry supports both 3.3V and 5V logic levels, ensuring compatibility with controllers like the ESP32, Teensy, or Arduino. Employing the simple I2C communications interface, the module connects easily to other controllers via SCL/SDA pins.

Example Wiring Diagram

Uses:

• Datalogging applications
• Robotic control

Please Note:

• The CR2032 battery is not included. It is only required only when the project requires backup power.

Documentation:

The DS3231 RTC module uses the following library.

• Arduino IDE library.