PCF8563 IIC Real Time Clock RTC Module

PCF8563 IIC Real Time Clock (RTC) Module provides reliable, low-power timekeeping for your embedded systems, ensuring your device tracks time accurately even when the main power is off. This highly integrated module utilizes the NXP PCF8563 RTC chip, a CMOS device optimized for minimal current consumption, making it ideal for battery-backed operation. Furthermore, the module communicates via the industry-standard I²C (IIC) bus, simplifying integration with nearly all microcontrollers, including Arduino and Raspberry Pi. The built-in 32.768 kHz crystal and battery holder guarantee the module maintains calendar and time data, including leap years and century information, providing a robust solution for time-stamping and scheduling tasks. Consequently, this module is an essential component for data loggers, industrial controllers, and portable devices requiring precise, non-volatile time reference.

Key Features:

• Low Power Consumption: The PCF8563 IC is designed for extremely low standby current, extending battery life significantly during power-down modes.
• Integrated 32.768 kHz Crystal: Includes the standard high-stability clock crystal required for accurate time base generation.
• I²C Bus Interface: Utilizes a 2-wire bidirectional I²C bus, which simplifies wiring and communication with the host microcontroller.
• Century & Leap Year Compensation: Automatically adjusts time data for leap years and provides dedicated century register control.
• Programmable Clock Output: Offers a square wave output signal (32.768 kHz, 1024 Hz, 32 Hz, or 1 Hz) for use as a system clock or interrupt source.

Technical Specifications:

• Operating Voltage (V_CC): 1.8 V to 5.5 V (Wide range compatibility)
• Backup Battery Voltage (V_BAT): 1.0 V to 3.6 V
• Nominal Clock Frequency: 32.768 kHz
• Interface Protocol: I²C (IIC) Bus (Address: 0x51 fixed)
• Maximum I²C Speed: 400 kHz (Fast-mode)
• Typical Timekeeping Accuracy: ±5 ppm (parts per million) at 25°C (dependent on crystal stability)
• Current Consumption (Timekeeping): ≈ 0.25 μA at V_DD = 3.0 V

Mechanical Specifications:

• Module IC: PCF8563T (SO8 SMD)
• Crystal Type: External 32.768 kHz Crystal Oscillator
• Battery Holder Type: Surface Mount for CR1220 Lithium Coin Cell (Battery not included)
• Output Pin Headers: Standard 2.54 mm pitch straight male headers

Dimensions:

• PCB Module Length: ≈ 15 mm
• PCB Module Width: ≈ 15 mm
• Pin Header Spacing: 2.54 mm (0.1 inch standard breadboard pitch)
• Component Weight: ≈ 1.5 g (Excluding battery)

Pinout and Wiring:

• VCC: Connect the module to the positive power supply (1.8 V to 5.5 V).
• GND: Connect to the common ground of your circuit.
• SDA: The I²C Serial Data line. Connect this to the microcontroller’s SDA pin.
• SCL: The I²C Serial Clock line. Connect this to the microcontroller’s SCL pin.
• INT: Alternatively, you can use the interrupt output pin to generate alarms or timer events (optional connection).
• CLKO: The programmable Clock Output pin (optional connection, provides square wave signal).

Datasheet Reference:

• Download NXP PCF8563 Real-Time Clock Datasheet

Commonly Used in:

• Data Logging Systems: Provides precise time stamps for stored sensor data, ensuring accurate record keeping.
• IoT Gateways and Sensors: Maintains accurate synchronization between distributed network devices.
• Battery-Powered Devices: Hence, its ultra-low power consumption makes it a preferred choice for portable electronics.

Applications:

• Digital Clocks and Calendars: Drives the primary time display in various consumer devices.
• Alarm and Scheduling Systems: Uses the integrated alarm and timer registers to trigger events at specific times.
• Power Metering: Provides accurate time-of-use tracking for utility and energy monitoring systems.

Equivalent Models:

• DS1307 (Maxim Integrated): A common I²C RTC, however, the PCF8563 typically offers lower power consumption.
• DS3231 (Maxim Integrated): A highly accurate I²C RTC with temperature compensation, providing a higher-precision alternative.
• RTC-2 Click (MikroElektronika): A full development board based on a similar low-power RTC design.

Package Includes:

• 1 x PCF8563 IIC Real Time Clock RTC Module