What is Real Time Clock

A real-time clock (RTC) is a computer clock that is primarily constructed as an integrated circuit and is used for timekeeping. Of course, it keeps track of the hours, minutes, seconds, days, months, and even years. RTCs are present in every electronic device that might need accurate time keeping, including servers, embedded systems, and personal computers. The ability to continue operating when the computer is powered down by a battery or without the assistance of the main power supply is essential.

Explanation

RTCs are required to maintain accurate time even when the device is off because they are frequently used as triggers to turn on the device or start events like alarm clocks. RTC ICs are powered by a separate source, enabling continuous operation at low power or even when the computer is off. Older systems use lithium batteries for their ICs, while more recent ones use supercapacitors or auxiliary batteries. Supercapacitor-based RTC ICs can be soldered and are rechargeable. However, the RTC is typically powered by a single battery in motherboards made for consumers,. Which when removed causes the RTC to restart.

Unlike the majority of hardware clocks,. RTC ICs use a crystal oscillator to regulate time rather than relying on clock signals. RTC ICs make sure that all processes taking place in the system are appropriately synchronized in addition to being in charge of the timing function of the system and its clock. Although some may contend that the system clock should be in charge of synchronization,. The system clock is actually reliant on the RTC, making the RTC indirectly accountable.

An RTC battery ought to last for at least three to five years. RTCs are necessary; in the event that the battery dies, a new one must be installed to ensure continued operation. An error message during startup or if the user notices that the setup configuration or clock has become corrupted, flaky, or strange can be used to diagnose a dead battery.

Benefits of RTC

• It releases time-sensitive tasks from the primary system.
• RTC ICs have proven to be more accurate than alternative techniques, such as programming the controller’s timer.
• It uses less power and has better frequency stability.