Understanding RTCs
In this section, we will enter the world of RTCs, understanding what they are and how they work before exploring common use cases through a few interesting case studies. Let’s get started!
RTCs are specialized hardware devices found in many microcontrollers and embedded systems. Their primary function is to keep track of the current time and date, even when the main power supply is turned off. Imagine them as the little timekeepers of the digital world, ensuring that the clock never stops ticking, no matter what.
RTCs are crucial in applications where timekeeping is essential. This includes everything from simple alarm clocks to complex data logging systems, where accurate timestamps are necessary. An RTC continues to operate on a small battery when the main system is powered down, maintaining accurate time and date information. Let’s see how they work.
How do RTCs work?
At the heart of an RTC is a crystal oscillator, which provides a stable...
