Clock Timer Development Tools PCF8523 RTC for RPi by MidzooMod

Description

Product Overview

The MidzooMod PCF8523 Real-Time Clock (RTC) module is engineered to deliver high‑precision timekeeping and versatile timer functions for a wide range of Raspberry Pi‑based projects. Built around the industry‑standard PCF8523 silicon, the module offers a full calendar with leap‑year compensation, alarm capabilities, and a programmable square‑wave output, all accessible through a simple I2C interface. Its low‑power design consumes less than 1 µA in battery‑backed mode, ensuring that your system retains accurate time even when power is removed. The board measures just 20 mm × 20 mm, featuring a compact 6‑pin header that aligns perfectly with standard Raspberry Pi GPIO layouts, making solder‑free prototyping a breeze. The module includes a 3 V coin cell holder for backup power, crystal‑level accuracy, and a robust PCB that resists environmental stress, suitable for both hobbyist experimentation and industrial‑grade deployments.

Usage

Designed with flexibility in mind, the PCF8523 RTC module integrates seamlessly into data‑logging stations, environmental monitoring rigs, and autonomous IoT devices that require reliable timestamps. Whether you are building a weather station that records temperature and humidity every minute, a home automation hub that schedules lighting and HVAC events, or a portable sensor array that operates on battery power for weeks, this module provides the backbone for accurate scheduling. The I2C bus allows multiple peripherals to coexist without address conflicts, and the module’s programmable alarms can trigger GPIO pins to wake a sleeping Raspberry Pi, extending battery life. Its compact footprint means it can be mounted on custom PCBs, inserted into breadboards for rapid prototyping, or stacked with other HATs without obstructing other connectors.

Why Choose Us

MidzooMod stands behind every component with a commitment to quality, reliability, and customer satisfaction. Our PCF8523 RTC module undergoes rigorous testing for temperature stability, voltage tolerance, and long‑term drift to guarantee that the timekeeping performance meets or exceeds industry expectations. We source the PCF8523 chips directly from reputable manufacturers, and each board is inspected for solder joint integrity and correct component placement. In addition to the hardware, we provide comprehensive documentation, example code libraries for Python and C, and responsive technical support that can help you integrate the module into your specific application. When you purchase from MidzooMod, you receive not only a high‑quality product but also access to a community of developers and engineers who share best practices, firmware updates, and troubleshooting tips.

Key Features

• Accurate timekeeping with built‑in leap‑year and calendar support
• Low‑power operation and battery backup for uninterrupted clock function
• Simple I2C interface compatible with all Raspberry Pi models
• Compact 20 mm × 20 mm board fits easily on breadboards and custom PCBs
• Responsive technical support and detailed integration guides

FAQ

What is the operating voltage range of the PCF8523 module?

The module operates reliably from 2.7 V to 5.5 V, making it compatible with the 3.3 V logic level of the Raspberry Pi as well as 5 V systems when proper level shifting is used.

Can the module retain time when the Raspberry Pi is powered off?

Yes, the module includes a built‑in coin‑cell holder for a 3 V backup battery. In battery‑backed mode, the RTC continues to keep time with a current draw of less than 1 µA, preserving the clock across power cycles.

How do I set alarms or schedule events using the module?

Alarms can be programmed via the I2C registers using standard library calls. You can configure the module to generate an interrupt on a specific date, time, or periodic interval, which can be connected to a GPIO pin to wake the Raspberry Pi or trigger other actions.

Is there software support for popular programming languages?

MidzooMod provides example scripts for Python (using the smbus2 library) and C (using the wiringPi library). These examples demonstrate how to read the current time, set the calendar, configure alarms, and handle interrupts.

What warranty and return policy does MidzooMod offer?

All PCF8523 RTC modules come with a 12‑month limited warranty covering manufacturing defects. If you encounter any issues, you can contact our support team for a replacement or refund in accordance with our return policy.