Maxim Integrated DS1672-3 Low-Voltage Serial Timekeeping Chip

The DS1672-3 from Maxim Integrated is a state-of-the-art serial timekeeping chip designed for a wide range of applications requiring accurate time tracking and low-voltage operation. This compact, integrated circuit offers a full binary-coded decimal (BCD) clock calendar that is accessible via a simple serial interface.

The DS1672-3 incorporates a built-in 32.768kHz crystal oscillator, which serves as the timekeeping element, ensuring high accuracy and stability over time and temperature. Its low-voltage operation, with a range of 2.5V to 5.5V, makes it suitable for battery-powered devices or applications where power conservation is crucial.

One of the key features of the DS1672-3 is its automatic leap year compensation, which is valid up to the year 2100. This ensures that the device maintains accurate date information without the need for manual adjustments. Additionally, the chip provides a programmable trickle charger for the backup battery, which can be used to maintain timekeeping when the primary power source is unavailable.

The DS1672-3 also includes an interrupt function with a programmable frequency, allowing it to serve as a wake-up signal for microcontrollers or other components in power-sensitive systems. The timekeeping functions include seconds, minutes, hours, day, date, month, and year information, with the data being transferred over a simple three-wire interface.

Designed with versatility in mind, the DS1672-3 is perfect for applications such as handheld devices, GPS units, data loggers, and smart utility meters. Its small footprint, available in an 8-pin SO package, makes it easy to integrate into space-constrained designs.

Maxim Integrated's commitment to quality and reliability is evident in the DS1672-3, which is specified for operation over the industrial temperature range of -40°C to +85°C. This robust timekeeping solution provides designers with a reliable, long-term time base in a compact, easy-to-use format.