Once the RTC is set, the real fun begins. The virtuobabotixRTC object updates its internal variables when you call updateTime() . Here are the most useful functions.
The Arduino library is a popular, lightweight solution designed specifically for interfacing with the DS1302 Real-Time Clock (RTC) module. While Arduinos can track elapsed time using internal functions like millis() , they lack a built-in "wall clock" that persists through power cycles. This library allows makers to easily integrate date and time functionality into their projects, from automated home systems to simple digital clocks. Key Features and Capabilities
In the world of Arduino projects, keeping accurate time is a foundational requirement for data logging, scheduling, and automation. While Arduino boards have internal clocks, they lose time when powered down or reset. This is where Real-Time Clock (RTC) modules come in—and the library is one of the simplest, most intuitive ways to interface with them. virtuabotixrtc.h arduino library
The official documentation for the VirtuabotixRTC library is minimal. However, the Arduino community has created a wealth of resources:
void loop() myRTC.updateTime(); if (myRTC.minutes == 0) // Every hour at :00 Serial.print(myRTC.hours); Serial.print(":"); Serial.print(myRTC.minutes); Serial.print(" - Temperature: 22.3 C"); delay(60000); // Avoid multiple logs Once the RTC is set, the real fun begins
void setup() Serial.begin(9600); if (!SD.begin(10)) Serial.println("SD Card failed!"); return;
// Print date on the second row lcd.setCursor(0, 1); lcd.print("Date: "); if (myRTC.dayofmonth < 10) lcd.print("0"); lcd.print(myRTC.dayofmonth); lcd.print("/"); if (myRTC.month < 10) lcd.print("0"); lcd.print(myRTC.month); lcd.print("/"); lcd.print(myRTC.year); The Arduino library is a popular, lightweight solution
#include <virtuabotixRTC.h>
lcd.clear();
void setup() pinMode(ledPinRed, OUTPUT); pinMode(ledPinGreen, OUTPUT); // myRTC.setDS1302Time(0, 28, 15, 2, 19, 5, 2026); // Set initial time