Some microcontroller applications such as those which log or track information often require current time and date information to be stored along with the collected data. A Real Time Clock (RTC) chip such as the IC DS1307 with battery back-up can be used to supply the required information. This particular chip easily integrates into most designs using the absolute minimum of external components. The process of programming the chip in software is simple and is supported in the majority of programming environments. Intrinsic functions, header files and libraries are widely implemented for the device. A quick trawl of the Internet will uncover lots of programming examples. Project Image : Time Transporter Image So far so good except that the chip first needs to be programmed with the current time and date information. This information is maintained and updated (thanks to a keep-alive battery) even when the external circuitry is shut down. To carry out the programming ...