Connecting a real-time clock (RTC) battery to a Raspberry Pi ensures the device maintains accurate timekeeping, even when disconnected from a network or power source. This functionality is achieved by installing a small battery onto a compatible RTC module, which is then connected to the Raspberry Pi’s GPIO pins or a dedicated header. The battery powers the RTC chip, allowing it to track time independently of the main system power.
Maintaining correct time is crucial for various applications, including data logging, scheduled tasks, and security systems. Without a reliable time source, these applications can experience errors or malfunctions. Adding battery-backed RTC functionality provides a dependable time source, especially in remote or offline environments. Historically, accurate time synchronization relied heavily on network connectivity, but implementing an RTC module offers a robust, localized solution.
