The DS1642 is a 2k x 8 nonvolatile static RAM and a full-function real-time clock (RTC), both of which are accessible in a bytewide format. The nonvolatile time keeping RAM is pin and function equivalent to any JEDEC-standard 2k x 8 SRAM. The device can also be easily substituted in ROM, EPROM, and EEPROM sockets, providing read/write nonvolatility and the addition of the real-time clock function. The real-time clock information resides in the eight uppermost RAM locations. The RTC registers contain year, month, date, day, hours, minutes, and seconds data in 24-hour BCD format. Corrections for the day of the month and leap year are made automatically. The RTC clock registers are double-buffered to avoid
access of incorrect data that can occur during clock update cycles. The double-buffered system also prevents time loss as the timekeeping countdown continues unabated by access to time register data. The DS1642 also contains its own power-fail circuitry, which deselects the device when the VCC supply is in an out-of-tolerance condition. This feature prevents loss of data from unpredictable system operation brought on by low VCC as errant access and update cycles are avoided.