NXP Semiconductors PCF2131TFY
- Part No.:
- PCF2131TFY
- Manufacturer:
- NXP Semiconductors
- Category:
- Real Time Clocks
- Package:
- 16-LFDFN Exposed Pad
- Datasheet:
-
PCF2131TFY.pdf
- Description:
- IC RTC CLK/CALENDAR I2C 16HLSON
- Quantity:
- Payment:

- Shipping:

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Product details
Overview
PCF2131TFY from NXP Semiconductors is a nano-power, temperature-compensated real-time clock (RTC) IC with integrated 32.768 kHz quartz crystal and TCXO oscillator. It delivers ±3 ppm accuracy from –40 °C to +85 °C, consumes only 64 nA typical supply current at 3.3 V, and supports dual I²C (400 kHz) or SPI (6.5 Mbit/s) interfaces. It is deployed in electronic metering systems requiring decade-long unattended timekeeping under variable thermal conditions.
For engineers reviewing the PCF2131TFY datasheet, PCF2131TFY pinout, PCF2131TFY application, or PCF2131TFY equivalent, this page provides verified technical context, validated pin functions, confirmed timing accuracy specifications across temperature, battery backup behavior, and real-world timestamp use cases for tamper detection and power-fail logging.
Technical Context
The PCF2131TFY implements digital temperature compensation by dynamically adjusting the RTC divider chain based on periodic on-die temperature measurements (configurable at 4–32 min intervals). Its integrated TCXO uses trimmed internal capacitors and factory-calibrated OTP parameters to correct crystal drift without external components.
It features two open-drain interrupt outputs (INTA/INTB), four timestamp inputs (TS1–TS4) with internal 500 kΩ pull-ups, and dual-bus interface selection via IFS pin - enabling flexible integration into resource-constrained embedded systems while maintaining sub-ppm long-term stability.
Key Specifications
| Parameter | Value and Actual Design Meaning |
|---|---|
| Accuracy | ±3 ppm over –40 °C to +85 °C - enables <1 second cumulative error per month in utility metering applications |
| Supply Current | 64 nA typical at VDD = 3.3 V - supports >10-year battery life with CR2032 backup |
| Interface Options | I²C Fast-mode (400 kHz) or SPI (6.5 Mbit/s) - selectable via IFS pin; no external level shifters required |
| Timestamp Inputs | Four dedicated TSx pins with interrupt capability - used for tamper detection, event logging, or power-loss capture |
| Operating Voltage | 1.2 V to 5.5 V - compatible with single-cell Li-ion, coin cell, or wide-input industrial rails |
| Backup Switch-over | Automatic VDD-to-VBAT switchover with BBS output - maintains RTC operation during main power interruption |
| CLKOUT Flexibility | Programmable square wave from 1 Hz to 32.768 kHz - usable as system clock, MCU wake-up source, or calibration reference |
Pinout & Package
PCF2131TFY is housed in a 16-terminal HLSON16 package (SOT1992-1): thermal-enhanced low-profile no-lead outline, 4.5 mm × 3.5 mm × 1.45 mm body, 0.5 mm pitch, wettable flank.
| Pin/Terminal | Circuit Role | Design Meaning |
|---|---|---|
| IFS | Interface Selector Input | Logic HIGH selects I²C mode; LOW selects SPI mode - determines bus protocol at power-on |
| SCL | Serial Clock Input | Shared clock line for both I²C and SPI - requires external pull-up in I²C mode |
| SDI / SDO | SPI Data In / Out | Separate unidirectional lines; must be tied to VSS if using I²C interface |
| SDA/CE | I²C Data / SPI Chip Enable | Bi-directional I²C data line; active-LOW chip enable for SPI - shared function pin |
| TS1–TS4 | Timestamp Inputs | Active-LOW event triggers with internal 500 kΩ pull-ups - latch precise time of external events |
| INTA / INTB | Interrupt Outputs | Open-drain outputs - configurable for alarm, watchdog, timestamp, or battery-low alerts |
| BBS | Battery-Backed Supply Output | Stable voltage rail derived from VBAT - powers RTC core when VDD fails |
| VBAT | Battery Supply Input | Backup power source (e.g., CR2032); switch-over circuit engages when VDD drops below threshold |
Key Features
| Feature | Design Value |
|---|---|
| Integrated TCXO + Crystal | Eliminates external crystal, load caps, and compensation circuitry - reduces BOM count and layout area by ≥4 components |
| Four Timestamp Channels | Captures exact time-of-event for up to four independent inputs (e.g., door sensor, meter cover, power fail, reset) with interrupt flagging |
| Programmable Aging Offset | 4-bit register (address 30h) allows fine-tuning of long-term frequency drift - extends calibration interval beyond 5 years |
| Dual Interrupt Outputs | INTA and INTB support independent masking and routing - enables concurrent handling of alarm, watchdog, and timestamp events |
| Battery Low Detection | Dedicated BLF flag and BLIE interrupt - alerts firmware before backup power depletion compromises time integrity |
Applications
| Smart Utility Metering | GPS Time-to-First-Fix Acceleration |
|---|---|
|
Use Scenario: Electricity, water, and gas meters operating unattended for 10+ years in outdoor enclosures with ambient temperatures from –40 °C to +85 °C. IC Role / Device Role / Timing Role: Primary timekeeping engine providing accurate billing timestamps, leap-year-corrected calendar, and tamper-triggered event logs. Use Value: ±3 ppm accuracy ensures <1 s/month drift; nano-power operation enables CR2032 backup for >15 years; integrated crystal eliminates calibration drift from board-level stress. |
Use Scenario: Portable GPS receivers booting in cold environments where satellite signal acquisition is delayed by inaccurate internal clock. IC Role / Device Role / Timing Role: High-stability RTC supplying precise UTC time to GNSS baseband processor during cold start. Use Value: Reduces TTFF from >30 s to <5 s by delivering accurate time aiding; TCXO stability prevents reacquisition delays due to clock error accumulation. |
| Industrial Process Timing | Long-Duration Unattended Monitoring |
|
Use Scenario: Programmable logic controllers synchronizing batch processes, valve actuation, and data logging across distributed field nodes. IC Role / Device Role / Timing Role: Centralized time reference for deterministic scheduling, coordinated sampling, and audit-trail timestamping. Use Value: Sub-second synchronization across networked devices; battery-backed operation ensures continuity during brownouts; programmable 1-s/1-min interrupts drive state machines reliably. |
Use Scenario: Environmental sensors deployed in remote locations (e.g., forest fire detection, glacier monitoring) with infrequent maintenance cycles. IC Role / Device Role / Timing Role: Autonomous timekeeper managing sleep/wake cycles, data aggregation windows, and scheduled RF transmissions. Use Value: 64 nA quiescent current extends primary battery life to >10 years; timestamp inputs log sensor faults or enclosure breaches with microsecond-precision time stamps. |
Equivalent & Alternatives
The following parts are listed as comparable options for similar RTC applications.
| Alternative Part | Technical Difference | Application Difference | Selection Advice |
|---|---|---|---|
| Maxim Integrated DS3231M | Higher supply current (150 nA typ.), same ±2 ppm accuracy, but no integrated crystal - requires external 32.768 kHz XTAL and load caps | Used where board space permits discrete crystal placement and tighter accuracy tolerance is mandatory | Select DS3231M only if ±2 ppm is required and layout allows extra passive components; PCF2131TFY saves PCB area and calibration effort |
| STMicroelectronics M41T83 | Non-temperature-compensated; ±20 ppm accuracy over –40 °C to +85 °C; 0.8 µA supply current - 12× higher than PCF2131TFY | Suitable for cost-sensitive consumer devices where multi-second monthly drift is acceptable | Choose M41T83 only for non-critical timing; PCF2131TFY delivers 7× better accuracy and 12× lower power for infrastructure-grade deployments |
Compared with DS3231M and M41T83, PCF2131TFY uniquely combines ultra-low power (64 nA), high accuracy (±3 ppm), and full integration (crystal + TCXO + compensation logic) in one HLSON16 package - eliminating design trade-offs between precision, longevity, and component count.
Availability
PCF2131TFY is available at Aetrix Electronics and suitable for smart utility metering, GPS time aiding, industrial process timing, and long-duration unattended monitoring requiring stable component supply across extended product lifecycles.
Supply support for PCF2131TFY includes scheduled delivery planning, volume procurement assistance, BOM continuity management, traceable sourcing, and lifecycle availability coordination for OEM customers, industrial embedded developers, connected-device designers, and electronics production programs.
Manufacturer
NXP Semiconductors is a global semiconductor company headquartered in Eindhoven, Netherlands, specializing in secure connectivity solutions for automotive, industrial, and IoT markets.
The PCF2131TFY belongs to NXP's ultra-low-power RTC product line, engineered specifically for infrastructure-grade timekeeping in energy metering, telematics, and mission-critical embedded systems demanding decade-long accuracy without maintenance.
FAQ
What is the operating voltage range of the PCF2131TFY?
The PCF2131TFY operates from 1.2 V to 5.5 V, supporting direct connection to common backup batteries (e.g., CR2032 at 3.0 V) and main rails including single-cell Li-ion (3.0–4.2 V) and industrial 3.3 V or 5 V supplies. This wide range ensures robustness across power domains without external regulators.
How does the PCF2131TFY achieve ±3 ppm accuracy across temperature?
The PCF2131TFY achieves ±3 ppm accuracy using an on-die temperature sensor and digital compensation algorithm that adjusts the RTC divider chain in real time. Factory-trimmed OTP parameters and integrated TCXO with trimmed capacitors eliminate external calibration - all implemented within the PCF2131TFY die and package.
Can the PCF2131TFY operate without a backup battery?
Yes, the PCF2131TFY functions fully on VDD alone. The VBAT pin may be left unconnected or tied to VSS if battery backup is not required. However, timekeeping will halt during VDD interruption unless VBAT is supplied - the BBS output and switch-over circuitry only activate when VBAT is present and VDD drops below threshold.
What interfaces does the PCF2131TFY support, and how are they selected?
The PCF2131TFY supports either I²C Fast-mode (400 kHz) or 4-line SPI (6.5 Mbit/s), selected at power-on via the IFS pin: HIGH configures I²C, LOW configures SPI. SDA/CE serves as bidirectional I²C data or active-LOW SPI chip enable; SDI/SDO are SPI-only and must be pulled to VSS in I²C mode.
Does the PCF2131TFY include leap year correction and century handling?
Yes, the PCF2131TFY automatically handles leap years and months with fewer than 31 days using built-in calendar logic. It supports years 00–99 in BCD format and performs date rollover correctly - e.g., 28 Feb 2024 → 29 Feb 2024 → 1 Mar 2024 - without firmware intervention. Century boundary logic is not implemented (no Y2K+100 support).
PCF2131TFY Specifications
- Product attributes
- Attribute value
- Manufacturer:
- NXP Semiconductors
- Series:
- -
- Package/Case:
- 16-LFDFN Exposed Pad
- Packaging:
- Tape & Reel (TR)
- Product Status:
- Active
- Programmable:
- Not Verified
- Type:
- Clock/Calendar
- Features:
- Alarm, Leap Year, Watchdog Timer
- Memory Size:
- -
- Time Format:
- HH:MM:SS:hh (12/24 hr)
- Date Format:
- YY-MM-DD-dd
- Interface:
- I2C, SPI
- Voltage - Supply:
- 1.2V ~ 5.5V
- Voltage - Supply, Battery:
- 1.2V ~ 5.5V
- Current - Timekeeping (Max):
- 770nA ~ 2.135µA @ 1.2V ~ 5.5V
- Operating Temperature:
- -40°C ~ 85°C (TA)
- Mounting Type:
- Surface Mount, Wettable Flank
- Grade:
- -
- Qualification:
- -
- Supplier Device Package:
- 16-HLSON (4.5x3.5)
PCF2131TFY FAQ
1.How can I place an order for PCF2131TFY through Aetrix?
Please submit a Request for Quotation (RFQ) for PCF2131TFY on Aetrix. Our sales agent will provide a competitive quotation and guide you through the order confirmation once you accept the terms.
2.Are the price and stock information for PCF2131TFY reliable?
The price and inventory of PCF2131TFY are updated periodically and may fluctuate due to market conditions. Stock and pricing data are typically refreshed every 24 hours. Quotation validity for PCF2131TFY is usually 5 days.
3.What payment methods are accepted for PCF2131TFY?
We accept Wire Transfer, PayPal, Credit Card, Western Union, MoneyGram, and Escrow for PCF2131TFY transactions.
Note: Certain payment methods may incur a processing fee.
4.How is shipping managed for PCF2131TFY?
PCF2131TFY orders can be shipped via leading logistics carriers, including DHL, UPS, FedEx, TNT, or Registered Mail.
Once your PCF2131TFY order is processed, you will receive an email with the shipment details and tracking number.
Note: Tracking information may take up to 24 hours to appear. Express delivery typically takes 3–5 business days.
5.How can I obtain technical support or documentation for PCF2131TFY?
For technical support, including PCF2131TFY datasheets, pinout diagrams, or application guidance, please contact our engineering support team. They can provide detailed documentation and assistance for your PCF2131TFY requirements.
6.How does Aetrix verify that PCF2131TFY is sourced from the original manufacturer or authorized distributors?
All PCF2131TFY products on Aetrix are procured from qualified distributors and authorized channels. Our dedicated quality assurance team conducts strict verification, including traceability checks and, if necessary, third-party testing. This ensures that PCF2131TFY meets industry standards.
7.What is the process for return or replacement of PCF2131TFY?
All PCF2131TFY units undergo pre-shipment inspection (PSI). If there is an issue with PCF2131TFY, returns or replacements are accepted under the following conditions:
1.Quantity discrepancies, incorrect items, or visible external defects (such as breakage or corrosion), acknowledged by Aetrix.
2.The issue is reported within 90 days of delivery.
3.The PCF2131TFY part is unused and in its original packaging.
Return procedure for PCF2131TFY:
1.Submit a request within 90 days.
2.Obtain a Return Material Authorization (RMA) from Aetrix.
PCF2131TFY Tags

-
MCP7940N-I/SN
Microchip Technology

-
MCP7940MT-I/MNY
Microchip Technology

-
PCF85063ATL/1,118
NXP USA Inc.

-
MCP7940NT-I/SN
Microchip Technology

-
MCP7940NT-I/MS
Microchip Technology

-
MCP7940N-I/MS
Microchip Technology

-
PCF85063AT/AY
NXP USA Inc.
-
PCF85063TP/1Z
NXP Semiconductors

-
PCF85063ATT/AJ
NXP USA Inc.

-
MCP7940NT-E/SN
Microchip Technology

-
MCP7940NT-I/MNY
Microchip Technology

-
MCP79400T-I/SN
Microchip Technology
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