Adafruit Data Logging Shield for Arduino

Bottom view of the Adafruit Data Logging Shield for Arduino next to US quarter dollar for size reference.

Overview

Adafruit’s Data Logging Shield for Arduino makes it easy to save data to files on any FAT16- or FAT32-formatted SD card in a way that can be read later by most plotting, spreadsheet, or analysis programs. The included real time clock (RTC) timestamps all your data with the current time, so that you know precisely what happened when. This is the “revision B” version of the data logging shield.

For documentation and resources to help you use the data logger, including instructions for configuring and using this board with various Arduino boards, see the tutorial on Adafruit’s site.

For Arduino-compatible boards with integrated microSD support, consider the microSD configurations of our A-Star 32U4 Primes.

Features

• SD card interface works with FAT16- or FAT32-formatted cards. 3.3 V level shifter circuitry prevents damage to your SD card.
• Real time clock (RTC) keeps track of the time even when the Arduino is unplugged. A coin cell battery (not included) serves as a backup power source for the RTC and should last for years.
• Included Arduino libraries and example sketches for interfacing with both the SD card and RTC help you get started with this shield quickly.
• Prototyping area for soldering connectors, circuitry, or sensors.
• Integrated 3.3 V regulator powers the SD card and serves as an available reference voltage.
• Two configurable indicator LEDs.
• Uses the “R3 layout” I2C and ICSP/SPI ports so it is compatible with a wide variety of Arduino and Arduino-compatible boards, including the Arduino Uno, Leonardo, Mega 2560 R3, Zero, Due, Mega ADK R3, Duemilanove, and Diecimila.

Included Hardware

The shield ships with all of its surface-mount parts populated. However, soldering is required for assembly of the included 0.1″ male headers. If you plan on stacking multiple shields, we recommend our stackable 0.1″ female header set for Arduino shields.

An Arduino, SD card, and coin cell battery are not included.

Adafruit Data Logging Shield plugged into an Arduino board.

Note: This product is Adafruit product ID 1141.