How Do Computers Keep Accurate Time?

Learn about how computers keep track of time even when powered off through the Real-Time Clock (RTC) system.

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Computers remember time through a component called the Real-Time Clock (RTC). The RTC is powered by a small battery, allowing it to keep track of time even when the computer is off. This ensures the system clock is accurate when the computer is turned back on.

FAQs & Answers

  1. What is the Real-Time Clock in computers? The Real-Time Clock (RTC) is a component that keeps track of the current time and date even when the computer is turned off.
  2. Why do computers need to track time? Computers need to track time for accurate timestamps, scheduling tasks, and maintaining system time synchronization.
  3. How does the RTC stay powered? The RTC is powered by a small battery that ensures it can function independently of the computer's main power supply.
  4. What happens to the system clock when the computer is off? When the computer is off, the RTC maintains the system clock’s accuracy by using its battery power.