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Manual / Raspberry Pi 5

RTC Battery Holder for Pi 5 Instructions

Install the LIR2032 battery connector for your Raspberry Pi 5 RTC battery port. Ensure uninterrupted power supply and accurate timekeeping.

Installation GuideRTC BatteryBy Vilros

RTC battery overview

The Raspberry Pi 5 includes a built-in Real-Time Clock (RTC) with a dedicated battery connector. When a battery is installed, the RTC maintains accurate time even when the Pi is powered off, eliminating the need for network time sync on every boot.

Compatible with: Raspberry Pi 5 only (Pi 5 is the first model with RTC battery support)

Battery type: LIR2032 rechargeable lithium coin cell (3.7V nominal)

Note: Use only LIR2032 rechargeable batteries. Do not use standard CR2032 non-rechargeable batteries in the RTC port, as the Pi 5 applies a trickle charge that can damage non-rechargeable cells.

Installation steps

  1. Power off: Shut down and disconnect power from your Raspberry Pi 5.
  2. Locate the RTC battery connector: On the Pi 5, the RTC battery connector is a small 2-pin JST connector labeled "BAT" or "RTC" near the GPIO header.
  3. Prepare the battery holder: The Vilros RTC battery holder includes a JST connector cable attached to a coin cell holder. Insert a LIR2032 rechargeable battery into the holder, observing correct polarity (+/-).
  4. Connect to Pi 5: Plug the JST connector from the battery holder into the Pi 5's RTC battery port. Ensure it's fully seated and the polarity is correct (the connector is typically keyed to prevent reverse connection).
  5. Secure the holder (optional): Some battery holders include adhesive backing. Attach the holder to the Pi 5 case or a stable surface near the Pi to prevent strain on the cable.

Battery information

LIR2032 rechargeable battery:

  • Voltage: 3.7V nominal (fully charged: ~4.2V)
  • Capacity: Typically 40-50 mAh
  • Rechargeable: Yes, trickle-charged by the Pi 5 when powered
  • Lifespan: Maintains RTC for weeks or months depending on charge level

Charging: The Raspberry Pi 5 automatically trickle-charges the LIR2032 battery whenever the Pi is powered on. No user action required.

Replacement: LIR2032 batteries are rechargeable and should last many charge cycles. Replace when the RTC no longer holds time reliably after extended power-off periods.

Safety: Only use LIR2032 rechargeable batteries. Standard CR2032 non-rechargeable batteries can overheat or leak if charged.

Verify RTC operation

After installing the RTC battery, verify it's working:

  1. Power on the Pi 5: Boot your Raspberry Pi 5 as normal. The RTC battery will begin charging.
  2. Set the time: If the RTC was never set, manually set the time in Raspberry Pi OS settings or use network time sync.
  3. Power off and wait: Shut down the Pi 5, disconnect power, and wait a few minutes.
  4. Power on and check time: Reconnect power and boot the Pi 5. Check the system time:
    date

    If the RTC is working, the time should be accurate without network sync. Without an RTC battery, the Pi would reset to a default date (e.g., January 1, 1970 or last-known time).

For detailed RTC information, see our RTC guide for Pi 5.