The Adafruit Data Logging Shield makes it easy to save sensor data to an SD card with accurate timestamps. It combines an SD card interface with a real-time clock (RTC) and a prototyping area on an Arduino-compatible shield, so you can be logging data within minutes of setup.
This R3-compatible version works with a wide range of Arduino boards. All components come pre-soldered and tested — you just need to solder on the headers to attach it to your Arduino.
Key Features
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SD Card Interface – Supports FAT16 and FAT32 formatted cards with 3.3V level shifting to protect your SD card
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Real-Time Clock (RTC) – Timestamps all data, battery backup lasts for years
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On-Board 3.3V Regulator – Reliable reference voltage and stable SD card power
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Prototyping Area – Solder space for connectors, sensors or additional circuitry
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Library Support – Included libraries and example code for both SD and RTC
Compatibility
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Arduino UNO / ATmega328 – 4 analogue channels at 10-bit (6 if RTC not used)
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Arduino Leonardo / ATmega32u4 – 12 analogue channels at 10-bit
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Arduino Mega R3 / ATmega2560 – 16 analogue inputs at 10-bit
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Arduino Zero / ATSAMD21 – 6 analogue inputs at 12-bit
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Arduino Due – 12 analogue inputs at 12-bit
Ideal For
- Environmental and weather data logging
- Sensor data recording for analysis
- Long-term monitoring projects
- Scientific experiments and field work
Package Contents
- 1× Adafruit Data Logging Shield (assembled and tested, headers not installed)
Important: Arduino board, SD card and coin cell battery are not included. Headers need to be soldered on — basic soldering skills required.
Jargon buster
Plain-language definitions for the technical terms used above.
- 3.3V regulator
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A 3.3V regulator is a power circuit that provides a steady 3.3 volts for parts that need that supply voltage. On a breakout board, it can let the sensor run safely even when the connected microcontroller or power source uses a higher voltage.
- Headers
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Rows of connector contacts on a fixed pitch (commonly 2.54 mm) used to link a board to a breadboard, jumper wires, or another board. They come as male pin headers and female socket headers; when a module ships with pre-soldered headers it can be used straight away, whereas bare pads require soldering the pins yourself.
- RTC
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A Real-Time Clock keeps track of time even when the main processor is asleep or powered down, usually with a small backup battery. It matters for data logging and tracking projects that need accurate timestamps.
- Shield
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An add-on board that plugs into a main controller board to give it extra features such as sensing, motor control or communication. Knowing a product supports shields helps you judge whether it can connect neatly into an existing maker-board setup.