The DS1647 is a 512k x 8 nonvolatile static RAM with a full-function real-time clock, which are both accessible in a byte-wide format. The nonvolatile timekeeping RAM is functionally equivalent to any JEDEC standard 512k x 8 SRAM. The device can also be easily substituted for ROM, EPROM and EEPROM, providing read/write nonvolatility and the addition of the real-time clock function. The real-time clock information resides in the eight uppermost RAM locations. The RTC registers contain year, month, date, day, hours, minutes, and seconds data in 24-hour BCD format. Corrections for the day of the month and leap year are made automatically. The RTC clock registers are double-buffered to avoid access of incorrect data that can occur during clock update cycles. The double-buffered system also prevents time loss as the timekeeping countdown continues unabated by access to time register data. The DS1647 also contains its own power-fail circuitry, which deselects the device when the V_CC supply is in an out-of-tolerance condition. This feature prevents loss of data from unpredictable system operation brought on by low V_CC as errant access and update cycles are avoided.