I've used the DS1302 in a design.
First, since the device is synchronous, you *don't* need the 32 kHz xtal to
talk to the DS1302.

Time will just stand still :)

I used a crystal from IQD, with a load capacitance of 12.5 pF, works just fine.

I'd say either your device is blown, or your program not accurate.

/Anders




*snip*

>My second problem is that I can't get the DS1302 to talk back to me. I can only
>assume that this is because the oscillator isn't running. Could someone please
>confirm this for me as I've been going nuts with two really nice routines I've
>written to set and read the time, but can't test them properly.

>If anyone is using this device, could they please provide me with details of a
>known good crystal along with details of any by-pass caps, or bleed resistors
>if required.

*snip*