How to Program STM32 Board with Arduino IDE : Guide for STM32 Prototyping

STM32 board is a essential tools for engineers and developers working in embedded systems. Built around the STM32 microcontroller family, these boards are known for their advanced processing capabilities, energy efficiency, and extensive peripheral support. Manufactured by STMicroelectronics, STM32 boards serve as a versatile platform for creating innovative solutions, from IoT devices to industrial automation systems.

In this guide, we’ll explain how to program an STM32 development board using the Arduino IDE, leveraging its user-friendly interface alongside the advanced features of STM32 microcontrollers.

STM32 and Arduino IDE Integration

STM32 microcontrollers boast high performance, low power consumption, and a robust peripheral set. By integrating STM32 with the Arduino IDE, developers can utilize an intuitive interface while accessing the powerful features of STM32 chips. This makes it possible to develop a wide range of applications with ease and efficiency

Setting Up Your Environment

• Step 1: Install the Arduino IDE In your computer you can download the IDE from this link
• Step 2: Install the STM32 Package in Arduino IDE
  • Open Arduino IDE: Launch your Arduino IDE on your computer.
  • Access Preferences: Go to File > Preferences.
  • Add Board URL: In the “Additional Boards Manager URLs” field, add:

https://github.com/stm32duino/BoardManagerFiles/raw/main/package_stmicroelectronics_index.json

• Open Board Manager: Navigate to Tools > Board > Boards Manager.
• Install STM32 Core: Search for “STM32” and install the package labeled “STM32 MCU based boards”

• Step 3: Install the STM32CubeProgrammer software . you can download and install the CubeProgrammer software from STM32 website : download link

Once the installation is completed, we can check the functionality of the Arduino IDE.

Connecting Your Hardware

For this guide, we’ll use the STM32 Nucleo-64 development board featuring the STM32F303RE microcontroller. This board supports both Arduino and ST morpho connectivity, offering a robust platform for prototyping.

Key Features of STM32 Nucleo-64

• Arduino Uno V3 compatibility: Easily expand functionality with Arduino shields.
• ST morpho headers: Seamlessly integrate with specialized STM32 shields.
• Integrated ST-LINK debugger/programmer: No need for an external programmer.
• Energy efficiency: Features like internal or external SMPS reduce power consumption.

Connect the Nucleo-64 board to your computer using a micro USB cable.

Programming the STM32 with Arduino IDE

To program your STM32F303RE MCU board I have connected the mini usb with board and connected to the USB port of Laptop

Write a Simple Program for STM32 Board

Once the package is installed:

• Go to Tools > Board, and select “Nucleo 64”.

• Choose your specific board model from the list for me i choose NUCLEO F303RE you need to choose which make is yours

• Other Important parameters are
  • upload method = ” Mass Storage”
  • USB support (if available): “CDC (generic ‘Serial’ supersede U(S)ART)”

After completing the same we write the program as below

#define LED_PIN PA5 // Built-in LED connected to PA5

void setup() {
  pinMode(LED_PIN, OUTPUT);
}

void loop() {
  digitalWrite(LED_PIN, HIGH); // Turn the LED on
  delay(1000);                 // Wait for 1 second
  digitalWrite(LED_PIN, LOW);  // Turn the LED off
  delay(1000);                 // Wait for 1 second
}

Compile and Upload the Program

1. Click the Verify button to compile your code.
2. Once the compilation is successful, click the Upload button.

Common Error: Board Not Mounted

Ensure the STM32 board is properly mounted. Without proper mounting, you may encounter upload errors.

STM32 Board Arduino Libraries and Resources

• STM32 Arduino GitHub: Find official libraries and resources on the STM32 Arduino GitHub page.
• STM32 Arduino Examples: Explore example projects within the Arduino IDE after installing the STM32 package.
• STM32 HAL Library: For advanced development, the STM32 Hardware Abstraction Layer (HAL) library provides extensive support.

Programming STM32 development boards with the Arduino IDE combines the best of both worlds: the advanced features of STM32 microcontrollers and the simplicity of Arduino. With this guide, you can set up your development environment, connect your hardware, and write and upload your first program. Explore the resources available on GitHub and within the STM32Cube ecosystem to take your projects to the next level.

Additional information for STM32 Board using Arduino

1. Multiple Upload Methods

STM32 boards support various upload methods, each suited for different development needs:

• Mass Storage (Default): Utilizes the board’s integrated ST-LINK interface, allowing the board to appear as a USB drive. Simply drag and drop the compiled binary file to program the board.
• Serial Wire Debug (SWD): Provides in-depth debugging capabilities. To use SWD:
  1. In the Arduino IDE, navigate to Tools > Upload Method and select Serial Wire Debug.
  2. Click the Verify button to compile the code.
  3. Click the Start Debugging button to initiate a debug session.

For more detailed instructions, refer to STMicroelectronics’ guide on programming and debugging STM32 using the Arduino IDE.

2. Utilizing STM32CubeProgrammer

While the integrated ST-LINK interface facilitates programming, installing the STM32CubeProgrammer offers additional features:

• Versatile Programming Interfaces: Supports SWD, Serial, and DFU methods, enhancing flexibility.
• Drag-and-Drop Flash Programming: Simplifies the programming process without requiring a separate debug probe.

This tool is particularly beneficial for advanced debugging and programming scenarios.

3. Exploring STM32 Arduino Libraries and Examples

To expedite development and leverage existing solutions:

• STM32duino Examples: Access a collection of examples tailored for STM32 MCUs. These can be found within the Arduino IDE under File > Examples after installing the STM32 package. For more information, visit the STM32duino Examples repository.
• STM32 HAL Library: For advanced projects, the STM32 Hardware Abstraction Layer (HAL) library provides comprehensive support. This library facilitates low-level hardware interactions, offering greater control over the microcontroller’s features.

4. Additional Resources

For further assistance and community support:

• STM32 Arduino GitHub Repository: Access the official repository for STM32 Arduino core support, including documentation and issue tracking. GitHub
• STM32duino Community: Engage with fellow developers, seek advice, and share experiences on the STM32duino forum