How to Use STM32 NUCLEO-L432KC: Examples, Pinouts, and Specs

The STM32 NUCLEO-L432KC is a compact development board manufactured by STMicroelectronics. It features the STM32L432KC microcontroller, which is based on the ARM Cortex-M4 architecture with an FPU (Floating Point Unit). This board is designed to provide a flexible and cost-effective platform for prototyping and development. It supports a wide range of applications, including IoT devices, low-power embedded systems, and sensor-based projects.

The NUCLEO-L432KC is equipped with Arduino Uno R3 and ST morpho headers, enabling compatibility with a variety of shields and expansion boards. It also includes an integrated ST-LINK debugger/programmer, eliminating the need for an external programmer.

• IoT and connected devices
• Low-power embedded systems
• Sensor interfacing and data acquisition
• Prototyping with Arduino-compatible shields
• Educational and research projects

1. Powering the Board:

   • Connect the board to your computer via the micro-USB cable for power and programming.
   • Alternatively, supply power through the VIN pin (7V-12V) or the 5V pin.

2. Programming the Board:

   • Use the integrated ST-LINK/V2-1 debugger to program the board via USB.
   • Compatible IDEs include STM32CubeIDE, Keil MDK, and IAR Embedded Workbench.
   • For Arduino users, install the STM32 core in the Arduino IDE.

3. Connecting Peripherals:

   • Use the Arduino Uno R3 headers for shields and expansion boards.
   • Use the ST morpho headers for direct access to all microcontroller pins.

4. Uploading Code:

   • Write your code in the chosen IDE and upload it to the board.
   • For Arduino IDE, select "Nucleo-32" as the board type and the correct COM port.

• Ensure the input voltage does not exceed the specified range to avoid damaging the board.
• Use level shifters if interfacing with 5V logic devices, as the board operates at 3.3V.
• Avoid connecting high-current loads directly to the I/O pins; use external drivers if needed.
• Always verify pin configurations and peripheral assignments in the datasheet or reference manual.

The following example demonstrates how to blink an LED connected to pin D13:

// Blink example for STM32 NUCLEO-L432KC
// This code toggles the onboard LED connected to pin D13

void setup() {
  pinMode(LED_BUILTIN, OUTPUT); // Set the onboard LED pin as output
}

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

1. Board Not Detected by the Computer:

   • Ensure the USB cable is functional and supports data transfer.
   • Check that the ST-LINK driver is installed on your computer.

2. Code Upload Fails:

   • Verify that the correct board and COM port are selected in the IDE.
   • Ensure no other application is using the COM port.

3. Peripherals Not Working as Expected:

   • Double-check the pin assignments in your code.
   • Confirm that the peripheral is properly connected and powered.

4. Board Overheating:

   • Ensure the input voltage is within the specified range.
   • Avoid drawing excessive current from the I/O pins.

Q: Can I use 5V shields with the NUCLEO-L432KC?
A: Yes, but you must ensure that the shield's I/O pins are compatible with 3.3V logic levels. Use level shifters if necessary.

Q: How do I reset the board?
A: Press the RESET button on the board or use the software reset feature in your IDE.

Q: Is the board compatible with Arduino libraries?
A: Yes, the STM32 core for Arduino provides compatibility with many Arduino libraries.

Q: Can I power the board using a battery?
A: Yes, you can connect a battery to the VIN or 5V pin, ensuring the voltage is within the specified range.

This concludes the documentation for the STM32 NUCLEO-L432KC. For further details, refer to the official datasheet and user manual provided by STMicroelectronics.