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How to Use nucleo: Examples, Pinouts, and Specs

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Introduction

Nucleo boards are versatile development platforms from STMicroelectronics that integrate an STM32 microcontroller. These boards are designed to offer a flexible way for users to try out new concepts and build prototypes with any STM32 microcontroller, choosing from the various combinations of performance, power consumption, and features. The Nucleo boards are particularly popular in applications such as rapid prototyping, educational purposes, and as a part of a larger embedded system.

Common applications include:

  • Internet of Things (IoT) devices
  • Wearable technology
  • Educational projects
  • Automation systems
  • Prototyping for embedded systems

Explore Projects Built with nucleo

Use Cirkit Designer to design, explore, and prototype these projects online. Some projects support real-time simulation. Click "Open Project" to start designing instantly!
Nucleo 401RE Dual 7-Segment Display Counter with User Button Control
Image of lll: A project utilizing nucleo in a practical application
This circuit consists of two Nucleo 401RE microcontrollers, each controlling a 7-segment display. The first microcontroller is programmed to count from 0 to 9 every second and display the count on its connected 7-segment display, while the second microcontroller is not performing any specific function as its code is empty.
Cirkit Designer LogoOpen Project in Cirkit Designer
WiFi-Enabled Environmental Monitoring System with Alert Notifications
Image of GAS LEAKAGE DETECTION: A project utilizing nucleo in a practical application
This circuit features a NUCLEO-F303RE microcontroller board interfaced with several modules for sensing, actuation, and communication. It uses I2C communication to display data on an LCD screen, UART communication to interface with an ESP8266 WiFi module, and reads an MQ-2 gas sensor via an ADC pin. The microcontroller also controls a buzzer for audible alerts and a relay module for switching higher power loads, possibly in response to sensor readings or remote commands received over WiFi.
Cirkit Designer LogoOpen Project in Cirkit Designer
IoT-Enabled Environmental Monitoring System with NUCLEO-F303RE and ESP8266
Image of GAS LEAKAGE DETECTION: A project utilizing nucleo in a practical application
This circuit features a NUCLEO-F303RE microcontroller board interfaced with various modules for sensing, actuation, and communication. It includes an MQ-2 gas sensor for detecting combustible gases, a buzzer for audible alerts, and a relay for controlling high-power devices. Additionally, the circuit uses an ESP8266 WiFi module for wireless connectivity and an I2C LCD display for user interface and data display.
Cirkit Designer LogoOpen Project in Cirkit Designer
Battery-Powered Emergency Alert System with NUCLEO-F072RB, SIM800L, and GPS NEO 6M
Image of women safety: A project utilizing nucleo in a practical application
This circuit is an emergency alert system that uses a NUCLEO-F072RB microcontroller to send SMS alerts and make calls via a SIM800L GSM module, while obtaining location data from a GPS NEO 6M module. The system is powered by a Li-ion battery and includes a TP4056 module for battery charging and protection, with a rocker switch to control power to the microcontroller.
Cirkit Designer LogoOpen Project in Cirkit Designer

Explore Projects Built with nucleo

Use Cirkit Designer to design, explore, and prototype these projects online. Some projects support real-time simulation. Click "Open Project" to start designing instantly!
Image of lll: A project utilizing nucleo in a practical application
Nucleo 401RE Dual 7-Segment Display Counter with User Button Control
This circuit consists of two Nucleo 401RE microcontrollers, each controlling a 7-segment display. The first microcontroller is programmed to count from 0 to 9 every second and display the count on its connected 7-segment display, while the second microcontroller is not performing any specific function as its code is empty.
Cirkit Designer LogoOpen Project in Cirkit Designer
Image of GAS LEAKAGE DETECTION: A project utilizing nucleo in a practical application
WiFi-Enabled Environmental Monitoring System with Alert Notifications
This circuit features a NUCLEO-F303RE microcontroller board interfaced with several modules for sensing, actuation, and communication. It uses I2C communication to display data on an LCD screen, UART communication to interface with an ESP8266 WiFi module, and reads an MQ-2 gas sensor via an ADC pin. The microcontroller also controls a buzzer for audible alerts and a relay module for switching higher power loads, possibly in response to sensor readings or remote commands received over WiFi.
Cirkit Designer LogoOpen Project in Cirkit Designer
Image of GAS LEAKAGE DETECTION: A project utilizing nucleo in a practical application
IoT-Enabled Environmental Monitoring System with NUCLEO-F303RE and ESP8266
This circuit features a NUCLEO-F303RE microcontroller board interfaced with various modules for sensing, actuation, and communication. It includes an MQ-2 gas sensor for detecting combustible gases, a buzzer for audible alerts, and a relay for controlling high-power devices. Additionally, the circuit uses an ESP8266 WiFi module for wireless connectivity and an I2C LCD display for user interface and data display.
Cirkit Designer LogoOpen Project in Cirkit Designer
Image of women safety: A project utilizing nucleo in a practical application
Battery-Powered Emergency Alert System with NUCLEO-F072RB, SIM800L, and GPS NEO 6M
This circuit is an emergency alert system that uses a NUCLEO-F072RB microcontroller to send SMS alerts and make calls via a SIM800L GSM module, while obtaining location data from a GPS NEO 6M module. The system is powered by a Li-ion battery and includes a TP4056 module for battery charging and protection, with a rocker switch to control power to the microcontroller.
Cirkit Designer LogoOpen Project in Cirkit Designer

Technical Specifications

Key Technical Details

  • Microcontroller: STM32 (various models depending on the Nucleo board version)
  • Operating Voltage: 3.3V
  • Input Voltage (from USB or external source): 5V to 12V
  • Analog Input Pins: Depending on the STM32 model
  • Digital I/O Pins: Depending on the STM32 model
  • Flash Memory: Depending on the STM32 model
  • SRAM: Depending on the STM32 model
  • Clock Speed: Depending on the STM32 model

Pin Configuration and Descriptions

Pin Number Function Description
CN7 Digital I/O General-purpose input/output pins
CN8 Analog Inputs Analog-to-digital converter channels
CN9 Power 5V, 3.3V, GND
CN10 Reset Reset pin for the microcontroller
CN11 ST-LINK Debugger/Programmer interface
CN12 USB User USB connector (if available)

Note: The pin configuration may vary based on the specific STM32 microcontroller used in the Nucleo board. Please refer to the datasheet of your specific Nucleo board model for exact pin mapping.

Usage Instructions

How to Use the Component in a Circuit

  1. Powering the Board:

    • Connect the Nucleo board to a computer or a USB power source using a micro-USB cable.
    • Alternatively, provide an external power source within the specified voltage range to the E5V and GND pins.
  2. Programming the Board:

    • Use the built-in ST-LINK debugger/programmer to upload firmware. This can be done through various development environments such as STM32CubeIDE, Keil, IAR, or Arduino IDE (with appropriate core support).
  3. Connecting Peripherals:

    • Utilize the CN7 and CN8 connectors to interface with digital or analog sensors, actuators, and other components.
    • Ensure that the connected peripherals are compatible with the operating voltage of the board to prevent damage.

Important Considerations and Best Practices

  • Always observe proper electrostatic discharge (ESD) precautions when handling the Nucleo board.
  • Verify the microcontroller's pinout and functionality from the datasheet before connecting external components.
  • Use pull-up or pull-down resistors with inputs to ensure defined logic levels when switches or sensors are disconnected.
  • Avoid drawing more current from the I/O pins than the specified limit to prevent damage to the microcontroller.

Troubleshooting and FAQs

Common Issues

  • Board not recognized by the computer:

    • Ensure the micro-USB cable is properly connected and functioning.
    • Check if the ST-LINK drivers are installed correctly on the computer.
  • Unable to upload firmware:

    • Verify the correct board and port are selected in the development environment.
    • Ensure there are no issues with the firmware code or compilation errors.
  • Peripherals not working as expected:

    • Double-check the wiring and connections.
    • Confirm that the peripheral is compatible with the board's voltage levels.

Solutions and Tips for Troubleshooting

  • If the board is not recognized, try using a different USB port or cable.
  • For firmware upload issues, try resetting the board or using the ST-LINK Utility to erase and reprogram the microcontroller.
  • Consult the Nucleo board's user manual and the datasheet of the STM32 microcontroller for detailed information.

FAQs

Q: Can I use Arduino shields with the Nucleo board? A: Yes, many Nucleo boards are compatible with Arduino shields. However, check the compatibility of the specific Nucleo board model with the Arduino shield in question.

Q: What development environments can I use with Nucleo boards? A: You can use STM32CubeIDE, Keil, IAR, and the Arduino IDE (with STM32duino core) among others.

Q: How do I access the full performance of the STM32 microcontroller on the Nucleo board? A: To access the full performance, ensure that you are using the latest firmware and libraries specific to the STM32 microcontroller family, and optimize your code and settings for performance in your chosen development environment.

For more detailed information, refer to the STMicroelectronics Nucleo board user manuals and datasheets specific to your Nucleo board model.