How to Use Nucleo STM32F411RE: Examples, Pinouts, and Specs

The Nucleo STM32F411RE is a development board built around the STM32F411RE microcontroller, which features an ARM Cortex-M4 core with a floating-point unit. This board is designed to provide a flexible and cost-effective platform for prototyping and developing embedded applications. It offers a wide range of connectivity options, integrated debugging capabilities, and compatibility with Arduino and ST morpho headers, making it suitable for both beginners and experienced developers.

• Prototyping IoT devices
• Motor control and robotics
• Sensor interfacing and data acquisition
• Real-time embedded systems
• Educational purposes for learning ARM Cortex-M4 programming

The Nucleo STM32F411RE features two main pin headers: Arduino-compatible headers and ST morpho headers. Below is a summary of the pin configuration:

1. Powering the Board:

   • Connect the board to your computer via a micro-USB cable for power and programming.
   • Alternatively, supply power through the VIN pin (7-12V) 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 µVision, and Arduino IDE (with STM32 core installed).

3. Connecting Peripherals:

   • Use the Arduino-compatible headers for quick prototyping with shields.
   • For advanced applications, use the ST morpho headers to access all GPIOs and peripherals.

4. Flashing Code:

   • Write your code in the IDE of your choice and compile it.
   • Flash the code to the board using the "Upload" or "Debug" option in the IDE.

• Ensure the board is powered with the correct voltage to avoid damage.
• Use decoupling capacitors when connecting external components to reduce noise.
• Avoid connecting high-current loads directly to GPIO pins; use transistors or relays instead.
• When using the Arduino IDE, install the STM32 core via the Boards Manager for compatibility.

Below is an example of blinking an LED connected to pin D13:

// Blink an LED on pin D13 (built-in LED on the Nucleo STM32F411RE)

void setup() {
  pinMode(LED_BUILTIN, OUTPUT); // Set the built-in LED pin as an 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 IDE:

   • Ensure the USB cable is functional and supports data transfer.
   • Check that the STM32 core is installed in the Arduino IDE or the correct drivers are installed for STM32CubeIDE.

2. Code Not Uploading:

   • Verify that the ST-LINK/V2-1 debugger is selected as the programmer in your IDE.
   • Press the reset button on the board before uploading the code.

3. Peripherals Not Working:

   • Double-check the pin connections and ensure the correct pins are configured in the code.
   • Confirm that the peripheral is powered and functional.

4. Board Overheating:

   • Ensure the input voltage does not exceed the recommended range.
   • Avoid drawing excessive current from the GPIO pins.

Q: Can I use the Nucleo STM32F411RE with Arduino shields?
A: Yes, the board is compatible with most Arduino Uno R3 shields via the Arduino headers.

Q: How do I reset the board?
A: Press the black reset button located near the USB connector.

Q: Can I debug my code on this board?
A: Yes, the integrated ST-LINK/V2-1 debugger allows for real-time debugging and programming.

Q: What IDEs are supported?
A: The board supports STM32CubeIDE, Keil µVision, IAR Embedded Workbench, and Arduino IDE (with STM32 core).