How to Use STM32 Nucleo-144 development board with STM32F746ZG MCU: Examples, Pinouts, and Specs

The STM32 Nucleo-144 development board, manufactured by STMicroelectronics, is a versatile prototyping platform featuring the STM32F746ZG microcontroller. This microcontroller is based on the ARM Cortex-M7 core, offering high performance, extensive connectivity, and advanced peripherals. The board is designed to simplify the development of embedded applications, providing compatibility with a wide range of expansion boards and software tools.

• Industrial control systems
• IoT (Internet of Things) devices
• Robotics and automation
• Audio processing and multimedia applications
• Prototyping for consumer electronics
• Educational and research projects

• Microcontroller: STM32F746ZG (ARM Cortex-M7 core, 32-bit)
• Clock Speed: Up to 216 MHz
• Flash Memory: 1 MB
• SRAM: 320 KB
• Operating Voltage: 3.3V
• Input Voltage Range: 7V to 12V (via external power supply)
• I/O Pins: 144 pins (extensive GPIO, ADC, DAC, UART, SPI, I2C, etc.)
• Connectivity: Ethernet, USB OTG, CAN, USART
• Expansion: Arduino Uno V3 connectors, ST Zio connectors, and ST morpho headers
• Debugging: Integrated ST-LINK/V2-1 debugger/programmer
• Dimensions: 147 mm x 87 mm

The STM32 Nucleo-144 board features multiple pin headers for connectivity. Below is a summary of the key pin configurations:

1. Powering the Board:

   • Connect the board to a PC using a USB cable for power and programming.
   • Alternatively, use an external power supply (7V to 12V) via the VIN pin or power jack.

2. Programming the Board:

   • Use the integrated ST-LINK/V2-1 debugger/programmer to upload code.
   • Compatible with STM32CubeIDE, Keil MDK, IAR Embedded Workbench, and other IDEs.

3. Connecting Peripherals:

   • Use the ST Zio, ST Morpho, or Arduino Uno V3 connectors to attach sensors, actuators, or other peripherals.
   • Ensure proper voltage levels and pin configurations for connected devices.

4. Running the Application:

   • After uploading the code, press the reset button to start the application.
   • Monitor the output using the serial interface or other debugging tools.

• Ensure the input voltage does not exceed the specified range to avoid damaging the board.
• Use decoupling capacitors when connecting external components to reduce noise.
• Avoid shorting pins or connecting incompatible peripherals.
• Use the provided software libraries (e.g., STM32 HAL or LL drivers) for efficient development.

The STM32 Nucleo-144 board can be programmed using the Arduino IDE. Below is an example of blinking an LED connected to pin D13:

// Example: Blink an LED on pin D13
// Ensure the STM32 board is selected in the Arduino IDE

#define LED_PIN D13  // Define the LED pin (D13 is onboard LED)

void setup() {
  pinMode(LED_PIN, OUTPUT);  // Set LED pin as 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
}

1. Board Not Detected by PC:

   • Ensure the USB cable is functional and properly connected.
   • Check if the ST-LINK driver is installed on your PC.

2. Code Upload Fails:

   • Verify that the correct board and port are selected in the IDE.
   • Ensure no other application is using the ST-LINK interface.

3. Peripheral Not Working:

   • Double-check the pin connections and configurations.
   • Ensure the peripheral is powered and compatible with the board.

4. Board Overheating:

   • Check for short circuits or excessive current draw from connected devices.
   • Use a proper heat sink if necessary.

Q1: Can I use the STM32 Nucleo-144 board with third-party IDEs?
A1: Yes, the board is compatible with STM32CubeIDE, Keil MDK, IAR Embedded Workbench, and the Arduino IDE.

Q2: How do I reset the board?
A2: Press the reset button located on the board to restart the application.

Q3: Can I power the board using a battery?
A3: Yes, you can use a battery within the input voltage range (7V to 12V) connected to the VIN pin or power jack.

Q4: Is the board compatible with all Arduino shields?
A4: The board supports Arduino Uno V3 shields, but compatibility depends on the shield's voltage and pin requirements. Always verify before use.