How to Use STM-32 NUCLEO-F401RE: Examples, Pinouts, and Specs

The STM-32 NUCLEO-F401RE is a development board manufactured by STMicroelectronics, featuring the STM32F401RE microcontroller. This microcontroller is based on the ARM Cortex-M4 core, offering high performance and low power consumption. The board is designed to provide a flexible platform for prototyping and developing embedded applications. It supports a wide range of connectivity options, including USB, UART, I2C, and SPI, and is compatible with both Arduino Uno R3 and ST morpho headers, enabling easy expansion with additional shields and modules.

• IoT (Internet of Things) devices and prototypes
• Industrial automation and control systems
• Robotics and motor control
• Sensor data acquisition and processing
• Educational and research projects
• General-purpose embedded systems development

• Microcontroller: STM32F401RE (ARM Cortex-M4, 84 MHz)
• Flash Memory: 512 KB
• SRAM: 96 KB
• Operating Voltage: 3.3V (core), 5V (I/O via USB or external power)
• Connectivity:
  • USB (Micro-USB connector for power and communication)
  • UART, I2C, SPI, and CAN interfaces
• Clock Source: 8 MHz external crystal oscillator
• Debugging: Integrated ST-LINK/V2-1 debugger/programmer
• Expansion Headers:
  • Arduino Uno R3 compatibility
  • ST morpho headers for additional GPIO and peripherals
• Power Supply Options:
  • USB-powered (5V via Micro-USB)
  • External power supply (VIN pin or E5V pin)
• Dimensions: 68.6 mm x 53.4 mm

The STM-32 NUCLEO-F401RE features multiple pin headers for connectivity. Below is a summary of the key pin configurations:

1. Powering the Board:

   • Connect the board to your computer using a Micro-USB cable for power and communication.
   • Alternatively, supply power via the VIN pin (7-12V) or the E5V pin (5V regulated).

2. Programming the Board:

   • Use the integrated ST-LINK/V2-1 debugger/programmer to upload code.
   • 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 modules.
   • Use the ST morpho headers for additional GPIO and peripherals.

4. Running the Code:

   • After uploading the code, the board will automatically reset and execute the program.

• Ensure the board is powered correctly to avoid damage. Do not exceed the voltage limits.
• Use decoupling capacitors when connecting external components to reduce noise.
• Avoid connecting high-current loads directly to the GPIO pins.
• When using the Arduino IDE, ensure the correct board and port are selected in the settings.
• For advanced debugging, use the ST-LINK/V2-1 interface with STM32CubeIDE.

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

// Blink an LED on pin D13 (built-in LED on the NUCLEO-F401RE)

void setup() {
  pinMode(13, OUTPUT); // Set pin D13 as an output
}

void loop() {
  digitalWrite(13, HIGH); // Turn the LED on
  delay(1000);            // Wait for 1 second
  digitalWrite(13, LOW);  // Turn the LED off
  delay(1000);            // Wait for 1 second
}

1. The board is not detected by the computer:

   • Ensure the Micro-USB cable is functional and supports data transfer.
   • Check that the ST-LINK driver is installed on your computer.
   • Try a different USB port or restart your computer.

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.
   • Press the reset button on the board and try uploading again.

3. The board does not power on:

   • Check the power source and ensure the voltage is within the acceptable range.
   • Inspect the USB cable or external power supply for faults.

4. Peripherals are not working as expected:

   • Double-check the wiring and connections.
   • Verify that the correct pins are configured in the code.
   • Use a multimeter to test for continuity and voltage levels.

Q: Can I use the STM-32 NUCLEO-F401RE with the Arduino IDE?
A: Yes, the board is compatible with the Arduino IDE. Install the STM32 core to program it using Arduino libraries.

Q: What is the maximum current output of the GPIO pins?
A: Each GPIO pin can source or sink up to 25 mA. However, it is recommended to limit the current to 8 mA for safe operation.

Q: Can I use the board without an external programmer?
A: Yes, the board includes an integrated ST-LINK/V2-1 debugger/programmer for programming and debugging.

Q: How do I reset the board?
A: Press the RESET button on the board to perform a hardware reset.

Q: Is the board compatible with 5V logic?
A: The STM32F401RE operates at 3.3V logic levels. Use level shifters if interfacing with 5V devices.