How to Use STM32F446RE NUCLEO BOARD: Examples, Pinouts, and Specs

The STM32F446RE NUCLEO BOARD is a development board featuring the STM32F446RE microcontroller, which is based on the ARM Cortex-M4 core. This board is designed to provide a flexible platform for prototyping and developing embedded applications. It offers a wide range of peripherals, connectivity options, and compatibility with Arduino and ST morpho headers, making it suitable for both beginners and experienced developers.

• Prototyping IoT devices
• Motor control and industrial automation
• Signal processing and audio applications
• Educational purposes for learning embedded systems
• Developing applications requiring high-performance computing

• Microcontroller: STM32F446RE (ARM Cortex-M4, 32-bit, 180 MHz)
• Flash Memory: 512 KB
• SRAM: 128 KB
• Operating Voltage: 3.3V
• Input Voltage: 7V to 12V (via VIN pin) or 5V (via USB)
• I/O Pins: 50 (including analog and digital)
• Communication Interfaces: UART, I2C, SPI, CAN, USB OTG
• Timers: 14 (including advanced control timers)
• ADC: 12-bit, up to 16 channels
• DAC: 12-bit, 2 channels
• Clock Speed: Up to 180 MHz
• Debugging: ST-LINK/V2-1 debugger/programmer onboard
• Connectivity: Arduino Uno R3 compatibility and ST morpho headers

The STM32F446RE NUCLEO BOARD features multiple pin headers. Below is a summary of the key pin configurations:

1. Powering the Board:

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

2. Programming the Board:

   • Use the onboard ST-LINK/V2-1 debugger/programmer to upload code.
   • Compatible with STM32CubeIDE, Keil, IAR, and Arduino IDE.

3. Connecting Peripherals:

   • Use the Arduino-compatible headers for shields and external modules.
   • Use the ST morpho headers for advanced GPIO and peripheral access.

4. Running the Code:

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

• Ensure the input voltage does not exceed the specified range 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.
• For real-time applications, configure the clock settings carefully to achieve the desired performance.

Below is an example code to blink an LED connected to pin D13:

// Blink an LED on pin D13 of the STM32F446RE NUCLEO BOARD
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. Board Not Detected by Computer:

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

3. Peripherals Not Working:

   • Double-check the wiring and connections.
   • Confirm that the correct pins are configured in the code.

4. Board Overheating:

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

Q: Can I use the STM32F446RE NUCLEO BOARD with Arduino libraries?
A: Yes, the board is compatible with the Arduino IDE and supports many Arduino libraries.

Q: How do I reset the board?
A: Press the RESET button on the board or use the NRST pin.

Q: Can I use an external debugger with this board?
A: Yes, the board supports external debuggers via the SWD interface.

Q: What is the maximum clock speed of the STM32F446RE?
A: The microcontroller can operate at a maximum clock speed of 180 MHz.