STM32 Nucleo-F401RE Development Board

Overview

The STM32 Nucleo-F401RE Development Board is a versatile platform for evaluating, prototyping, and building embedded applications based on the STM32F4 series ARM Cortex-M4 microcontroller. It combines high processing performance, low power modes, rich peripheral interfaces, and broad software support to accelerate development of IoT, robotics, motor control, and industrial automation projects.

Key Specifications

• Microcontroller: STM32F401RE ARM Cortex-M4 running up to 84 MHz
• Memory: 512 KB Flash, 96 KB SRAM
• Onboard Debugger: ST-LINK/V2-1 with USB interface
• Expansion: Arduino Uno R3 headers and ST morpho connectors
• Peripherals: UART, SPI, I2C, ADC, DAC, PWM, Timers, DMA
• Power: USB, external 5V, or 3.3V supply; multiple low-power modes
• Software: Compatible with STM32CubeMX, Keil, IAR, and GCC toolchains; full HAL and LL libraries

Processor, Memory, and Performance

The STM32F401RE MCU integrates an ARM Cortex-M4 core with DSP instructions and a floating point unit for efficient signal processing and real-time control. With 512 KB Flash and 96 KB SRAM, the board supports complex firmware, RTOS-based projects, and data buffering for sensor fusion and communications.

Performance Highlights

• Up to 84 MHz CPU frequency for responsive control and processing
• Hardware floating point and DSP extensions for efficient math operations
• DMA controllers to offload data movement and optimize throughput

Connectivity and Peripherals

The Nucleo-F401RE exposes a wide range of peripherals for sensors, actuators, and communication modules.

• Digital interfaces: multiple UART, SPI, and I2C ports
• Analog: ADC inputs and DAC outputs for sensor interface and signal generation
• Timers and PWM channels for motor control and precise timing
• Direct Memory Access for high-performance data transfers
• USB support including DFU for firmware upgrades

Debugging and Programming

Integrated ST-LINK/V2-1 provides a ready-to-use programmer and debugger through the USB port. The board supports SWD for source-level debugging and can be used as a standalone ST-LINK for other STM32 targets.

Expansion and Compatibility

Designed for maximum flexibility, the board features Arduino Uno R3 headers for shield compatibility and ST morpho connectors for direct MCU pin access. This makes it easy to add wireless modules, sensor shields, motor drivers, and other expansion boards without custom wiring.

Software and Toolchain Support

The Nucleo-F401RE is supported by the complete STM32 software ecosystem, enabling rapid firmware development.

• Graphical configuration: STM32CubeMX for peripheral and clock setup
• Firmware libraries: HAL and LL drivers for faster development
• Toolchains: Keil MDK, IAR Embedded Workbench, and GCC-based toolchains (ARM-GCC, PlatformIO)
• Bootloader and DFU support for in-field firmware updates

Power Options and Low Power Modes

Flexible powering allows the board to be used in desktop labs or battery powered systems. Multiple low-power modes and power scaling features help maximize battery life for IoT and sensor applications.

• Power sources: USB, external 5V input, or direct 3.3V supply
• Low-power stop and standby modes for energy efficient operation

Applications

• Embedded systems development and proof of concept
• Robotics and automation controllers
• IoT sensor nodes and wireless devices
• Motor control and mechatronics
• Digital signal processing and real-time control
• Educational projects and university labs
• Rapid prototyping of industrial products

Getting Started

1. Install STM32CubeMX and your preferred toolchain (Keil, IAR, ARM-GCC).
2. Connect the board to your PC via USB to power and enable ST-LINK.
3. Use STM32CubeMX to configure pins, clocks, and generate starter code.
4. Build and flash the firmware using your IDE or command line tools.

Package Contents

• 1 x STM32 Nucleo-F401RE Development Board with onboard ST-LINK/V2-1
• Documentation and quick start guide

Why Choose the STM32 Nucleo-F401RE?

With a powerful Cortex-M4 MCU, versatile expansion options, and strong software support, the Nucleo-F401RE is ideal for developers, students, and engineers who need a reliable and expandable platform to accelerate embedded projects.

Note

Images are for illustration purposes only.