El STM32 'Blue Pill' It is a low-cost development board based on the powerful microcontroller STM32F103C8T6 from STMicroelectronics. Thanks to its processing capacity 32 bits Due to its programming flexibility, it has become a popular choice among developers and electronics enthusiasts, as it can outperform boards such as the Arduino UNO.
In this article, we will explore in depth the Blue Pill technical specifications, its main features, programming methods and everything you need to know if you want to work with this module.
General features of the STM32 'Blue Pill'
The plate STM32F103C8T6 Blue Pill It has a microcontroller architecture ARM Cortex M3 de 32 bits, allowing it to offer a top performance compared to other more basic plates. Its main features are:
- Microcontroller: STM32F103C8T6
- CPU Architecture: High-performance ARM Cortex-M3
- Clock frequency: 72 MHz
- Flash Memory Size: 64 KB
- RAM: 20 KB
- Digital input/output pins: 37
- PWM Channels: 12
- Number of ADC pins: 10 channels with resolution of 12 bits
- Operating voltage: 3.3V (supports signals of 5V on some pins)
- Connectivity Options: CAN, I²C, SPI, UART/USART y USB
- Operating temperature: -40 ° C to 85 ° C
Design and connectivity
The compact design of the blue pill makes it ideal for projects embedded hardware and prototypes. Its dimensions are 23mm x 53mm and has a port MicroUSB which allows it to be powered and programmed. However, unlike other development boards, this one does not include an integrated programmer, so you will need a ST-LINK V2 to load code into it.
Programming and compatible software
To program the STM32 'Blue Pill', several development tools can be used:
- STM32CubeIDE: STMicroelectronics' comprehensive development environment.
- STM32CubeProgrammer: Software to load firmware onto the board.
- SW4STM32: Modified Eclipse environment for STM32.
- Arduino IDE: It can be programmed as if it were an Arduino thanks to extended compatibility.
- Mbed OS: A real-time operating system for ARM-based microcontrollers.
If the bootloader preloaded on the board, it is possible to program it using the port MicroUSB without the need for ST-LINK V2, although this option has some limitations.
Peripherals and advanced features
One of the strengths of the blue pill is the amount of peripherals and additional features it offers:
- Timers: includes up to 6 timers 16-bit.
- Analog/digital conversion: Two converters 12-bit ADC.
- Serial communication support: You can interact with UART, SPI, I²C, USB y CAN.
- Engine control: Available Optimized PWM for motor control.
- Low Power Mode: Offers sleep and standby modes to reduce the energy consumption.
Comparison with other development boards
While the STM32 Blue Pill It is an excellent choice, it is important to compare it with other popular plates:
- Arduino UNO: Although easier to use, its microcontroller ATmega328P de 8 bits is noticeably lower in power.
- ESP8266/ESP32: They offer connectivity WiFi integrated, something that the blue pill does not have.
- Raspberry Pi Pico: Use a processor ARM Cortex M0+, but with more memory.
In terms of price and performance, blue pill It strikes a great middle ground, providing a lot of features at an affordable cost.
La STM32 'Blue Pill' is an ideal development board for those looking for a powerful and versatile microcontroller without spending too much money. Its processor 32 bits, the wide variety of peripherals and compatibility with different development environments make it an excellent alternative for advanced projects. Its only drawback is the lack of an integrated programmer, but with the ST-LINK V2 or proper bootloader, this does not pose a significant problem.